Role overview
A chartered accountant (CA) is a certified finance professional who audits accounts, advises on tax and finance, and ensures statutory compliance. In India, qualified through ICAI, they typically conduct audits, file and plan taxes, prepare and certify financial statements, and advise businesses on finance and regulation — a trusted expert whose sign-off carries legal weight for companies and individuals.
A chartered accountant usually has around 0–12 yrs of experience and earns typically ₹7L–₹30L/yr in India. The day-to-day blends Auditing, Taxation (Income Tax & GST), Financial reporting and more — this page gives you a ready-to-use chartered accountant job description template you can copy, plus the exact skills and salary employers expect.
Key responsibilities
A chartered accountant is typically responsible for:
- Conduct statutory, internal and tax audits of financial records
- Prepare, review and certify financial statements
- Handle income-tax, GST and corporate tax computation, planning and filing
- Advise clients on finance, tax efficiency and compliance
- Ensure adherence to accounting standards and regulations
- Support due diligence, valuations and financial reporting
- Liaise with regulators, banks and tax authorities
- Advise on business structuring, costing and risk
Requirements & qualifications
To succeed as a chartered accountant, candidates usually need:
- Qualified Chartered Accountant (ICAI) membership
- Strong knowledge of auditing, taxation and accounting standards
- Analytical rigour, integrity and attention to detail
- Proficiency in accounting/ERP software and Excel
- Good communication for advising clients and stakeholders
Chartered Accountant skills
The most in-demand chartered accountant skills on listings today:
Not sure which of these you're missing? A free OnJob profile runs your CV against every live chartered accountant job and shows the exact skill gaps standing between you and a 100% match.
Typical salary & experience
Typical salary (India)
typically ₹7L–₹30L/yr
Experience range
0–12 yrs
These are typical ranges and vary by city, company and skills. For live, role-specific pay data, see the OnJob salary guide.
Chartered Accountant job description — FAQs
What does a chartered accountant do?
A chartered accountant (CA) audits accounts, handles taxation and statutory compliance, prepares and certifies financial statements, and advises businesses on finance and regulation. Their certification gives their sign-off legal weight for companies and individuals.
How do you become a chartered accountant in India?
You qualify through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) by clearing the Foundation, Intermediate and Final exams and completing articleship (practical training). It's a rigorous, multi-year qualification.
What is the difference between a CA and an accountant?
An accountant handles day-to-day bookkeeping and records, while a chartered accountant is a certified professional qualified to audit accounts, sign statutory filings and provide expert tax and advisory services. The CA qualification is far more demanding.
How much does a chartered accountant earn in India?
Freshly qualified CAs typically earn ₹7L–₹12L per year, experienced CAs ₹15L–₹25L, and those in senior corporate or practice roles ₹30L+. Check our salary guide for current ranges.