As year-end audit season ramps up, CPA firms across the country are feeling the pressure. With tight deadlines, complex reporting requirements and fewer professionals entering the accounting field, the need for temp work for CPA firms has never been more urgent.
Whether you’re a regional tax practice or a national audit firm, seasonal staffing challenges can disrupt timelines and impact client service. That’s why many firms are turning to contract staffing partners to fill in the gaps with speed, flexibility and reliability.
Why Audit Season Strains Staffing Models
The final quarter of the year brings a surge in demand for accounting services. Firms are closing books, preparing financial statements and getting ready for both internal and external audits. Yet, finding the right professionals to support this workload is increasingly difficult.
According to the Financial Times, the number of U.S. accounting undergraduates has fallen to the lowest level in 15 years, thinning the pipeline of potential new certified public accountants when 75% of existing CPAs are at or near retirement age. That leaves CPA firms competing for a limited pool of talent, especially during high-volume periods like Q4 and Q1.
The Case for Temporary Staffing Support
Temp and contract professionals offer CPA firms a solution that’s both cost-effective and immediately impactful. Rather than overburdening your full-time staff or rushing through critical financial reviews, bringing in experienced temporary accountants can keep your engagements on track.
Benefits of temp work for CPA firms include:
- Scalable Resources: Ramp up support during peak times without long-term commitments.
- Reduced Burnout: Give your core staff relief by distributing workloads more efficiently.
- Expertise On Demand: Access professionals experienced in audits, reconciliations, tax prep and GAAP compliance.
- Faster Onboarding: Contract workers are ready to hit the ground running often with minimal training.
Roles CPA Firms Commonly Fill with Temp Talent
At Amerit Consulting, we regularly support CPA firms during audit season by placing qualified professionals in roles such as:
- Audit Associates and Audit Seniors
- Staff Accountants
- Tax Preparers and Analysts
- Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialists
- Interim Controllers and Finance Managers
- SEC Reporting Consultants
Why Partner with Amerit for Accounting Staffing?
At Amerit Consulting, we specialize in helping professional services firms manage seasonal workforce demands. Our nationwide network and deep experience in placing accounting and finance talent make us a reliable partner for CPA firms of all sizes.
We bring:
- Industry Expertise: Our recruiters understand audit cycles, tax timelines and regulatory nuances.
- Compliance Confidence: As an Employer of Record (EOR), we handle worker classification, payroll and onboarding.
- Speed & Precision: We focus on fast delivery without sacrificing quality.
Looking Ahead: Be Proactive for 2025
As the accounting industry continues to evolve through talent shortages and increased automation, CPA firms will need to rethink how they scale talent. Temp work for CPA firms isn’t just a quick fix. It’s a smart workforce strategy that allows firms to stay focused on quality, client service and compliance, even in the busiest quarters. And with year-end audits already underway, now is the time to act.
Don’t wait until your team is stretched thin. Amerit Consulting can deliver the experienced accounting professionals your firm needs. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your firm during audit season with reliable, on-demand talent.