Ethical Considerations in Accounting: What Every Professional Should Know - Las Vegas Edition

Confidentiality

Professionals should be aware of who has access to confidential information. Confidential information should only be shared with authorized people. Breaching confidentiality can damage an organization’s reputation and lead to legal issues.

Conflict of Interest

Personal interest should never interfere with professional responsibilities. For example, even if an accountant has personal financial interest in a company, their reporting must remain unbiased. Disclosing potential conflicts of interest to the relevant persons can prevent accountants being in unwanted situations.

Integrity

Integrity is about being straightforward and honest in all financial business. Accountants must avoid all dishonest activities. Keeping integrity builds trust with clients, employers and the public.

Professional Behavior

Professional behavior is following and respecting laws. Regulations and standards are also included . Accountants should invest in their education to keep up to date with all the changes in the regulations, enabling them to provide up-to-date information to clients and employers. Acting with courtesy and respect towards all the people involved in the business is another part of professional behavior.

Objectivity

Objectivity results in financial reports and advice being based on facts and evidence, not personal feelings or external pressures. Personal feelings or opinions do not have a room in accounting.

Fair Presentation

Providing a truthful and complete view of the financial position of an entity is fair presentation. This means not adjusting any significant information influencing the understanding of the financial statements. Accountants should strive to present information free from bias and not misleading.

Ethical Decision Making

When making decisions, accountants should consider the potential impact on people affected by them. One way to approach ethical decision-making is by using ethical guidelines. These frameworks can help accountants overcome difficult situations and make choices within ethical standards.

Whistleblowing

Whistleblowing is reporting unethical or illegal activities within an organization. Accountants have a duty to report any actions violating laws or ethical standards. Organizations should have clear policies and protections in place for whistleblowers, to encourage reporting of unethical behavior without fear of consequences.

Continuing Professional Development

Accountants should stay current with ethical standards, laws, and best practices. This can include attending workshops, earning certifications, and participating in professional organizations. Learning prepares accountants handling ethical dilemmas so they can provide the highest standard services.

Accountability

Accountability is about taking responsibility for one’s actions and decisions. In accounting, this means being answerable for the accuracy and integrity of financial reports and other related tasks.

Technology and Ethics

With the increasing use of technology in accounting, ethical considerations have also evolved. Accountants must be aware of the ethical implications of using technology, including data security, privacy, and the potential for automation to impact jobs. Ethical use of technology includes: protecting data against breaches, using software responsibly, and being transparent about how technology is used in processes.