Assume that Brenda has no reason to doubt Vincent’s veracity with respect to the statement that it is “a one-time request,” it should not influence what Brenda decides to do. Brenda should retain her morality and ethics when she faces such demand from her manager, whether is a one-time request or not. Although Brenda has an alternative to overlook the tax return, which results in satisfying both Vincent and the client’s needs but violating the tax law; the right action for Brenda to take is to follow the Principles of AICPA Code and the Ethical Standards of the IMA. Brenda should take the courage reporting Vincent’s unlawful act to management, or whistleblowing via fraud hotline if there’s any.
