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| April 1 , 2004 | The
Monthly Newspaper of the NYSSCPA |
Vol.
7, No.6 |
Media Relations
By Lois Whitehead, Public Relations Manager
Let Them Know: CPAs Stand Out From the Crowd
At tax time, consumers have the option of hiring a CPA, filing their own taxes, or seeking the assistance of a tax services company such as H&R Block.
When doing a media interview or talking to a potential client, take the time to discuss the advantages that you, as a CPA, offer over the other alternatives. These include:
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CPAs have to take a special licensing exam, have strict educational and experience requirements, and specialize in taxation, financial statement preparation, accounting and auditing services. CPAs also have a background in state taxes that enrolled agents do not.
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CPAs must abide by codes of conduct and adhere to countless professional rules and principles.
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CPAs look at the broad picture and give suggestions for the future. CPAs provide guidance on estate planning, retirement planning, college funding, risk management and investment planning, among other areas.
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Tax services companies primarily are seasonal. CPAs provide year-round advice.
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Becoming a CPA and dutifully serving your clients and the profession are demanding tasks. You are well aware of the high standards that you must meet every day; help make sure the public is too.
Calling All CPAs
Community
Tax Aid, Inc., a nonprofit, tax-exempt, all-volunteer organization that
provides free tax service to low-income taxpayers in New York City, needs
CPA volunteers. Details about the organization are available at groups.msn.com/ctanyc/wecomepage.msnw.
Any member who wishes to volunteer should contact Sheldon Barasch at 212-815-1858
or sbarasch@dc37.net.
