What Is a QuickBooks ProAdvisor and What Do They Do?
Understand the role of a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor and how their expertise can streamline your business's financial operations.
A QuickBooks ProAdvisor is a financial professional certified by Intuit, the creator of QuickBooks software. These accounting or bookkeeping experts are trained and tested to demonstrate proficiency with QuickBooks products. Their certification signifies a validated understanding of the software’s features and functionalities, enabling them to assist businesses and individuals with financial management using QuickBooks.
The Role of a QuickBooks ProAdvisor
QuickBooks ProAdvisors offer a range of services to help businesses manage financial records within the software. They handle initial setup and configuration, including establishing a chart of accounts and customizing the system for specific business operations. ProAdvisors also troubleshoot issues like balancing balance sheets, resolving bank feed discrepancies, or correcting data entry errors.
They train clients to use QuickBooks effectively, empowering them to manage daily transactions and generate reports. They assist with data migration when businesses transition to or upgrade QuickBooks. Ongoing support and maintenance ensure optimized software and accurate data.
ProAdvisors help clients leverage features for payroll, invoicing, expense tracking, and comprehensive financial reports. Many ProAdvisors specialize in particular QuickBooks versions, such as Online, Desktop, Payroll, or Enterprise Solutions. Their expertise maximizes the software’s utility for unique accounting requirements.
The ProAdvisor Certification Program
The QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification program is directly offered and administered by Intuit. The program involves a structured learning path through self-paced training modules with practice exercises. After training, candidates must pass a certification exam.
The exam typically requires a score of 80% or higher and takes about two hours. Intuit offers various certifications, including QuickBooks Online (Level 1 and Level 2), QuickBooks Desktop, and specialized certifications for Payroll or Enterprise. To maintain certified status, ProAdvisors must complete annual recertification via a shorter exam, usually available between May 1 and June 30.
The ProAdvisor Academy, an Intuit platform, guides professionals through these learning pathways. Training can take around 16 hours, and certification is often free for those with a QuickBooks Online Accountant account.
Benefits of Engaging a ProAdvisor
Engaging a QuickBooks ProAdvisor offers several advantages for businesses and individuals. ProAdvisors streamline accounting tasks, saving time for business owners. Their expertise minimizes errors and ensures accurate financial records for compliance and sound decision-making.
ProAdvisors optimize QuickBooks usage by helping clients leverage features, customizing the software, and integrating applications. They provide quick problem resolution, reducing downtime when technical issues arise. This guidance helps businesses fully utilize the software’s capabilities, from basic transactions to advanced reporting.
Beyond software support, ProAdvisors offer strategic advice, providing insights into financial performance and industry best practices. This can include guidance on financial planning or cash flow management. Working with a ProAdvisor is cost-effective, preventing mistakes, improving efficiencies, and potentially offering exclusive discounts on QuickBooks products.