Ethics Committee revises nonattest independence rules.

The AICPA's Professional Ethics Executive Committee recently revised rules that clarify the general requirements of those who provide nonattest services to attest clients for maintaining independence.

Practitioners must now document their understanding with the client once the practitioner has assessed the client's willingness and ability to perform all management functions related to the engagement.

More restrictive rules were adopted for certain valuation, appraisal and actuarial services, as well as for some types of information technology-related services.

The revised rules take effect Dec. 31, 2003, but a transitional provision allows members to complete agreements to perform services if the engagement:

* Was in existence Dec. 31;

* Is in compliance with the pre-existing rule; and

* Will be completed by Dec. 31, 2004.

To view the release, visit www.aicpa.org/pubs/cpaltr/oct2003/nonattest.htm.