AICPA

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

The national professional organization for certified public accountants (CPAs) in the United States. Founded in 1887, the AICPA provides its members with the resources, information, and leadership to enable them to provide valuable services in the highest professional manner to benefit the public, employers, and clients. Key aspects of the AICPA:

• Membership: The AICPA represents over 400,000 CPAs in public practice, industry, government, and education. It also includes student affiliates and international associates.
• Standards Setting: The AICPA sets ethical standards for the profession and U.S. auditing standards for private companies, nonprofit organizations, and federal, state, and local governments.
• Examinations: The organization develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination, a requirement for CPA licensure in all U.S. jurisdictions.
• Continuing Education: The AICPA provides educational guidance materials, develops and grades the CPA examination, and monitors and enforces compliance with the profession’s technical and ethical standards.
• Advocacy: The organization represents the CPA profession’s interests before legislative bodies, public interest groups, and other professional organizations.
• Publications: The AICPA publishes various journals, newsletters, and online resources to keep its members informed about the latest developments in the accounting profession.

The AICPA works in conjunction with state CPA organizations to support its members and promote high professional standards, maintaining public confidence in the profession.

• Abbreviation: AICPA