Why are so many CPAs quitting?

Why So Many CPAs Are Leaving the Profession

Long hours have always been part of the CPA lifestyle, especially during tax season. But now, more public accounting professionals are choosing to leave the field altogether—and work-life balance is often the main reason.

“Typically, the hours that public accounting professionals work is significant. Some people reach a point where they are looking for a better balance, so they move out of public accounting,” says Marc Basil, senior director of financial search at Chicago-based recruiting firm Brilliant.

It’s not just about overtime. The pressure to meet deadlines, client demands, and compliance requirements creates a high-stress environment that, over time, wears people down. Many CPAs, especially younger ones, are reevaluating what they want from their careers—and for many, a 70-hour workweek simply isn’t worth it.

“I’ve seen talented professionals leave for industry roles, government jobs, or even completely different fields,” Basil notes. “The shift isn’t just about leaving accounting—it’s about reclaiming time and mental space.”

Employers are starting to notice. Firms are experimenting with flexible schedules, remote work options, and even four-day workweeks in an effort to retain talent. But for many, the change comes too late.

Others are turning to freelance or consulting work, where they can control their workload and set boundaries. Technology has also made it easier to run independent practices without the overhead and pressure of a traditional firm.

Ultimately, the mass exit of CPAs isn’t just a sign of burnout—it’s a signal that the profession needs to evolve. As expectations around work and life shift, so too must the culture of public accounting. And for those who’ve already walked away, it’s often not about giving up—but choosing a life where their time is truly their own.

For many CPAs, the decision to leave isn’t about quitting—it’s about reclaiming balance.