VSCPA Releases Statement on Use of CPA Title
May 05, 2026
A new VSCPA Board of Directors statement reaffirms the importance of the CPA designation by encouraging continued and appropriate use of the CPA title as the profession evolves.
The release follows ongoing discussion in the profession about situations in which licensed CPAs may be discouraged from using the credential in business communications. Several factors are contributing to this situation, such as alternative practice structures like private equity backing of CPA firms and a patchwork of state-specific rules on credential display.
Supporters of reducing restrictions on displaying CPA credentials argue that downplaying the designation weakens transparency and accountability.
In a May 2025 Journal of Accountancy article, Sue Coffey, CPA, CEO of public accounting at the Association of International Certified Public Accountants, says not displaying the CPA title is a “detriment to our value and public standing because it negates the hard work we’ve done to build trust and respect and earn recognition for the CPA.”
Additionally, she writes, “In every business area in which CPAs work, including consulting and advisory, maintaining your CPA license signals an elite level of accountability, competency, integrity and objectivity.”
Donny Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, from the Center for Accounting Transformation, echoes Coffey’s sentiment: “At its best, the CPA designation represents integrity, competence, and service to the public. Asking professionals to hide it does more harm than good. How else will the public know who they can trust?”
In this vein, the VSCPA statement highlights the CPA brand as a signal of trust, integrity and commitment to the public good, while recognizing that rapid changes in technology, services and client expectations are reshaping how the credential is understood in practice.
“The VSCPA believes it’s important to champion and encourage continued use of the CPA title, especially during times of rapid change,” said VSCPA President & CEO Stephanie R. Peters, CAE. “The VSCPA’s statement underscores that the CPA title should remain a clear, trusted signal of competence and ethics — and that the regulatory framework should both safeguard the public interest and allow licensees to confidently identify themselves as CPAs.”
The full statement is as follows:
VSCPA Statement on CPA Title
VSCPA members are passionate about what the CPA designation represents — trust, integrity, and a deep commitment to the public good. The VSCPA is focused on ensuring that meaning remains strong, even as the CPA profession continues to evolve.
The accounting world is transforming — new technology, new services, and new expectations are reshaping how CPAs work and the value they deliver. With that change comes important conversations about how and when the CPA title is used, and what it represents in today’s environment. This includes ensuring that any restrictions on its use are appropriate, without being so limiting that licensees hesitate to identify themselves as CPAs.
The VSCPA believes this is a moment for leadership. The CPA brand isn’t just a credential — it’s a promise. A promise of excellence, accountability and ethical judgment. That promise must continue to hold true, no matter how the profession changes.
That’s why the VSCPA is working closely with members, regulators, firms and educators to encourage continued use of the CPA title and its recognition as the gold standard in financial and professional expertise. Together, we’ll preserve the strength of the CPA brand while embracing the innovation and adaptability that define the profession's future. We'll ensure a regulatory framework that allows the profession to thrive while protecting the public and the integrity of CPAs.
The VSCPA is proud to lead this effort on behalf of Virginia’s CPAs and the profession we all serve.
VSCPA members and stakeholders are encouraged to review the statement and watch for additional updates as the organization continues its work with regulators, firms and educators to support a framework that protects the public while enabling CPAs to clearly identify the expertise behind the credential.