In their broadest definition, Client Advisory Services (CAS) are services where a practitioner “develops findings, conclusions, and recommendations for client consideration and decision making.”
Speak to those accountants offering CAS and you’ll find a more practical description, usually along the lines of applying an accountant's deep knowledge about a client’s business to develop insights and strategies to create opportunities that help them grow.
If your accountant’s brain is confused by the breadth of those definitions, you’re not alone! Within that ambiguity lies opportunity. As their most trusted advisor, you are uniquely positioned to have a positive influence on the trajectory of your clients’ businesses. Yes, transaction processing is needed. Yes, compliance services are required. Those are simply foundational pieces. Your clients want and need more.