Public Accounting Services

Certified General Accountants (CGAs) specializing in public practice are highly qualified professionals that offer a range of sophisticated assurance and advisory services to virtually every segment of the economy.

Their qualifications stem from the successful completion of a rigorous seven-year program of professional studies and three years of acceptable work experience, of which two years must be at a senior level. (Since 1998, newly certified CGAs must also hold a post-secondary degree.)

Their clients and employers receive additional comfort knowing that all CGAs are bound by a comprehensive Code of Ethical Principles and Rules of Conduct.

To protect the public interest, the CGA Associations ensure CGAs in public accounting provide the highest level of service by requiring them to:

• Meet education and experience entry requirements beyond those required of non-public practitioners;
• commit to ongoing continuing professional education;
• undergo practice reviews every three years;
• maintain professional liability insurance;
• be subject to member discipline.

CGAs in most provinces are guaranteed full practice rights. This means they have the right to perform audits, reviews and compilations of publicly traded companies. In addition to assurance services, CGAs may offer professional advice in a myriad of service areas, including:

• taxation;
• financial planning;
• retirement, estate and succession planning;
• feasibility studies;
• forecasting;
• valuations;
• financial management;
• management consulting and advisory services;
• budget planning;
• non-financial performance measurement;
• risk management;
• corporate control;
• strategic counsel;
• selection and implementation of information technology;
• executive management.