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Ensure that your Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) have the required educational background. They must have attended a four-year program in accounting from an accredited institution. He/She must also have passed a standard exam that proves their competence in the field. The four primary areas of competence are auditing procedures, financial accounting and reporting, law and professional responsibility, and accounting and reporting.
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Professional licensing differs in each state. If you are a small business owner, you must contact your state board of accounting, provided you have any doubt about your Certified Public Accountant (CPA) qualifications..