What is the primary consideration for a CPA when accepting a commission from a third party?

The primary consideration for a CPA when accepting a commission from a third party is the required disclosures made to the client. This is crucial because ethical standards for CPAs emphasize transparency and the need to maintain objectivity and independence in their professional judgment. Accepting a commission may create a conflict of interest, and it is imperative that clients are fully informed about the nature of the commission and any potential biases that may arise from it.

Disclosing the commission allows clients to make an informed decision about the services being provided and helps to uphold the integrity of the CPA profession. It is not merely about the commission itself but ensuring that the client understands any financial incentives that might influence the services or advice provided.

Other factors, such as the nature of the client relationship, may play a role in this consideration, but they do not supersede the importance of clear and honest communication regarding commission structures. Additionally, a client’s investment knowledge and the CPA's licensing status, while relevant in other contexts, do not directly address the core ethical requirement of disclosure in situations involving commissions.