61H1-21.003. Commissions or Referral Fees

61H1-21.003 Commissions or Referral Fees. (1) A certified public accountant shall not pay or accept a commission or referral fee in connection with the sale of a product or referral of any services as defined in Section 473.302(8)(a) and (c), F.S., or prohibited to non-certified public accountants as listed in Section 473.322, F.S. These services include: (a) Audit, review or compilation services. (b) Services for any prospective financial data including forecasts or projections. (c) Any special procedures engagement resulting in an expression of an opinion when the services fall within the definitions as set forth in Section 473.302(8)(a) and (c) and Section 473.322, F.S. (2) The certified public accountant must have an engagement letter signed by the client prior to beginning any engagement for which the certified public accountant will receive a commission. The letter must include complete details of the financial arrangements involving compensation for the services rendered. (3) The certified public accountant must hold appropriate licenses as required. (4) If the certified public accountant is not independent as described in Rule 61H1-21.001, F.A.C., it must be disclosed in the engagement letter. However, if the only reason for not being independent is the fact that the certified public accountant is being compensated by a commission or contingent fee then the lack of independence does not have to be disclosed.