21 NCAC 08A .0308         HOLDING OUT TO THE PUBLIC

(a)  The phrase "holds himself out to the public as a certified public accountant," as used in defining "public practice of accountancy" in G.S. 93-1(a)(5) and in these rules, means any representation that a person holds a certificate of qualification, if that representation is made in connection with an offer to perform or the performance of accountancy services for the public, regardless of whether that representation is made by the person, someone associated with that person, or someone serving as that person’s agent. Any such representation is presumed to invite the public to rely upon the professional skills implied by the certificate in connection with the professional services offered to be performed or performed by the person.

(b)  For purposes of this Rule, a "representation" shall be deemed to include any oral, electronic, or written communication indicating that the person holds a certificate, including without limitation, the use of titles or legends on letterheads, reports, business cards, brochures, resumes, office signs, telephone directories, websites, the Internet, or any other advertisements, news articles, publications, listings, tax return signatures, signatures on experience or character affidavits for exam or certificate applicants, displayed membership in CPA associations, displayed CPA licenses from this or any other jurisdiction, and displayed certificates or licenses from other organizations which have the designation "CPA" or "Certified Public Accountant" by the person's name.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 93-1(a)(5); 93-12;

Eff. September 1, 1988;

Amended Eff. January 1, 2006; April 1, 1999; April 1, 1994; May 1, 1989;

Readopted Eff. February 1, 2016.