How to Transition from a Traditional CPA Firm to Your Own Practice

Leaving the security of a traditional CPA firm to start your own practice is both exciting and terrifying. I know because I've been there. After spending nearly a decade in public accounting, pushing through long hours, constant turnover, and never-ending client demands, I finally made the leap. I walked away from a predictable paycheck and a structured firm environment to build something of my own.

And let me tell you - it was the best decision I ever made.

But I also know how overwhelming the transition can be. Where do you even start? How do you find clients? What about pricing, technology, and processes? If you're considering leaving a firm to build your own CPA practice, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to make the transition smooth and successful.

Step 1: Get Clear on Why You're Leaving

Before you jump ship, take the time to clarify why you want to start your own CPA practice. Are you burned out by long hours? Frustrated with firm culture? Looking for more control over your work and income?

Your "why" will keep you motivated when things get tough. For me, it was simple: I wanted to build a practice that gave me freedom. Freedom to choose my clients, set my schedule, and run my firm my way.

If your current job is draining you, but you're unsure whether starting a practice is the right move, ask yourself:

✅ Do I want more flexibility in my work?

✅ Am I willing to take on the risks and responsibilities of running a business?

✅ Do I have the skills and confidence to find and serve my own clients?

If the answer is yes, you're ready to take the next step.

Step 2: Set Up the Business Side of Your CPA Practice

Starting your own CPA practice means you'll need to handle things your old firm took care of for you. Here's what you need to put in place:

Get your business foundation set up early so you can focus on landing clients.

Step 3: Find Your First Clients

One of the biggest fears CPAs have about leaving a firm is how to get clients. It's completely understandable - after years of work being assigned to you, suddenly, you're responsible for generating your own business.

Here's what worked for me:

It took time, but by staying consistent, I built a client based that allowed me to scale my practice quickly - without the pressure of working 80-hour weeks.

Step 4: Price Your Services for Profitability

One of the biggest mistakes CPAs make when starting their own practice? Underpricing their services.

At a traditional firm, someone else set the pricing. But when you run your own CPA practice, you have to determine your rates. If you don't price strategically, you'll end up working just as hard as you did before - but for less money.

A few key tips:

💰 Don’t charge hourly – Consider fixed-fee pricing or value-based pricing so you aren’t trading time for money.

💰 Know your worth – Factor in not just the time spent on a project, but also the expertise and value you bring.

💰 Benchmark against competitors – Research what other CPAs in your niche are charging and price competitively.

When I first started, I priced too low out of fear of scaring clients away. Over time, I learned that the right clients are willing to pay for quality service - don't undervalue yourself.

Step 5: Build Systems for Efficiency & Growth

One of the biggest advantages of running your own CPA practice is that you get to build it in a way that works for you. That means setting up systems that make your work easier, not harder.

🔹 Use cloud-based software – Tools like AuditFile, Monday.com, and secure file-sharing platforms streamline workflows.

🔹 Automate what you can – Email templates, client onboarding checklists, and recurring invoices save time.

🔹 Set clear boundaries – Define office hours, communication policies, and turnaround times so clients respect your time.

When I first started, I treated my business like a job - taking on work at all hours and responding to clients immediately. Once I set up the right systems, I was able to cut my audit time in half and create a practice that actually supported my life, not controlled it.

Final Thoughts: Is Starting Your Own CPA Practice Worth It?

The short answer? Absolutely.

Leaving a traditional firm isn't easy, and the transition to your own CPA practice comes with challenges. But if you're willing to take the leap, you can build a business that gives you both financial success and the freedom to work on your terms.

I went from an overworked CPA in public accounting to running my own firm, making more money, and working fewer hours. You can too.

So, if you're feeling stuck, wondering if there's a better way - I promise you, there is.

And it starts with taking the first step.