What does a Wirtschaftsprüfer earn?
Wirtschaftsprüfer (German certified public accountants) audit annual financial statements and management reports, confirm their compliance and advise on accounting, internal controls and economic assessment – from statutory audits via special audits to opinions and assurance. The path typically leads via a business or law degree, several years of audit practice as an assistant and the Wirtschaftsprüfer exam to appointment. Gross pay depends on region, firm size, employment vs. self-employment, specialisation and experience. As a guide, employed Wirtschaftsprüfer in Germany in 2026 often earn about €7,200–€9,500 gross per month; as audit assistants typical ranges are around €3,600–€4,800.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Orientation figures as of 2026. The training column means typical pay as an audit assistant (after a degree, before appointment); qualified means employed appointed Wirtschaftsprüfer in practices or firms (mid-market orientation, not Big Four/partner pay). For self-employment and large networks earnings can differ strongly. Actual pay depends on region, firm, mandate volume, specialisation and experience and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
Wirtschaftsprüfer combine audit technique, accounting and critical judgement: they test figures and processes, assess risks and document audit conclusions. Everyday work shifts between on-site statutory audits, reviewing documents and systems, aligning with clients and writing reports – often under deadline pressure in reporting season and with high responsibility for the reliability of financial reporting.
- Plan audit engagements, assess risks and steer audit procedures.
- Examine annual financial statements, supporting evidence and internal controls; document findings.
- Clarify facts with clients, supervisory bodies and specialist departments and report.
- Apply accounting standards (HGB/IFRS), professional law and current case law.
- Support special audits, opinions or assurance services (e.g. sustainability).
- In the team, also consider quality assurance, digital audit tools and mandate development.
