IPA Practice Management Survey

Setting the Benchmark for CPA Firms

The IPA Practice Management Survey is INSIDE Public Accounting’s annual benchmarking survey that collects comprehensive financial and operational data from CPA firms across North America. For more than three decades, it has served as a trusted source of practice management data for the accounting profession.

Data from the survey is used to produce IPA’s Practice Management Report and other benchmarking publications. These reports provide objective analysis of firm performance and long-term industry trends.

The survey gathers detailed information on compensation models, staffing and leverage, information technology, profitability, governance and other key operational metrics. Participating firms use this data to evaluate performance, compare results with peers and make informed strategic decisions.

The IPA Practice Management Survey is conducted annually, with data collection beginning in January and continuing through May. Participating firms submit standardized financial and operational information for analysis and benchmarking.

IPA - 2026 Practice Management Report

Survey Process

Digging into Data

How the IPA Practice Management Survey Works

Firms that participate in the survey receive:

  • Eligibility for inclusion in the IPA 500 and Best of the Best Firm accolades
  • A complimentary electronic executive summary of the IPA Practice Management Report
  • A complimentary copy of the annual IPA 500 rankings
  • Preferred pricing on benchmarking and marketing tools

Participation not only contributes to industry benchmarking, but also provides firms with direct access to insights and recognition opportunities.

The IPA Practice Management Report delivers comprehensive benchmarking analysis from leading CPA firms nationwide. Explore our benchmarking reports to learn more.

FAQs

It is an annual benchmarking survey that collects financial and operational data from CPA firms to support industry analysis and rankings. 

CPA firms across North America that meet IPA participation criteria are eligible to participate. 

The survey is conducted annually, with data collection running from January through May. 

Survey data is used to produce IPA benchmarking reports, firm rankings and performance analysis tools.

IPA uses submitted data in aggregate form to protect firm confidentiality while ensuring accurate benchmarking.