in-20251001-IR-872250467NRA: Under IC 4-22-7-7, this document is required to be published in the Indiana Register and is effective on its date of publication. It shall remain in effect until the date it is superseded or deleted by the publication of a new document in the Indiana Register. The publication of this document will provide the public with information about the board’s official position concerning a specific issue.

INDIANA BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY Nonrule Policy Document #: 25-467 Substantial Equivalency Clarification DATE ADOPTED: 9/12/2025 ADOPTED BY: Indiana Board of Accountancy by a vote of 3-2-0. NOTICE: Under IC 4-22-7-7, this document is required to be published in the Indiana Register and is effective on its date of publication. It shall remain in effect until the date it is superseded or deleted by the publication of a new document in the Indiana Register. The publication of this document will provide the public with information about the board’s official position concerning a specific issue. DISCLAIMER: This nonrule policy document is intended to supplement applicable rules and laws. It does not replace applicable rules and laws and, if it conflicts with these rules or laws, the rules or laws shall control. Decisions made under this nonrule policy document are not subject to review unless such review is separately granted by statute. OVERVIEW To provide clarification with respect to the Indiana Board of Accountancy’s (board) evaluation of “substantial equivalency” as defined under Indiana Code for the purposes of reciprocity for out of state licensees to seek Indiana licensure or to serve Indiana-based clients. BACKGROUND IC 25-2.1-1-15 defines “substantial equivalency” as a determination that another state’s education, examination, and experience requirements are comparable to, or exceed, those outlined in IC 25-2.1-3-2 and IC 25-2.1-3-10. HEA 1143 (2025), amends IC 25-2.1-3-2  to provide more flexibility in eligibility for accountancy licensure. Though this language will not take effect until January 1, 2027, neighboring states such as Ohio are already implementing similar changes or have enacted changes that will be in effect in 2026. This policy articulates the board’s interpretation of the current education, examination, and experience requirements deemed to meet the substantial equivalency criteria under IC 25-2.1-1-15. The aim is to prevent creating a competitive disadvantage for Indiana practitioners and employers while providing additional pathways to licensure. This clarification will provide vital assurance to individuals and firms navigating cross-border licensure and practice, and would reinforce Indiana’s commitment to ensuring an open, barrier-free business climate. POLICY Applicants for reciprocal licensure and CPA certificate holders from other states serving Indiana-based clients be deemed to meet Indiana’s standard for substantial equivalency, provided all other statutory requirements are satisfied and the individual obtained their original license upon successful passage of the Uniform CPA Examination and completion of one of the following education and experience pathways: Replaces Policy Document: New