CPA’s since the very beginning keep their clients information confidential. This is also enforced by many state laws. CPA’s take great steps to ensure the safety of client’s information. I have installed a security system in my office and where I stall files off site as well to protect client information.
There are a number of clients where I have greater knowledge of their private and their professional lives than their spouses. Always an interesting position to be in when going over taxes with all parties. But this is the price of being the most “Trusted Advisor” to my client.
But in spite of all we CPA’s do on behalf of our clients; federal law does not recognize and accountant-client privileges. Damn those lawyers, its all their fault. So if we cannot be made aware of any fraud, or tax evasion schemes, any assistance in these areas could compromise our livelihoods. Illegal activities in which taxes are properly prepared and taxes paid is a gray area.