Newbie. Salary: $24,000

When your boss asks you to cook the books, you wonder whether he means you should boil or bake. You opt for a simple outdoor fire book roast à la Fahrenheit 451, and are stunned when he cans you on the spot. Some people need to be clearer with their directions.

First Audit. Salary: $33,000

You've been hired by a small designer pet shop to keep their books in preparation for an audit. The pay's not so great, but they offer to add in a pampered pup with the deal. After you make a mistake with a decimal point that costs them their kibble, they threaten to sic their Rotweiller mix after you—and not in a warm, fuzzy, puppy way.

Basic Bookkeeper. Salary: $39,000

You're a freelance bookkeeper with enough work to keep you busy every day and to pay your bills. You're wholly content with making sure everything "checks and balances" out as expected for your clients, who seem genuinely happy to see you. You make your own hours and take time off when you need to.

Seasoned Worker. Salary: $47,000

You've developed a reputation as a go-to person when it comes to putting a company's finances in order. Your savvy bookkeeping skills are in demand and you command top dollar to make sure that everyone stays in the black and out of the red. You have so much work that you can't afford to take time off. But that's fine—you can travel when you retire.

Bookkeeper with Fifteen Years Experience. Salary: $54,000

You have several contracted clients, tons of work, and a more flexible schedule. Because you have so much regular work from a few select (and lucrative) clients, you're able to take relaxing time off and afford a comfortable home. You're doing well and enjoying life.