What is Big 4 accounting?

In accounting, the Big 4 refers to the four largest public accounting and auditing firms: These certified public accounting (CPA) firms perform a majority of the audits required of U.S. corporations having stock that is publicly traded.

What is the Big 4?

The Big 4 refers to the four biggest accounting firms globally, as measured by revenue. It used to be the Big 8 before a series of mergers and one spectacular collapse saw the number reduced by half.

Who are the Big 4 audit firms?

Ranked by 2020 revenue figures, the Big 4 are Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu (Deloitte), PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY) and Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG), respectively. These firms handle a majority of the audits for United States corporations with publicly traded stock.

How long does it take to become a big 4 accountant?

Due to the hectic and fast-paced work environment, Big 4 accounting pros garner experience faster than others who join a smaller boutique firm after college. Because of the size and type of clients, many equate a year of work at a Big 4 firm with two to three years of work anywhere else in the industry.