January 2000

CPA Firms a Source for Associate Members

Public accounting firms are a primary source for NYSSCPA associate members, specifically non-CPA professionals who may qualify to join as a CPA firm employee, one of the five new associate categories approved by a membership vote last year.

The Society's decision to open its doors to non-CPA firm principals, owners, and nonowners acknowledges the reality of today's accounting firm, where CPAs and non-CPAs team up to create business solutions for their clients. Among the job titles that prospective associate members might have are systems analyst, tax management consultant, information technology consultant, and business management consultant. In addition, firm employees preparing to pass the written exam qualify for membership as a CPA candidate.

By joining the Society, non-CPAs will get a better understanding of the professional issues that impact the way their CPA colleagues do business. This understanding, in turn, can enhance their position in the firm.

Associate members, who need sponsorship from an NYSSCPA member, have access to the Society's wide range of tools, resources, and programs to integrate their knowledge base and sharpen their areas of expertise. Like their CPA counterparts, they can serve on committees and gain wide exposure as experts in their fields. Associate members, however, cannot vote or serve as an officer or director.

The larger CPA firms are also home to chartered accountants and other CPAs licensed outside the United States who qualify for Society membership as an international associate, another of the new categories. The annual dues for international associates are $175.

The dues for other CPA firm employees are as follows:

CPA firm owners (including partners, principals, shareholders, and LLC members)

*	With an office or a residence in New York	$325
*	With neither office nor residence in New York	$175

CPA firm nonowners other than CPA candidates

*	With an office or a residence in New York	$245
*	With neither office nor residence in New York	$175

CPA candidate $50

To help recruit associate members from the large pool of prospects at CPA firms, the Society asks managing partners and human resources managers to identify and encourage qualified non-CPA professionals to join.

Prospective members can apply for membership online by visiting http://www.nysscpa.org and clicking the Welcome to Our Home button on the bottom of the home page. Interested individuals also can request an application by contacting Kiesha Mills at (212) 719-8392, (800) 633-6320, or Kiesha Mills. *