What is the difference between a CPA and an accountant who is not a CPA?
CPA’s work very hard not only to obtain but also to maintain their credentials. They must meet educational and experience standards, pass a rigorous 2 day examination and an ethics exam in order to be licensed by the State Board of Accountancy. If a CPA’s performance is found to be substandard they can be denied a permit to practice. After licensure, extensive continuing education requirements must be met on an ongoing basis in order to remain in practice. Members of the AICPA have their work reviewed semi-annually and are required to adhere to one of the most exacting codes of conduct of any profession. It stresses independence, integrity, objectivity, technical competence and professional standards — the hallmarks of the CPA. Non-CPAs have no certification to lose, no standards to comply with, no periodic reviews of their work and no continuing education requirements to adhere to. Many do not carry liability insurance.
