A forensic accountant is a professional who specializes in investigating financial crimes, such as fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. They often work with law enforcement agencies and legal teams, and may be called upon to testify in court. They use their expertise in accounting, auditing, and financial analysis to identify, collect, and analyze financial data, and to build a case to support or refute allegations of financial misconduct. They must also be able to explain their findings in a clear, concise and understandable manner.

What Does A Forensic Accountant Do?

A forensic accountant is a professional who specializes in investigating financial crimes, such as fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. They often work with law enforcement agencies and legal teams, and may be called upon to testify in court. They use their expertise in accounting, auditing, and financial analysis to identify, collect, and analyze financial data, and to build a case to support or refute allegations of financial misconduct. They must also be able to explain their findings in a clear, concise and understandable manner.

How To Become A Forensic Accountant?

To become a forensic accountant, an individual typically needs to have a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, and must be a certified public accountant (CPA). Many forensic accountants also have advanced degrees in accounting or law, and may have additional certifications such as Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV). Additionally, many employers may prefer candidates who have a few years of experience in accounting or auditing.
Education Icon

Education

Bachelor's degree
Average Salary Icon

Average Salary

$88,730
Average Experience Icon

Avg. Experience

0-1 years
Get Forensic Accountant Jobs Emailed to You

Average Salary for Forensic Accountant

A Forensic Accountant makes $88,730 per year on average, or $42.66 per hour, in the United States. The bottom 10% make about $40,851 a year, while the top 10% make about $133,911.

Highest Paying States

California

$81,619 Yearly

Forensic Accountant Education

The most common degrees for a Forensic Accountant are Bachelor's degree (69.23% of jobs require this), College degree (15.38%), Master's degree (15.38%).

Forensic Accountant Degrees

Bachelor's degree 69.23%
College degree 15.38%
Master's degree 15.38%
Show More
Search For Forensic Accountant Jobs
Upload Your Resume

Upload Your Resume

In our recent survey, recruiters told us that resume search is the top tool they use to find the best candidates. Post your resume today to ensure recruiters and hiring managers can easily find you.

Upload Your Resume
Salary