Okay, let’s calculate. Nicole has a certification from the Road Runners Club of America, which isn’t directly related to accounting. However, she has skills in accounting, financial reporting, and tax. Her expertise in tax accounting, corporate tax, and international tax are in demand. Location is Asheville, North Carolina, which is a smaller market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants in the Asheville area tend to earn lower rates compared to larger cities. Considering her skills and certification, I estimate her hourly rate to be around $75, which is on the lower end of the scale.