What must CPAs avoid to maintain independence during an audit and consulting engagement?

To maintain independence during an audit and consulting engagement, CPAs must avoid having any financial interest in the client. Independence is a fundamental principle of the CPA profession, as it ensures that auditors can perform their duties objectively and without bias.

Having a financial interest in the client can lead to conflicts of interest and undermine the perception of objectivity. For example, if a CPA owns shares in a company they are auditing, there may be an inclination, whether conscious or subconscious, to overlook issues or misstate findings to benefit their own financial position. This could compromise the integrity of the audit and the trust placed in the CPA by stakeholders and the public.

Maintaining independence not only safeguards the quality and reliability of the audit process but also upholds the reputation of the CPA profession as a whole. Thus, avoiding any financial interest in the client is crucial for ensuring that the CPA remains free from any influences that could impair their judgment or objectivity during the engagement.