Illinois CPA Requirement Checklist

Verify that the applicant is a resident of Illinois. This is an important step to ensure eligibility for the CPA license in Illinois. Make sure to check the applicant's address on their identification documents, utility bills, or any other proof of residency. If the applicant's residency is not in Illinois, they will not meet the requirement for licensure in this state. Contact the applicant if there is any discrepancy or if additional information is needed for verification.

Verify that the applicant has a valid Social Security Number (SSN). The SSN is required for identification and tracking purposes. It is used to ensure the applicant meets the necessary requirements for licensure and for reporting purposes. Check the applicant's SSN card or contact the Social Security Administration for verification.

Confirm that the applicant has completed a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field. The degree must be obtained from a recognized institution. This requirement ensures that the applicant has a solid foundation in accounting principles and concepts. Verify the completion of the degree by requesting transcripts or contacting the institution directly.

Ensure that the applicant has enrolled in a program that meets the CPA exam requirements. The program should provide the necessary coursework and preparation for the CPA exam. Check if the applicant is enrolled in a recognized program by contacting the educational institution or checking their official website.

Verify that the applicant has completed the required 150 classroom hours of education. These hours must include specific accounting and business courses. Request transcripts or contact the educational institution to confirm the completion of the required hours.

Confirm that the applicant has obtained at least two years of accounting experience. This can be gained through employment in the accounting field or through internships. Confirm the applicant's experience by requesting employment verification letters or contacting the employers directly.

Guide the applicant through the process of applying to take the CPA exam. Provide information on the application process, required documents, and any deadlines. Encourage the applicant to carefully review the application and submit it within the specified timeframe.

Wait for the applicant to receive the Notice of Schedule from the CPA exam board. This notice will provide information on the exam dates, locations, and other important details. Advise the applicant to review the notice carefully and make any necessary arrangements for the exam.

Ensure the applicant takes and successfully passes all four sections of the CPA exam. Each section tests the applicant's knowledge and skills in different areas of accounting. Provide support and resources to help the applicant prepare for the exam, such as study guides or practice exams.

Guide the applicant through the process of submitting the CPA license application to the Illinois Board of Examiners. Provide details on the required documents, fees, and any deadlines. Encourage the applicant to carefully review the application before submission.

Ensure the applicant pays the required license fee to the Illinois Board of Examiners. Provide information on the payment methods and any deadlines. Advise the applicant to keep a record of the payment confirmation for future reference.

Wait for the applicant to receive the confirmation of their CPA license from the Illinois Board of Examiners. This confirmation will serve as proof of the applicant's licensure. Advise the applicant to carefully review the confirmation and contact the board if there are any discrepancies.

Encourage the applicant to join the Illinois CPA Society, a professional organization for CPAs in Illinois. Provide information on the benefits of membership and the application process. Advise the applicant to review the membership requirements before applying.

Remind the CPA license holder to complete the required continuing education courses. Continuing education ensures that CPAs stay updated with the latest developments in the accounting field. Provide information on the required number of hours and acceptable courses or providers.

Remind the CPA license holder to renew their license every three years. Provide information on the renewal process, required fees, and any deadlines. Advise the license holder to carefully review the renewal application before submission.