Ever wonder what’s up with all the letters after someone’s name?  Credentials are a professional way to recognize expertise and experience in a given area.  Business appraisers and forensic accountants use credentials to communicate their qualifications, especially in reports that are submitted for review by the IRS and courts.

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) are licensed by the state. State licensing requirements vary, but almost all states require a passing grade on the national exam and a combination of education and experience. CPAs are governed by standards established by professional associations such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) that are intended to create a consistent level of service to the public.  The AICPA offers its own professional credentials including Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF).

The National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts (NACVA) offers several credentials, among them are the Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) and the Certified Mergers and Acquisitions Professional (CMAP). Credentials are awarded based on the results of an exam, education and experience.  All of the credentials mentioned here require continuing education as a part of renewal.