What does public accounting primarily include?

Public accounting primarily includes services related to tax, audit, and similar activities that serve the general public. Public accountants provide their expertise to a wide range of clients, including individuals, businesses, and government entities. They are responsible for preparing tax returns, conducting audits, and providing assurance services that validate financial statements.

This emphasis on serving the general public distinguishes public accounting from other accounting practices. While internal audits for corporations, management consulting, and financial reporting for private entities are essential functions within accounting, they fall under specialized categories like internal auditing or financial management, which are typically performed by professionals working within companies or organizations rather than by public accountants who engage with external clients.