[AccJGarcia]

I’ve come across conflicting answers to this question. So, I am hoping that one of you might know.

If someone passes all parts of the CPA exam, becomes licensed and subsequently lets their license expire (through non-renewal as well as failure to complete CPE requirements) are they still allowed to be listed under the title of CPA and have “, CPA” after their name?

[taxgeek83]

My understanding is no.

[Missy]

Nope, best rule of thumb when trying to use “CPA” after a name is this: Is there a state board that will verify that person is currently licensed? If not, nope not ever can you use the initials.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[AccJGarcia]

That's what I thought. And, as a person working pretty hard to obtain the license and title it was really bothering me.

So, what are the rules for coming across such a situation? Am I supposed to report it to someone?

I don't want to come off as a tattletale but I also don't condone nor would ever want to associate or be held liable for something/someone like this.

[hasy]

After having taken the ethics exam, I would concur with “no”.

1) Check with your state and see if it is even an issue (though I'm pretty sure it is).

2) Your state board of accountancy should have a protocol to follow regarding this. I know CBA has a number that I can call if I wanted to report someone. If you feel strongly about it, you should be able to report.

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved - Helen Keller

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BEC 80 (10/23/15)
FAR 72 (4/2/15); 83 (7/11/16)
REG 52 (4/28/15)
AUD (9/9/16)

Roger + NINJA MCQ + WTB

[Skynet]

Unless that person is a Certified Party Animal and actually makes that distinction, then it is OK.

[AccJGarcia]

Did you mean it is “not OK?”

ps Certified Public Accountant doesn't even sound appealing after considering Certified Party Animal. LoL

[Author]

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