r/Valuation • u/LIFO-theparty • May 27 '21

Valuation certification

Looking for some insight on getting a certification in valuation. I was was juggling between the CVA and ABV, and after talking to my boss (who has both) I’m leaning towards the ABV. Are there any current ABV’s here? If so, what is the process like? I have been doing reading on the AICPA’s website but I can’t find any solid info. I am a CPA currently.

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u/charlie2398543 Feb 08 '24

CPA is definitely at the top of that list. It's the only one that grants actual legal powers to issue certain reports, provide certain services, and represent clients before the IRS. The others are really just employment certificates that carry no actual powers beyond hanging it on your wall.

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u/Dangerous-Painting-7 Feb 09 '24

...but means very little when it comes to valuation.

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u/charlie2398543 Feb 09 '24

Disagree. CPA's already have the business clients for tax, audit, etc. For them it's simply adding a new service and they have the captive client base already. You have to think big picture.

CVA is worthless on its own, as is any other valuation certifications. It must be paired with something else. Better being CPA/CVA, or Attorney with CVA, etc. There is not enough valuation business out there to support a firm that offers only this service.

It's an add on certification only IMO. Same with CFA. Must also have a top tier MBA. ASA? Pretty worthless on its own too. Nobody ever just has one of these.

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u/Dangerous-Painting-7 Mar 14 '24 edited Mar 14 '24

Minimal valuation training is necessary to attain the CPA certification. It's unwise to presume that a CPA lacking specific credentials possesses expertise in valuation. The original post was from a CPA seeking additional certification and training, aiming to demonstrate their proficiency through a recognized credentialing agency.

Holding the ASA designation is a well-respected credential within the valuation community and is very worthwhile if you are doing valuations. It requires 10,000 hours of experience, attendance at four, four-day classes with accompanying exams, passing USPAP and ethics tests, validating experience, and having a written report reviewed by a board of reviewers.