CA

I just looked at the form (I'm in CA as well and just got my application approved) and it says that "Upon the applicant's request, failure to submit [the form] is viewed by the Board as an attempt to impede the applicant's certification and may result in diciplinary action." The form itself asks for period of employment, so even you can basically get your experience from different places.

I would point that out to your employer, report it to the board, and start looking for another job. A lot of firms are hiring now if you have experience.

Hi WannabCPA,

I do think it is unethical. The firm should not give a person credit for attestation experience if the person has none. Also, if a person has not done all the elements required (planning, fieldwork, and FS preparation) the firm should not give a person credit for those areas. However, if a person has received sufficient experience in those areas, which I think could be achieved in 2 busy seasons, then I think it is wrong for the firm not to sign off on those areas.

Another option is to obtain your license without the Attest and then once you receive sufficient attestation experience apply for that portion. The only reason one needs the Attest part of the CPA is to sign reports, which you most likely won't be doing for a while!

No in-charge work