Fall 2023 - Florida CPA Today | Volume 39, Issue 4 by Florida Institute of CPAs

FALL 2023 | VOLUME 39, ISSUE 4

Survey says: It’s a new day at the FICPA! Review our 2023 Member Insights Survey results and read real responses from your fellow members.

RETHINK... RETHINK...

your approach to ERTC with with FREE FREE resources resources to to help help CPAs CPAs your approach to ERTCand withpotential FREE resources help CPAs the advantages risks their clients assess and potential risks for forto their clients assessregarding the advantages and potential risksTax forCredit their clients the Employee Retention Employee Retention Tax Credit regarding the Employee Retention Tax Credit

MANDATES MANDATES MANDATES

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APPROPRIATE APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION DOCUMENTATION APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION

Resources Resources Since the the roll-out roll-out of Resources Since of the the ERTC, ERTC, many many CPAs CPAs have have

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FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

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How How CPA’s CPA’s Can Can Help Help Their TheirClients Clients CPA’s who have Clients with insufficient How CPA’s Can Help Their Clients CPA’s who have Clients with insufficient

documentation: It is important to identify the proper documentation: is important to identify the proper CPA’s who have It Clients with insufficient resources and services required to properly document resources and services requiredto toidentify properly document documentation: It is important the proper the Client’s position before the IRS issues the Client an resources services required to properly document the Client’sand position before the IRS issues the Client an Information Document Request (IDR). the Client’s position before the IRS issues the Client an Information Document Request (IDR). Information Request CPA’s are in Document a unique position to(IDR). bring value to CPA’s are in a unique position to bring value to their Clients by providing clarity regarding ERTC: to CPA’s are in a position to regarding bring value to to their Clients byunique providing clarity ERTC: protect shareholders, ALL Small Businesses should have their Clients by providing clarityBusinesses regarding should ERTC: to protect shareholders, ALL Small have thorough documentation and clarity surrounding why protect shareholders, ALLand Small Businesses should have thorough documentation clarity surrounding why their business DOES OR DOES NOT file for ERTC. thorough documentation and clarity surrounding their business DOES OR DOES NOT file for ERTC. why their business DOES OR DOES NOT file for ERTC.

Access Access Our Our Free Free Resources Resources Access Our Free Resources

Read over the results of the FICPA 2023 member survey.

PRESIDENT & CEO Shelly Weir EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Lynda M. Dennis, CPA, Chair Joel M. DiCicco, CPA Christina Durta, CPA David J. Hochsprung, CPA Jonathan S. Ingber, CPA Keith Johnson, CPA Douglas B. Keith, CPA Michael S. Kridel, CPA Matthew Leto, CPA Ryan A. Myers, CPA Will Quilliam, CPA FICPA STAFF Nick Menta

Communications Manager and FCT Editor

Lindsay Cannizzaro Graphic Designer

Statements expressed herein are those of the identified authors and not necessarily those of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Inc. (FICPA), nor should statements be considered endorsements of products, procedures or otherwise. The FICPA reserves the right to reject any editorial material or paid advertising that does not meet Florida CPA Today criteria or detracts from its ethical and professional standards. Florida CPA Today is published quarterly by the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Inc., 250 S. Orange Ave., Suite 300P, Orlando, Fla., 32801. Telephone: (850) 224-2727 or (800) 3423197. Visit our website at ficpa.org. This magazine is provided to members of the FICPA. No specific amount of your dues, either expressed or implied, is for this publication. This magazine is not available for purchase by either FICPA members or nonmembers. For display advertising information, contact FICPA Strategic Partnership Manager Marjorie Stone at 850-521-5950 or MarjorieS@ficpa.org. © 2023 by the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of the FICPA.

Photo and cover images by Brittany Echemendia / Two Stories Media

FEATURES

CONTENTS

All articles submitted to Florida CPA Today are subject to technical review, Editorial Committee review, space availability, and editing requirements and restrictions.

Member Insights Survey Results

16 Mitigate Fraud and Scope Creep Risk While Adding Value – and Revenue 20 Red Alert! Form 1099-K Ahead

INSIDE THE ISSUE 2

CEO’s Message

Chair’s Message

News Briefs

10 Chapter Events 18 Department of Revenue Update 23 Strategic Partner Content 30 Welcome to the FICPA 35 Members on the Move 36 Marketplace

Visit issuu.com/ficpa to access and download the digital version of Florida CPA Today. FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S MESSAGE

FICPA’s advocacy is a year-round effort W

ith many of our friends and colleagues still navigating the devastation left by Hurricane Idalia in September, I want to start this message by sending my sincere support to those of you on the Gulf Coast. Florida has been through storms like Idalia before, but the damage is never any less real, and the recovery is never any easier for those impacted. The value of FICPA’s advocacy efforts is well-understood each spring during Florida’s Legislative Session, but I want to stress the importance of the work we do each fall during times of crisis.

SHELLY WEIR president & ceo

“Rest assured . . our dedication to our members never wanes.”

Once again, our FICPA Governmental Affairs team played a vital role during hurricane season, advocating for state and federal relief and communicating breaking news updates through our email and social media platforms. FICPA Chief External Affairs Officer Jason Harrell and I were in regular contact with the Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Treasury, and Florida Department of Revenue, making immediate requests for extended deadlines and seeking important clarifications. In response to our letters, the three agencies named above have granted the following extended deadlines for 49 Florida counties:

The IRS issued relief for various returns through Feb. 15, 2024.

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

 The Treasury’s Financial Crimes

Enforcement Network (FinCEN) likewise moved the filing date of Reports of Foreign Bank and Financial Account to Feb. 15, 2024.

 And the Department of Revenue

suspended corporate income tax due dates and extension periods through March 1, 2024.

Of course, as we look ahead to 2024, we’ll soon find ourselves at the beginning of another Legislative Session. To aid in our advocacy efforts, we’ve welcomed a new addition to our Government Affairs team, Lauren Henderson, who alongside CEAO Harrell will make sure the FICPA is as well represented as ever at the Capitol (read more on page 8). I’m also inviting you to join our advocacy team in Tallahassee on Jan. 17, when we host our thirdannual CPA Day at the Capitol. This event – known previously as Hike the Hill – is an important opportunity for our members to interface with Florida lawmakers and make their voices heard. We’re looking to make this CPA Day at the Capitol the biggest and best to date, and we’re calling for our members across the state to join us this January. Rest assured, our advocacy is a year-round effort, and our dedication to our members never wanes. The FICPA is here to ensure – no matter the circumstances – that #CPAsCount.

CPA DAY CAPITOL at the

CPA Day at the Capitol is your opportunity to learn about the political process, interact with state lawmakers, and stand up for the CPA profession.

JAN. 17, 2024 | TALLAHASSEE Join us and make your voice heard Visit ficpa.org/2024CPADay

#CPA sCount FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

CHAIR’S MESSAGE

Chapter involvement is your gateway to the FICPA I

am immensely proud to serve as your 96th Chair of the FICPA. Still, more than anything, I think of myself as a member – a member of the Brevard Chapter. Yes, I’ve worked my way through just about every level of volunteer leadership we have to offer, but it’s in the Brevard Chapter that I feel most at home.

KEY O’KEEFE cpa

“Make new connections, make lasting memories, and make your mark on the FICPA.”

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

Although I’ve been a member of the FICPA since 1984, it wasn’t until 2007 that I finally had the ability to engage with my fellow members and begin giving back to the profession that has given me so much. What began as a “yes” to taking on the role of Brevard Chapter Treasurer eventually led to what I’m doing now – writing to you, encouraging you to write your own story. Included in this edition of Florida CPA Today, on page 10, you’ll find a new recurring spread dedicated to Chapter life at the FICPA. It’s my sincere hope that you’ll attend an event in your area and then find yourself photographed in the next issue of FCT. Chapter events come in a variety of shapes and sizes; from CPE sessions to happy hours, from daytime lunch-and-learns to evenings at the orchestra, there’s something for everyone. More than anything, these events give you a sense of belonging, a connection

to your local colleagues. Whether you’re looking to be involved in your local area or you’re hoping to take the first step on a path to leadership at the state level, Chapter involvement is your gateway to the FICPA. I also want to direct your attention to page 13, where you’ll find the results of our 2023 Member Insights survey. Thank you to those of you who lent your time and feedback to this important project. The survey results have a direct impact on the decisions FICPA staff members make each and every day in an effort to better serve our more than 18,500 members. Finally – for those of you who are new to the FICPA, or those of us who have been here longer than we’d like to admit – I strongly encourage you to reference our benefits guide via the QR code on the next page to make the most of your membership. That, really, is my hope for all our members – that you’ll make the most of every opportunity this wonderful organization provides. Make new connections, make lasting memories, and make your mark on the FICPA.

Explore your comprehensive FICPA benefits guide! Make the most of your membership Continuing Education Member-Exclusive Content Community, Connections and Leadership Opportunities And more within!

Scan to Discover More Or visit ficpa.org/Advantage

FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

NEWS BRIEFS

Notice of Regular Council Meeting FICPA OFFICIAL NOTICE

In compliance with Article XI, Section 6, of the FICPA Bylaws, be it known that a regular meeting of the FICPA Council will be held virtually on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, at 3 p.m.

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

BOA votes to approve CPA Exam window of 30 months In September, the Florida Board of Accountancy (BOA) approved extending the validity of CPA exam scores from 18 months to 30 months. The rulemaking process then began, with the goal of an effective date of Jan. 1, 2024. With the new rule, credit for any test section passed will be valid for 30 months from the NASBA grade release date for that test section. The new 30-month window will apply to any test section passed with a grade release date on or after Jan. 1, 2024.

For any test section passed with a grade release date prior to Jan. 1, 2024, credit will be valid for 18 months from the NASBA grade release date for that section. What if I am currently approved to sit for the CPA Exam or pass sections before Dec. 31, 2023? It is important for candidates to remember the extension that is already in place. It is based on expiration dates of test sections passed. It extends examination credits expiring between Jan. 1, 2024, and June 29, 2025, through June 30, 2025. The FICPA will continue to monitor the situation and communicate any changes that students, candidates, and educators need to know.

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FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

NEWS BRIEFS

Henderson joins FICPA as Deputy Director of Governmental Affairs

The FICPA is pleased to announce that Lauren Henderson has joined our staff as Deputy Director of Governmental Affairs. Henderson will be stationed at the FICPA Governmental Affairs office in Tallahassee, assisting Chief External Affairs Officer Jason Harrell in the execution of the Institute’s strategic advocacy goals. Alongside Harrell, she will serve as part of the FICPA’s in-house lobby team and will assist in all aspects of promoting and advancing FICPA’s legislative priorities and further strengthening the Institute’s relationships with legislators and their staff. In addition to her work at the Florida Capitol, Henderson will generate timely legislative and political communications assets, support the development and growth of the Florida CPA/ PAC, and enhance the FICPA’s connections with key stakeholders and state agencies. “It’s an honor to join the FICPA and to play a key role in representing members throughout the state,” Henderson said. “I look forward to bringing my experience to an impressive and respected institution and to working alongside Jason Harrell as we protect and promote the CPA profession in Florida.” Henderson brings nearly a decade of legislative experience to this role. Prior to joining the FIPCA, she was the Legislative Director for Cynergy, LLC, a political consulting firm in Tallahassee assisting individuals and organizations

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

in conducting business with governmental agencies. She has previously worked on political campaigns for high-profile candidates – including Jeb Bush, Mitt Romney, Rick Scott, Mary Thomas, Steve Southerland and Jim Messer – and was previously named to Florida Politics’ 30-under-30 list of rising stars. Henderson is a graduate of Florida State University, with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and English. “Lauren has spent her career deftly navigating the legislative process,” Harrell said. “She arrives at the FICPA with a wide variety of relationships, extensive political experience, and a depth of legislative knowledge that will keep our members’ interests at the forefront during Florida’s Legislative Session.”

“I look forward to bringing my experience to an impressive and respected institution and to working alongside Jason Harrell as we protect and promote the CPA profession in Florida”.

FICPA joins call for BOI reporting delay The FICPA has joined AICPA and dozens of other state CPA societies to ask the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to extend and expand the deadline for beneficial ownership information (BOI) reporting requirements, specifically for Reporting Companies Created or Registered in 2024. Effective Jan. 1, 2024, existing companies created or registered before Jan. 1, 2024, will have one year, through Jan. 1, 2025, to file their initial BOI reports. New companies created or registered on or after Jan. 1, 2024, will have 30 days to file their initial BOI reports. If there are inaccuracies in the initial BOI report filed or companies have a change in information, such as change in residential address or percentage of ownership, they will have 30 days to report changes or correct the inaccuracies. The BOI reporting requirement is an anti-money laundering initiative enacted through the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) in 2021, which mandates that BOI information is reported to FinCEN. In a comment letter, sent Oct. 30, 2023, the profession specifically recommends that FinCEN extend the deadline from the proposed 90 days to one year and expand the applicability of the deadline to include not only new entities created in 2024 but all entities created thereafter, as well as entities making updates or corrections to their original filings. Lack of awareness is highlighted in the letter, citing that most businesses are not familiar with the new BOI regulation, despite the campaigns put in place to inform them. The time and financial burdens on small businesses were also mentioned as a potential result of not instituting the recommended changes. The comment letter also hopes to avoid the steep taxpayer penalties that could accompany unawareness of the new reporting requirements. “The FICPA has joined the AICPA and our statesociety partners to call for improving BOI reporting requirements,” FICPA President & CEO Shelly Weir said. “As we continue to disseminate information on the upcoming changes, we believe that extending and expanding these reporting requirements will have a beneficial impact on taxpayers, small businesses and our members, who are serving as their trusted advisers.”

FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

CHAPTER EVENTS YOUR CHAPTER CONTACTS IVEY ROSE SMITH VP of Membership & Corporate Relations Central Florida & Brevard County Ivey@ficpa.org I 850-521-5918

KAREN DOW Regional Director of Membership Broward & Palm Beach Counties KarenD@ficpa.org I 850-251-5921

KATHRYN HERNANDEZ Regional Director of Membership Miami & The Keys KatH@ficpa.org I 850-521-5951

JAY PROPST

his past summer, from July through September, the FICPA hosted more than 45 grassroots events in 90 days across the state As our members can attest, Chapter event attendees: Made peer-to-peer connections in their local professional network. Shared invaluable insights with colleagues who speak the same language.

Regional Director of Membership Tampa & Southwest Florida JayP@ficpa.org I 850-521-5946

Built a cross-industry referral base of CPAs, bankers, attorneys and financial planners.

IVELISSE SANTIAGO

Celebrated the passage of key deadlines.

Chapter Connections Manager Ivelisse@ficpa.org I 850-521-5919 North Florida & Panhandle Regional Director Position currently being filled. Details to follow!

23 LOCAL CHAPTERS North Florida and Panhandle Central Florida Tampa and Southwest Broward and Palm Beach Miami and the Keys FICPA Advocacy FICPA Headquarters

FICPA Chapters are thriving once more

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

Gained a deeper understanding of cutting-edge topics. Most of all, our members met new colleagues, matched with new clients, and made new friends. We are committed to seeing all our chapters thrive. As we’ve emerged from the pandemic, FICPA staff members have teamed with a working group of Chapter champions to reimagine our local networking. Through member input and feedback, we’ve hit the ground running, hosting these pictured events at spectacular venues across the state. You’ll read more in our main feature on page 13, but we are encouraged by the

significant increase we’ve seen in overall member satisfaction over the last two years. Rest assured: We’re by no means done. We’re working hard to boost those numbers even more, and we’ll keep fine-tuning our efforts until we find just the right mix in your region! Remember: FICPA Chapter membership is included with your annual dues. Upcoming Chapter events are added daily, so be sure to check your email and our social channels often – particularly, LinkedIn and Facebook. You can also check in with your Regional Director of Membership and Chapter Connections Team for event updates that you may have missed. For more information and to view a statewide Chapter events calendar, visit ficpa.org/chapters. Membership is a movement! Together, let’s build on this momentum and make even more connections in our professional network of more than 18,500. Lead. Serve. Engage. Grow. Be the spark in your region that ignites an exciting new wave of engagement. Membership is more than just paying dues. Your investment of both time and energy will pay greater dividends, personally and professionally.

Left: The FICPA’s Broward County Chapter and Financial Planning Association come together for a cross-industry social event in Fort Lauderdale.

Gulf Coast Chapter Chair Debi Gardi, CPA, bringing the fun and prizes in Sarasota at a Raffurty’s Bar & Grill social event.

Right:An evening social with the Tallahassee Chapter at the Governor’s Club.

A cross-industry social with the FICPA’s South Dade Chapter and Miami Dade Bar Association at Regatta Grove.

Top: The West Coast Chapter’s LightHaus Social Networking Event and School Supply Drive.

The FICPA on the move in Tampa with Partners in Action.

Left: The Central Florida Chapter Young CPAs and the Orange County Bar Association - Young Attorneys enjoyed a networking social at GB Bottle Shop in Orlando.

FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

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Member Insights Survey results: Member satisfaction up 15% irst and foremost, the FICPA F is here to serve you: our valued members. Earlier this year – in an effort to grow, anticipate and fulfill the needs of Florida CPAs – we conducted a member survey, soliciting your feedback on the FICPA member experience. We thank all of you who answered our call for participants. Your feedback is already helping us shape our offerings to best support our more than 18,500 members. With 2023 coming to a close and the new year on the horizon, we wanted to take this time to share a snapshot of our survey results, giving you a look into the responses of your fellow members.

TOP 4

FICPA Member Benefits Advocacy Efforts

Knowledge Sharing

CPE/CPE Tracker

Staff Availability

Member benefits with the highest levels of satisfaction

From a list of 11 different options, members identified our advocacy efforts, CPE offerings (including the use of the FICPA CPE Tracker), knowledge and information sharing, and staff availability to answer questions as the four benefits with the highest levels of satisfaction, each scoring 65% or higher. Continued on page 14

Hear from FICPA members “FICPA Connect is one of the best things about my membership.”

“Advocacy work is the most important thing the FICPA does, and I hope every member realizes it.”

“I depend on the FICPA for a significant portion of my CPE and look forward to MEGA each June.”

“FICPA staff are all amazing people. Extremely professional and helpful. Great to work with!”

FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

Continued from page 13

Our commitment to local Chapters What could we be doing better? We believe Chapter involvement is an integral part of the FICPA experience, and we can tell from our data that you believe it, too. The COVID-19 pandemic was devastating for social interaction, and many of our Chapters saw a decrease in both engagement and participation. Only 45% of our members are currently satisfied with the Chapter experience, with another 45% reporting that they’re neutral.

How would you rate your learning experience?

44.77% Very Good

20.64% Good

Excellent

The key to improving these numbers is to enhance Chapter life for our current participants and to encourage even more members to become engaged. As you saw on pages 10-11 and as discussed by Chair O’Keefe in her column on Page 4, we’re working hard to revitalize the Chapter experience, breathing new life into what’s always been at the core of membership. With your support, we can make our local Chapters more vibrant than ever.

30.23%

Members endorse FICPA CPE We strive to present our members with the most up-to-date, informative, affordable, flexible continuing professional education opportunities. And we’re pleased to hear that we’re serving your CPE needs. More than 95% of respondents rated their FICPA learning experiences as either good, very good or excellent, with less than 5% answering with neutral, poor or very poor.

Hear from FICPA members “I am glad to have the FICPA as a resource.”

“Live conferences are excellent!”

“Shelly Weir and her team are doing a great job.” 14

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

“The FICPA has become more prominent to me in the past five years for your CPE, your communication, and your importance to the CPA profession.”

“Really enjoy the Chapter meetings and CPE and in-person CPE conferences.”

Overall member satisfaction Finally, we’re pleased to report that more than 86% of FICPA members are somewhat satisfied, satisfied, or extremely satisfied with their experience, an increase of 15% from our last survey in 2021. Only 5% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with membership.

While we’re encouraged by these numbers, we want your member satisfaction to be even higher. That’s why we’re working every day to provide you with the largest possible Membership Advantage, to support today’s CPAs, and to ensure the future of our profession.

How would you rate your FICPA member experience?

46.46%

Color Key Extremely Satisfied Satisfied Somewhat Satisfied Neutral

26.2

Somewhat Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Extremely Dissatisfied

13.77%

8.41%

2.78% 1.53% 0.76%

“FICPA is definitely moving in the right direction. Keep up the good work! Consider bringing back the paper weight. I treasure mine.” “Thank you for doing an excellent job! I have enjoyed my membership and look forward to this next year!”

“I have been a member for over 45 years and have found the FICPA to be TOP SHELF! Hard to find an organization that does more for its members.”

“I have been an FICPA member for many years and have very much appreciated this association.” FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

Mitigate fraud and scope creep risk while adding value – and revenue ROBERT GOODWIN M.Acc, CPA, CGMA ROBERT MARLEY Ph.D., CPA STEVE PLATAU J.D., CPA The majority (59%) of fraud and theft claims against publicpractice CPAs insured in the FICPA-endorsed professional liability insurance program (CNA Insurance, administered by AON) arise out of tax-only engagements. Many are surprised by that statistic. A CPA engaged to complete tax returns is typically not on the lookout for fraud or theft at the client. Such instances are seldom discovered by external CPAs (Association of Certified Fraud Examiners Report to the Nations 2022 – ACFE p.22). Most likely, the tax professional is not looking for fraud. Unlike audit engagements, where fraud risk must be considered, no professional standards address a CPA’s responsibility to detect misappropriation or embezzlement fraud in a tax engagement. The typical tax-client, fraudvictim claim arises from wayward employees, partial owners, or custodians helping themselves to enterprise funds. For example, one of the authors of this piece had a longtime engagement with a closely held family business that suffered a significant fraud loss. The business had no debt, and the owners had no interest in an audit. An unscrupulous office manager entered into a kickback scheme

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

with a supplier. Over an eight-year period, office-supply expenses increased from roughly $7,000 to over $700,000 as the fraud blossomed. The CPA firm completed the tax returns each year, assigning a new staff person to essentially roll the tax return forward, using the client-supplied general ledger from year to year. Each year, the office supply expenses roughly doubled, and the increase was never identified as being suspicious. When the client stumbled upon the fraud, the client blamed the CPA. The client asked how the CPA firm could ever have missed something so significant. Easily, because few, if any, tax preparers consider fraud risk as part of a tax-only, returnpreparation engagement. In this case, the client supplied the internally generated financial information to the firm, yet sadly, in today’s legal environment, there are contingency-fee business litigators all too happy to take on this kind of legal claim against a CPA. The client asserts that the CPA was the “most trusted advisor” and suggests that the CPA firm was “asleep,” assigning an inexperienced staff person who accepted the information provided at face value. The client often suggests that “they hired the CPA to help with all their tax issues and expected they would be on the lookout for fraud.” While the CPA had no contractual obligation or professional duty to detect fraud, the client expected more once the problem was identified. This is a common issue known as scope creep.

SAMPLE OPT-IN CHECKBOX ENGAGEMENT Thank you for selecting the firm to assist with the engagement described above. You may be interested in learning about additional services not included in this engagement. Please check the desired boxes below and we will follow up with proposal(s) for additional work:  Fraud risk evaluation and

testing

 State and local sales and

use tax compliance analysis

 Reporting of crypto assets

Accepted, Client Signature Before you and your firm face litigation over failure to detect fraud or theft in a tax-only engagement, consider how to mitigate this risk and potentially seize a revenue opportunity. One way to mitigate this scope creep risk is to let the client know, in no uncertain terms, that searching for fraud is an optional service. Practitioners can expose themselves to undue risk and leave revenue opportunities unharvested by failing to offer additional optional services to clients. A well-crafted engagement letter typically gives the client a choice of services, which could include a forensic engagement to look for

fraud and other current issues. A simple and effective way to address service opportunities is to let clients “check a box” to indicate which services they do or don’t want. The checkboxes can be altered each year to address issues that arise and present increased exposure. This year, in addition to fraud, checkboxes could include options for state and local sales and use tax compliance and the reporting of crypto assets – both current issues presenting additional scope creep risk. Should an issue arise later about whether the CPA was to have performed a given service, the blank box will be a powerful indicator that the client knew that the service was optional and elected not to receive a proposal. Some ask whether an engagement letter should enumerate the services that will not be provided. The best strategy is to identify what the CPA will do and then offer select other services. Of course, fraud risks don’t end with tax-only engagements; clients of all sizes, especially small-business clients, can benefit from inexpensive and effective fraud-risk tools that CPAs can help implement as add-on advisory services. These additional services can include structuring management talks with employees about fraud, implementing a code of conduct, and creating an avenue for hotline reporting. CODE OF CONDUCT

Every business needs a formal anti-fraud policy and an employee code of ethics. Your clients may find the idea laughable, as it conjures images of management sitting on high, telling employees, “Thou shalt not steal.” But welldesigned policies are effective tools for combatting fraud. By simply talking with employees about what constitutes fraud, the common indicators of fraud and where to report fraud, a business creates a

network of eyes and ears – looking for fraud (ACFE p.92). An easy-to-read, thoughtfully disseminated, well-designed code, tailored to the business, with employee perspectives in mind, is an effective tool, reducing median fraud losses by 40% (ACFE p.36). Further, offering examples of what constitutes fraud, providing basic questions that employees can ask themselves when they suspect fraud, and supplying answers regarding the best course of action in common fraud situations reduces median fraud amounts by 45% (ACFE p.36). It is valuable to customize the code of conduct and antifraud policies to match the organization’s environment. Many companies find it useful to use trade association templates or the AICPA’s Code of Professional Conduct as a reference point for creating their policies. Additionally, help is available from various consultants and professional writers. REPORTING HOTLINE

Tips are the single most effective means of uncovering fraud (ACFE p.4). Consequently, it follows that every business should have an easy way for employees, vendors

and possibly even customers to report fraud or suspicious behavior. Anonymous reporting hotlines are incredibly inexpensive, with some starting off at a few hundred dollars per year. Thirdparty hotline services provide professional, 24-hour reporting that management only needs to interface with when a tip is reported. If a formal employee fraud hotline is not something management wants to take on, creating a specific email address that employees can use to notify management of suspicious behavior is a cost-effective way of tapping into employee fraud tips. For example, a firm could use fraud@ companyname.com as a simple reporting hotline. CONCLUSION

Managing scope creep of fraud detection risk is not complicated, and effective fraud prevention tools for clients can both reduce the magnitude of frauds while providing valuable add-on services for practitioners. Rob Goodwin (rgoodwin@ut.edu), Robert Marley (rmarley@ut.edu) and Steve Platau (platau@ ut.edu) all serve on the faculty of the John H. Sykes College of Business at the University of Tampa.

FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

DOR UPDATE

Property tax relief for catastrophic events

“The law defines ‘catastrophic event’ as an event of misfortune or calamity that renders one or more residential improvements uninhabitable. ”

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

Effective Jan. 1, 2023, a new law provides for a refund of a portion of property taxes for residential improvements rendered uninhabitable because of a catastrophic event. The law defines “catastrophic event” as an event of misfortune or calamity that renders one or more residential improvements uninhabitable. Examples may include weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires and flooding or nonweather events such as an unintentional fire, water damage or structural failure. A Florida homeowner may be eligible for a refund of property taxes they paid for the year the catastrophic event occurred if the property was uninhabitable for at least 30 days because of the catastrophic event. The homeowner must apply for the refund by completing a Form DR-465, Application for Catastrophic Event Tax Refund1 and submitting it and supporting information to the county property appraiser in the county where the property is located. The property appraiser will determine if the homeowner is entitled to a refund based on the information the homeowner submits. The homeowner must apply by March 1 of the year immediately following the catastrophic event. The county tax collector will process and calculate the refund upon receipt of a written statement from the property appraiser. The tax collector calculates the refund amount by applying the percent change in value to the number of days the residential improvement was uninhabitable.

Homeowners should report property damage to the county property appraiser as soon as possible. Reporting damage is important for future valuation and assessment. Some property appraisers have online forms and instructions for reporting the status of property damaged by natural disasters or other catastrophic events. Property taxes will not decrease for the tax year in which the catastrophic event occurred but may decrease for the next tax year. Property taxes for the year are calculated based on the assessment of property as of Jan. 1, prior to the catastrophic event. The county property appraiser will assess the destroyed or damaged property as of Jan. 1 of the year following the catastrophic event. That assessment will reflect the change in value because of catastrophic event damage. This applies to both homestead and non-homestead residential property. Even if a property is destroyed or uninhabitable because of a catastrophic event, the property owner may still be required to pay a mortgage. Property owners should review their mortgage contract for what happens in case of natural disasters and for options that may be available to them. Property owners should also contact their insurance company for details about what damages their insurance policy covers.

RED ALERT! Form 1099-K ahead “Tax preparers are going to need extra time to deal with this explosion in the number of Forms 1099-K – time you had not accounted for in prior years.” DAN HENN CPA, CTR™ As any fan of Star Trek can attest, the phrase, “Go to Red Alert,” usually meant the show was about to get really exciting. Well, tax professionals, consider this your call to “Go to Red Alert on Form 1099-K.” True, this isn’t exactly “new” news. We have actually known about the changes to the Form 1099-K thresholds for a couple of years now. So, what’s the big deal? Starting in 2023, for forms to be issued in 2024, the threshold for the issuance was reduced to $600 (from the previous $20,000) and more than 200 transactions, thanks to the American Rescue Plan of 2021. Therefore, you can expect that many more of your clients are going to be receiving this form for 2023 activity. Again, why are so many people up in arms about this? Well, let me

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give you a few examples of how this will look next tax season. Your client comes to you with a Form 1099-K. You ask them what their business was that generated this income and what expenses they have. They answer, “Well, Dan, I sold my couch on Facebook Marketplace for $700. I got a new one and didn’t need the old one. I was not running a business.” What does this mean for you as a tax practitioner? This means that you need to report this Form 1099-K income on Schedule 1, Part 1, Line 8z – Other Income and describe it as “Form 1099-K Personal Item sold at a loss.” Then you have to report on Schedule 1, Part 2, Line 24z – Other Adjustments “Form 1099-K Personal Item sold at a loss” with costs up to but no more than the income reported on Form 1099-K1. This will accomplish both reporting the income and bringing the tax effect to zero.

Your next client comes to you and says, “I don’t really know why I got this form. Is it possibly because I use Venmo or PayPal?” Turns out your client has been going out with friends for dinner and drinks a lot during the year, and he is the one that usually pays, as he wants to get the credit card points. His friends pay him through Venmo for their share of the meal, and they might not have designated the transactions as “personal.” Your client also did this did it enough times that he received more than $600 during the year, triggering issuance of Form 1099-K. The reporting is exactly the same as above except you would write “Form 1099-K received in error” on both lines,2 as this was really a non-event for your client that should not have been reported on a Form 1099-K. Here’s another one. Your client’s teenage daughter is a huge Taylor Swift fan. The client managed to buy four tickets to a concert early on for $800, realized they only

needed two, and sold the extra pair on Ticketmaster for an easy $1,000. You have to report this on Form 8949 as a short-term capital gain with gross proceeds of $1,000 and basis of $400 giving rise to a gain of $600.3 Yeah, your client is not going to like it, but those are the rules we have been given by Congress. Oh, and even if Form 1099-K had not been changed, this still would be a reportable transaction.4 How about this one? A client does work for a customer. They are paid $500 via check and $1,000 via credit card. Said client gets a Form 1099NEC from the customer for $1,500. Oh, yes, that $1,000 is also reported on Form 1099-K from their merchant services. Now the IRS is expecting them to report $2,500 in revenue for this transaction, though they only earned $1,500. You need to report $2,500 of gross income and remove the $1,000 as an expense called “duplicated income reported on Form 1099-K.” Are you seeing how much fun this is going to be working on 2023 tax returns? If you have not yet realized from the examples above, tax preparers are going to need extra time to deal with this explosion in the number of Forms 1099-K – time you had not accounted for in prior years. Please make sure you set your fees accordingly. It is not your fault that Congress wanted this change, and you should not have to pay for this with your time and a reduction of income. So, what are you to do this in the upcoming tax season? Refer to the box on the right, then keep reading. Be sure if your client conducts a business that their gross sales equal or exceed the amount reported on the Forms 1099-K. If amounts are equal, be sure to ask if they take cash. If so, then something is off. Sales tax collected may also be another reconciling item between

Here’s one thing you need to do: Create the following checklist for you and your staff to use with every client.  Did you receive any Forms 1099-K for 2023? Please note that since many clients have online accounts, it is possible they may not receive a paper document but have to download it from their online account access.  Did you receive money in 2023 via PayPal, Venmo, Google

Pay, Payoneer, Square, Stripe, ProPay, CashApp, Apple Pay or any similar service or app? Why did you receive this money? Was it for any of the following reasons?  Was it from the sale of personal items?  Did you have a hobby you conducted from home?  Did you start or operate a business online or in a

physical location?

 Did you sell your business entity? Did they continue to

use the same merchant account you set up? Did you change the EIN on the account when it was sold?

 Did you share your merchant terminal with another

person or business?

 Did you open a merchant account under your

EIN/SSN for someone else or another business?

 Did you change your entity structure, going from sole

proprietor to LLC? Did you change the EIN with your merchant account when you did the restructuring?

 Did you collect money from services like eBay,

Amazon, Airbnb, Uber, Etsy, RV Share, DoorDash, or any similar type of service? Did you have any expenses to go against this income?

Forms 1099-K and gross receipts per tax return. These are some of the situations you will likely encounter on 2023 tax returns. It is difficult to come up with all of the questions you may need to ask, but do the best you can. This is just a friendly heads up on the difficulties you are about to encounter. Yes, exciting times are ahead for you. Live long and prosper!

Dan Henn, CPA, CTR™, NTPI Fellow is the founder of Daniel Henn, CPA, PA and co-founder of the Tax Resolution Academy located in Rockledge, FL. He specializes in IRS representation and helping tax professionals learn the niche of IRS representation. He is an author, coach of tax professionals, and expert speaker.

(1) IRS FS-2023-06, General Q3 March 2023 (2) IRS FS-2023-06, General Q8 March 2023 (3) IRS FS-2023-06, General Q7 March 2023 (4) IRC Section 61

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Ethical hacking: the magic bullet in your arsenal of cybersecurity protections CHRISTOPHE REGLAT CEO of Coaxis Hosting, Inc. GABRIEL REGLAT Managing partner of SXIPHER

he best defense is a good offense. Whether on the battlefield or football field, successful leaders from George Washington to Bill Belichick have deployed this combat principle to gain a strategic advantage. And, make no mistake, organizations today are under attack by cybercriminals like never before. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY A deep dive into cybersecurity data and trends impacting the digital landscape reveals we are losing the battle against the growing number of cyber-threats targeting both industry and government, according to Forbes. Consider this alarming statistic: In 93% percent of cases, cybercriminals can breach an organization’s network perimeter and gain access to local network resources. The finding is based on a penetration testing project conducted among financial organizations, fuel and energy organizations, government bodies, industrial businesses, IT companies and other sectors. In the past few months alone, active threats have ranged from attacks aimed at the U.S. healthcare system to legal and financial organizations. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) cautioned against ongoing Royal ransomware attacks targeting healthcare entities. The group relies on social engineering to trigger the infection by deploying a variety of methods to obtain access to a targeted environment. They range

from malicious ads and fake forum pages to phishing emails that lead to rogue installer files for legitimate apps like Microsoft Teams or Zoom. To date, payment demands have ranged from $250,000 to $2 million. A hack-for-hire group called Evilnum is responsible for a broad campaign targeting legal and financial investment institutions. The attacks involve malware that leverages legitimate services like WordPress and YouTube as “dead drop resolvers” to host a target’s command and control infrastructure. This approach gives the bad actors greater resiliency since they can dynamically update and switch between a list of servers when the original is taken down. CONVENTIONAL CYBERSECURITY PROTECTIONS Defending against the threat of cyberattacks requires a multipronged approach. NETWORK SECURITY

Organizations must secure their IT infrastructures against both physical and cyberthreats. This typically includes protecting both hardware and software assets such as end-user devices, data center resources, networking systems and cloud resources. EMPLOYEE TRAINING, POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

With employees considered the weakest link when it comes to cybersecurity, staff training and technology must go hand in hand. An organization can have the gold standard in IT infrastructure protections but still be vulnerable if an employee falls victim to social engineering and inadvertently

clicks on a malicious link or responds to a fraudulent email. ANNUAL CYBERSECURITY AUDITS

These are designed to provide an in-depth assessment of an organization’s posture to defend against cyberattacks – from policies and procedures to security controls and action plans – and detect vulnerabilities that can pose a threat. BUSINESS CONTINUITY AND IT RECOVERY PLAN

Whether it’s a ransomware attack or natural disaster, once catastrophe strikes, it’s too late to start planning. A proactive business continuity plan ensures an organization’s critical services can be delivered and essential operations continue to function. CYBERSECURITY INSURANCE

Also called cyberliability insurance, this is a policy that protects against a wide range of losses an organization may suffer directly, or cause to others, due to a cyber incident. It can include costs arising from data destruction and/or theft, extortion demands, hacking, denial of service attacks, crisis management activity related to data breaches, and legal claims for defamation, fraud and privacy violations. “Unfortunately, all these layers of protection and responsive measures fall short if you are not validating their effectiveness,” warns Christophe Reglat, co-vice chair of the Florida Technology Council and CEO of Coaxis Hosting. “The only way to know if your cybersecurity practices and policies are working is to validate them through penetration testing.” Continued on page 24

FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

employees in order to obtain physical access to the facility.

Continued from page 23

ETHICAL HACKING: A PROACTIVE LAYER OF PROTECTION Today’s hackers can remain undetected in an organization’s network for more than 200 days, on average, according to SXIPHER, a leading ethical hacking company that helps organizations shift from a defensive cybersecurity posture to an offensive one. “Given this unsettling statistic, it is impossible for organizations to know if their network is compromised,” explains Gabriel Reglat, SXIPHER’s managing partner. “As hackers become more brazen and lay dormant in networks, organizations must make a fundamental shift in how they ensure their network security.” Penetration testing, commonly known as ethical hacking, involves an authorized attempt to gain unauthorized access to a computer system, application or data. The goal of these “white hat hackers” is to duplicate the strategies and actions of malicious attackers to expose and remedy weaknesses in an organization’s IT infrastructure. Monthly penetration testing provides a proactive element that complements annual security audits. It typically encompasses four types of environments:

NETWORK PENETRATION TESTING The most common method of penetration testing involves intelligence gathering, threat modeling and completing a series 24

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

of network tests. Once a threat actor obtains access to a network, 90% of the obstacles are removed. A pentester will conduct internal and external network exploitations that mimic a successful hacker penetrating a network’s defenses. This enables them to explore all facets of an organization’s security posture.

CLOUD PENETRATION TESTING Public cloud services have become increasingly popular for computing, networking and data storage, making them a prime target for hackers. But the ease of cloud deployments comes with complexities such as handling security and legal obstacles. Many public cloud providers take a hands-off or shared-responsibility approach to security, forcing organizations to take responsibility for their own cloud security. APPLICATION PENETRATION TESTING In this testing, the simulated attack is designed to expose the deficiencies of an application’s security controls by identifying vulnerabilities and risk. While firewalls and other monitoring systems are used to protect an infrastructure’s security, this testing focuses on situations when traffic is allowed to pass through the firewall. PHYSICAL PENETRATION TESTING Social engineering is one of the most prevalent ways threat actors use to infiltrate an organization’s IT environment. This penetration testing often involves the pentester deceiving or manipulating

CONCLUSION A 2022 benchmarking study, “Cybersecurity Solutions for a Riskier World,” reveals that cybersecurity has reached a critical inflection point, with 40% of chief security officers acknowledging their organizations are unprepared for a rapidly changing threat landscape. The highest percentages of unprepared organizations were in critical infrastructure industries: health care (35%), the public sector (34%), telecom (31%), and aerospace and defense (31%). Over the next two years, security executives expect an increase in attacks from nation-states and cybercriminals. They anticipate the attacks will target weak spots caused primarily by software misconfigurations, human error, poor maintenance and unknown assets. As cyberattacks grow in both number and sophistication, organizations are increasingly under the gun to protect themselves from compromise. Identifying in advance the network and security vulnerabilities that can enable an attack is an important weapon to block or limit these cyberthreats. Christophe Reglat is CEO of Coaxis Hosting, Inc., a managed data hosting services provider delivering network solutions designed to curb the demands of information technology infrastructures, remove the complexities of federal and industry compliances, and greatly minimize the threat of cybercrime. Gabriel Reglat is the managing partner of SXIPHER, a leading ethical hacking company that supports clients in shifting from a defensive to an offensive posture by going beyond the annual security audit and providing in-house penetration tests. The testing deploys current methods and tactics used by bad actors and are highly effective in determining if an organization’s IT infrastructure can withstand a similar attack in real life.

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STEP 2

SWANEET MAND Content Writer for CPACharge

he accounting industry’s digital transformation has been ongoing, gaining momentum in recent years with rapid technological advancements. Here are three easy steps to enhance your accounting firm’s profitability playbook and ensure consistent cash flow in a quickly changing landscape.

STEP 1

ALIGN WITH CLIENTS’ NEEDS AND GOALS Your first step in crafting a strong profitability playbook is understanding your clients’ needs and goals. This solidifies your position as a trusted advisor and guarantees they will turn to you as their demands evolve. Also keep an eye on emerging trends and data about profitable accounting firms. Per Thomson Reuters, 93% of surveyed tax

EMBRACE UPSKILLING AND EXPAND SERVICES As your clients’ needs evolve, you can stay attuned to these changes by upskilling and expanding your service offerings. Expanding your skill set allows you to stay aligned with clients and increase profitability through new or updated pricing. There are three key benefits to upskilling and expanding your services: A competitive edge: Clients often seek firms that offer a wide range of services, making your firm more appealing and competitive, resulting in year-round profitability. High-quality talent: Expanding services attracts high-quality accounting talent looking for growth potential, enabling them to handle more complex projects and provide better services. Added value: 54% of buyers purchase accounting services in bundles, with clients willing to pay 50% more for bundled services, according to a report from CPA. com.

STEP 3

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What What Is Is Employee Employee Engagement Engagement and and Why Why Is Is It It Important? Important? Employee engagement has become a focal point in today’s Employee engagement has become a focal point in today’s workforce because companies know that to keep customers workforce because companies know that to keep customers happy, you need to have happy, engaged employees. happy, you need to have happy, engaged employees. Companies with engaged employees may reap the benefits of Companies with engaged employees may reap the benefits of increased productivity, improved employee retention, increased productivity, improved employee retention, and growth. and growth. The process of engaging employees starts with job interviews The process of engaging employees starts with job interviews and new-hire training, where they first learn about company and new-hire training, where they first learn about company culture and career opportunities. On an ongoing basis, culture and career opportunities. On an ongoing basis, companies recognize the benefits of employee engagement companies recognize the benefits of employee engagement in areas such as increased productivity and retention. It also in areas such as increased productivity and retention. It also creates a positive work environment that enables everyone to creates a positive work environment that enables everyone to thrive and succeed. thrive and succeed. What an Engaged Employee Looks Like What an Engaged Employee Looks Like Engaged employees may look different from one organization Engaged employees may look different from one organization to another due to company culture, management to another due to company culture, management expectations, and accepted behaviors. Employee engagement expectations, and accepted behaviors. Employee engagement is often demonstrated through: is often demonstrated through: • Providing feedback and suggestions for how to improve • Providing feedback and suggestions for how to improve the business the business • Seeking new opportunities instead of complaining about • Seeking new opportunities instead of complaining about lack of work lack of work • Inspiring clients, partners, and coworkers to feel passionate • Inspiring clients, partners, and coworkers to feel passionate about the company’s mission about the company’s mission • Referring others to the organization • Referring others to the organization Importance of Employee Engagement Importance of Employee Engagement Engaged employees are more likely to contribute to the Engaged employees are more likely to contribute to the organization and more likely to stay with the company, organization and more likely to stay with the company, which can reduce turnover costs. These employees may which can reduce turnover costs. These employees may also embody the company’s culture and core values. also embody the company’s culture and core values. When employees become disengaged, dissatisfaction and When employees become disengaged, dissatisfaction and absenteeism can ensue. absenteeism can ensue.

How To Improve Employee Engagement How To Improve Employee Engagement First, determine what’s working and what’s not. Engagement First, determine what’s working and what’s not. Engagement efforts should be continuous and can be reinforced by: efforts should be continuous and can be reinforced by: • Hiring the Right People • Hiring the Right People • Setting Up an Onboarding Program • Setting Up an Onboarding Program • Communicating the Company’s Mission • Communicating the Company’s Mission • Being Transparent • Being Transparent • Offering Opportunities for Training • Offering Opportunities for Training • Offering Technology and Tools • Offering Technology and Tools • Encouraging Initiative • Encouraging Initiative • Providing Benefits • Providing Benefits • Promoting Healthy Work Habits • Promoting Healthy Work Habits • Monitoring Engagement Throughout the Year • Monitoring Engagement Throughout the Year • Practicing Corporate Social Responsibility • Practicing Corporate Social Responsibility Employee Engagement Strategies Employee Engagement Strategies Once areas for improvement are identified, craft strategies for Once areas for improvement are identified, craft strategies for engagement such as: engagement such as: • Professional Development and/or Career Paths • Professional Development and/or Career Paths • Engaged Management Teams • Engaged Management Teams • Employee Recognition • Employee Recognition • Improve the Quality of the Work Environment • Improve the Quality of the Work Environment • Open Communication With Employees • Open Communication With Employees • Make Work Meaningful • Make Work Meaningful Measuring Employee Engagement Measuring Employee Engagement If you’re putting effort into employee engagement, you If you’re putting effort into employee engagement, you should expect to see measurable results such as increased should expect to see measurable results such as increased productivity and improved performance metrics over time. productivity and improved performance metrics over time. Workforce analytics can provide beneficial insights on Workforce analytics can provide beneficial insights on engagement trends. engagement trends. Learn more at go.paychex.com/ficpa-oct23. Learn more at go.paychex.com/ficpa-oct23. STRATEGIC PARTNER CONTENT WITH

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Pay it

FORWARD Support Tomorrow’s CPAs Today. FICPA Scholarship Foundation donors make a lasting impact on accounting students and secure the future of the profession. Those who pay it forward allow scholarship recipients to finish school and attain their CPA, afford them the opportunity to excel as professionals, and pave the way for young stars to become the leaders of tomorrow.

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WELC ME TO THE The FICPA is proud to welcome these new members who joined from July-September 2023. Welcome to our FICPA family and thank you for supporting the CPA profession!

ACCOUNTING & CONSULTING CEN FL, LLC Indrani S Parsaud

BROWARD COLLEGE Viktoria Echague Natividad

Jacob Michael Seeber Robert Kenneth Volk

ADURO ADVISORS Cathy Gonzalez

BROWN & BROWN INSURANCE Zaid Nassereddin

COASTAL WEALTH Chad M Tourin

ADVENTHEALTH ORLANDO Daniel Breun Lundin

CABALLERO FIERMAN LLERENA Elias Jose Rodriguez

COGENT BANK Anna Adamczyk

A-LIGN Melissa Anne Curtiss

CAMERONDOWNING Jose Diego Gonzalez

COHNREZNICK LLP Christina Marie Fusco

AMEET A. PUNWANI, CPA Ameet Ajit Punwani

CARPENTER CONTRACTORS OF AMERICA Sidney R Harris

COLUMBIA COLLEGE OF MISSOURI Amy N. Gleason

AON AFFINITY Sheree Walters

CARPET INN OF SARASOTA Denise M Garzone

COMERNOWLING Leonardo M. Kim

ASSURANCE DIMENSIONS INC Batul Abdulali Charlotte Corlett Paul Goodyer Kyle Hunter Rachel Webster

CARR, RIGGS & INGRAM, LLC Kayla Abel Lucinda Derrick Amanda Dyan Elliott Katie Feinstein Reagan Glaze Sarah Heldreth Marta Herrera Alisa Klinsport Bridgett Lambers Keith Marin Christina Perito Lubana Salim Grace A Terryberry Emily Voelker Britney Vo-Nguyen Michelle White

CORAL GABLES COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Katherine Caskey

AVIONICA INC. Simone Ehrlich Segredo AXIOM ACCOUNTING, PA Rosa Estella Morales BENITEZ & COMPANY CPAS, LLC Julian Corvo Oscar Jose Franco Mena BERKOWITZ POLLACK BRANT Kendra Latifah Bethea Yessi Garcia Anthony Huber Scott Medina-Jiron Alyssa Marie Minnocci Alexandro Moreno Osse Joseph Rosanel Dylan Stone Magda Szabo Teva Michael Warren Timothy Zimet

CHABO, DE FERIA & COMPANY, PA Delfin Antonio De Feria CHARLES A. KRBLICH, PA, CPA Michael L Stock CHARLES E. SOLAK, CPA Charles Edward Solak CITY OF BOCA RATON Ryan William Alt

BJM GROUP Lolita Cortez

CITY OF PANAMA CITY Peggy Renee Pickle

BKHM, PA Shanice Small Joshua Sorto

CLAY PRICE & ASSOCIATES, PA Kyle Joseph Castle

BODINE PERRY CPAS & ADVISORS Kirsten Lee Lewis BRICKELL LAW GROUP PA Alvaro Augusto Acevedo BRIMMER, BUREK & KEELAN LLP Michelle M Ferlita Timothy S Matter Gabriela Taban 30

CLIFTONLARSONALLEN Mary Irene Edwards Luis Angel Freire Riveron Evan Grant John Michael Lawton Jake Lisowski Jessica Maria Lyons Benjamin J Miele Dobrina Ivanova Mileva Andrea Nicole Ojeda

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

COVENANT CAPITAL ADVISORS, LLC James Duronio CPS GROUP CPAS PA Levi Paul Gruver CROWE LLP Jackson Francisque Sierra Marie Gaunder Daniel John Geyer Michael Robert Hartley Olivia Eleanor Niles Marcel Reyes Castillo Bradley Stephen Suarez Ilya Tabakov Rebecca Lynne Young CS&L CPAS Jordan William Pritchard DANIEL BENGIO, CPA, PA Daniel Bengio DAVID TORCHIN, CPAS Jacob Lee Torchin DAVIDSON & NICK, CPAS Bryan Craft DEAROLF & MERENESS LLP Karl D Fleuricourt Kimberlee J Sanchez Jose G Torres DEBRA A. ERICKSON, PA Shelby Dale Erickson Kern DELOITTE TAX LLP Kimberly Carella Kelly Erin Shannon Katie Elizabeth Smith DIVINE, BLALOCK, MARTIN & SELLARI Parmanand Singh

EASTERN FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE Tracey Handyside Elowelynn Reilly Leigh Ann Vingle EISNERAMPER LLP Yosef Y Chriqui Dequalon Fudge Brian May ELEMENT FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS Mayra D. Vazquez EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL U STUDENT Ryan William Mueller Darian Alexander Wren ENERFUND, LLC Natalya Vorojeykina ERIC BONILLA CPA PA Eric Bonilla ERNST & YOUNG LLP Christopher Richard Abrams Jeffrey Bahr Amanda Michelle Ban Justin Barcenilla Florence Gail Benzel Jonathan James Borowka Jacob Bosman Glenda Lee Bowman Mallory Buday Jose Gregorio Cardenas Nathaniel Stephen Cohen Alfredo Cortez Emily Brooke Curley Luz Andreina Davila Uzcategui Matthew Ryan Decoskey Christopher Gary Demartino Michelle Ca Derrickson Andres Daniel Diaz Sara Nicole Eckman Yuanlu Fang Erin Michelle Fatheree Reid Davis Fleming Sam Edward Fragapane Joseph Francis Gilligan Ian Joseph Gutierrez Thomas R Hamer Elena Danielle Havemann Tanaysia Ambershawn Higdon Lana Marie Hoffman Christine Hoynack Jennifer Jansen Jamie Kathleen Johnson Stephen Lloyd Jones Nicholas C Kaufman Anna M Keith Jason Allen Leonhardt

Christine Marie Lowney Zein Majbour Garrett James McGeough Ryan David Paul McGurn Sarah Evelyn Norgard Austin Conner Palov Grant William Papenfuss Avi Patel Sasha Peers Angelica Maria Perez Cordero Josenie Polinisse Eric Lee Prill Brannon Todd Pruett Ryan Ralko Jeanne Reid Sarah Nicole Renna Rosanna Maria Riveira Kvie Bryanna Denice Rodriguez Carlos Alberto Rosell Marcos Rosell Sarah Anne Salas Donald Lucas Schmeling Fatima Shafi Christopher John Sherman Nilesh Gopal Shetty Jason Lucus Sirera Vanessa M Sosa Seda Michael Anthony Stempien Raymond Michael Sullivan Andrew Paul Sytek Ferdinand Tosunidis Max Austin Udine William Walter Waldon Kadeem Oniel Walker Madeline Nicole Wasser Penelope Anne Wittstock Aynsley Wolk Wajih Ul-Hasan Zaidi EZ-ERC Kenneth D Dettman FANATICS Skyla M Barcalow FDR FINANCIAL GROUP Eric Dwain Mathes FERLITA, WALSH, GONZALEZ & RODRIGUEZ Nicolas Lewitt

FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY Annika J Forth Salim Owada FLORIDA SOUTHWESTERN STATE COLLEGE Matthew William Sanchez FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY Matthew Bermudez Neil Chheda Cameron Feldman Ryan Fitzgerald Alejandro J Hernandez Jacqulyn M Kepple Wilson Lohmann Christopher M Olgee Nicholas Oursler Angelique D Robinson Adrian Rodriguez Mia Tellechea-Choi FORVIS, LLP Jonel Francisque Pamela D Freitas Kristina Marie Gonzalez Justin Kenneth Kim Justin James Potter Jordan Annette Tiras Troy Beeler FRAZIER & DEETER CPAS & ADVISORS Justin Michael Robedeau Shana Brooke Rodgers FULLSPEED AUTOMOTIVE David Rorabaugh GELINAS GROUP Marie-Claude C Gelinas GIVEWELL COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Dorena Loree Geary GLADSTONE & COMPANY, CPAS Andrea Dean Jessica Lami Chelsea Pate GO FIGURE ACCOUNTING Rachel Siegel

FIDELITY NATIONAL FINANCIAL INC Kenneth Ivan Densmore

GRANT THORNTON LLP Pierre Boursiquot Chase Jordan Destefanis George Ali Monjarretz Purvesh Dilip Patel

FINANCIAL DESIGNS INC. Genir Ruiz

GRB&A Kelly Abell DeRose

FINANCIAL SOLUTION ADVISORS, PLLC Nicole Eve Wilkin

GREENBERG & COMPANY Stuart Greenberg Judith Greenberg Wolf

FISKE & COMPANY Roxana Delgado Zachariah Geduld Juan Carlos Gonzalez FLORIDA A & M UNIVERSITY Evelsky Honore FLORIDA COUNCIL ON ECONOMIC EDUCATION. Jolene Annette Miller

GREENE, DYCUS & CO, PA MI (Joanna) LIM GRENNAN FENDER, LLP Cade Addison Brock Julie Renee Buckner Lynn Iacopelli Julian L Norby Troy Robert Walther

Continued on page 32 FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

Continued from page 31 HACKER, JOHNSON & SMITH, PA Patricia Romero HANCOCK ASKEW & CO LLP Alisha Ann Balbaugh John Broyles Faith Buchanan Austin James Deridder Adrian Leonel Fresnedo Edoardo Martinelli-Gugliotta Jose Leonardo Roman Garland HBK CPAS & CONSULTANTS Ryan Dormer Nathaniel K Gillen Abigail Lipker Sarah N Logan Apeksha Patel Paul Rivera Lauren Grace Schreiber Deepthi Huyyar Shetty Lilia Rudnitsky Warren Madison K Wilson Oliana Zisi HLB GRAVIER, LLP Alain D Iglesias HUGHES, SNELL & CO, PA Gregory Warren Brown Thomas H Parker INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE Paulina Yasmin Chevere Raven Nicole Elmore Benjamin Estey Nicole Ashley Grieve Sierra Guettler Tiffany Leigh Ladicani Rosanna Saracino Lewis Jennifer Ann Maffeo Teresa Ramirez Sheena D. Thomas INTERNATIONAL CPA OF MIAMI Laura Katalina Rodriguez IRELAND PAY Wilfredo Vazquez

KEISER UNIVERSITY Destiny Lampkin Starr Rizleris Aurora Ruiz KEISER UNIVERSITY - ALL FL STUDENTS Jennifer Auxier Dayron Basulto Shayun Bryant Ariana Grey Bailey Ketterman Dezerae Martin Sandra Martinez Katerina Moreno-Costa Maria Ramirez Rodrigo Rodriguez Luis Santiago KIERZYNSKI & ASSOCIATES, CPA, PA Michael Bertha

Caton Charleston Patrick Dadaille Kayla Delashaw David Jassmond Emma Louise Newlon Widlin Pubien Jack Shinn Okta Fanny As Shofi Jack Stevens NEXTERA ENERGY, INC Michael J Olowin NOW CFO Mariangelica Alvarado OLO Aric Popovich

LEVENSON, KATZIN & BALLOTTA, PA Antonio Benitez

PASCO-HERNANDO STATE COLLEGE Audrey Jane Adams Paul Bobev Braden Ray Brown Hannah Noel Connor Hannah Dawood Dakeysha Durham Ethan Fray Angelica Gallardo Amy L Malatak Faith Ann Romel Joey Zheng

LIBERTY UNIVERSITY Erin Crone

PATRICK & RAINES CPAS Tulika Arun

LIZ GAMMAGE, CPA Ashley Lauren Dennison

PEN AIR CREDIT UNION John David Huddleston

LOMBARDO, SPRADLEY & KLEIN, CPAS Marcella Moore Kubel

PFIZER, INC. Hannah Shreve

MARCUM & KLIEGMAN, LLP Danielle Nicole Kelley

PHILLIPS FELDMAN GROUP, PA Yesenia Brown Jonathan Louis Fils Shanna Justice

KSF CPA SERVICES LLC Kenneth S Folberg KYLE A WEISENBERG, CPA, PA Kyle Alexander Weisenberg L. GEORGE LEONARD, CPA, PA Christopher DeMont

MARCUM LLP Elad Lerner Ronald Storch MASTEC, INC Cynthia Caneja

PKFMUELLER CPA Natallia B Olender PRC ANALYTICS, INC Prakash Ramachandran

JAMES MOORE & CO, PL Brackston Martin

MAULDIN & JENKINS, LLC William Evers Brianne Marie Morris Janet Adrianna Schnering

JOHN DANIELS, CPA, LLC John George Daniels

MCDIRMIT DAVIS, LLC Angela McNichol

PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP Olenka Bravo Yvens Faustin

JONES & COMPANY CPAS PA Abigail Irene Laclaire

MIAMI DADE COLLEGE Cesar Rivas Steven Rojas Starlin Gonzalez Benitez

PRIDA GUIDA & PEREZ, P.A. Heather Lynn Pyle Sam Schobben Mackenzie Willman

JOTKOFF & ASSOCIATES, PA Ryan Jotkoff JP MORGAN PRIVATE BANK Simone Melo KAPLAN UNIVERSITY Faby Florentina Desir KAUFMAN, ROSSIN & CO, PA Luisa Blandon Christina Costanzo Yosseidy Estevez Nova William Chase Orthwein Vanessa Mercedes Skody 32

MILES & THIRION CPA FIRM, INC Sandra C Bennett Frances MaryAnne Blackburn MOORE DOEREN MAYHEW Vladyslav Golubovskyi MOORE, ELLISON & MCDUFFIE, CPAS, PA Kevin Klinkman MSL, P.A. Georgina- Barri Brierley

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

PREDICTIVEIT Jared Wilson

PURVIS, GRAY & COMPANY, LLP Leanne Albury Daniel Stermer PUZZLEHR Monica Martinez QUICK BOOKKEEPING & ACCOUNTING LLC Alejandro A Diaz RAYMOND JAMES FINANCIAL, INC Phil LaFreniere Sean Mullervy

RED CRANE MANAGEMENT LLC Cristina Conde REHMANN ROBSON LLC Caroline J Starck Raul Villamil-Ortero REPUBLIC BANK Katrina Trump RIVER BEND ADMINISTRATION, LLC Caitlin Joy Gray RIVERO, GORDIMER & CO, PA Aaron Kristian Zarate RKW RESIDENTIAL Gerardo Gato ROGERS WOOD HILL STARMAN & Scott Martin John Mattucci RONALD L. WILSON, CPA Ronald Lee Wilson RSM US LLP Ian A Anderson Blake Justin Powell Luis Alejandro Sanoja SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF BUSINESS Saniya Armbrister Jamison P Burgess Anabelita Lopez SEAN M. GEROLD, CPA Sean M Gerold SEPA FLORIDA Doug Edward Sullivan SIEMENS ENERGY, INC Thomas Hicks SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY Sarahlee White SPOOR BUNCH FRANZ Teri B Bailey Teri Mai Gloeckl Shannon Michelle Green John David Harper ST PETERSBURG COLLEGE Ovierra Elya Bowen Samantha Lepore STAMBAUGH NESS INC Kellianne Mayer STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA Angell R Jennings STETSON UNIVERSITY Marianne Blair STETSON UNIVERSITY - STUDENTS Joseph R Atterbury Sofia Camacho Beatriz Celio Vossen Esther Colston Sergio D Herboso Jackson George Hockenberry Sadie M Jensen Aaliyah A Khan

Jean-Claudy Romain Andile J Sibanda Benjamin Silverman De’Ja Y Smith Anabelle Standish

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER Zhengyao Liu

UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA Jessie Marie Stafford

UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA Brayden Dam

USF SARASOTA-MANATEE Daphne Maldonado

SUPLEE, SHEA, CRAMER & MILLER, PA Barbara Jane Hilt Tyler Schmucker

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI Geminys Galvez-Texeira

VERDEJA, DE ARMAS & TRUJILLO, LLP Michelle del Sol Xavier Daniel Michelena

SUPPORTING STRATEGIES Tim B Hudson SYNERGY CPA & CONSULTING, LLC Michelle Ann Downs TD BANK Sonia Suazo THE AIR TRAVEL GROUP Angie D Tucker THE MODERN SAVVY CPA, LLC Sherron Permashwar THE O’CONNOR GROUP, INC James O’Connor THOMAS & ZURCHER, P.A. Jennifer Alejandra Vasquez THOMSON BROCK LUGER & COMPANY Rebekah Elizabeth Aman Griffin TIER ONE SERVICES Jaime Campbell TUSCAN & COMPANY, PA Josie Cacciatore UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA Sarah Arambula Rollansky Darote Kate Dillon Javier A Gonzalez Seth C Griffin James Garrett Harding Claudia Anne Magne Hamed Al Kindi Kathryn Rose Brokke Kevin Jaramillo Meliza Mojena Lam Nguyen Sebastian D Simancas

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA Jamie Baugher Reed J Baum Benjamin Mechling Hugh F Miner Alex S Smith UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA Jacob James Birt Jaden Bramelus Daemy Campos Quynh Cao Angie Church Quinn Church Olivia Grace Daaboul Megan Dammerman Fabbiha Alam Emma Ashley M Fictum Andrew D Foreman Michelle Gobern John Hardy Elizabeth R Knowles Kayla Louise Lasserre Charles Darin Laster Alexa L Malpartida Perez Amy Nguyen Fummy Nguyen Mariah S Quintyne Anthony J Romer Malcom Sharks Stephen Shipley Alfredo A Tinoco Daniel Velasco Nicole Womberk Elaine Yantas Isaac Lee Zolman UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA Christina M Brattain Rita Marie Schmidt

WALTON RAHAL CPAS Victoria K. Thomas WARDLOW & CASH, PA Jonathan Paul Cash WELLS, HOUSER & SCHATZEL , PA Tifani Clewis WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITY Laura Nicole Dempsey WICKS, BROWN, WILLIAMS & CO CPAS LLP Ashley VanHyning WITHUMSMITH+BROWN, PC Sydney Fendell Katherine Emily Triolo Sameer Athar Uddin UNAFFILIATED Thomas Edward Allwine Noel A Aranha John Francis Baliga Holdermes Bezerra Chaves Filho Michael T Biehl Justin Bridges Haley Brown Maria Elisa Bullion Ashley Nicole Canty Lori Carr Madeline Carter Paul H Colin Marie Ann Conway Renea Anthionette Coy Washington Robert Francis Crook Monica Dato Jaykumar Maheshbhai Desai Angela R Desantis Serge Wilner D’Haiti Michael C Donegan Anthony G Duffy

Luisa Gladimir Foyain Gina Rebecca Frazier Bruce Scott Goldenberg Tiffany Leigh Green Beata Grzela Jessica Guerrier Camilla Guzman Cynthia W Hart Jeanna G Hermance David Francis Jarmusz Margaret C Jennelle Elizabeth Ann Johnson Allen Leistner John Charles Levat Juliana Dos Santos Machado Jamaal Allen Maddox Jason Marthe Thomas John McQuoid Melanie Rochelle Miller Peter J Nicholson Lynn G Norton Mary Ann Norton Deborah Lynne Osborne Jennifer M Reeves Angel R Romero Matos Michael Jay Rosenstein Stephen John Satalino Blanche Wiggins Sherman Kristin Short Robert Sorg Robert Bruce Steves Nazar Talibdjanov David Alan Tesniarz Francisco Tomas Vasquez Pozo Nancy Eaton Viafora Stephanie Marie Vorwig Jordan Wald LeaRae Disher Webb David Weinstein Regina Marie Welch Samuel Wiesel Ilona Bronia Winter

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FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

Members ON THE Move Tony Argiz and his wife Conchi were both honored at the Coral Gables Community Foundation’s “Under the Cherry Blossoms” gala in October. Tony and Conchi were given the Philanthropy Award, presented by the Miami Dade College Foundation. A longtime member and supporter of the FICPA, Tony is the South Florida Managing Principal at BDO and a member of its board.

Hancock Askew & Co. announced the hire of Audit Principal, Lisette Rodriguez, out of the firm’s Miami office. Lisette specializes in providing a variety of audit services to a wide range of clients. She has been in the public accounting profession since 2008 and is a member of both the FICPA and the AICPA.

Are you a member on the move?

Email your good news to communications@ficpa.org and you could be included in the next issue of Florida CPA Today!

Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Co. promoted multiple FICPA members in October. Alisha Angeloff and Shan Yeung have been promoted to Manager, while Cory Mahosky, CPA, is now a Supervisor. All three are in the firm’s tax division. “It is rewarding to watch our team grow with the firm and in their professions,” said Julio Barina, Partner at MNMW. “As team members expand their skills, we work with them to advance their roles in the firm.”

Shan Shikarpuri & Associates founder Roshan “Shan” Shikarpuri was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce and the Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce Foundation in September at a gala event in Clearwater. Shan has previously received awards from the FICPA and our Suncoast Chapter for his contributions to the CPA profession and his local community.

Thomas Howell is proud to congratulate the following members of the FICPA on their recent promotions at the firm: TAX SERVICES Nicholas (Nick) Gilpin, CPA – Senior Manager Rachael Steverson – Manager Melissa Bardolph – Senior Keith Gwaltney – Senior CLIENT ACCOUNTING SERVICES Dawna Bunker – Senior Manager Roxanne Sexton – Senior Manager Parker Dewitt – Senior Skyler St. Onge – Senior ASSURANCE SERVICES Chandler Russell, CPA – Senior Manager Madeline Reddick – Manager Alyson Sampson, CPA – Manager Jacob Millan – Senior Nathan Harmon – Senior Jennifer Moore – Senior

FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

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FLORIDA CPA TODAY | FALL 2023

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FALL 2023 | FLORIDA CPA TODAY

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