Certified in Financial Forensics credential

Do I have to be an AICPA member to apply for the credential? Yes. You must be an AICPA member in good standing to apply for and maintain the CFF credential.

Do I need an active CPA license to practice public accounting to become a CFF? No. To qualify for the CFF credential, you must hold a valid and unrevoked CPA license or certificate (whether active or inactive) issued by a legally constituted state authority or a qualified equivalent and meet all other eligibility requirements.

Do I need to be an FVS Section member to apply to become a CFF credential holder? No. FVS Section membership is not required. You need to be an AICPA member in good standing and meet all other CFF credential eligibility requirements.

How do I know if my business experience qualifies for the CFF credential?

Review the CFF Body of Knowledge, also referred to as the CFF Content Specification Outline (CSO), and compare its competency areas with your professional experience. Qualifying experience may be earned across one or more of these competency areas. You must meet the experience requirement for your selected pathway and attest to meeting that requirement when you apply.

Can I take a CFF Exam before completing the education and experience requirements? Yes. You may take the exam associated with your selected pathway before completing the education and experience requirements. There is no time limit between passing the exam and applying for the credential. When you apply, however, you must meet all education and experience requirements for your selected pathway.

Does holding another forensic accounting credential waive the CFF exam requirement?

No. All applicants must satisfy the exam requirement for their selected CFF credential pathway.

How do I register for and schedule a CFF exam?

Register online for either the Global CFF Exam or the CFF Experienced Pathway Exam. Within two business days of registration, you will receive a Notice to Schedule by email with instructions for scheduling your exam remotely or at a Kryterion test center.

When will I receive my CFF exam results?

Results are available immediately after completing the exam and are reported as either “pass” or “fail.” Numerical scores are not provided.

What resources should I use to prepare for a CFF exam?

Begin by reviewing the CFF Body of Knowledge, also referred to as the CFF Content Specification Outline (CSO), which identifies the competencies covered on both exams. Depending on your existing education and experience, you may also consider the CFF Learning Pathway and CFF Exam Review Course. Preparation needs vary, and candidates should not rely on a single resource.

Does earning the CFF credential automatically include FVS Section membership? No. FVS Section membership is separate from the CFF credential. CFF credential holders receive a 20% discount on FVS Section membership.

What happens after I apply for the CFF credential?

Please allow up to two weeks for your CFF application to be reviewed. Once approved, you will receive a welcome communication with instructions for accessing your CFF digital badge. In some cases, applicants may be asked to provide additional information supporting their application.

Does the AICPA audit CFF credential applications? Yes. Approved applications are subject to random audit. Applicants should retain documentation supporting the education and experience reported in their applications. False or inaccurate information may result in suspension or revocation of CFF eligibility or the credential.

How does the CFF credential differ from other forensic accounting credentials? The CFF credential is the premier forensic accounting designation for CPAs and the only forensic accounting credential that requires applicants to hold a valid and unrevoked CPA certificate or qualified equivalent. It builds on the CPA foundation by recognizing the specialized financial expertise, investigative insight, and professional integrity needed to support litigation, dispute resolution, fraud detection, and fraud prevention.

What is required to maintain the CFF credential?

CFF credential holders must maintain AICPA membership in good standing and a valid and unrevoked CPA certificate or qualified equivalent, complete 20 hours of continuing professional development in the CFF Body of Knowledge annually, and pay the annual credential fee. Review the CFF recertification requirements for complete information.

How can an individual use the CFF credential?

CFF credential holders may use “CFF” after their names and on business cards, letterhead, and other professional materials. Use of the credential is subject to the requirements of the applicable state board of accountancy. Credential holders should consult their state boards regarding any restrictions.

Can a firm use “Certified in Financial Forensics” or “CFF” in its marketing materials?

The CFF is an individual credential, not a firm credential. A firm may identify individual professionals who hold the credential. Under current guidance, a firm may represent itself as Certified in Financial Forensics only if all partners or shareholders hold the CFF credential. Firms should also confirm any applicable requirements with their state boards of accountancy.

Can I continue using the CFF credential if I am no longer an AICPA member?

No. You must maintain AICPA membership in good standing to use the CFF credential.

The CFF credential is designed for CPAs who perform or seek to develop specialized expertise in forensic accounting, including:

• Forensic accountants

• Litigation support and dispute advisory professionals

• Fraud investigation and prevention professionals

• Expert witnesses and damages specialists

• CPAs seeking to build or deepen their forensic accounting expertise

Those exploring professional opportunities in the field can learn more through Forensic Accounting Career Pathways.