Open to opportunities

Emily Benford

@emilybenford

Message

Experienced CPA-track accountant specializing in tax and financial reporting.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek a client-facing accounting or tax role where I can apply tax compliance, planning, and financial reporting skills, mentor staff, improve processes, and grow toward CPA leadership responsibilities.

I am an Indiana University–educated accountant with six years of public accounting experience and a strong foundation in tax, financial reporting, and accounting operations. I have managed full-cycle accounting for clients, prepared and reviewed complex business and personal tax returns, and led month-end and year-end close processes.

My background includes hands-on use of tax and accounting software such as UltraTax/CS Suite, Planner CS, CCH ProSystem fx, QuickBooks Online/Desktop, Xero, and ERPs like Microsoft Dynamics GP and Epicor. I’ve provided tax planning and compliance, multi-state filings, research on current tax laws, and produced analytical reporting to support client decision-making.

I am detail-oriented and organized, with strengths in client relationship management, mentoring bookkeepers, payroll processing, and process improvements. As a CPA candidate, I bring technical proficiency, regulatory knowledge, and a practical focus on accuracy and efficiency to accounting and tax engagements.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Tax Accountant

JMH CPA

Sep 2021 - Oct 2024 (3 years 1 month)

Prepared and reviewed business and personal tax returns, managed state/multi-state and federal compliance, and conducted tax research and planning for firm clients. Performed client bookkeeping, financial reporting and analysis, and supported accounting system workflows using tax and accounting software.

Tax Preparation Quickbooks Xero Financial Reporting

Senior Accountant

Alpha Accounting

Jan 2020 - Sep 2021 (1 year 8 months)

Managed financial accounting for ~15–20 clients including month-end/year-end closings, AJEs, financial statement preparation and analysis, and client onboarding. Led bookkeeping teams, tax preparation and planning, and AP/AR and payroll processing to improve client accounting operations.

Financial Reporting Month End Close Excel Quickbooks AP AR Client Management

Staff Accountant

BGBC CPAs & Advisors

Dec 2018 - Feb 2020 (1 year 2 months)

Performed bookkeeping, reconciliations, monthly close activities, payroll and expense management, and prepared AJEs and financial reports using QuickBooks and ERP systems. Supported audit preparation and handled vendor/payment platforms and international tax documentation.

Bookkeeping Reconciliations Quickbooks Payroll