Purpose – In recent years, China has been making progress in internationalizing its financial reporting system. However, it is believed that earnings management from legitimate accounting choices to fraud that violates generally accepted accounting principles, is common in the mainland. The purpose of this study is to identify the most frequently used earnings management techniques in China and the underlying factors that motivate firms to engage in earnings management. Design/methodology/approach – Data were gained through a questionnaire sent to managers and accountants in mainland Chinese companies. Findings – The results show that the size and form of ownership of companies materially influence earnings management incentives and techniques in China. Public ownership companies have stronger incentives to manage earnings for management compensation, while private ownership companies pay more attention to tax expense savings. Also, several popular techniques employed in China are revealed. Originality/value – This study presents a general picture of earnings management in China by surveying the opinions of accountants and financial managers in Chinese companies.