Following is a transcript of a question and answer highlighting frequent inquiries sent to the MACPA Professional Ethics Task Force. Responses to the inquiries have been tailored to specific questions presented and may not consider all of the unique circumstances that are part of an ethical inquiry. Attempt your own answer before reading the “unofficial” opinion of the Task Force.

My neighbor is a high school graduate who has been preparing 1040s for friends and relatives for the past several years. This year she “decided” to become a CPA. She printed up business cards, letterhead and even office signage on her PC – all identifying her as a CPA. I believe she is defrauding the public, harming the reputation of actual CPAs, and should be in jail! What can the MACPA do about this?

We agree with you, but since she is not a member of the MACPA we have no authority to discipline her. You should contact the Michigan State Board of Accountancy (517.241.9249) with as much information as you can obtain to confirm what she is doing, for example one of her phony business cards or a document she signed as “CPA.” Unlicensed activity is now a felony in Michigan, with fines up to $25,000 and up to five years imprisonment.