If you are a CPA considering a .cpa domain migration as recommended by the AICPA, we support you! But, there are some short-term considerations to be aware of when it comes to the migration from an SEO or search engine optimization standpoint. When changing domains, even when done properly, there may be a temporary drop in search rankings and traffic while search engines re-index and transfer the existing SEO equity to the new domain. This is because search engines always initially treat the new domain as a brand-new domain with no history.
YES, but don’t worry!
So, the short answer is “Yes, a .cpa domain migration does impact SEO”. Changing from a .com or .net to a .cpa domain is a change that the search engines and SEO tools need to be adjusted for the change. The impact will be temporary as changes will eventually be updated by search engines scanning the website.
Notable Impacts
Here are the key points regarding how a .cpa domain impacts SEO along with notes to pay attention to (note these are in no particular order):
Temporary Drop in Rankings
When changing domains, even when done properly, there may be a temporary drop in search rankings and traffic while search engines re-index and transfer the existing SEO equity to the new domain. This is because search engines initially treat the new domain as brand new with no history. In the long run, the benefits of a credible, secure, and future-proof .cpa domain can outweigh any temporary SEO impact.
Preserve existing SEO equity
To minimize the negative SEO impact, it is crucial to properly migrate the website by implementing 301 redirects from the old domain to the new .cpa domain. This transfers the existing link equity, authority, and rankings to the new domain over time. While there may be a short-term ranking fluctuation, search engines like Google are aware that domain migrations happen and have provided guidance on how to properly execute them.
Keyword Relevance
A benefit, after the migration, is having a keyword-rich .cpa domain that is clearly relevant to your firm, the accounting, and CPA professionals. This can provide a measurable SEO boost compared to a generic .com domain, as it signals relevance to search engines. Inbound links containing keywords like “CPA” also become more valuable.
Increased client trust
Making the change will also make it easier for your customers to trust your website and emails.
Who can help?
In summary, the impact on SEO ranking will be an initial drop then a rise once search engines “catch” up. With all the moving parts and deep details that need changes, this is a task that is best managed by engaging with a service provider aware of the dangers rather than a web designer. Lead IT Consulting will work with you and your website, SEO, and staff to minimize the impacts. Lead IT’s .cpa Domain Migration Service is very affordable and can be completed efficiently by our team. Reach out today to see how easy it can be. Book a meeting with the author of this blog or complete a contact form and let us know how we might help.
