Why won't they let you print CPA on your business card if you already have your license?
Good question. And it's frustrating especially when a lot of your clients have the CPA tag after their names on their business cards or in their email signatures. But I understand the Firms' stance. Here's why I think this is the case - if the Firms start differentiating amongst their employees, clients will begin to demand only individuals with CPAs on their teams, and this isn't really right. Heck, I'd do that if I was a client. The goal of the Firms is to say that every one of their employees is equally capable, so all clients are treated with the "best" service.
Good question. And it's frustrating especially when a lot of your clients have the CPA tag after their names on their business cards or in their email signatures. But I understand the Firms' stance. Here's why I think this is the case - if the Firms start differentiating amongst their employees, clients will begin to demand only individuals with CPAs on their teams, and this isn't really right. Heck, I'd do that if I was a client. The goal of the Firms is to say that every one of their employees is equally capable, so all clients are treated with the "best" service.
Comments
If you do, the context of any emails/conversations/correspondance may be mis-interpreted in that someone may think they're being told something from an "Official" CPA point of view.
For example, I had a law professor that explicitly and repeatedly made clear that she was not a practicing attorney and that any side questions should not be construed as legal advice.
Generally, it's for Public Accountants in CPA firms or sole proprietors.
If you work in private industry, it's not required for an accountant to be a CPA. The accountant represents the company and does not have to put "CPA" after his/her name.
There are people who place their profession designations on their business cards regardless because it gives them the air of a professional.
Doesn't mean it's correct!
Imagine a licensed attorney from NY moving to CT but is NOT licensed to practice in CT but puts Esquire/Attorney on the business card. That attorney should NOT be holding him/herself out as a "practicing" attorney in CT.
I've met many attorneys like that, unfortunately!
Any CPA or any other professional could get in trouble by doing so but 1) the general public really does NOT know better and 2) I've not yet heard of any person reporting that "professional" to their respective state licensing board!
Business Cards