Can a Non-CPA Own a CPA Firm in New York?

Can a non-CPA own a CPA firm in New York?
Note: All firm owners must be licensed as a CPA or a NY PA. Firms with non-CPA ownership will not be allowed to register. New York State law does not permit firms that have unlicensed ownership to register or practice public accountancy in NYS.
Read more on www.op.nysed.gov

The quick response is no. Only CPAs (certified public accountants) are allowed to own CPA firms in New York. According to the rules of the New York State Board of Public Accountancy, only CPAs who are properly licensed may offer public accounting services. As a result, it is illegal for a non-CPA to own a CPA firm in New York.

However, why is that so? The explanation for this is that CPAs must fulfill stringent educational and work-related requirements in order to acquire their license since they are held to a higher standard of professional behavior. This guarantees that they possess the information and abilities needed to offer the general public competent and moral accounting services.

Is it Beneficial to Hire a CPA to Do Your Taxes?

Tax preparation by a CPA can be advantageous even though it is not legally obliged to do so. CPAs can offer precise and thorough tax advice because they have a thorough understanding of tax rules and regulations. They can also assist you in reducing your tax obligations and locating chances for tax savings. How Do Accountants Make Their Money?

Accountants frequently bill on an hourly or fixed fee basis for their services. The complexity of the work and the accountant’s experience can affect hourly fees. For certain tasks or services, such tax preparation or bookkeeping, flat rates are frequently employed. How Much Do Accountants Bill for an Hour?

The hourly pay for accountants can range greatly, from $50 to more than $300. The difficulty of the work, the accountant’s location, and their expertise are all variables that can impact their hourly charge.

Should Accountants Be Regulated?

Yes, state licensing boards and professional groups do regulate accountants. For instance, CPAs are subject to high ethical and professional standards and are governed by the New York State Board of Public Accountancy. This guarantees that accountants deliver top-notch services and uphold the confidence of the general public.

In conclusion, although non-CPAs are not permitted to run CPA firms in New York, it may be wise to hire a CPA for tax and accounting services. Accounting fees can be either hourly or flat, and hourly rates for accountants can be very different. Finally, in order to ensure that they deliver high-quality services and uphold the public’s confidence, accountants are subject to regulation by professional associations and state licensing bodies.

FAQ
Where do I report an accountant?

You can register a complaint or report accountant misconduct with the Office of the Professions at the New York State Education Department, which is in charge of overseeing all state-licensed professionals, including certified public accountants.

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