Chartered Accountants or CAs are the financial backbone of every organisation, whether in multinational corporations, government institutions, or entrepreneurial ventures. This profession is among the most sought-after financial professionals in India and the demand of CAs have increased drastically. Under the ‘Vision 2047’ the ICAI has aimed for 30 lakh CAs meaning 1.12 lakh new CAs every year.
However, the scarcity of CAs not only makes the Chartered Accountant profession lucrative but also a long-term, sustainable career as well. But the question is, 'What is the average salary of a CA in India?' In this blog let’s unveil the salary of a CA from fresh graduates to experienced practitioners. Let’s get started!
Who is a Chartered Accountant?
A Chartered Accountant is a certified financial expert authorised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) across diverse domains. These domains include Audit and Assurance, Direct and Indirect Taxation, Corporate Finance and Advisory, Forensic Accounting, and Management Consulting.
A Chartered Accountant holds specialization in accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management. Their key role is to ensure financial accuracy, compliance, and strategic decision-making. Chartered Accountants are also proficient in key functional disciplines such as:
- Financial accounting and reporting, including preparation and presentation of financial statements.
- Auditing and assurance, performing audit engagements, and attesting to financial reporting accuracy.
- Taxation, including direct and indirect tax compliance and strategic tax planning.
- Management accounting and applied finance, helping management with budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, and financial decision-making.
This flexibility opens doors across various industries, including banking, IT, manufacturing, and government services.
Salary of CA in India: Average Pay and Trends
Chartered Accountants have become indispensable assets across industries in a world driven by data, compliance, and strategic finance. Whether it’s guiding a startup through tax structuring or auditing the books of a multinational corporation, CAs bring unmatched financial clarity and accountability. Here is the average CA salary per month and year professional's draw:
Experience Level |
Per Annum Salary (₹) |
CA Roles |
Entry level (0-2 years) |
Internal Auditor, Tax Analyst, Finance Executive | |
Mid-level (3-7 years) |
Finance Manager, Senior Analyst, Tax Consultant | |
Senior level (8+ years) |
Chief Financial Officer, Partner, Financial Controller |
Average CA Salary Based on Skills
Here is how a chartered account draws a salary in India based on the skills they possess:
Skills of Chartered Accountants |
Salary Range Per Annum |
Average Salary |
Strategic Account Management |
₹5.1 lakhs - ₹31.5 lakhs |
₹14.3 lakhs |
Budget Management |
₹10.1 lakhs -₹13.7 lakhs |
₹9.5 lakhs |
Evaluation and Management Auditing |
₹2.4 lakhs – 27. 2 lakhs |
₹13.2 lakhs |
Financial Advising |
₹1.2 lakhs – ₹8.3 lakhs |
₹4.7 lakhs |
SAP Financial Accounting and Controlling |
₹5.9 lakhs – ₹17 lakhs |
₹9.8 lakhs |
Tax Consulting |
₹1.5 lakhs – ₹11 lakhs |
₹7.3 lakhs |
Financial Reporting |
₹3.3 lakhs – ₹23 lakhs |
₹9.1 lakhs |
Role-wise CA Salary in India
CA salary in India varies significantly based on the roles, responsibilities, and industry demand. Here's a detailed breakdown of average salaries across key CA job roles:
CA Job Roles |
Average CA Salary in India (in INR) |
Internal Auditor |
|
Tax Consultant |
|
Finance Executive |
|
Statutory Auditor |
|
Forensic Accountant |
|
Financial Controller | |
Chief Financial Officer |
Top Factors Affecting Chartered Accountant Salaries in India
The CA salary in India can vary drastically from a modest ₹6 LPA for freshers to ₹30 LPA or more for seasoned professionals. But this wide range reflects a complex mix of factors that shape a Chartered Accountant’s career trajectory.
A blend of professional decisions, market dynamics, and personal branding is the deciding factor. From the industry you enter to the certifications you possess, every step shapes your compensation curve. Let’s explore the key factors that directly impact CA salary in India.
Experience Level
With experience, the CA salary in India increases significantly. Freshers are paid ₹6 to ₹8 lakhs per annum, whereas 5 to 10 years of experience will fetch ₹8 to ₹12 lakhs, and senior positions (CFO, partner) may earn ₹20 lakhs to ₹1 crore or more in top firms.
Industry Sector: Pay Depends on Where You Work
CAs in high-growth sectors like investment banking, fintech, and consulting earn more than those in traditional industries like manufacturing or PSUs. The faster the industry moves, the higher the value placed on financial expertise.
Skills & Certifications: Specialisation
Core skills acquired during the CA course, like auditing, financial reporting, taxation, and regulatory compliance, lay a strong foundation. However, adding niche capabilities such as IFRS, GST, SAP, and data analytics, along with global certifications like CPA, CFA, or ACCA, can increase your market value. Employers reward professionals who bring both technical depth and strategic insight to the table.
Employment Type: Practice vs Job
Employed CAs earn steady salaries with bonuses and perks. On the other hand, practising CAs have variable income based on clients, services, and reputation. While riskier, practice offers higher earning potential over time.
Location: Geography Matters
Metro cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi NCR offer higher salaries due to a dense corporate presence and greater demand. Tier 2 and 3 cities typically pay less but may offer better work-life balance.
How Can Professional Loan for Chartered Accountants Help to Upgrade Skills?
The professions like CAs requires constant upgradation and certifications. But this skill upgradation often comes with hefty price tag. This is where Poonawalla Fincorp helps you to achieve your goals hassle-free. A Professional Loan makes it simple for Chartered Accountants to access funds with a fully digital and quick application process.
Enjoy minimal documentation, fast approvals, and flexible tenures to support your professional growth. Here’s how you can apply in just three easy steps:
- Start Your Application: Click the “Apply Now” button to begin the process and access the secure loan application form.
- Fill in Your Details: Provide essential information like your Date of Birth, PAN number, monthly income, KYC, and residential details to proceed.
- Upload Your Documents: Submit required documents such as income proof and ID for quick and seamless approval.
Once verified, the loan amount will be disbursed directly to your bank account.
To Conclude
Whether a fresher or a professional, the average salary that a CA earns makes it one of the most lucrative careers in the current market. The journey of a Chartered Accountant is marked by continuous learning.
If you want to pursue CA but are facing financial hurdles, Poonawalla Fincorp takes that hurdle away by offering a low-interest Professional Loan. We understand your financial demands and address them with the timely approval of the loan. Apply for a Professional Loan and focus on your CA journey to the top.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a CA earn in India?
In India, the average salary of a CA is between ₹6 Lakhs and ₹1 Crore per annum, but the actual salary differs based on experience.
How much is the starting salary of a CA?
A fresher CA can earn ₹6-8 Lakhs per annum (₹50,000-60,000 per month), and more at the best placements.
What is the salary of skilled CAs?
Individuals with 5-10 years of experience can expect to earn between ₹20 - ₹35 Lakhs per year, and senior leaders can earn up to ₹50 Lakhs - ₹1 Crore per year.
Does specialization in CA influence the salary?
Yes. Specialized areas such as taxation, audit, or even finance strategy can be more highly paid, particularly in areas with high demand.
We take utmost care to provide information based on internal data and reliable sources. However, this article and associated web pages provide generic information for reference purposes only. Readers must make an informed decision by reviewing the products offered and the terms and conditions. Loan disbursal is at the sole discretion of Poonawalla Fincorp.
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