by 
Do you want to be a bookkeeper in Minnesota?
Imagine a bookkeeper as a money expert who handles finances for a company.
Even though they’re often confused with accountants, it’s actually a different role.
If you’re skilled at math and like staying organized, this job might be perfect for you.
Their main job is to keep track of all the buying and selling happening in a company.
It’s an office job that usually stays pretty consistent.
If you’re thinking about becoming a bookkeeper in Minnesota, check out the following article.
Article Table of Contents
How to Become – Step by Step
There are 2 methods through which you can become a bookkeeper in Minnesota:
- Education
- Practice
Regardless of the path you opt for, the first step is identical for both.
Step 1 – Earn Your High School Diploma
Just like anywhere else, you have to complete your high school years first.
That means you also need to get a diploma first.
If a high school diploma is not an option, you can always opt for a GED.
Step 2 Education – Earn a Degree
A few companies hire accountants who learn while working, so a degree might not be necessary.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says lots of employers prefer some college background.
You can go for either an Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree to meet this requirement.
Whichever degree you choose, focus on studying accounting and business.
Step 3 Education – Gain Experience
To keep progressing, it’s good to have some work experience, preferably between one and two years.
If you want a certification from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB), you’ll need 24 months of experience.
But if you’re aiming for a license from the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB), 12 months of experience is enough.
Step 2 Practice – Gain on-the-job Training and Certification
When you’re on this path, getting certified is really important.
Think about going for two certifications because it’s wiser and more useful.
Here are the licenses you can aim for:
- Certified Bookkeeping Professional (CPB) from NACPB
- Certified Bookkeeper (CB) license from AIPB
Both NACPB and AIPB are well-respected nationwide.
To get these certifications, you’ll need to excel in all four exams they offer.
The first two tests are held at specific places.
But for the last two, you can study using your workbook.
Anyone, whether they’ve studied for it or not, can earn these licenses.
To keep up with changes in the industry, you’ll need to put in an extra 24 hours of training each year.
Bookkeeping Programs in Minnesota
Check out the programs where you can train as a bookkeeper in Minnesota.
Accountants handle money stuff for all kinds of places like businesses, government, and charities.
Learning about accounting is like learning the secret language of business.
It’s super important for pretty much every company out there.
Hennepin Technical College 
At Hennepin Tech, you will figure out how to make financial systems, keep track of info, and understand profit and loss statements.
You will learn all sorts of things from making income statements to dealing with costs and payroll.
It’s all about getting the skills you need to start or move up in your career.
LSC gives you great training for jobs that are in demand, and it’s affordable too.
You can start here, save a bunch of money, and then smoothly switch to a four-year college to get your degree.
Check out our Transfer Pathways to learn more.
Lake Superior College 
Lake Superior College campus encompasses 97 acres, with trees all around and views of Lake Superior and the St. Louis River Bay.
There’s even a cool hiking trail that’s won awards and a disc golf course run by the city.
The campus is located in Duluth, Minnesota.
Their accounting program will teach you everything you need to know and help you get nationally certified.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Hennepin Technical College | 9000 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445, |
| Lake Superior College | 2101 Trinity Rd, Duluth, MN 55806 |
Bookkeeper Salary in Minnesota
After you are done with schooling, it’s time to consider how much money you can earn.
Let’s take a peek at bookkeepers in Minnesota.
On average, they make around $45,223 per year.
Keep in mind, your earnings can be influenced by where you work and how much experience you have.
Check out the table below for a clearer picture of the salary range.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis | $46,902 |
| Minnetonka | $46,902 |
| Saint Paul | $46,902 |
| Burnsville | $46,770 |
| Hugo | $46,637 |
| Andover | $46,637 |
| Cottage Grove | $46,593 |
| Stillwater | $46,549 |
| Winthrop | $46,505 |
| Castle Rock | $46,151 |
| Bethel | $46,063 |
Regional Salary in Minnesota
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duluth, MN-WI | 1,240 | $47,960 | $23.06 | $63,690 | $30,880 |
| Mankato-North Mankato, MN | 460 | $48,540 | $23.34 | $63,150 | $34,440 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI | 17,830 | $54,630 | $26.26 | $73,440 | $37,890 |
| Rochester, MN | 880 | $53,950 | $25.94 | $73,400 | $35,640 |
| St. Cloud, MN | 930 | $48,730 | $23.43 | $63,790 | $35,430 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose a different career path if bookkeeping is not for me, in Minnesota?
For those training as bookkeepers, there are numerous career paths to consider:
- Bookkeeper
- Accounts Receivable Clerk
- Accounts Payable Specialist
- Payroll Clerk
- Assistant to Accountants (both line and staff)
- Paraprofessionals in CPA Firms
Each of these roles presents distinct opportunities for specialization and advancement within the bookkeeping field.
What role does a bookkeeper have in a company, in Minnesota?
If you’re looking for a job in this position, here are some responsibilities you might have:
- Recording sales and purchases.
- Improving the company’s financial status.
- Documenting other transactions within the company.
- Using reporting tools effectively.
- Establishing, implementing, and overseeing systems to track money flow.
These tasks are crucial for keeping precise financial records and safeguarding the financial well-being of the company.
What skills are needed by bookkeepers in Minnesota?
To excel as a bookkeeper in Minnesota, you’ll need these skills:
- Attention to detail
- Proficiency in invoicing procedures
- Critical thinking abilities
- Strong organizational skills
- Effective communication skills
- Efficient time management
Read the full guide: How to Become a Bookkeeper
Bookkeeper Schools by State