[seagull]

Hi all,

Just want to get your opinion.
I’ve been in public for 2 years and I’m currently interviewing as I’m not happy where I am. I had an interview with a small firm. I say small because it’s only two partners and three professional staff.
I really like the partner that interviewed me and it really sounds like a great opportunity. My interview was Friday afternoon. This morning, I got a call from the partner offering me the job. I was so excited I almost said yes right away. Anywho, I told home i would get back to him. I then decided to look him up on the state website. Not sure why since I never do this when going to job interview. I mean I’ll research the firm but never the partners’ license status. So I find this guy on the state website and his license is expired. The staid actually day it’s delinquent. The details simply say that he was supposed to renew back in July.
So Im just confused. I thought you weren’t allowed to practice public accounting without an active license.
Im also not sure this is the person I would want to work with if they let their license expired. I mean maybe there is a logical explanation. Would it be rude of me to call him and ask him about it before making a decision?

[Recked]

Not sure if you are licensed yet but be aware that someone operating on an expired license cannot vouch for your experience (at least in NY).
You are correct that the CPA should not operate with an expired license.
Chances are the renewal was lost in the mail or they simply forgot to do it.
I do not think it's rude to ask, and they will most likely thank you for reminding them.
There also could be a more profound reason, such as they had a CPE review and were lacking in hours, etc. They may be on a corrective course to get it straightened out and renewal will be granted when terms and conditions are met.
Please be 110% sure you are using the correct name/spelling before asking about this.

[DM]

Public for two years should already get you sufficient experience for CPA license. I wouldn't be overly concerned, as long as the guy wasn't revoked for DUI, murder, armed robbery, or other felony charges and securities violations. The license information is public knowledge and you should 100% ask him whats going on. But don't phrase it so that your decision is on the line. Probably is related to CPE credits anyway. The small nature of the firm makes reputation very important for client acquisition. This guy is doing a disservice to the company for allowing his license to lapse. I am more worried for this firm in the long run based on management's decisions. Inquire about their pipeline, new client wins in the last 6 months, all service offerings to clients, etc. Be careful with this one! I am concerned based on the facts provided.

[seagull]

Thank you both for your response.
I am actually licensed already so I’m not concerned with this person signing for my experience.
DM, that is actually why I’m having reservations about this offer. I’m concerned for this firm in the long run because I also believe that is a poor management decision.
I will be giving asking about this. For all I know, it is a legitimate reason such as not having sufficient CPE or maybe even the guy simply forgot.

[Author]

Replies