The Certified Forensic Auditor (CRFAU) program assesses the knowledge and competence of Certified Public Accountants, Chartered Accountants, and Certified Internal Auditors in professional forensic auditing services. It is a fully comprehensive certification program covering forensic accounting, fraud, litigation services, cyber security issues, and valuations.
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Forensic Auditor
- Provides a needed service to organizations who provide financial reporting to third parties
- Allows organizations to increase the level of confidence that their reporting is accurate
- Grants recognition of knowledge and skills by a third party
- Enhances professional reputation
- Provides personal accomplishment
- Supports continued professional development
- Demonstrates a high level of commitment to the field of practice
- Demonstrates a specific level of knowledge and skill
- Increases opportunities for career advancement and/or increased earnings
- Validates skills and knowledge
- Communicates credibility
- Serves as a differentiator in a competitive job market
- Meets employer or governmental requirements
Credential Content
The Certified Forensic Auditor (CRFAU) program covers the topics a Certified Public Accountant, Chartered Accountant, or Certified Internal Auditor needs to expand their knowledge in forensic accounting. The credential goes beyond traditional training. Materials include:
- Forensic accounting history
- Broad-based approach to forensic accounting
- Fraud auditing and analysis
- Misappropriation scams
- Advanced audit and analysis techniques
- Risk management
- Litigation support services
- Preparation and courtroom tips
- Document retrieval and analysis
- Rules of evidence
- Cyber security for accountants and auditors
- Government auditing techniques
- Valuation guidelines
- …and much more
Requirements for the Certified Forensic Auditor Program
These requirements must be met in order to apply for the Certified Forensic Auditor program:
- Must currently hold a CPA license or international equivalent (to be determined by the Board) or hold a Certified Internal Auditor certification
- Must be registered with your State Board of Accountancy, if required by state law
- Must be in compliance with all local ordinances, state laws (including your State Board of Accountancy), and federal regulations
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree
- Three (3) years of auditing experience (to be determined by the Board via the application process)
- No felony convictions
Submit the application and required supporting documentation, including the following:
- Current resume/curriculum vitae
- Degrees
- CPA License or international equivalent (to be determined by the Board)
- Certified Internal Auditor certificate if applicable
- Other licenses, certifications, certificates, and/or commissions
- At least two (2) professional references
- A list of the external and/or internal audits the applicant has worked on
Once your application has been approved, you will need to join the ABFA as a general member and take the Forensic Accounting Review course. At that time, you may also begin preparing for the exam. Learn more about the ABFA’s Steps for Certification here.
The CRFAU exam covers the same core material as the Certified Forensic Accountant exam. More detailed information about the Certified Forensic Accountant exam can be found here.
After successful completion of the program and being in good standing with the Board, you will receive the esteemed CRFAU credential from the American Board of Forensic Accounting™. Your credential will be mailed to you within 2-3 weeks of completion of the exam.
