Professional Discretion in the use of Prefix “CA”

The Chartered Accountants Association Surat has issued a reminder to its members regarding the professional use of the prefix “CA.” They emphasize that while “CA” is a respected designation, it should only be used in a professional context, particularly for attestation work. The association lists inappropriate uses of the prefix, such as on e-commerce sites, dating websites, social media marketplaces, trading platforms, online gaming, personal blogs, and casual interactions on social media. The letter urges members to exercise discretion to maintain the dignity of the profession.

Ref: CAAS/Representations/2024-25/04

Date: 18-03-2025

To,

The Members,

Chartered Accountants Association Surat,

Dear Professional Brother/Sister,

Subject: Professional Discretion in the use of Prefix “CA”

It has come to the notice of our Association mainly through social media and other E-Commerce Websites, that the use of Prefix “CA” is being done without application of mind by our own professional brothers and sisters.

While the designation “CA” carries enormous respect and dignity amongst the masses due to the rigorous training, sacrifice and restraint a person shows at the time of becoming a CA. Today the words “CA” has become synonym of a Gentleman. Having said that, the prefix “CA” should be used with due professional discretion in line with the Professional Ethics more particularly in terms of Clause (2) of Part-IV of First Schedule to The Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 and advisory issued by ICAI dt. 22-10-2022, which can be read here:

https://www.icai.org/post/use-of-designation-chartered-accountant-or-prefix-ca-by-members

This open letter is a reminder to all the professional brothers and sisters to primarily use the words “CA” only in the attestation work and not at other places. Below is the illustrative list where members (whether in Practice, Industry or Entrepreneurship) should never misuse the words “CA”:

• E-Commerce Websites like E-Bay, Alibaba, Amazon, OLX, IndiaMart where members sell their merchandise in personal capacity
• Dating Websites where members engage themselves in personal capacity
• Social Media Market Place where member sell goods or services not related to profession
• Trading Platforms (For Currency, Commodity, Equity, Derivatives, etc)
• Online gaming, gambling, or betting platforms.
• Personal blogs or vlogs that cover non-professional topics or personal life.
• Entertainment and recreational websites not associated with professional activity.
• Personal social media handles for casual, non-professional interactions.

We hope, members would take due care in use of the designation, so that the society at large continues to view and consider the profession with even more respect and dignity.