Dodgy Stuff

System

Would appreciate some feedback on this - started my first job in accounting since qualifying about 6 months ago, working for a small practice. Given some accounts to put together - but my boss finished them off, as some 'extra work needed on them'. This was, I discover, amending the closing stock figure (to a more 'helpful' figure). This is really causing me some sleeplessness. What would you do? At present am just pretending I don't know about it!

System

Dodgy Stuff

Don't worry. I have come across this before. As a junior, I had to assist on an audit once and the client wanted to see draft accounts first so he could manipulate the work-in-progress figure to lower net profit and get away with paying no corporation tax! It is done quite a lot that I am aware of. It's always the wealthier clients too! No wonder they can drive around in BMW's! Hope this makes you sleep at night!

System

Dodgy Stuff

Its all about ethics. If you are worried about your job should you say something, look for another place to work. If they are manipulating the figures in this instance you can bet they are doing others. You could approach your boss and ask the reason for the change as you don't recall being taught this type of practice during training. You may find that there could be a valid reason. If Arthur Anderson had been up front about Enron from the start, thousands of people would still be employed today. But they were more concerned about keeping the clients business on the books. I too have come across many situations of cooking the books and walking that fine line, but have found that if I stand my ground it has changed some minds. That's not to say that I was about to go running to the authorities. Because if they are determined to do it, they will. Work to your standards not their's if they do not fit in with you, then move on. It should be your boss that has the sleepless nights not you. If you wish to discuss this further e-mail me. Good luck.

System

Dodgy Stuff

Is your boss the acoountant?