Last year, after my mother-in-law passed away, I took over her tax practice, and I now own and operate the business. However, my professional background is in accounting, and I have a master's degree in accounting. After earning my degree, I received disability benefits for six years due to a disability, during which I worked from home. Now, I am ready to return to the workforce, but recruiters tell me my work experience is "too outdated." I am currently studying for the Enrolled Agent certification, and given the significant costs already invested, I do not plan to give up halfway. After completing that certification, I plan to pursue the CPA, as my college credits already meet the exam requirements. However, I need to accumulate the required work hours after passing the exam (I am confident I will pass). Here are my questions:

  1. How can I find employers willing to hire me so I can accumulate the required 1,000 hours of work experience under CPA supervision? Are there specific job search channels or tips I can refer to?
  2. Why is being away from the accounting field for so long such a big obstacle? I haven't forgotten any knowledge. I wish companies still offered trial work interviews, so I could show that I am still good at reconciliations and accounts payable processing.
  3. Does anyone have other advice on how to find a job now? I can't survive on tax season income alone. We are somewhat at our wit's end (laughs).