Forensic accountants need good analytical and math skills. Strong accounting skills and legal knowledge are also important.
Forensic accountants are also called fraud investigators, investigative accountants, forensic auditors, or fraud auditors.
Accountants need a license to use the term CPA (certified public accountant). Licensing requirements vary by state. Contact your state Board of Accountancy for more information about local licensing requirements.
Forensic accountants may use special accounting software. They also must know the rules and regulations for their area of accounting. Both the rules and the software change frequently. Accountants must regularly take training to keep their skills up to date.
Employers prefer to hire accountants who are familiar with computers and accounting applications. They also prefer people who work well with others. Many employers emphasize communication and computer skills. Being a certified public accountant (CPA) is an advantage.
Forensic accountants must be discreet when conducting their investigations. This is because the reputations of individuals and companies are at stake.
The types of crimes forensic accountants investigate are classified as "crimes against property."
Unlike other accountants, when forensic accountants conduct audits they look for signs of fraud.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.