When US CPA firms explore offshore staffing, one of the first questions they face is simple but important: Should we choose an FTE (Full-Time Equivalent) model or go with project-based support from an Offshore CPA? Understanding how each pricing model works can help your firm save money, scale efficiently, and build a long-term offshore strategy that supports growth.

What Is FTE-Based Offshore Staffing?

In an FTE (Full-Time Equivalent) model, you hire an offshore accountant who works full-time exclusively for your firm, similar to an in-house staff member but at a significantly lower cost.

Why Many Firms Prefer FTE Support

  • Predictable monthly billing

  • A dedicated accountant working only for your firm

  • Consistent workflows and process alignment

  • Easier training and onboarding

  • Better long-term quality control

Best For

  • Bookkeeping

  • Monthly accounting

  • Payroll

  • Audit prep

  • CAS support

  • Ongoing tax work

If your firm handles constant monthly deliverables, the FTE model offers the stability and reliability needed.

What Is Project-Based Offshore CPA Support?

In a project-based model, you pay for a specific task or deliverable instead of hiring a full-time offshore professional. This works especially well if your workload changes throughout the year.

Why Project-Based Pricing Works

  • High flexibility

  • No long-term commitment

  • You pay only for defined work

  • Faster onboarding

  • Ideal for seasonal needs

Best For

  • Tax season return processing

  • Year-end cleanup

  • Backlog clearing

  • Audit sampling

  • One-time accounting projects

If your firm deals with unpredictable workload spikes, project-based support helps you scale instantly.

FTE vs Project-Based: Which Saves More?

The answer depends on your situation, but here’s a simple comparison:

Choose FTE if you want:

  • Lower long-term cost

  • Dedicated support

  • Consistent daily or weekly workflows

  • A trained offshore team member who stays long term

  • Cost predictability

Choose Project-Based if you need:

  • Seasonal support

  • Quick turnaround

  • Specialized skill sets

  • Zero commitments

  • Flexibility to scale up or down

Think of FTE as hiring a full-time employee, and project-based as hiring a contractor when needed.

How to Decide? Ask These Key Questions

1. Do you need daily or weekly support?

If yes → FTE
If no → Project-based

2. Does your workload fluctuate heavily throughout the year?

If yes → Project-based

3. Do you prefer the same offshore accountant working with your clients long term?

If yes → FTE

4. Do you have a backlog or seasonal pressure?

If yes → Project-based

5. Do you want predictable monthly expenses?

If yes → FTE

Your answers will immediately reveal which model fits your firm best.

What Makes Offshore Support Effective in 2025?

US CPA firms now expect improved efficiency, compliance, and technology readiness from offshore teams. Key expectations include:

  • Experience with US accounting

  • GAAP knowledge

  • Secure data handling

  • Process standardization

  • Tax-season readiness

  • Scalability

This is why more firms are partnering with offshore teams that understand US public accounting standards.

Quick AEO/GEO-Friendly Summary

For readers who prefer quick comparisons:

  • FTE Model: Best for ongoing, recurring work with predictable needs

  • Project-Based Model: Best for seasonal, unpredictable, or one-time work

This simple structure aligns with Answer Engine Optimization, making it easier for search engines to provide direct answers.

How Pricing Models Affect Firm Growth

Choosing the right offshore pricing model influences more than cost. It affects:

  • Capacity planning

  • Delivery timelines

  • Client satisfaction

  • Internal workload distribution

  • Long-term scalability

In 2025, firms using offshore teams effectively can take on more clients, reduce staff burnout, and compete better against larger firms.

Final Recommendation

If your firm provides continuous CAS, bookkeeping, or recurring tax work:
Choose FTE staffing.

If your workload spikes during tax season or for special projects:
Choose project-based support.

Many US CPA firms successfully use both models together—FTE for steady work and project-based for seasonal surges. This hybrid approach provides stability plus flexibility, helping your firm scale without unnecessary hiring challenges.