Compliance glossary
Definition

CMMC for Accountants

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, required for firms in the Department of Defense supply chain that handle Controlled Unclassified Information.

What it means.

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a Department of Defense framework that requires contractors and subcontractors handling Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) to certify against one of three levels (Foundational, Advanced, Expert). For CPA firms, CMMC becomes relevant if the firm serves defense contractors and accesses FCI or CUI as part of that work. CMMC Level 2 maps to NIST SP 800-171 and requires third-party assessment.

Why it matters for CPA firms.

Most CPA firms do not need CMMC. The exception is firms that audit, do tax work for, or provide outsourced finance services to defense contractors and handle CUI in the process. If your firm receives proprietary contract details, technical specifications, or other CUI from clients, you may inherit a CMMC obligation. Check client contracts and DFARS 252.204-7012 flow-down clauses for triggers.

Relevant regulations.

  • 32 CFR Part 170
  • NIST SP 800-171
  • DFARS 252.204-7012

Related terms.

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