Written By: Guy Schmitz, J.D., LL.M. Consider advising your clients that all transfers potentially have tax consequences. Clients know that if they sell stock for a purchase price in excess of basis, there will be gain (assuming no offsetting losses). They will recognize quickly (if you tell them) that the transfer of services for money […]
Displaying: Tips & Resources
How to Avoid Overindulging at the Audit Buffet
By Jennifer Louis, CPA Generally accepted auditing standards require a direct linkage of assessed risks of material misstatement to the detailed audit plan. A thoughtful approach to this task can lead to more effective and efficient audits, and without one, over-auditing or under-auditing may result. Imagine that you are at an all-you-can-eat buffet. As […]
Tips for Making Mornings Better
Make Mornings a Little More Bearable Some people can naturally wake up with a spring in their step and be ready to tackle the day. Others, not so much. For those who have trouble bouncing out of bed with a spring in their step in the mornings, here are four things you can do to […]
Four Facts About Accounting You Probably Didn’t Know
Did you know an accountant invented bubble gum? In 1928, Walter Diemer invented the sweet and chewy stuff that keeps our mouths busy and our breath fresh. Pretty cool! Want to know more? Here are four more facts about accounting you might not already know. Before they rocked Hollywood, they rocked accounting Stars like […]
Critical Competencies for Effective and Efficient Auditors
Successful CPA firms find a way to strike the right balance between performing a high quality audit and making a rate of return on the invested time. If one objective is given too much weight, over-auditing or under-auditing may result. The following is a list of core competencies that an audit must be willing to […]
Doing Business in Canada, Eh?
Opportunities for cross-border work between the United States and Canada, the largest trading partner of the U.S., are abundant. With this comes a unique challenge for CPAs, as they must be able to navigate their clients though different regulations required by Canada. Many tax practitioners are currently advising clients who are doing business in Canada […]
SCOTUS Ruling on Inherited IRAs: What CPAs Need To Know
One of the non-tax advantages of qualified plans is that they are not subject to being claimed by any creditors. If a taxpayer has financial troubles before retirement, they may lose other, individually owned assets, but qualified individual retirement accounts (IRA) cannot be touched. However, once the money has been distributed from the plan, they […]
Four Reasons Self-Study Works For You
Surgent offers many different kinds of continuing professional education for those in the accounting industry. Webinars, while interactive, require you to set aside a block of time to participate. If you’d rather do it on your own time, consider doing self-study. Here are four ways self-study easily integrates into your busy schedule. Set the pace […]
Work with the Clients’ Lawyers. Make Money!
It is a truth universally acknowledged that accountants and lawyers are not always on the best of terms. Given that some lawyers know little or nothing about tax, you should maintain a good working relationship with your clients’ lawyers. A simple example: Your client decides to form an S corporation. There are 9 other shareholders. […]