Value of a CPA
A CPA Provides Value
Not all accountants may call themselves a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). A CPA must adhere to certain professional and technical requirements. CPAs are relied upon because of their keen analytical and decision-making skills. Their clients also value their objectivity, integrity and dedication to service. CPA Services go well beyond accounting, auditing and reporting.
CPA Qualifications
- CPAs are tested and certified. A CPA is an accountant who has been certified by the state of Colorado after they've passed the rigorous CPA exam. This two and one-half day exam is an all-encompassing exam of all aspects of accounting is the ultimate culmination of a new accountantÂ’s educational process.
- CPAs have a college degree. Eligible candidates must graduate with an appropriate baccalaureate or master's degree from an accredited college with a focus on accounting or finance. In many states, the accounting program is a five year educational process instead of a normal four year program.
- CPAs must meet certain work experience requirements in public accounting, corporate accounting or finance or in academia to receive a CPA certificate.
- CPAs take continuing education. Active CPAs continually meet continuing education requirements as dictated by the state Board of Accountancy. They must complete 80 hours of continuing education programs every two years in order maintain an active CPA certificate.
- CPAs follow a strict code of ethics. In addition to education and licensing requirements, CPAs are bound by a strict code of professional ethics and are required to take ethics courses. The U.S. Department of the Treasury requires CPAs practicing before the IRS to comply with their Code of Professional Conduct. Additionally, the Colorado state Board of Accountancy and the Colorado Society of CPAs have similar ethics standards.
