CPA-to-lender letters are risky.

• Position: CAMICO Insurance tip of the Month

Lenders will sometimes pressure CPAs to provide assurance-type opinions regarding the financial strength of their clients, requesting verification of tax information, employment, or self-employment; and assurances that the client's business will not be impacted by having to repay a loan. However, providing such assurances could put CPAs at risk. Do not:

* Disclose tax return information in a context other than the preparation and filing of tax returns without written client consent.

* Speculate or comment on future events (e.g., forecast future income or contingencies).

* Make conclusions that were not part of the services rendered to your client (i.e., do not make assurances regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided unless the scope of your services enables you to provide such assurances).

* Provide any...