Advertising for Chartered Accountants has always been a sensitive area, as ICAI traditionally restricted promotional activities to maintain the profession’s ethical standards.
But now, ICAI has introduced major updates, giving CA firms more flexibility to promote their services—while still following ethical guidelines.
What Has Changed in ICAI Advertising Rules?
ICAI has relaxed certain restrictions to help CA firms reach more clients.
Under the new guidelines:
- CA firms can share more informative content
- Website and social media visibility is now allowed
- Firms can list their services with better clarity
- More freedom has been given for digital presence
These changes were made keeping in mind the digital era and rising competition.
What Is Still Not Allowed (Important)
Even with new relaxations, ICAI still restricts these:
🚫 Direct advertising like “Best CA Firm in India”
🚫 Paid advertisements calling clients directly
🚫 Using testimonials that claim superiority
🚫 Comparing services with other firms
🚫 Offering discounts for attracting clients
All promotions must stay informational, factual, and ethical.
These changes are a game-changer for CA firms looking to grow their client base legally.
What CA Firms Are Now Allowed to Do
Below are promotional activities that are now permitted under ICAI’s revised norms:
1. Maintain a Professional Website
Firms can clearly list services, team details, experience, and achievements.
2. Use Social Media for Educational Content
CA firms can now use platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram to share:
- Tax updates
- Finance tips
- Compliance reminders
- Informative videos
3. Register on Online Professional Platforms
Listing profiles on platforms such as:
- Justdial
- IndiaMart
- Google Business Profile
- CA marketplaces
is now allowed.
4. Share Achievements Without Self-Promotion
Firms can share milestones but should avoid claiming superiority.
How CA Firms Can Legally Promote Their Services
Here are ethical and ICAI-compliant marketing practices:
1. Create Educational Content
Write blogs, videos, newsletters on:
- Tax changes
- GST updates
- ITR filing steps
2. Optimize Your Website (SEO)
Use keywords like:
- CA services in India
- Chartered Accountant for GST
- Tax filing services
3. Use Google Business Profile
Add:
- Office photos
- Location
- Services
- Q&A
- Posts
4. Build a Strong Linkedin Presence
Share informative posts and grow your professional network.
5. Use WhatsApp Business Ethically
Share compliance reminders and updates to existing clients—no cold marketing.
Benefits of New ICAI Promotion Rules
The new guidelines help CA firms in many ways:
- More opportunities to reach new clients
- Improved brand visibility
- Better communication through digital platforms
- Ability to compete in the digital market
- Increased trust and credibility through informative content
Conclusion
The ICAI’s updated rules mark a new era for CA firms in India.
With more freedom to promote their services online, Chartered Accountants can now grow their business while maintaining professional ethics.
This is the right time for CA firms to build their digital presence and use marketing tools strategically.
ICAI allows CA firms to advertise – Full Details
ThePrint has reported that ICAI’s new Ethics Code will allow CA firms to promote their services with limited advertising permissions.
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