All of our people have an obligation to abide by our global code of conduct, applying to all member firms of the PwC network.
This is constructed in the context of our Global Purpose Statement - ‘To build trust in society and solve important problems’.
In addition to that, we have a Global Tax Code of Conduct setting clear principles to assist our people in the judgements they make in advising clients on tax matters.
Governments enact laws and enter into treaties with other nations so as to determine how companies and other taxpayers should be taxed. These laws are then interpreted by taxpayers, taxing authorities and, ultimately on occasion, by the courts.
It is a general principle that taxpayers have a right to manage their tax affairs provided they act within the law. Equally they should also be able to access independent advice on their tax position. However, the dynamic and complex nature of tax laws - both at a national and international level - is such that it is not always clear where lines should be drawn. To help our clients and our people make informed decisions on tax, taking into account the relevant considerations, the member firms of the PwC Network act according to the following Global Tax Code of Conduct.
The main business of the tax practices of PwC firms is to support their clients, where so engaged, to:
PwC firms work with clients that demonstrate high standards of legitimacy and integrity in their business and financial activities. Before accepting clients, and in continuing to work with existing clients, PwC firms satisfy themselves that the client intends to comply with their legal and regulatory obligations in relation to taxation. In this regard we pay particular attention to the following:
PwC firms:
We expect all of our people to apply these principles to the way they work, and we encourage them to consult whenever they are in doubt.
Originally issued 2005 and most recently updated 1 July 2015.
1 - At PwC, our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We’re a network of firms in 155 countries with over 284,000 people who are committed to delivering quality in assurance, advisory and tax services. Find out more and tell us what matters to you by visiting us at www.pwc.com.
Brad Silver
Managing Partner, Global Tax and Legal Services, PwC United States
Tel: +1 (917) 373-0941
Stef van Weeghel
Leader, Global Tax Policy & Administration Network, PwC Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0) 88 792 6763