Welcome to our blog at Sahil & Meher Accountants and Consultants. As a leading CPA firm, we understand that accounting is not just about crunching numbers—it’s about keeping pace with rapid regulatory, technological, and market changes. Over the past month, we have seen a surge in questions from fellow CPAs, business owners, and aspiring professionals across Canada. In this post, we delve deep into the most important questions being asked in the profession, offering clear guidance, analysis, and forward-thinking insights to help you navigate this evolving landscape.
1. Maintaining Your CPA License: CPD Requirements and Professional Growth
One of the most common questions we encounter is, “What are the ongoing requirements to maintain my CPA license?”
In Canada, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is not only a regulatory obligation—it is a cornerstone of professional credibility. Every year, a CPA must complete at least 20 hours of CPD, covering topics from emerging tax regulations to new accounting technologies. This structured learning ensures that CPAs remain up to date with an ever-changing financial and regulatory environment, enabling them to deliver high-quality service to their clients (My‑CPE).
Beyond compliance, CPD represents a valuable opportunity for professional growth. Many CPAs are now choosing courses on sustainability reporting, risk management, and digital transformation. Investing in these areas builds a resilient skill set and provides a competitive edge in today’s dynamic market.
2. Transformations in the CPA Certification Program
With many asking, “What changes should we expect in the CPA certification process?” the conversation has turned to the evolution of the exam structure and education pathways.
From 2025 through 2027, the current CPA education framework—encompassing the Common Final Examination (CFE), PREP, and PEP—will gradually transition into a new certification program. This innovative approach will emphasize critical thinking, complex case studies, and real-world simulations rather than simply testing technical knowledge. The redesigned program may also incorporate micro-credentials, allowing candidates to accumulate verified competencies incrementally (Gevorg).

This evolution is driven by the understanding that in today’s data-rich environment, the ability to interpret and analyze information is paramount. The new program is expected to include group projects, presentations, and interview-style assessments designed to simulate real-world business challenges, ensuring that future CPAs are well-prepared for a rapidly changing marketplace.
3. Interviewing an Accountant: Essential Questions for Clients and Employers
When selecting a CPA or assessing a firm’s capabilities, asking the right questions is crucial. Recent discussions in the industry have highlighted several key inquiries:
“What are your qualifications and certifications?” Confirming that the accountant holds the CPA designation and any additional relevant credentials is the first step in ensuring expertise.
“How do you keep up with evolving regulations and industry trends?” This question ties directly to CPD activities and demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning.
“Can you provide examples of how you have helped clients overcome tax or regulatory challenges?” Such questions reveal practical experience and the professional’s problem-solving approach.
These questions help both clients and potential employers assess not only technical proficiency but also whether the professional’s approach aligns with current best practices and client expectations (Lawrence).
4. Tax Trends and CRA Guidance: Navigating an Evolving Landscape
Beyond certification and educational reforms, many CPAs are closely following changes in tax policy and regulatory guidance. Recent updates from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) have prompted questions such as, “How will recent CRA initiatives affect tax planning and compliance?”
The CRA has been proactive in addressing common concerns by offering webinars, detailed guides, and interactive Q&A sessions. Key topics include changes in corporate tax rates, evolving digital reporting requirements, and the integration of sustainability metrics into financial reporting. Staying current on these updates is essential not only for compliance but also for providing informed advice to clients in today’s rapidly changing tax environment.
5. Career Path Insights: What New Voices Are Saying on “Canadian Accounting Career Advice?”
For aspiring accountants and those early in their careers, questions about educational backgrounds, co-op experiences, and career progression are critical. A newer discussion on Reddit—titled “Canadian Accounting Career Advice?” captures the current pulse of the profession. In this thread, recent posts highlight several recurring themes:
Educational and Co-op Experiences: Many contributors discuss the importance of not only choosing a strong academic program but also engaging in co-op placements and internships. The consensus is that while reputable schools (such as Waterloo, Laurier, or McMaster) provide valuable credentials, hands-on experience is indispensable for a successful career.
Job Market Navigation: Members share advice on landing interviews, making a strong impression during recruitment, and the benefits of networking at industry events. They debate the merits of working at large firms (like the Big 4) versus smaller regional practices, noting that each path has its unique benefits and challenges.
Work-Life Balance and Personal Growth: Recent discussions also underscore the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Young professionals are encouraged to consider not just the immediate career benefits but also long-term personal well-being.
This fresher conversation provides a current snapshot of the challenges and opportunities facing new entrants to the field, highlighting both practical advice and evolving career strategies
(Reddit – “Canadian Accounting Career Advice?”).
6. Addressing Governance and Regulatory Changes
Recent headlines have brought to light the evolving structure of CPA governance in Canada, raising questions about membership, interprovincial mobility, and financial transparency. Key questions include:
“How do changes at CPA Canada affect individual membership and the mobility of the CPA designation?”
“What impact will evolving relationships between national and provincial bodies have on fees, oversight, and accountability?”
These debates reflect broader conversations within the profession. Recent updates from CPA Canada emphasize that, despite structural changes, the core benefits of a unified and nationally respected designation will remain intact. Ongoing dialogues between provincial bodies and CPA Canada aim to enhance transparency and ensure that all members continue to benefit from a robust national framework (CPA Canada). These discussions are essential for maintaining trust and facilitating smooth operation across provincial boundaries.
7. Embracing Technology and Sustainability in Accounting
Digital transformation is reshaping every industry, and accounting is no exception. Today, CPAs are exploring how artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and data analytics can streamline processes and improve accuracy. Common questions include:
“How will new technologies reshape the role of CPAs?”
“What sustainable practices can be integrated into financial reporting and auditing?”
By adopting AI tools and advanced analytics, CPAs can reduce manual errors, optimize efficiency, and derive deeper insights from financial data. Simultaneously, there is a growing emphasis on incorporating sustainability and ESG factors into financial reports. These dual trends promise not only to enhance the accuracy of accounting processes but also to ensure that the profession contributes to a more sustainable economy.
8. Looking Ahead: The Future of the Canadian CPA Profession
The Canadian CPA profession is at a pivotal moment, driven by regulatory reforms, technological innovation, and evolving client expectations. Key future-oriented questions include:
“What new competencies will be required of CPAs in the coming years?”
“How will the profession balance technological advancements with the need for human judgment and ethical standards?”
Experts predict that future CPAs will be expected to serve as strategic advisors, integrating technical expertise with skills in data interpretation, risk management, and sustainability reporting. As the profession evolves, continuous professional development and a commitment to ethical practice will be critical. This period of transformation offers significant opportunities for innovation and growth, ensuring that the Canadian CPA designation remains a global benchmark of excellence.
Final Thoughts

At Sahil & Meher Accountants and Consultants, our mission is to help you navigate these complex changes with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned CPA dedicated to lifelong learning, an aspiring professional mapping out your career path, or a business owner seeking expert financial advice, we are here to provide personalized insights and strategic support.
We invite you to reach out with any questions or comments. Let’s continue this important conversation as we work together to shape the future of accounting in Canada.
Works Cited
CPA Canada. “A Path Forward for the Profession: Your Questions Answered.” CPA Canada, 10 May 2024, https://www.cpacanada.ca/the-cpa-profession/about-cpa-canada/media-centre/2023/june/what-we-know-so-far. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.
Gevorg, CPA. “End of CFEs and PERT from 2025.” Gevorg, CPA, https://gevorgcpa.com/end-of-cfes-and-pert-from-2025/. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.
Lawrence, Caitlin. “Interviewing Accountants? Ask These Questions.” The Tax Force, 2 Jan. 2025, https://thetaxforce.ca/ask-this-when-interviewing-accountants/. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.
“Canadian CPA’s CPD Requirements for License Renewal in 2025.” My‑CPE, https://my-cpe.com/blogs/cpa-canada-cpd-requirements. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.
“Canadian Accounting Career Advice?” Reddit, 1.2 years ago, https://www.reddit.com/r/Accounting/comments/180lo28/canadian_accounting_career_advice/. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.
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