In this issue - ND CPA Society
Transcription
In this issue - ND CPA Society
September 2016 | Volume XXVIII | No. 5 Leveraging Leadership to Build the Best Team The landscape of business as we know it is rapidly changing with rise of entrepreneurism. What works one year will not be as effective as the next and certainly not five to ten years down the road. Having the best team to accomplish the fast paced demands of marketing, productivity, and customer service requires leaders that attract and embody more than just the technical and operations mindset. The elements of improvisation give your leadership leveraging power, amplifying your reach to attract the best and brightest talent. Shift the Focus and Harness the Power of Vision When the focus is emphasizing task accomplishment to get through the day, that is all you will accomplish: tasks. Your team members will get the job done, but are they following you for long? What separates the best team from a good team is inspiration and motivation. It takes a bold leader to shift the focus in a creative direction and energize the team to see beyond the tasks to the bigger company goals and purpose. Cultivate a Group Mindset Have you ever watched an improvisation skit? It may take a couple lines before the group mindset forms, but when it does the skit becomes energetic and fun and productive. The same concept is at work behind interpersonal communications on the job. A group mindset is achieved through inspiration (think improv skills) by introducing new concepts into the scene. Think differently and bring in outside perspective. A group mindset can only be adapted by parking individual agendas and changing the conversation by putting into practice the following improv skills: Support, Trust, Respect, Focus, Listen, Adaptability. 1 ness to be there and trusted their ability to wield their ‘technical skills’. He adapted to the situation by using the Yes, and concept. One fighter pointed out that going forward, they could just turn and run and live. Rather than say no, we don’t do that here, Wallace acknowledged his idea as valid and then continued on page 3 Everyone has seen the movie Braveheart with its famous scene in which Mel Gibson’s character, William Wallace, is about to lead the rag tag army of different clans that don’t always get along into battle. He delivers one of the most inspiring speeches in all of movie history in the face of a flooded field of opposition ready to wipe them out. While you may not show up with blue face paint and a kilt next week to leverage your leadership, you can shift the focus, like William Wallace did, from the task of swinging an axe or spreadsheet to creating the group mindset needed to achieve the vision. He did so using the elements of improvisation. He listened to what they were saying and was able to hear through their words to focus the conversation on what they were valuing, their lives. He respected their willing- In this issue: •Presidents Message 2 •Exam Passers 2 •Annual Meeting Notice 3 •Member Profiles 4 by Peter A. Margaritis, CPA •YP Article 5 •Exec Director Column 6 •New Members 6 •Annual Convention 7 September 25-27 - #ndconv16 CPA Convention •Upcoming CPE 8 •Classifieds 12 •News from the IRS 14 •Ethics Corner 15 ndcpas.org September 2016 PRESIDENTS Message Tracee Buethner, CPA Thank for the opportunity to serve as your Society President, it’s a tremendous honor and privilege to represent over 1,800 members in North Dakota. My favorite part of the past year has been getting to visit with members and hearing about the issues impacting their communities and jobs. I hope to see many of you at our annual convention in Bismarck. The convention is a great way to reconnect and network while having a great time! Besides having some great speakers, we will be hosting Bill Balhoff, a past Chair of the AICPA who will be giving an informative professional issues update. Back in 2006 following a strategic planning meeting, a committee was formed that eventually evolved into the Young Professionals (“YP”) Group. Today this group is extremely active and involved in our Society. Members who started their involvement in the Society in the YP group are now active committee members, committee chairs and Society board members. It will be exciting to see how this “next generation” will continue to influence the profession and carry on the traditions of the past! Based on the YP Group, I am glad to see that the future of the Society and the profession is in good hands. Much like how the YP Group was formed, the Small Firm’s Network (“SFN”) has just completed its first year following last year’s strategic planning session. The SFN has an involved group of members who feel strongly in setting a path for a group dedicated to sole practitioners and small firms. While they have already had some great presentations, exciting programs and events are in the works for next year. For those that work in the small firm environment, this is a great way to network with others and be able to talk about the issues that are relevant to their work. Various studies have shown that CPAs are considered one of the most trusted advisors in business. That is evident with the work that sole practitioners and small firms are doing throughout the state. One issue that impacts us all is having a pipeline of future CPAs. The AICPA is working on outreach programs that start at the high school level. Additionally, there is an increased focus on diversity in the profession and the advantages and opportunities a diverse workforce can bring an employer. Our Public Relations committee with input from the YP Group is working on an exciting campaign that will be rolled out this fall also with the goal of eventually increasing our accounting majors and future CPAs. My thanks go to Jim and the staff at the Society for all that they do for us. Being involved with the board and with various committees, I see the hard work and commitment that Jim, Sherre and Mandy put forth. Special thanks to our great board members who inspire me at every meeting and our dedicated executive committee members including President Elect, Marci Schorsch; Secretary, Clarence Sitter; and Past President, John Mongeon. The mission statement of the Society; “Serve members, through Promotion, Advocacy, Connections & Knowledge (“PACK”). We are always looking to add value to your membership and always welcome your comments and suggestions. See you in Bismarck! 2 Congratulations Exam Passers Jan 1, 2016 thru June 30, 2016 Gina Anderson, West Fargo Hillary Birchem, Minneapolis, MN Tanner Bjerke, Grand Forks Noah Carlson, Bismarck Brian Christensen, Moorhead, MN James Dean, Minneapolis, MN Kelsie DeBroeck, Fargo Rachel Deyle, Fargo Becky Dolley, Minot Trenton Egan, Minneapolis, MN Caitlin Evenson, Edinburg Lisa Grabar, Bismarck Amber Hanson, Lake Oswego, OR Hannah Horn, Minneapolis, MN Mikayla Jacobson, Bismarck Dongni Jiang, Beijing Heidi Johnson, Williston Daniel Julson, Wahpeton Adam Julson, Willmar, MN Megan Kertscher, Frazee, MN Justin Kill, Fargo Jerry Kuhn, Fargo Vi Mai, Fargo Dylan McDaniel, Grand Forks Amanda Moen, Bismarck Michael Montonye, Minot Kristin Renz Johnson, West Fargo Melissa Roller, Pick City Jackson Ronnei, Overland Park, KS Gerald Ryan, Minneapolis, MN Rachel Schmitz, Beulah Michael Smith, Fargo Alivia Sterton, Ada, MN Matthew Stjern, Grand Forks Angela Twite, Kindred Brandon Wallace, Grand Forks Kelsey Wichman, Jamestown Member Perks To access these discounts go to ndcpas.org/memberperks AAA - Membership discounts AICPA Life Insurance CareerBank - Find staff & positions CCH Materials - 30% discount Exam Preparation - various options FedEx Office - Low copy rates & more InterCall Conferencing by West Office Depot - office supply savings ProPay - Accept credit cards without monthly fee or special equipment Hotel Discounts - business & personal UPS - Discounts up to 36% Verizon - 20% discount on accessories ndcpas.org continued from page 1 continued the conversation by pointing out that they would live, but only for a while. He renewed the vision of Scotland’s freedom and everyone was motivated to fight and fight passionately. If you don’t have a vision that is clear to everyone on the team, you need one quickly. You may not be fighting for your lives, but you are fighting for your place in a cut-throat market. Approaching Your Team You could always wear a kilt to shake things up; however, you want to get more from your team than laughs. A strong leader will not be afraid to consult with those around him to expand conversations. And if it is a bit intimidating, practice the elements of improvisation through other ways, such as regular brainstorming sessions, office surveys, and soft skill training for members that incorporate fun team building games. While personality tests are a great resource it can’t replace getting to know who your team members are and getting them to know one another. You don’t have to necessarily like everyone in the office, but you do need a base level of respect and trust in others to set aside personality differences to promote the best team possible. Managing Conflict It is already getting to be that time when finance professionals are looking to have a smoother tax season and business leaders are always approaching fiscal reports. Stress increases the opportunity for conflict to derail the best of teams. Otis D. Gibson, a specialist in creative conflicts had this to say in a recent article, “The crucial part of dealing with conflict is learning to deal with your emotions. Screaming something at someone doesn’t make it more true.” How true is that? The best teams come from leveraging leadership in a way that creatively confronts conflict and uses improvisation techniques to unlock the gems in every idea. Technical skills and managing the operations of the business is not enough in a competitive market flooded with Millennials who are searching for a more inspiring experience. The greater you develop your leadership, the greater your team will become. Peter A. Margaritis, CPA - Thought Leader for the Business Learning Institute. COLLEAGUES YOU CAN COUNT ON Official Notice 2016 Annual meeting & election The NDCPAS annual meeting will be Monday, September 26, 2016 at 7:30 am, at the Bismarck Ramkota Inn. The meeting will include election of directors, officers, a Foundation trustee, and 3 nominees for a July 2017 position on the Accountancy Board, plus comments from the current and new presidents. Each member has one vote at the meeting, except student members and those with dues in arrears. Cumulative voting is not allowed. A person may serve as proxy for only one other member. A majority of the members entitled to vote and present (in person or by proxy) shall carry any motion unless otherwise provided in the Articles or Bylaws. To vote by proxy, complete and sign the proxy form below and send to your proxy (a member who will be attending). Feel free to specify voting choices to the proxy. Proxy Ballot I, _______________, CPA cert. #______, hereby appoint _____________________as my proxy to vote on any and all matters which may come to a vote at the 2016 NDCPAS Annual Meeting. Signature:____________________ Date:__________ Voting instructions (optional): THE NOMINEES The following slate will be proposed. Voting members present may also nominate members. Society President (1 to be elected) Marci Schorsch Basin Electric, Bismarck Marci is a current Board member, now serving as President-elect. She has been involved with the Members in Industry Committee and the Annual Convention. Society President-elect (1 to be elected) Steve Britsch Britsch & Associates PC, Devils Lake Steve is currently on the Board. He has been involved with the Foundation, Tax, PR, and Legislation committees. Society Director (2 elected) [3 year term] Lyndsey Roemmich, MDU Resources, Bismarck Lyndsey is a current Board member. She has been involved with the Convention, PR & Young Professionals groups and a Scholarship Task Force. Maureen Storstad City of Grand Forks, Grand Forks Maureen is a member of the Public Relations Committee and has been since 2012. Society Director (1 elected) [2 year term] Ryan Bakke, Brady Martz, Minot Ryan has been involved with the Annual Convention. NDCPAS Foundation Trustee (1 to be elected) David Rygh Eide Bailly LLP, Fargo David is a member of the Taxation committee and has been since 2012. State Board Nominees (3 to be selected & submitted to the Governor’s Office) [5 year term, starting July 2017] Laura Adair Ritter Adair & Associates, Bismarck Laura has been Chair of the Taxation Committee, as well as its representative to the CPE team. She has also been involved with the Convention. Sheri Erickson Moorhead State University, Moorhead Sheri has been a member of the Society’s Members in Industry and CPE Committees, as well as Nominations and a CPA population task force. Mike Montplaisir Cass County, Fargo Mike has been a member of the Business and Industry Committee, and the Governmental Accounting Committee. 3 NDCPAS Member Profiles Chris M. Kildahl, CPA, CGMA, CMA Industry profile Position: Controller, Choice Financial Group, Fargo Job Responsibilities: The best part about my job is that every day is a little different. There is a constant flow of new challenges, questions and opportunities to learn and grow. Officially, I oversee the bank’s accounting team and have all of the traditional responsibilities associated with a controller position. Aside from that, I spend a fair amount of my time working to improve and automate our internal reporting and analytic capabilities and also serve on internal cross-functional committees where we focus on various projects throughout the organization. Company Biography: Over the past several years, Choice Financial has quietly become one of the largest full-service banking organizations in the state of North Dakota. As of June 30, 2016, the bank had total assets of $1.15 billion and approximately 250 employees in 21 locations. Earlier this year, standard & Poor’s Global ranked Choice Financial the #2 topperforming community bank in the nation in the $1-$10 billion asset range. Of the three ND banks on the list, Choice was the only one in the top 10. Employment Background: I have worked in the financial services industry for fifteen years in various finance and accounting roles. Prior to joining Choice Financial in 2014, I spent seven years with Bank of the West as VP – Accounting Manager for the bank’s insurance subsidiary, BW Insurance, which was headquartered out of Fargo. Prior to that, I also held Financial Analyst roles at US Bank and Community First, both in Fargo. Professional Activities: Member AICPA, NDCPAS Business and Industry Committee, also involved with the Red River Valley Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants. Birthplace: Fort Riley, KS (I was an Army baby) Degree: North Dakota State University – M.B.A. (2006); University of Minnesota Moorhead – Bachelor of Science in Finance (2001) and Management Information Systems (2002) Hobbies/Pastimes: Lately spending time with my family and friends has been the major pastime. Golf, hunting and other sporting activities have been relegated to the back seat – for now. Personal: My wife Susan and I just celebrated our 10th anniversary this July. We live in West Fargo, ND with our two children, Audrey (5) and Kyle (3) Favorite Quote: “Change before you have to.” -- Jack Welch Something most people don’t know about me: As a kid I was really into BMX racing and had a short two-summer racing career where I never lost a race. Unfortunately, my dreams of greatness and a long lucrative racing career were dashed when my family moved to a new city in NW Minnesota and the owner of the BMX track had to plow it under due to liability issues. Scott Fossum, CPA Young Professional profile Position: Staff Accountant at Widmer What did you do to celebrate passing the exam? Went out to a big dinner with my family to celebrate! Where did you grow up? Moorhead, MN Hobbies and Pastimes: I enjoy spending summer weekends at the lake, getting together with friends and family, and helping my dad on the farm. I also enjoy outdoor activities like riding ATV during the summer and snowmobiling during the winter. Roel PC in Fargo, ND First Job: I grew up on a farm, so I’ve helped my dad for as long as I can remember. My first off the farm job was working overnights for the local newspaper one summer. How did you decide to be an accountant? I’ve always enjoyed science and facts, and have always had a “by the book” personality. My parents always said I should be a lawyer or a cop, but the forensic aspect of accounting was something that has always appealed to me. Alma Mater/Degree: North Dakota State University. Bachelor of Science in Accounting 4 Dream vacation: Snowmobiling in the Rocky mountains with my dad and a few friends. The best advice you ever received: Do your best and learn from your mistakes. Be polite. Something most people don’t know about you: I’m a huge music geek, and as people learn that they try to test my knowledge any chance they get. I’m great at music trivia! The nicest thing someone has said to you this week: “I’m proud of you.” ndcpas.org Young Professional Group How to Reduce Workplace Stress Twenty-three-year-old Katie Holtgrave, CPA, began her career last September, working in the tax department at Anders CPAs + Advisors in St. Louis. Reality soon set in: She not only needed to study for the CPA exam but also had to work hard to learn her new job. “You’re so nervous as a young accountant and have to ask yourself, ‘Do I know enough? Do they expect me to know more? Is my work adequate?” said Holtgrave, who earned her CPA license in February and now works as part of Anders’ forensic and valuation services team. “It’s definitely one of the stresses of being a young CPA.” All accountants face some level of stress. But young CPAs deal with different types of strains. “The way that the CPA profession is designed, it’s a little of baptism by fire,” said Bill Driscoll, the New England District President of Robert Half International Inc. “You need to manage the workload and your time and know how to take on realistic deadlines— or ultimately it will lead to burnout.” Driscoll, Holtgrave, and others offer the following tips to help young CPAs relieve stress in and outside of the office. 1. Know what sparks your stress Everyone has a distinctive “stress profile,” and it’s important to understand your tension triggers so you can alleviate anxiety. “What causes stress for one person can reduce it for another person,” said author and stress management consultant Lane Robinson. Understanding that each person on your team is unique can help you structure your work environment to minimize stress. 2. Take breaks Leave your desk several times each day. Take a stroll around the office or in a nearby green space. Converse briefly with a colleague. Go out to lunch every now and then and get a change of scenery. “I urge my staff to take a break for 15 minutes to 30 minutes and get into a different environment,” said Rob Cameron, CPA, principal at Hughes, Cameron & Co. LLC in Springfield, Ill. 3. Communicate with your manager If you feel overwhelmed and your stress level is rising, talk with your supervisor about possibly lightening your load. “Don’t take on more and more,” Driscoll said. Also, added Cameron, “Ask for help when needed,” well before a due date. by Cheryl Meyer 4. Prioritize and organize Do your work step by step. “Accountants tend to be detail-oriented, and thinking about the big picture can be overwhelming,” Robinson said. “When your workload is wearing you down, break your tasks down into smaller pieces and focus on those. Think about what you need to accomplish today or in the next few hours, and don’t worry about everything that needs to get done in the future.” 5. Find your passion Do you like to cook? Paint? Walk your dog? “Figure out what hobbies relax you and do them, regularly,” Robinson said. And, since you likely spend a lot of time in front of the computer as it is, “try to identify at least a few calming activities that don’t involve electronics,” she said. 6. Exercise and socialize outside the office Activities away from work can help clear your mind and energize you. “It’s very important to get exercise,” Holtgrave said. She plays volleyball several times a week. 7. Get more sleep It’s easy to burn the midnight oil, especially when the workload is heavy. But a fresh mind improves your focus, and getting enough sleep will help, Robinson said. 8. Savor the silence In today’s technology-driven world, silence is often forgotten. Take five to 10 minutes a day to detach. Sit and breathe, play soothing music, shut your cellphone off, clear your mind. 9. Envision your ideal environment Some people thrive in chaos, and others crave order. “Every person manages stress in a different way,” Driscoll said. “Some of our top performers’ desks make me stress out, both because they are too neat or too messy. Those kind of things in the work environment are personal.” Figure out which works best for you, and adjust accordingly. For instance, Holtgrave organizes her desk at the end of each day, writes a list of projects to work on the next day, and puts her pens and pencils away. “It is a nice clean slate when I come in the next morning,” she said. Cheryl Meyer is a freelance writer based in California. To comment on this story, contact Chris Baysden, senior manager– newsletters at the AICPA. ©2016, AICPA. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission. COLLEAGUES YOU CAN COUNT ON 5 Rules Task Force Update Jim Abbott, Executive Director The Rules Review Task Force has completed its work, and has agreed on a number of recommended revisions, plus a couple of items for consideration. The team had representation from the CPA Society, the State Board, and N.D. Society of Accountants. The last rule revision occurred almost a decade ago, so they’ve had a fairly good run without change. Recommended changes include numerous “clean up” items, such as transition language that’s no longer relevant. The Exam section has amendments that should make it easier to adjust to national changes that may happen in the future, such as the potential of writing a section more than once in a given “window” of time. The CGMA credential is cited as being acceptable to use (non-licensees would use a disclaimer, as is the case when they use “accountant”). Agreed-upon procedures were added as a service requiring peer review. The firm ownership rules are proposed to allow a transition period in the event of a sole owner’s death or incapacity; supervision could be required depending on services provided. Also, the Board could require divestiture of ownership, in the event of certain convictions or discipline, similar to what now exists for non-licensee owners. Your Charitable Giving Experts in North Dakota. Kevin Dvorak, CFP President & CEO Bismarck 701-222-8349 [email protected] Amy Warnke, CFRE Development Dir. Grand Forks 701-741-3193 [email protected] Kara Geiger, CFRE Development Dir. Bismarck 701-222-8349 [email protected] John Heinen, CFRE Development Dir. Dickinson 701-590-4614 [email protected] Various fee provisions are slated for change, enabling the Board of Accountancy to adjust up to a specific “fee ceiling”. This approach allows adjustments without needing a formal rule change. A couple of fees already have this flexibility, such as the annual license fee. In that case, the ceiling is $100, but it has never been reached, though it’s been in place a long time. That fee is currently set at $85. The Tax Force agreed to propose that 2 hours of ethics-related CPE be expected each year. Not yet settled are possible changes in the retired category and making the 120 hour/3 years CPE requirement apply to both public and industry accountants. The retirement change would be to allow one to use the CPA credential when not working in any role that normally would relate to the CPA credential; for example, a semi-retired accountant deciding to become a fishing guide or work in some other non-financial role. The State Board now will determine which revisions to move forward through the formal rule change process. That process involves public notice, probably one or more hearings, and other procedural steps. The Board’s next meeting is November 11. NEW members Katie Beehler, Grand Forks Erin Berg, Minot Karen Bogner, Fountain Hls, AZ Noah Carlson, Bismarck Brian Christensen, Moorhead Anthony Eklund, Jamestown Preston Gilderhus, Oberon Marcie Gorder, Fargo Ryan Haug, Fargo Alexander Hochhalter, Mott Ann Johansen, Bismarck Sharon Kilzer, Dickinson Laura Knox, Grand Forks 6 Jerry Kuhn, Fargo Dylan McDaniel, Grand Forks Jacob Miller, Fargo Matthew Powlish, Oakes Peter Rackov, Dickinson Melissa Roller, Pick City Christi Schaefbauer, Mandan Derek Schaff, Bismarck Debra Schlosser, Grand Forks Alexandrea Schwab, Dickinson Andrew Schwab, Fargo Seth Serhienko, Fargo Thomas Williams, Bowman We can help you meet your clients’ charitable needs. Call us about: * The 40% State Tax Credit for Gis to Qualified ND Endowment Funds * Charitable Gi Annuies * Charitable Remainder Uni-Trusts * The IRA Charitable Rollover * Donor-Advised Funds * How to discuss charitable giving with your client Over 600 charitable funds benefiting North Dakotans www.NDCF.net ndcpas.org September 25-27 Annual Convention schedule of events Sunday, September 25 3:00 - 5:00 2:00 - 4:00 3:00 - 5:00 5:00 - 6:00 6:00 - 9:00 Registration Painting Party spon by YPs Hospitality room open Social Recognition Dinner Monday, September 26 7:00 - 8:00 Registration/Breakfast 7:00 - 3:00 Exhibits 7:30 - 8:00 Annual Meeting 8:00 - 9:55 Professional Issues Update 10:15 - 11:55 Economist Who Loved Me 1:00 Golf - Hawktree 1:00 - 2:40 C1. COSO Framework / Risk Assessment C2. Small Business Retirement Plans C3. Excel for Fraud C4. Workplace Violence Planning 3:00 - 4:40 D1. Peer Review Errors with yellow book D2. Self-Employment Tax/FICA Issues for LLCs and S Corporations D3. Audit Your Technology D4. How to Lead a Project & Get Buy-In 6:00 - 6:30 Social 6:30 Dinner and Entertainment Hospitality room Tuesday, September 27 8:00 - 9:40 E. Maintaining Positive Workplace Attitudes 10:00 - 11:45 F1. GASB and FASB Update F2. Individual Tax Update F3. Work Ethic/Personal Responsibility F4. Take the Stage 12:45 - 2:25 G1. Spotlighting the Uniform Guidance G2. Identity Theft and Tax Practice G3. How do I Respond to That? G4. Excel Budgeting and Financial Rep Conference Location: Ramkota 800 South 3rd St Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 258-7700 Room Release: 9/16/16 CPE: 16 hours available (including 6 Yellow Book Credits) Fees include: electronic handouts, entertainment, breakfasts, lunches and dinners on Sunday and Monday evening. Handout Material: A link will be sent to you to access the materials at least one week prior to the conference. If you would prefer we provide the copies, there is a charge of $50. Dress: Business attire is appropriate for Sunday’s dinner. For all other events business casual is fine. Please dress in layers. Meeting rooms are typically cool and personal comfort zones vary. Cancellations and Refunds: Full refund if received 10 working days prior to convention. A $50 administrative fee is charged if canceling after Sept 9. No refunds after Sept 23 or once you have downloaded the materials. Exceptions considered on a case by case basis. Golf Cancellation: Refunds if cancellation occurs by Sept 23. After this date, refunds are issued only if the entire event is cancelled due to weather. Special Pricing: ND candidates who passed the CPA exam from July 2015 through June 2016 may attend the convention for FREE. To register or for more details go to www.ndcpas.org/conv Fees: Add $50 after Sept 9 $375 Society member $425 Nonmember $0 Exam Passer from 7/15 to 6/16 $175 Lifetime Member $325 One day Soc Member $375 One day Nonmember $50 Printed Materials $20 Painting Party sponsored by YPs $ 65 Golf Guest pricing also be available Thank you to our conference Sponsor: THE JBRL Group 701-Bakken-7 2:45 - 4:20 H. Supersonic Survivor COLLEAGUES YOU CAN COUNT ON 7 Upcoming CPE September 19 Complete Guide to Payroll Taxes and 1099 Issues (CGPT) Bismarck Ramkota 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM / 8 CPE Hours $265 Member ($315 Nonmember) Add $30 after 9/5/2016 Employment taxes are often overlooked as an area where more planning may be effective. Payroll taxes have become an increasing burden for the average business and IRS penalties for noncompliance have risen dramatically in recent years. They have also been subject to employer incentives. The IRS has announced that uncovering noncompliance by employers ranks high on its audit list. Topics Discussed: * Payroll tax requirements for wages, including wages subject to the new .9 percent tax, employee benefits and reimbursements, nonqualified deferred compensation, stock options, and tips * Fringe benefits issues, such as health insurance, life insurance, cafeteria plan benefits, accountable and non-accountable plans, standard mileage rates, and per diem rates * Special issues – Using a common paymaster, how to file W-2s after a takeover, merger, or acquisition, and state and local tax withholding * Statutory employees, independent contractors, and possible changes to §530 relief * Penalties – Who is a responsible person? * Moving expenses and grossup calculations * Form 941 issues and problems, such as disability benefits, tip income, and deceased employees * Pension issues and payroll taxes including SIMPLE plans, and §401(k) and pension distributions * The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System * Forms I-9, W-9, W-2, 1099, SS-8, and Form 940 Designed For: CPAs with responsibility for payroll tax compliance. Level: Basic Instructor: Jonathan Ingber Developer: Surgent McCoy CPE, LLC Area of Study: 8 Taxes 8 September 20 Mastering Basis, Distributions, and Loss Limitation Issues for S Corporations, LLCs, and Partnerships (HMBI) Bismarck Ramkota 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM / 8 CPE Hours $265 Member ($315 nonmember) Add $30 after 9/6/2016 The most difficult concepts to master when dealing with flow-through business entities are the basis and distribution concepts. Major error and malpractice issues occur if the CPA does not fully understand the impact of these rules. This course is designed to focus on the practical applications of these rules. Topics Discussed: • Applicable coverage of recent tax acts and any new legislation • How §179 limitations affect basis and how tax-benefit rule is applied • Basis implications of personal assets converted to business use • S Corporations: Beware of recent final IRS Regulations regarding “Open Debt”; – Determine how to calculate basis; worksheets are included; – Understand the effect of stock basis and debt basis and IRS’s recent focus on ‘at-risk basis’ for shareholders; – Recognize how AAA applies or doesn’t apply to S corporations; • LLCs and Partnerships: – Learn the detailed rules of §704 for preventing the shifting of tax consequences among partners or members; – Learn to calculate basis under §704 & for “at-risk” under §465; Designed For: CPAs who prepare both individual and flow-through business entity tax returns and need a thorough grasp of these significant issues. Level: Intermediate Instructor: Jonathan Ingber Developer: Surgent McCoy CPE, LLC Area of Study: 8 Taxes October 19 Construction: Accounting, Financial Reporting & Tax (CONST) Bismarck Courtyard by Marriott 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM / 8 CPE Hours $265 Member ($315 Nonmember) Add $30 after 10/5/2016 Review construction accounting and address various accounting and financial issues encountered in the construction industry. Updates on construction GAAP and GAAS, recent trends and developments is included. Also cover construction tax methods and most commonly missed tax strategies for contractors. Topics Discussed: • Overview of construction accounting and tax • Internal controls designed for the construction industry • Contract analytical review procedures and benchmarking • Financial statement disclosures and reporting requirements • Percentage of completion method issues and risks • Surety analysis and yellow (red) flags • Recent GAAP and GAAS pronouncements affecting construction • Review of IRS Code Section 460 and related regulations applicable to contractors • Most commonly missed tax strategies and other advanced tax topics Designed For: CPAs serving clients in the construction industry as well as CFOs, controllers and accountants who work for construction contractors. Level: Intermediate Instructor: Robert Davidson Area of Study: 5 Accounting & Auditing, 2 Tax, 1 Specialized Knowledge Prerequisite: Basic construction industry accounting and tax courses, or experience in construction industry accounting. ndcpas.org Upcoming CPE October 19 Annual Update for Controllers (SKSB) Bismarck Courtyard by Marriott 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM / 8 CPE Hours $265 Member ($235 AICPA Member) $315 Nonmem ($285 AICPA Member) Add $30 after 10/5/2016 Strengthen your abilities as a controller and help your management team understand current economic issues through the latest trends in accounting, finance, human resources, treasury management, and business systems. Discuss leadingedge topics in managerial accounting and finance in a session that is packed with useful tips and practical guidance that you can apply immediately. Topics Discussed: * Human resource trends, ethics, generational differences, and emotional intelligence * Current trends in information systems and technology * Social Media *Internal Controls Intended Audience: CFOs, controllers, treasurers, and other financial managers Level: Update Instructor: John Cox Developer: AICPA Area of Study: 8 Finance Prerequisite: Management experience in accounting, finance, or operations October 20 October 25 Bismarck Courtyard by Marriott 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM / 8 CPE Hours $265 Member ($235 AICPA Member) $315 Nonmem ($285 AICPA Member) Add $30 after 10/6/2016 Fargo Ramada Plaza 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM / 8 CPE Hours $265 Member ($235 AICPA Member) $315 Nonmem ($285 AICPA Member) Add $30 after 10/11/2016 Analytics and Big Data for Accountants (DAAN) Advanced Tax Strategies for LLCs & Partnerships (DTT) Analytics is the new force driving business. Tools have been created to measure program impacts and ROI, visualize data and business processes, and uncover the relationship between key performance indicators, many utilizing the unprecedented amount of data now flowing into organizations. Learn the pros and cons of the LLC, General Partnership, Limited Partnership, and Limited Liability Partnership by focusing on planning and potential tax traps. A review of distinct advantages of these entities is coupled with an examination of the risk members and partners face if they do not have a solid tax plan to minimize their exposure. In addition, we explore some of the more intricate rules and regulations of these entities so you can move your knowledge of partnership and LLC taxation beyond the basics. Topics Discussed: * Evidence-based techniques for finding or generating data, selecting key performance indicators, isolating program effects. * Relating data to return on investment, financial values, and executive decision making. * Data sources including surveys, interviews, customer satisfaction, engagement, and operational data. Intended Audience: CFOs, controllers, treasurers, and other financial managers Level: Basic Instructor: John Cox Developer: AICPA Area of Study: 8 Finance For a full list of topics discussed and objectives, please visit ndcpas.org/cpe Intended Audience: Managers and partners in public accounting who assist clients with tax planning for closely held LLCs and partnerships Level: Advanced Instructor: Patrick Kelley Developer: AICPA Area of Study: 8 Taxes November 7-8 Technology Conference (TECH) Fargo Ramada Plaza Suites 8:00 am – 4:00 pm / 16 CPE hours $399 Member ($449 Nonmember) Add $50 after 10/24 Special Incentives: Refer a new attendee and both of you receive a $50 VISA gift card All attendees will be included in a drawing for a $200 Amazon gift card and a $100 Amazon gift card! For all of the conference details or to register, visit ndcpas.org/tech COLLEAGUES YOU CAN COUNT ON 9 upcoming CPE Registration September 13 WEBINAR: Accounting Update for Industry 19 Complete Guide to Payroll Taxes & 1099 Issues (Bis) 20 Mastering Basis, Distributions, and Loss Limitation Issues for S Corps, LLCs, and Partnerships (Bismarck) 25-27 Annual Convention (Bismarck) 30 WEBINAR: Advanced Business Law for CPAs Fill out your contact information October Telephone 13 14 18 19 19 20 21 25 26 27 28 WEBINAR: 4 Most Overlooked Business Risks WEBINAR: Annual CFO Spotlight: 4 Select Issues WEBINAR: Getting on Top of It: Increasing Productivity Construction: Accting, Financial Reporting & Tax (Bis) Annual Update for Controllers (Bismarck) Analytics and Big Data for Accountants (Bismarck) WEBINAR: Like Kind Exchanges and Involuntary Conversions Advanced Tax Strategies for LLCs & Partnerships (Fargo) Nexus: State Income/Franchise/Sales Taxes (Fargo) Not-for-Profit Accounting & Reporting (Fargo) Governmental Accounting and Auditing Update (Fargo) November 7-8 10 15-16 17-18 30 Tech Conference (Fargo) Form 990: Mastering Its Unique Characteristics (GF) Tax Practitioner Institute (Fargo/Web) Tax Practitioner Institute (Mandan) Annual Accounting and Attestation Update (Fargo) DECember 1 5 6 7 8 Engagement Planning & Risk Assessment (Fargo) Tax Update: Individuals and Sole Proprietors (GF) Tax Update: Corps and Pass-Through Entities (GF) The Best Individual Income Tax Update Course (Minot) S Corp, Limited Liability, and Partnership (Minot) Are you looking for CPE you can take without leaving your desk? We’ve got that too! We have partnered with many of the quality vendors who provide our live classes and conferences to bring you a wide variety of online options. Check out our website for lots of new options! www.ndcpas.org/webcpe Name Company Address City/State/Zip Email List the events you would like to attend Title or Acronym Date Price Materials $0 Electronic materials (a link will be emailed five days prior to session) $25/course Printed Materials (must be ordered 10 days in advance) Please check all that apply NDCPAS Member AICPA Member CPE Learners Permit Other Society (list) Special Needs? Please attach a description To Register + Mail to NDCPAS 2701 S Columbia Rd Ste D Grand Forks ND 58201 7 Register on line at ndcpas.org/cpe ' Call (877) 637-2727 Local 775-7111 Select Payment Method: Check (Payable to NDCPAS) Discover Acct # Visa Exp MasterCard CVV# Signature 10 ndcpas.org Pulling TOGETHER Inspired by your well-being In North Dakota, BCBSND and your doctors are pulling together for you. Through Blue Alliance, we’re changing the way we define success, in well child visits, preventive care, and an overall renewed focus on keeping you well. THIS IS HEALTH CARE— North Dakota Style BCBSND.com/BlueAlliance Board of Accountancy MEETING NOTES: July 25, 2016 OFFICERS. Mike Schmitz was selected as President. Peter Hoistad will continue as Secretary. FINANCIAL. Financial reserves are at 60% of expenses, which is their target level. The financials were accepted, and the Secretary reported on oversight activities. The firm Overmoe Nelson will conduct the 2016 audit. APPLICATIONS. Reinstatement was approved for Gregory Saylor. It had been noticed that a licensee was holding out; she has agreed to stop that activity. EDUCATION. Credits from an unaccredited college are acceptable, if they’ve been accepted for transfer credit by an accredited school. VACATION LEAVE. The Board was agreeable with a change in the vacation schedule at 20 years of service, and Dec. 31 will be used as the “use or lose” date for excess accumulations. DISCIPLINE REPORTING. The group was agreeable with providing discipline information to the NASBA system, but limited to 7 years of history, and not including such issues as being relinquished for lack of payment, etc. CPE REVIEW. CPE forms are each reviewed as they come in. Staff audits a sample of forms, including some of the “home state” exemption cases. Board members will receive forms for their review. NEXT MEETING: Nov. 11, Fargo, at 11:30 am, at the offices of Eide Bailly. RULES REVIEW. Various rule changes had been settled by the rules task force. The Board agreed to make the annual licensure valid for 13 months. Accountants short on CPE this year and last year will be notified that there will be no available extension next year. PERFORMANCE. The group provided input on the CEO’s performance. COLLEAGUES YOU CAN COUNT ON COMPLAINTS. Various matters were addressed. For the full minutes, see nd.gov/ndsba/news.htm 11 Classified Ads for September 2016 North Dakota Practices for Sale: Southeast ND CPA Practice -gross $141K; quality client base, tax (75%), accntng (8%), audits/reviews (13%), other services (4%), quality client base, motivated seller. Bismarck CPA Practice -gross $643K, (59%) tax, (32%) accounting, (9%) payroll & reveiws, experienced staff in place and owner flexible with regards to transition. For more information call us at 800-397-0249. View listing details and register for free email updates at www. AccountingPracticeSales.com. THINKING OF SELLING YOUR PRACTICE? Accounting Practice Sales is the leading marketer of tax and accounting practices in North America. We have a large pool of buyers, looking for practices to purchase. We also have the experience to help you find the right fit for your firm, negotiate the best price and terms and get the deal done. We welcome the opportunity to talk to you about our risk-free and confidential services. For more information call Trent Holmes with the APS Holmes Group at 1-800-397-0249 or email [email protected]. Professional Staff Clarke and Associates, P.C., a family friendly, local firm in Williston is looking for a CPA or CPA candidate with 1-5 years experience. Duties will include individual, corporate, nonprofit, and trust income tax preparation, write up work, payroll preparation and reporting, and QuickBooks consulting. Please forward your resume and cover letter to: Jeff Clarke, CPA, PO Box 819, Williston ND 58802-0819 Accounting & Tax Associate Britsch & Associates, PC located in Devils Lake, ND has a full time opening for an accounting & tax associate. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in accounting or experience equivalent. CPA is preferred but not necessary. Britsch & Associates, PC offers a competitive salary and benefit package including health, Simple IRA, paid vacation and holidays. Please send your resume to [email protected] or mail to Britsch & Associates, PC, PO Box 866, Devils Lake, ND 58301. If you would like more information contact Katie at (701)662-8724. Tax Practice for Sale Future retirees: consider working only during the tax season in the warm and welcoming environment of Boulder City (near Las Vegas) Nevada. A $200,000 plus tax practice is for sale. The vast majority of these established clients are local residents and businesses. Principals only Call (702) 965-3277. The City of Williston is looking to fill a senior accounting position with a CPA and/or past audit experience is preferred. The position will be held open until filled. A very competitive salary and benefit package is available. A complete application and resume should be sent to John Kautzman Williston Auditor PO 1306 Williston, ND 58802 or emailed to johnk@ ci.williston.nd.us 12 20% 30% 50% 80% OFF! OFF! OFF! OFF! Selling on Your Own? For Sale by Owner = Discount to Buyers. Accounting Practice Sales is the largest facilitator in North America for selling accounting and tax practices. Our access to the greatest number of potential buyers provides you the best opportunity of matching not only with the right buyer but also obtaining the optimum price and terms. Contact us today so we can sell your practice for what it is worth. The Holmes Group Trent Holmes Toll Free: 800.397.0249 AccountingPracticeSales.com [email protected] Accountant The Community Violence Intervention Center in Grand Forks is currently seeking a detail oriented accountant to manage all aspects of the financial operations of a complex $4 million budget. This position is supervised by the Director of Community Investment. Qualifications include: Must be insightful, highly professional, and able to manage multiple financial projects simultaneously. CPA license required. Experience with QuickBooks required, advanced Microsoft Excel experience required, 5+ years experience preferred. Closing date is September 9. For more details see ndcpas.org/careerservices Audit Professionals Widmer Roel has full-time openings for an Audit Senior/Supervisor and an Audit Associate in our Fargo office. Senior/Supervisor position requires a CPA certificate, bachelor’s degree in accounting and 3+ years of experience, preferably in public accounting. Associate position requires a CPA certificate or working towards being certified and 1+years of experience. We offer a competitive compensation package, as well as medical, dental, disability and life insurance, 401-k plan, flexible spending accounts, and summer hours. Salary is dependent upon experience. To apply, go to www.widmerroelcpa.com/careers. ndcpas.org Back to school time is 529 time! College SAVE: Picture the Future Encourage clients to sa ve for the future with College SAVE. The tax-advantaged, flexible way for your clients to invest today in tomorrow’s dreams. Visit collegesave4u.com/CPA or call 1.866.SAVE.529. * Rollovers from another state’s 592 plan are not eligible for the state income tax deduction. For more information about North Dakota’s College SAVE Plan (College SAVE), call 1-866-SAVE-529 (1-866-728-3529) or visit www.collegesaves4u.com to obtain a Plan Disclosure Statement. Investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information are included in the Plan Disclosure Statement; read and consider it carefully before investing. Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, Inc. (ABD) is Distributor of the Plan. The College SAVE Plan (College SAVE) is a 529 plan established by the State of North Dakota. Bank of North Dakota (Bank) acts as trustee of College SAVE Trust, a North Dakota Trust, and is responsible for administering College SAVE Trust and College SAVE. ABD, the Plan Manager, and its affiliates, have overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations of College SAVE, including recordkeeping and marketing. The Vanguard Group, Inc. (Vanguard) provides underlying investments for the Plan. College SAVE’s Portfolios, although they invest in mutual funds, are not mutual funds. Units of the Portfolios are municipal securities and the value of units will vary with market conditions. Investment returns are not guaranteed, and you could lose money by investing in College SAVE. Participants assume all investment risks, including the potential for loss of principal, as well as responsibility for any federal and state UIIIND MKT8934C 0816 tax consequences. COLLEAGUES YOU CAN COUNT ON 13 News from the IRS New Phishing Scheme Mimics Software Providers; Targets Tax Professionals The IRS is alerting tax professionals to an emerging phishing email scam that pretends to be from tax software providers and tries to trick recipients into clicking on a bogus link. The email scheme is the latest in a series of attempts by fraudsters to use the IRS or other tax issues as a cover to trick people into giving up sensitive information such as passwords, Soc Security numbers or credit card numbers or to make unnecessary payments. In the new scheme identified as part of the IRS Security Summit process, tax professionals are receiving emails pretending to be from tax software companies. The email scheme requests the recipient to download and install an important software update via a link included in the e-mail. Once recipients click on the embedded link, they are directed to a website prompting them to download a file appearing to be an update of their software package. The file has a naming convention that uses the actual name of their software followed by an “.exe extension.” Upon completion, tax professionals believe they have downloaded a software update when in fact they have loaded a program designed to track the tax professional’s key strokes, which is a common tactic used by cyber thieves to steal login information, passwords and other sensitive data. New Federal Tax Law May Affect Some Refunds Filed in Early 2017 committee volunteers Committees are forming! Our committee groups work on various aspects of the profession – from planning education to finding member services. Some of the work groups meet by phone most of the time. Simply contact the Society office with your preference below. • • • • • • • • • • Convention (Grand Forks) - Plan and manage the convention CPE - Select CPE programs Membership - Recommend award winners and new services Members in Business and Industry - Management Conference planning, newsletter items Peer Review - Evaluate and accept Peer Review documents. Call for Requirements. Ethics - Respond to complaints and proposed ethics changes. Public Relations - Work to enhance the CPA image, add to public financial literacy and encourage individuals to enter the profession Taxation - Liaison with tax entities, inform Young Professionals - Help ensure the Society is relevant, welcoming and valuable to new CPAs Small Firms - plan events/sessions for this group. For more details and a list of other opportunities, go to ndcpas.org/volunteer The IRS has announced initial plans for processing tax returns involving the Earned Income Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit during the opening weeks of the 2017 filing season. The IRS is sharing the information now to help the tax community prepare for the 2017 season, and plans are being made for a wider communication effort this summer and fall to alert taxpayers about the changes that will affect some early filers. This action is driven by the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 (PATH Act) that was enacted Dec. 18, 2015, and made several changes to the tax law to benefit taxpayers and their families. Section 201 of this new law mandates that no credit or refund for an overpayment for a taxable year shall be made to a taxpayer before Feb. 15 if the taxpayer claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit on the return. This change begins Jan. 1, 2017, and may affect some returns filed early in 2017. Additional information is listed below. • To comply with the law, the IRS will hold the refunds on EITC and ACTC-related returns until Feb. 15. • This allows time to help prevent revenue lost due to identity theft/refund fraud re to fabricated wages and withholdings. • The IRS will hold the entire refund. Under the new law, the IRS cannot release the part of the refund that is not associated with the EITC and ACTC. • Taxpayers should file as they normally do, and tax return preparers should also submit returns as they normally do. • The IRS will begin accepting/processing tax returns once the filing season begins, as we do every year. That will not change. • The IRS still expects to issue most refunds in less than 21 days, though IRS will hold refunds for EITC and ACTC-related tax returns filed early until Feb. 15 then begin issuing them. 14 ndcpas.org Ethics Corner The Case of Lorraine Inspain Staying Mainly on the Plain By Charles Selcer, CPA, MBA Lorraine Inspain CPA has a close working relationship with a registered investment advisor named Clifford Hanger with the Bank of Germany und Switzerland (BOGUS). Lorraine and Cliff are thinking of formalizing a referral fee arrangement between the two practitioners whereby Lorraine would receive a fee for clients referred to Cliff. Q. How Would such an arrangement effect Lorraine’s relationship with her clients? A. When she makes the referral Lorraine must inform the client that the referral fee arrangement exists (See 1.520.050 of the code). At its July meeting the Professional Ethics Executive Committee considered a revision to the code that would require that this disclosure be made in writing that would apply to commission or referral fee arrangements entered on or after January 31, 2017. This matter was exposed previously and comments were reviewed and discussed at the July meeting. The new interpretation will be published soon. Coming into money can be overwhelming. Protecting it shouldn’t be. Feel safe and secure knowing the money you’ve earned from oil and gas is protected by FDIC-insured banking products. Get the protection you deserve. Contact your local financial advisor today. The JBRL Group 200 Josephine Street Denver, CO 80206 110 South Phillips Avenue Sioux Falls, SD 57104 701.BAKKEN.7 701.225.5367 Life’s better when we’re connected® Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (“MLPF&S”), a registered brokerdealer and member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., and affiliated banks, members FDIC and wholly owned subsidiaries of BofA Corp. Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value The Bull Symbol, Merrill Lynch and Life’s better when we’re connected are trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. © 2015 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. ARXQWET7 | AD-12-14-0160 | 471027PM-0614 | 01/2015 COLLEAGUES YOU CAN COUNT ON 15 Dakota CPA is published bimonthly, by the North Dakota CPA Society. DIRECTORS Tracee Buethner, President Marci Schorsch, President-elect Clarence Sitter, Secretary Steve Britsch Dianna Kindseth Dave Glennon Terri Clark Lyndsey Roemmich Michelle Schumacher Robert Dosch Brittany Dunn John Mongeon, Past President 3 Year AICPA Council Member, Patrick Kautzman Jim Abbott, Executive Director Sherre Sattler, CPE and Communications Director Mandy Harlow, Licensing/Peer Review Coordinator Connie Holte, Administrative Assistant Aja Steinfeldt, Bookkeeper North Dakota CPA Society 2701 South Columbia Road, Ste D Grand Forks, ND 58201-6029 Toll Free: 877-637-2727 Local: 701-775-7100 Fax: 701-775-7430 Email: [email protected] Ste D PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Fargo, ND Permit #1159
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