Who is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)?

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional who has met specific education and experience requirements and has passed a comprehensive examination administered by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) or a similar state board. One of the key responsibilities of a CPA is to perform audits of corporations and other entities, ensuring that financial statements are accurate and comply with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).

The auditing function is critical for maintaining the integrity of financial reporting, as it provides assurance to stakeholders, including investors, creditors, and the general public. The CPA designation is recognized for its rigor and the ethical standards required, making CPAs essential in public accounting, where they oversee financial records and report on the findings of their examinations.

The other choices describe roles related to accounting or finance, but they do not encompass the full scope and authority of a CPA. For example, while providing tax advice is an important function that some CPAs perform, it is not the defining characteristic of what makes someone a CPA. Similarly, financial advisors and accountants experienced in government finance offer valuable services, but they do not have the same qualifications or scope of practice as a CPA, particularly in terms of conducting audits and the formal recognition tied to the CPA credential.