# How Much Does a QuickBooks ProAdvisor Make? Salary Insights & Career Growth

QuickBooks ProAdvisors play a vital role in helping small businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers manage their accounting needs with efficiency and accuracy. Certified by Intuit, ProAdvisors provide support in bookkeeping, tax preparation, payroll, and financial reporting while also training business owners to make the most of QuickBooks software.

## Understanding the Role of a QuickBooks ProAdvisor

A QuickBooks ProAdvisor is essentially a professional who has completed training and certification offered by Intuit. The certification demonstrates expertise in using QuickBooks products, including QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, Payroll, and other specialized modules.

## ProAdvisors often provide:

**Bookkeeping services** – maintaining financial records, reconciliations, and expense tracking.

**Consulting services** – advising businesses on financial processes and software usage.

**Training** – teaching business owners and employees how to effectively use QuickBooks.

**Payroll and tax support** – assisting in employee payment systems and tax compliance.

Because their services range from basic bookkeeping to advanced financial consulting, income levels can vary greatly depending on specialization.

## Average Income of a QuickBooks ProAdvisor

On average, QuickBooks ProAdvisors earn anywhere between $45,000 to $75,000 per year, though many earn significantly more depending on their business model. Those who freelance or run their own bookkeeping firm can push earnings past six figures annually, especially when they combine certification with years of experience and additional accounting services.

Hourly rates also provide insight into income potential. Many ProAdvisors charge between $25 to $75 per hour, depending on their level of certification, geographic location, and complexity of client needs. Elite or Advanced Certified ProAdvisors often command higher rates, sometimes exceeding $100 per hour.

Factors That Influence Earnings

## Several factors affect how much a QuickBooks ProAdvisor can make:

**1. Certification Level**

Basic Certification typically earns less, as it demonstrates only foundational knowledge.

Advanced Certification allows professionals to charge higher fees due to deeper expertise in problem-solving and system optimization.

**2. Experience**

Like any profession, more years in the field lead to higher credibility, larger client networks, and higher fees. Experienced accountants who add the ProAdvisor credential tend to earn significantly more than beginners.

**3. Type of Services Offered**

A ProAdvisor who only provides training may earn less than one who handles complete bookkeeping, payroll, and tax preparation. Expanding services broadens income potential.

**4. Geographic Location**

Professionals in larger cities or regions with higher costs of living often charge more. For instance, a ProAdvisor in New York or San Francisco may earn more than someone in a smaller town.

**5. Business Model**

Freelancers or independent consultants set their own rates and often enjoy higher earning potential.

In-house ProAdvisors working for a firm may earn a stable salary but often less compared to freelancers.

Firm owners who scale their business by hiring staff can dramatically increase revenue.

## How to Maximize Income as a QuickBooks ProAdvisor

**1. Pursue Advanced Certification**

Becoming an Advanced Certified ProAdvisor demonstrates mastery of QuickBooks and significantly boosts credibility. Clients are often willing to pay a premium for advanced expertise.

**2. Offer Specialized Services**

Providing niche services—such as tax consulting for e-commerce businesses, payroll solutions for startups, or QuickBooks cleanup for struggling businesses—allows you to stand out and charge more.

**3. Expand Service Packages**

Instead of only training clients, consider bundling services like monthly bookkeeping, quarterly reporting, and tax season preparation. Retainer-based packages ensure recurring revenue.

**4. Leverage the ProAdvisor Directory**

QuickBooks lists certified ProAdvisors in its online directory. Optimizing your profile, showcasing reviews, and highlighting your specialties can attract more clients.

**5. Build Long-Term Client Relationships**

Rather than offering one-time consultations, focus on ongoing support. A stable client base ensures steady income.

**6. Develop Additional Skills**

Combining QuickBooks certification with CPA licensure, tax expertise, or knowledge in other accounting platforms expands the scope of work and earning potential.

## Career Growth Opportunities

Being a QuickBooks ProAdvisor can be the start of a thriving career in financial services. Many professionals begin by freelancing part-time and eventually grow into running their own accounting firms. Others use certification to strengthen their resumes for corporate accounting positions.

As businesses increasingly shift to cloud-based accounting solutions, demand for QuickBooks experts continues to rise. This trend ensures strong income potential for years to come.

## Final Thoughts

So, how much does a QuickBooks ProAdvisor make? While the average falls between $45,000 and $75,000 per year, top earners—especially freelancers and firm owners—can surpass $100,000 annually. Earnings depend on factors like certification level, experience, services offered, and business model.

For accountants, bookkeepers, or financial consultants, becoming a QuickBooks ProAdvisor is not just about earning a certification—it’s about leveraging that credential to build credibility, expand services, and grow income potential. With the right approach, ProAdvisors can enjoy both financial success and career flexibility in today’s growing digital accounting landscape.