A Basic Ethics Guidebook for New York CPAs

COURSE DESCRIPTION

A CPA is challenged in todays work world to not only serve his/her client or employer but also to protect the public interest by ensuring that there is transparency in financial reporting or there is fair administration of the tax laws. In balancing the two interests, a CPA may find him or herself in an ethical dilemma. This course covers not only basic ethical frameworks but also specific rules from the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, the New York Rules, Regulations, and Education Law. These sources govern the practice and responsibilities of New York CPAs. It concludes with a section on how a CPA can put his or her ethics into action.

Learning Objectives:

After reading the course material, you will be able to:

• To assimilate the rules of ethics for CPAs and professional accountants licensed in New York.
• To ascertain the intent of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the New York Rules, Regulations, and Education Law in the performance of professional accounting services/work, not to adhere to the mere technical compliance of such rules.
• To apply ethical judgment in interpreting the rules and determining public interest. Public interest should be placed ahead of self-interest, even if it means a loss of a job or client.
• To analyze and apply the New York law that pertains to CPAs licensed to practice in the state of New York. Students will become familiar with the New York Revised Statutes, the Rules of the State Board of Accountancy, the Policies adopted by the Board currently in effect, and how the statutes, rules, and policies about them. Specific rules reviewed include the following:
  
  • The role of the Office of the Professions
  • New York State rules on ethics (as provided in NYS Law, Rules and Regulations), including the following:
  • Retention and maintenance of work papers
  • Competency requirements for attesting and compilation services
  • Failing to maintain an active registration when using the title of designation
  • Reportable events
  • Commissions and referral fees, including mandatory disclosure
  • Public expectations of CPAs’ responsibilities
  • Enforcement of rules on ethics

Who Should Attend:

• All Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)
• Other Tax Return Preparer (OTRP)

Qualifies and Approved with all State Boards of Accountancy and the following sponsorships: