[Anonymous]

I passed my CPA a few months ago and have been thinking about taking the CFE exam. I heard its only a month or 2 of studying and isn’t as hard as the CPA was. I’m just thinking it wouldn’t be bad to have and plus it would probably widen my job opportunities (also interested in fraud, ect). Anyone think its not worth getting? Right now I work at a mid size public accounting firm as an audit associate-may or may not be interested in other job opportunities in the future.

[jcw1503]

If you are going to be working in audit then I would say yes, and even if you do not it still would be nice to have in your back pocket. I studied for about a month using the CFE study program, passed it the first time. It is no where near as hard as the CPA Exam. Good Luck. Plus other then the annual fee, there is no difference, because your CPE for your CPA license would should cover your CPE for your CFE. IT is only 20 hours…

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[HFinn]

It probably can't hurt seeing that HR looks for it and it has a reputation for being very easy and theoretical (as opposed to practical).

Think I remember reading something on this forum about the CFF having more weight with actual practicioners due to its exam and more rigourous experience requirements…

[Anonymous]

Probably not. CFE is most likely for people who don't have CPAs. If you are looking for a job at government as an investigator, forensic accountant, or auditor, you might like to have it as an extra edge over other candicates. If you are satisfied with your current job and don't like to pay $175 annual fee, then you can forget it. The CFE exams are very easy because most test questions were from the practice questions, too easy that you feel like they are doing it for your $. Most my coworkers and I are CFEs and some hold mutliple titles, but most CPAs are considering quitting 'cause tired of paying annual fees. I too consider getting rid of it once I get my CPA license. After all, if I want to get it back, I would just study for a month and pass it, the test overall is not even as half difficult as any single CPA exam. P.S. I have a coworker who has multiple titles and had to pay close to $1,000 a year for renewal. I don't really understand some people pursuit another title after another…if you are an accountant, a CPA is what you need…I am NOT studying right now, and I enjoy every minute of it!

[Anonymous]

It looks like the CFF requires 1000 hours of experience. As an audit associate I don't know how I would meet that requirement without changing jobs. I would like to go for the harder certification instead of the one that is known to be really easy but seems like in my situation the CFE would be a starting point for me to get into a different position that would give me experience in the forensic accounting area.

[Anonymous]

You're cute. I have a (blue)crush on you.

That is all.

[HFinn]

@OP, that sounds like a good plan.

[Author]

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