E-signatures: What will 2021 bring?
To alleviate hardships caused by COVID-19, the IRS temporarily expanded the forms that can be filed with e-signatures, but future policy is uncertain.
Client communications
Modernize and virtualize your tax practice: Part 1
The COVID-19 pandemic fast-tracked the need to invest in technology to accommodate clients and staff in the new remote-working environment.
Tools to help nonfilers receive economic impact payments
The IRS provided information and tools that tax practitioners can use to inform individuals who are eligible to receive economic impact payments but did not receive one automatically.
Professional responsibilities in the virtual age
As the COVID-19 pandemic forces firms to accelerate the adoption and overall use of virtual communication tools, practitioners need to be aware that the foundational principles of ethics and best practices still apply when using these technologies.
Anticipate the rush of panicked potential clients
Last-minute requests during the rush of tax season can turn into an opportunity to court new clients.
IRS spotlights requirement to have a written information security plan
The IRS launches fresh efforts to promote awareness of data security issues.
A preparer-client decision: Whether to rely on the Sec. 199A proposed or final regulations
Taxpayers can rely on either the proposed or final Sec. 199A regulations for 2018, and CPAs must evaluate which would be most beneficial for each client.
The TCJA: A disruptive factor for the 2019 tax filing season
CPAs can reassure an unsettled client base by confidently providing coherent explanations and advice relating to the many changes brought about by last year’s tax reform legislation.
Preparing clients for tax surprises: How to handle tax bills that clients cannot pay
CPAs can advise clients about several IRS programs for paying past-due taxes.
Third-party verification requests
When CPAs are asked to provide comfort letters, they must be clear about facts they are affirming, giving careful consideration to client confidentiality and other liabilities that could arise from a lender’s reliance on those facts.
The Sec. 7525 privilege relating to taxpayer communications
CPAs can protect tax advice to clients from disclosure by understanding the scope of the Sec. 7525 practitioner-client privilege, when it applies, and what actions can cause a waiver of this key protection.
Managing client expectations for IRS refunds
This column discusses reasons for delayed refunds and actions practitioners can take when a client is experiencing a delay.
Form 8879: Requirements, possible problems, and best practices for practitioners
This item discusses practitioners' requirements and responsibilities surrounding electronic submission of clients’ tax returns.
Kicking off tax season with engagement letters and organizers
It may be beneficial to consider making changes to your engagement letters and organizers this season.
Using technology to assist with year-end tax planning
This column focuses on developing a year-end tax planning strategy by using technology.
Safeguarding confidential client information: AICPA and IRS guidance
This column offers practical items for tax professionals to consider as privacy best practices.
Mistakes Were Made: Knowledge of Errors on Returns and What to Do About Them
While a tax practitioner and AICPA member has a duty to notify the client, the client is responsible for deciding whether to correct the error.
Ethics and Risk Issues in FBAR Preparation
A number of ethics and risk management issues must be considered when preparing and filing FinCEN Form 114.
The Client Tax Letter Project: Client Communication for Tax Professionals
Tax classes should teach students not only to navigate the Code but also to communicate their findings effectively through internal memos and client communications.
Transparency for Individual Taxes
This article reviews how "taxpayer receipts" can help practitioners provide additional tax information to clients.
