BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//MECPA - ECPv6.2.9//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:MECPA X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mecpa.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for MECPA REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T123000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010010-1700470800-1700483400@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Achieving High Levels of Compliance and Customer Service in Your Organization (SU0896/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nProbably one of the greatest conflicts in an organization is determining which is more important: compliance or customer service. This program digs deeply into the issue and prepares the finance professional to achieve high levels of compliance and customer service in the department and in the entire organization. We will examine both disciplines from an analytical standpoint\, proving why they are necessary for both for-profit and nonprofit businesses to achieve success. \nDesigned For\nCFOs\, controllers\, and finance professionals \nObjectives\n Identify why customer service is just as important as compliance for profitability Understand how some organizations have achieved top performance in their industries See how good customer service is not about being “right” Realize why finance professionals have a bias toward compliance  Identify what is wanted by the internal customers of the finance and accounting departments \nMajor Subjects\n Why customer service is not just having nice people; it is truly serving the customer Analysis of the value of the customer to compare it to various costs creating an ROI How to develop a compliance program that adds value to the customer A hard look at several companies and industries that have mastered the dual objectives How COVID-19 has affected compliance and customer service \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-achieving-high-levels-of-compliance-and-customer-service-in-your-organization-su0896-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044128Z UID:10010003-1700470800-1700499600@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Audits of 401(k) Plans: New Developments and Critical Issues (SU0889/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nOne of the most favored employee benefit plans\, the 401(k) plan\, provides unique challenges for auditors. Also\, as many 401(k) plan administrators opt for ERISA Section 103(a)(3)(C) audits\, audits of 401(k) plans will be significantly impacted by the now-effective SAS 136\, the AICPA’s new employee benefit plan auditing standard.Through this course\, auditors will obtain an understanding of the rules and regulations unique to employee benefit plans and obtain practical guidance on applying them. Auditors will enhance their knowledge of the performance and reporting requirements of SAS 136 through real-world examples\, best practices\, and efficient audit techniques that can be utilized in various audit engagements. Make sure your audits don’t trigger a DOL inspection by conforming to all applicable rules and regulations. \nDesigned For\nPractitioners responsible for planning and performing employee benefit plan audit engagements \nObjectives\n Identify the key provisions of SAS 136 Properly document understanding of the plan\, the environment\, and internal controls for an employee benefit plan Understand the importance of reading\, reviewing\, and documenting the controls in a service organization control report Identify potential audit triggers that may result in Department of Labor inspections Understand the risks associated with a benefit plan audit engagement Avoid common mistakes noted during peer reviews \nMajor Subjects\n Proper planning of benefit plan audit engagements and developing audit strategy while improving overall efficiency Common pitfalls in planning and detailed audit procedures Changes affecting 401(k) plans\, including SAS 136 implementation Common mistakes as noted in peer reviews and DOL inspections \nPrerequisites\nBasic understanding of auditing defined contribution plans \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-audits-of-401k-plans-new-developments-and-critical-issues-su0889-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044128Z UID:10010007-1700470800-1700499600@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's A Complete Guide to the Yellow Book (SU0893/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nIf you work with governments and not-for-profits\, a thorough understanding of the Yellow Book is essential. This course will equip you with a comprehensive knowledge of the Yellow Book requirements and increase your confidence and proficiency in performing Yellow Book audits. The course materials utilize a highly illustrative and innovative format including over 20 focused exercises on key practice issues. \nDesigned For\nAuditors performing Yellow Book engagements \nObjectives\n Thoroughly understand the requirements of the new Yellow Book and how they relate to the AICPA and single audit requirements Excel in the Yellow Book auditing arena Save time and stress on Yellow Book engagements via in-depth knowledge of the requirements \nMajor Subjects\n When is the auditor required to follow the Yellow Book (a.k.a.\, Government Auditing Standards\, or GAGAS)? How the Yellow Book requirements relate to generally accepted auditing standards and the single audit requirements The different types of Yellow Book audit and attestation engagements that auditors may be called upon to perform The Yellow Book standards related to the qualifications of the auditor (i.e.\, requirements related to independence\, CPE\, peer review\, and more) The Yellow Book requirements related to the performance of and reporting on a financial audit The Yellow Book requirements related to attestation engagements (i.e.\, examinations\, reviews\, and agreed-upon procedures engagements) and performance audits \nPrerequisites\nBasic audit knowledge \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-a-complete-guide-to-the-yellow-book-su0893-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044255Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044255Z UID:10010489-1700470800-1700499600@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Assessing the Risk of Fraud in a Financial Statement Audit (SU1486/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nThe Association of Certified Fraud Examiners says that there is fraud lurking in all businesses\, including not-for-profit organizations. It often goes undetected for years and when uncovered\, management and the board may question why an auditor did not identify it. The auditor’s responsibility in a financial statement audit is to assess risk and perform sufficient procedures to obtain reasonable assurance that the financial statements are free from material misstatement due to fraud or error. However\, failure to perform an adequate fraud risk assessment and report deficiencies in internal control\, such as a lack of segregation of duties\, can leave a firm vulnerable.This course will discuss the audit procedures that should be performed in accordance with AU-C 240 as recently amended\, best practices in performing fraud risk assessment procedures\, when and how to report control deficiencies noted in an audit\, and the most frequent types of fraud found in small to mid-sized entities along with internal controls that could be implemented to help prevent and detect them. We will look at various cyber fraud schemes and how they might be prevented or detected\, the use of analytics as fraud risk procedures\, and assessments of fraud risk in a Single Audit. This course features case studies. \nDesigned For\nCPAs in either public or private practice with accounting\, financial reporting\, or attest responsibilities \nObjectives\n Understand the drivers of fraud risk in a financial statement audit Conduct procedures required by professional literature to assess the risk of fraud Develop discussion points to review with management and those charged with governance Identify the main types of fraud that occur in small to mid-sized companies and develop internal controls responsive to those risks Evaluate fraud case examples and identify how fraud occurred and how it could have been prevented or detected \nMajor Subjects\n The fraud landscape in the United States Fraud risk procedures as updated by recently issued standards Most likely fraud types found in small to mid-sized entities Internal controls to prevent and detect fraud What to do when fraud is identified or suspected Case studies based on recent frauds Cyber fraud schemes and how to prevent and detect them Analytics that can be used as fraud risk procedures Assessing the risk of grant fraud in a Single Audit \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-assessing-the-risk-of-fraud-in-a-financial-statement-audit-su1486-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T120000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044128Z UID:10010009-1700474400-1700481600@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Employee Stock Options: What Financial Professionals Should Know When Advising Their Clients (SU0895/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nCompanies often offer stock options as an additional form of compensation to attract and retain the best talent. Used appropriately\, stock options can generate significant wealth. Yet many employees are unfamiliar with how stock options work and why options serve as a valuable opportunity for employees to establish and grow their wealth. Unfortunately\, employees who receive stock options are often unaware of their inherent risks. Research has shown that over 75% of employees have never exercised their stock options. Almost half of these individuals (48%)\, say they held off on selling their options due to fear of making a mistake. This course provides accounting and financial professionals with a broad overview of employee stock options. The webinar is designed to help participants better understand the fundamentals behind these investments and in turn\, better advise their clients. \nDesigned For\nAnyone who seeks to have a better understanding of stock options in their role as trusted advisor to their clients \nObjectives\n Understand the opportunities and risks associated with employee stock options Assist clients with making informed decisions concerning options Explain strategies for owning and selling options\, including tax consequences \nMajor Subjects\n What stock options are and why they are growing in popularity How stock options work\, including the process of conveyance and vesting How to exercise stock options and the implications from doing so The risks associated with stock options and how to manage exposure Tax consequences and updates regarding stock options Strategies for selecting the best time to exercise stock options The difference between the two types of stock options: non-qualified and incentive The basic terminology relevant to owning and exercising options \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-employee-stock-options-what-financial-professionals-should-know-when-advising-their-clients-su0895-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T120000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044128Z UID:10010005-1700474400-1700481600@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Top Business Tax Planning Strategies (SU0891/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nThe Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) contained certain provisions relating to businesses that tax practitioners should know about in order to advise their clients. Certain changes\, such as the alternative minimum tax and the stock buyback 1% tax currently apply to a very small number of very large businesses and as such are not a priority for tax practitioners that do not have such clients. Other changes relating to certain energy credits and deductions relating to energy efficiency are applicable to many businesses. These critical changes will be covered in detail in this program. \nDesigned For\nTax practitioners who anticipate advising business clients regarding strategies to reduce or eliminate federal income taxes \nObjectives\n Advise business clients on implementing tax planning strategies this year \nMajor Subjects\n Brief outline of the new alternative minimum tax and the 1% tax on corporate stock buybacks Increase in the research credit Extension of the Section 461(l) loss limitation Discussion of the unchanged rules relating to carried interest The IRA’s two-tier “base” rate and “increased” rate structure for renewable energy tax credits Credit for purchasing a qualified commercial clean vehicle Restrictions imposed on electric vehicle manufacturers Section 179(d): changes relating to the energy-efficient commercial building deduction Section 45(l): changes relating to the energy efficient home credit Transferring energy credits for auto purchases to dealers Purchase/sale of credits Expansion of subsidies for climate-friendly agriculture Changes to bonus depreciation after 2022 \nPrerequisites\nA basic understanding of the tax rules relating to individual income tax \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-top-business-tax-planning-strategies-su0891-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T150000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044128Z UID:10010006-1700485200-1700492400@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Comparing and Contrasting Retirement Plans for Small- and Medium-Sized Businesses (SU0892/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nClients often ask their tax advisors whether they have the “best” pension plan and whether they are using it to its maximum advantage. This program explains how various pension plans work and analyzes why a small or medium-sized business owner would choose one plan over another. \nDesigned For\nAny tax practitioner who will advise a business owner about selecting a pension plan for his or her business \nObjectives\n Understand the advantages and disadvantages of the major pension-planning options for small- and medium-sized business owners Help clients evaluate pension plan options and select the best pension-planning option for them \nMajor Subjects\n Factors business owners should take into account when choosing a retirement plan SIMPLE plans Simplified employee pension plans 401(k) plans Defined benefit plans Ensuring eligible employees are covered Employees’ impact on choice of plan Ongoing compliance requirements Establishing a plan after the tax year end Changes to safe harbor 401(k) plans Pooled employer plans \nPrerequisites\nBasic individual income taxation rules \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-comparing-and-contrasting-retirement-plans-for-small-and-medium-sized-businesses-su0892-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T150000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044128Z UID:10010004-1700485200-1700492400@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Basic Estate Administration for CPAs and FAs (SU0890/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nSome CPAs & FAs might focus on estate administration; however\, many more will come across this through routine work with a client. This course provides an overview of how you can help to administer an estate. It includes a checklist of tasks and an overview of what each entails. This webinar covers minor points such as what information you’ll need to collect and when to get an EIN. It also covers substantial discussions of essential topics\, such as developing an inventory\, estate accounting\, allocating income between Form 1040 and form 1041\, and filing your client’s final Form 1040. \nDesigned For\nAny CPA or FA who wants to become familiar with the basic aspects of estate administration \nObjectives\n Name legal principles and definitions essential to estate planning Identify best practices for working closely with legal counsel List main property law concepts Identify complex community property issues Determine best methods for filing special forms: Form SS-4\, Form 56\, Form 4810\, Form 5495 Arrange an executor checklist \nMajor Subjects\n Legal principles and definitions Trust accounting issues Working closely with legal counsel proactively in the best interest of the client Property law concepts Complex community property issues Filing special forms: Form SS-4\, Form 56\, Form 4810\, and Form 5495 Executor checklist The basics of filing a Form 1041 for an estate or non-grantor trust Filing a final Form 709 The basics of filing Form 706 Understanding 706 elections Understanding Estate Valuations\, including GST and portability Special considerations for IRAs and ERISA plans When to make Section 454 elections When to make Section 754 elections Understanding the fine points of basis S corp issues Partnership and LLC considerations Passive loss carryforwards and estates Fiscal year elections 65-day election for trusts and estates Tax aspects of pecuniary and specific bequests \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-basic-estate-administration-for-cpas-and-fas-su0890-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044128Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044128Z UID:10010008-1700487000-1700499600@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Navigating Your Client Through the IRS Appeals Process (SU0894/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nDespite the fact that a client’s tax matter may be taken directly to court\, utilizing IRS Appeals usually results in saving your client both time and money. Join us as we discuss the misunderstood process of going to IRS Appeals. \nDesigned For\nAccounting and Financial Professionals who wish to represent clients with a tax matter in disagreement \nObjectives\n Recognize how to craft the appeal protest to best effect the desired findings for your client Identify strategies regarding in person\, correspondence\, or phone conferences with IRS Appeals Utilize IRS Appeals\, the only level of appeal within the IRS\, to avoid costly\, contentious\, and time-consuming court trials Understand how to prepare and submit a Tax Court petition \nMajor Subjects\n Preparing a valid Appeals Protest for small case requests when tax\, penalties\, and interest for each period are $25\,000 or less Writing and filing a Formal Protest\, including required information Alternative Dispute Resolution options available to clients Negotiation and time limitations Preparing and submitting a Tax Court petition to preserve a client’s rights \nPrerequisites\nExperience in preparing individual and business tax returns \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-navigating-your-client-through-the-irs-appeals-process-su0894-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T160000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044254Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044254Z UID:10010488-1700488800-1700496000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Lease Accounting: The Impact of Changing Standards on Both Lessors and Lessees (SU1485/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nThe effective date for ASU 2016-02\, Leases (Topic 842) is finally here. The new standard eliminates one of the largest forms of off-balance sheet accounting and requires most leases to be brought onto the balance sheet irrespective of their classification as either financing or operating. The new guidance in ASC 842 also makes other changes in lease accounting for both lessees and lessors. This course will discuss the impact of these changing standards on both lessees and lessors and discusses recently issued updates to ASC 842. Now is time to get up to date on all that is going on with regard to lease accounting. \nDesigned For\nPracticing CPAs and accounting professionals in business and industry that prepare and review or audit financial statements \nObjectives\n Identify finance lease transactions\, including both lessor and lessee perspectives Understand the proper accounting and financial reporting treatment for operating and finance leases Describe how lessor accounting is influenced by revenue recognition and measurement concepts Explain important transition issues from the current to new standards   \nMajor Subjects\n Outcomes of the recent FASB and IASB Joint Project related to Leases Differentiating between accounting and reporting requirements for operating and finance leases Evaluating possible material misstatement related to lease recognition\, measurement\, presentation and disclosure \nPrerequisites\nBasic understanding of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-lease-accounting-the-impact-of-changing-standards-on-both-lessors-and-lessees-su1485-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231120T160000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044322Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044322Z UID:10010576-1700488800-1700496000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Lease Accounting: The Impact of Changing Standards on Both Lessors and Lessees (SU1600/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nThe effective date for ASU 2016-02\, Leases (Topic 842) is finally here. The new standard eliminates one of the largest forms of off-balance sheet accounting and requires most leases to be brought onto the balance sheet irrespective of their classification as either financing or operating. The new guidance in ASC 842 also makes other changes in lease accounting for both lessees and lessors. This course will discuss the impact of these changing standards on both lessees and lessors and discusses recently issued updates to ASC 842. Now is time to get up to date on all that is going on with regard to lease accounting. \nDesigned For\nPracticing CPAs and accounting professionals in business and industry that prepare and review or audit financial statements \nObjectives\n Identify finance lease transactions\, including both lessor and lessee perspectives Understand the proper accounting and financial reporting treatment for operating and finance leases Describe how lessor accounting is influenced by revenue recognition and measurement concepts Explain important transition issues from the current to new standards   \nMajor Subjects\n Outcomes of the recent FASB and IASB Joint Project related to Leases Differentiating between accounting and reporting requirements for operating and finance leases Evaluating possible material misstatement related to lease recognition\, measurement\, presentation and disclosure \nPrerequisites\nBasic understanding of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-lease-accounting-the-impact-of-changing-standards-on-both-lessors-and-lessees-su1600-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T123000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044322Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044322Z UID:10010577-1700557200-1700569800@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Ethical Considerations for the CPA (SU1601/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nCPAs today face greater challenges than ever to maintain the high ethical standards of their profession. It is vitally important that all CPAs understand their professional responsibilities related to all aspects of their job. This course\, which focuses on key components of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct\, reviews a history of the CPA profession and focuses on ethical requirements that CPAs must adhere to in their everyday practice\, including practical examples of potential ethical dilemmas that practitioners may encounter\, particularly those related to objectivity and independence. PLEASE NOTE: THIS COURSE COVERS GENERAL ETHICS AND IS APPLICABLE IN STATES IN WHICH STATE-SPECIFIC ETHICS IS NOT REQUIRED. This course does not qualify for IRS credit. \nDesigned For\nAll CPAs \nObjectives\n Understand the attributes of ethics and professional conduct Identify ethical issues that occur every day in the work environment Understand those deliberative\, emotional\, and social skills that enable a CPA to put their knowledge of the rules into practice in ways that are applicable to any situation Understand CPA Independence issues and professional conduct \nMajor Subjects\n Examine the CPA’s role in today’s economy Compare similarities and differences between individual and business ethics Explore the link between ethics\, integrity and scruples Discuss the basic attributes of ethics and professional conduct Review the history of the CPA profession and the CPA’s requirement to adhere to ethics policies and codes of conduct Review the AICPA’s Code of Professional Conduct and a CPA’s responsibilities to the public\, clients and colleagues Discuss the common rules and statutes faced daily in the CPA profession. Case studies may also be utilized to present potential ethical dilemmas CPAs may face during their careers Review CPA Independence violations by current legal case examples \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-ethical-considerations-for-the-cpa-su1601-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010011-1700557200-1700586000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:The Best Federal Tax Update Course by Surgent (SU0897/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nIn this continually revised course\, tax advisors will be fully updated on the most recent enacted legislation and IRS guidance\, as well as major trends on the horizon with a view toward planning considerations. This update course is designed for all practitioners\, both those working in public accounting as well as those in private industry\, who need the latest information on tax changes. Please Note: Due to content overlap\, it is recommended that this course NOT be taken together with BITU. \nDesigned For\nAccounting and Finance Professionals who need to know the latest tax law changes in all areas of practice\, whether newly licensed or a seasoned professional \nObjectives\n Understand the latest enacted tax law changes Understand strategies and techniques to use in light of tax changes Understand current cases and rulings affecting individuals and businesses \nMajor Subjects\n Comprehensive coverage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 Timely coverage of breaking tax legislation Schedules K-2 and K-3 reporting requirements Form 7203\, S Corporation Shareholder Stock and Debt Basis Limitations Donor Advised Funds Residency and Domicile Selling a principal residence\, including tax planning strategies The Independent Contractor vs. Employee Conundrum continues An overview of virtual currency\, including recent developments State of the IRS Section 162(m) Executive Compensation Practice aids\, including all the numbers applicable for the current year — inflation-adjusted amounts\, mileage rates\, retirement contributions\, and more Advanced practice\, reporting\, and other issues intertwined with advanced planning and discussion ideas \nPrerequisites\nExperience with individual and business clients \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/the-best-federal-tax-update-course-by-surgent-su0897-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044255Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044255Z UID:10010490-1700557200-1700586000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Annual Accounting and Auditing Update (SU1487/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nDesigned for accounting and attestation practitioners at all levels in both public accounting and business and industry\, this course provides a comprehensive review of recent standard-setting activities of the FASB and AICPA. In addition to providing a detailed review of SAS No. 145\, this course will bring you up to date on FASB and AICPA standards issued over the past few years. The course also provides many hands-on examples and illustrations to help you apply the guidance in practice.In addition to a financial accounting update\, the course will discuss what you will need to do differently as you adopt new audit standards 142-149 over the next few years\, including a detailed review of the new audit requirements under SAS 142. The course will also cover the key changes related to SSARS No. 25. Finally\, the course reviews the AICPA’s quality management project.In summary\, the course is your go-to source for all things A&A and will prepare you for your upcoming engagements throughout the rest of the year. \nDesigned For\nAccounting and auditing practitioners at all levels desiring to remain up to date on recent pronouncements and other standard setters’ activities \nObjectives\n Review and apply recently issued and proposed FASB and AICPA pronouncements Review and apply guidance within ASC 842\, Leases Understand SAS 142 and SAS 145  Recall and apply AICPA quality management standards Be familiar with other important A&A practice matters you should be aware of Utilize hands-on examples and illustrations to increase your overall understanding and application of the material \nMajor Subjects\n Recently issued FASB Accounting Standards Updates\, PCC Update and items on the FASB’s Technical Agenda Leases – Topic 842 ASC 326: CECL Review of SAS 142 – Focus on Audit Evidence Recently issued SASs and other AICPA activity SSARS No. 25 and other recently issued SSARS Detailed review of SAS 145 Other important A&A practice matters \nPrerequisites\nExperience in accounting and attestation \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-annual-accounting-and-auditing-update-su1487-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T120000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044327Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044327Z UID:10010591-1700560800-1700568000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Top 20 Questions Advisors Ask About the SECURE Acts and Other IRA Rules (SU1602/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nIt takes a while for advisors to gain an in-depth understanding of all the changes made to the tax laws that govern IRAs. This course focuses on the top 20 advisor questions about SECURE Act 1.0\, SECURE Act 2.0\, and other hot topics. The objective is to help the advisor ask the right probing questions when interacting with clients and to provide clients with responses based on their IRA profiles. \nDesigned For\nAll practitioners advising clients on these complex issues \nObjectives\n Understand the new distribution options for beneficiaries\, as clarified by the proposed RMD regulations for SECURE Act 1.0 Communicate to clients new opportunities for participants and beneficiaries to avoid excise tax and costly penalties Talk to clients about implementing unique tax-saving opportunities for spouses and other eligible designated beneficiaries Be well versed in other recent developments that affect IRAs and employer plans \nMajor Subjects\n SECURE Acts and the 10-year rule Roth IRA beneficiary options Where the stretch IRA really ends The new limitations for spouse IRA beneficiaries The new spouse options for spouse beneficiaries New RMD rules for Roth 401(k)s Overriding the 10-year rule for an eligible designated beneficiary How the age of death affects beneficiary options The new early distribution penalty exceptions Rollovers vs. transfers for spouse beneficiaries Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) for owners and beneficiaries The “at least as rapidly” (ALAR) rule New reduced rate for excess accumulation penalty on RMD failures How to avoid unlimited accrual of the 6% excise tax How to avoid unlimited accrual of the 25% excise tax Clarifying the definition of disability for an exception to the 10% additional tax 529 to Roth: who\, what\, when\, and how The new starting ages for RMDs Designated vs. eligible designated beneficiaries and their options Catch-up contributions for ages 50 and over Catch-up contributions for ages 60 to 63 When the 60-day deadline is missed When the one-per-year rollover limit is about to be broken Retaining qualifications for exceptions to the 10% additional tax \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-top-20-questions-advisors-ask-about-the-secure-acts-and-other-ira-rules-su1602-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T193000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044255Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044255Z UID:10010491-1700566200-1700595000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Compilations\, Reviews\, and Preparations: Engagement Performance and Annual Update (SU1488/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nSpecifically designed for preparation\, compilation\, and review practitioners\, this course will provide you with a comprehensive review and hands-on application for performing financial statement preparation\, compilation\, and review engagements. You will learn the ins and outs of applying SSARS No. 21\, Clarification and Recodification\, as well as the additional guidance related to SSARS engagements through the issuance of SSARS Nos. 22-26 by the ARSC. In addition to SSARS 26\, the entire suite of quality management standards is discussed.However\, knowing the standards is not enough. You need to be able to effectively apply them. To support this\, the course will review recent peer review feedback on SSARS engagements\, providing insights on how to successfully apply this guidance. Not only will this course bring you up to date on SSARS requirements and guidance\, but more importantly\, it will provide you with practical examples and illustrations to help you effectively and efficiently perform these types of engagements. This course is intended to be your go-to reference for training your staff and managing your SSARS No. 21-26 services in compliance with professional\, ethical\, and technical requirements. \nDesigned For\nAccounting practitioners and their staff performing and managing compilation\, preparation\, and review engagement services \nObjectives\n Understand\, apply SSARS No. 21\, Clarification and Recodification Be familiar with changes due to the issuance of SSARS Nos. 22-26 Be familiar with compilation and review program examples and disclosure illustrations Identify and apply compilation\, preparation\, and review procedures Be aware of the most recent compilation and review reports and other communications Utilize hands-on examples and illustrations to increase your overall understanding and application of the material \nMajor Subjects\n SSARS No. 21\, Clarification and Recodification\, and updates to SSARS No. 21 due to the issuance of SSARS No. 23\, Omnibus Statement on Standards for Accounting and Review Services SSARS No. 22\, Compilation of Pro Forma Financial Information SSARS No. 24\, Omnibus Statement on Standards for Accounting and Review Services — 2018 SSARS No. 25\, Materiality in a Review of Financial Statements and Adverse Conclusions  SSARS No. 26\, Quality Management for an Engagement Conducted in Accordance With Statements on Standards for Accounting and Review Services Sample comprehensive engagement work programs for preparation\, compilation and review engagements Reporting and disclosure illustrations for each level of service\, including attesting on personal financial statements\, prescribed form\, special purpose framework and other engagement variations Other communication requirements\, such as sample engagement letters and management representation letters \nPrerequisites\nExperience in performing and managing compilation\, preparation\, and review engagements \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-compilations-reviews-and-preparations-engagement-performance-and-annual-update-su1488-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T150000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044256Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044256Z UID:10010494-1700571600-1700578800@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Preparing for and Navigating a Potential Banking Crisis (SU1491/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nThe collapse of FTX followed by Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank has renewed concerns with accounting and financial executives and their boards regarding how to navigate a potential banking crisis and survive. The course explores the challenges of the current monetary trends\, the Federal Reserve\, FDIC\, and insurance reserves. We will analyze their impact on accounting and financial executives in areas of credit markets and banking\, risk management\, cash flow planning strategies\, debt and equity mix impacts in uncertain markets\, and globalization of the financial markets in times of uncertainty. Specific recommendations and insights will be offered to you to deal with the challenges\, including a discussion on the nuances of FDIC. \nDesigned For\nCFOs\, controllers\, accountants\, and other accounting and finance professionals who wish to understand how to survive a potential banking crisis \nObjectives\n Take a strategic perspective relative to risk management and crisis management in an uncertain banking environment Review the impact uncertainty and risk at the operational level relative to short and intermediate term decision making Determine the safety and soundness of financial plans in an uncertain economic climate specifically as relating to capital adequacy and strategic direction Evaluate the safety of banks and financial institutions\, capital ratios\, and banking interrelationships Analyze the impact of the credit markets on banking relationships and financial needs of organizations and their ability to raise capital Determine the economic way ahead for CFOs/controllers\, accountants\, and other accounting and finance professionals in 2023 and beyond \nMajor Subjects\n Explaining the often-misunderstood rules of FDIC Banking industry risks Protecting organizations to the extent possible from financial market dislocations Ensuring adequate protections for lines of credit \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-preparing-for-and-navigating-a-potential-banking-crisis-su1491-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044256Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044256Z UID:10010492-1700573400-1700586000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Avoiding Deficiencies in Peer Reviews: Focus on Engagement Quality (SU1489/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nWith the AICPA’s heightened focus on enhancing audit quality\, increased oversight of the peer review process and the auditor’s overall responsibility to provide high quality services\, the focus on compliance with professional standards has never been greater. Recent peer reviews have indicated that auditors are often failing to perform and/or document certain critical components of an audit such as the auditor’s assessment of risk and linking the results of the assessment to substantive procedures performed. In addition\, auditors are not adequately documenting their consideration of fraud\, expectations in analytical procedures and the appropriate level of work needed to understand an entity’s internal control. Now is time to revisit the way that auditors are performing and documenting the work performed to meet professional standards since nonconforming engagements can result in an auditor’s referral to the AICPA Ethics Committee. The ASB has not made significant changes to its quality standards since 2006. There are currently three standards on quality management in exposure draft that are expected to be issued in the second quarter of 2022. These changes will be substantive. This course will discuss the new standards. This course will also focus on the most significant items resulting in deficiencies identified in the peer review process. We will also discuss the applicable audit standards\, documentation requirements and best practices. The objective of the course is to provide the insights necessary to help an auditor improve not just the quality of their work but also the perception of the accounting profession as a whole. \nDesigned For\nAccounting and auditing practitioners at all levels desiring to improve engagement quality \nObjectives\n Identify key elements of the AICPA’s Enhancing Audit Quality initiative Recognize changes in Quality Management standards Recognize key trends in recent peer review deficiencies noted Identify professional standards related to performing a risk assessment\, understanding and testing internal controls and linking these procedures to further audit consideration Implement best practices to help ensure overall engagement quality \nMajor Subjects\n AICPA’s Enhancing Audit Quality initiative Recent revisions to Quality Management standards Feedback from peer reviews\, including areas driving deficiencies in audit Elements of an effective risk assessment and how to link to audit procedures performed Understanding internal controls and making the decision whether or not to test them Best practices in documentation \nPrerequisites\nExperience in accounting and auditing \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-avoiding-deficiencies-in-peer-reviews-focus-on-engagement-quality-su1489-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T160000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010012-1700575200-1700582400@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Ethics for Tax Professionals (SU0898/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nThe purpose of this program is to discuss the ethical mandates that govern the conduct of tax practitioners. The program focuses on the ethical pronouncements of the IRS in Circular 230\, as well as the preparer penalty provisions set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. Please note: This ethics course does not cover state-specific issues and so is not applicable in states that require ethics courses to include specific state laws and regulations. Please check with your state board prior to registering for this program if you are in doubt about whether this program satisfies your state’s ethics requirements. \nDesigned For\nAny tax practitioner who wishes to be informed or updated with respect to the Circular 230 rules of conduct that apply to tax return preparers \nObjectives\n Understand how Circular 230 addresses the more commonly encountered ethical questions tax return preparers face in practice on a regular basis \nMajor Subjects\n What does practicing before the IRS mean? Who may practice before the IRS? What should a tax preparer do if he or she has knowledge of a client’s omission of income from a tax return? May a tax preparer rely on the work of other tax return preparers? May a tax preparer rely on and use client-provided information? Standards associated with giving advice to clients Abolition of the disclaimer requirement When must a tax preparer examine a client’s books and records? \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-ethics-for-tax-professionals-su0898-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231121T160000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044256Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044256Z UID:10010493-1700575200-1700582400@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's A Complete Tax Guide to Exit Planning (SU1490/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nWhen exit planning\, it is important to weigh various issues\, including tax implications\, to achieve an effective management and/or ownership change. Many envision tax-free reorganizations being the most preferable structure to avoid capital gains tax\, but the opportunities come at a cost to the seller. This course will provide a well-rounded discussion of the various strategies to consider when advising on exiting a business. \nDesigned For\nCPAs in industry and public accounting who want to gain an understanding of exit planning considerations for their clients \nObjectives\n Understand key issues regarding exit planning Discuss tax implications of exit planning strategies Compare exit planning between entity types (C corporations\, S corporations\, partnerships\, etc.) \nMajor Subjects\n Gain exclusion and tax-free reorganization planning Gain exclusion with sales of C corporation stock – Section 1202 Deferral of gain with installment reporting Gain planning with partnerships Basis planning – basis step-up at death\, gifts of interests to family Restructuring the business entity – C vs. S corporation\, partnerships\, LLCs Real estate planning – retention vs sales\, like-kind exchanges Employee stock ownership plans – special tax incentives Employee benefit planning with ownership change Taxes other than the federal income tax – state tax\, estate\, gift and generation-skipping taxes\, and property taxes Prospects for tax law change \nPrerequisites\nBasic knowledge of tax issues and entity structures \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-a-complete-tax-guide-to-exit-planning-su1490-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T110000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010015-1700643600-1700650800@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Stock vs. Asset Acquisitions of C Corporations (SU0901/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nA business conducted as a C corporation can be purchased through an asset acquisition or a stock acquisition. In an asset acquisition\, the buyer purchases the business by purchasing the assets that make up the C corporation’s ongoing business. In a stock acquisition\, the buyer purchases the stock of the C corporation that owns all or a majority of the business assets. The seller and the buyer are usually at odds over how to structure the acquisition. Tax practitioners advising their business clients should be fully conversant in the tax rules that apply to stock and asset acquisitions. Discussing and explaining those rules is the focus of this course. \nDesigned For\nTax practitioners advising sellers and buyers of C corporations \nObjectives\n Advise owners of C corporations and those wishing to acquire C corporations of the tax consequences associated with an asset or stock acquisition \nMajor Subjects\n Advantages and disadvantages to buyer and seller of an asset acquisition and a stock acquisition Tax treatment of consulting agreements and covenants not to compete Sale of personal goodwill associated with an asset acquisition Tax consequences associated with a stock acquisition and an asset acquisition Acquisitive reorganizations Non-tax issues that must be considered when a corporation is acquired \nPrerequisites\nA basic understanding of the tax rules related to C corporations \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-stock-vs-asset-acquisitions-of-c-corporations-su0901-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T110000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010013-1700643600-1700650800@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Features and Benefits of SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs (SU0899/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nA challenge for many small business owners is choosing the `right’ type of retirement plan for their businesses. Many hesitate to make a choice because they are intimidated by the governing rules. In those cases\, an IRA-based retirement plan is an easy\, effective\, and efficient way to start a retirement plan. These IRA-based plans – SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs – have low maintenance costs and are easy to communicate to employees. In some cases\, employer contributions are discretionary\, providing the business owners with the choice of whether to fund every year. \nDesigned For\nAll practitioners advising clients on these complex issues \nObjectives\n Help small business owners understand why they need to adopt retirement plans for themselves and their employees Identify key features and benefits of SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs Determine which employees must be covered under SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs Determine the steps that businesses should take to establish SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs Explain the operational and administrative requirements for SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs \nMajor Subjects\n Applicable provisions of SECURE Act 2.0 Key features for choosing a retirement plan for a small business Key questions an advisor must ask a small business owner to help determine which retirement plan is suitable for their business Key questions an advisor must ask a small business owner to help ensure compliance with a SEP IRA or a SIMPLE IRA How SEP and SIMPLE IRAs benefit the small business owner How SEP and SIMPLE IRAs benefit employees of small businesses The tax benefits that help to offset the cost of employer contributions How to determine which business is eligible to adopt a SIMPLE IRA How to determine which employees must be covered \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-features-and-benefits-of-sep-iras-and-simple-iras-su0899-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T110000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231116T153017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231117T050017Z UID:10010648-1700643600-1700650800@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Unconscious Bias for Managers\, Supervisors\, and Executives (SU1637/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nUnderstanding unconscious bias is key to creating an inclusive workplace and to making the best business decisions. This course explores the concept of unconscious bias\, the science behind it\, and how it can affect the way employers hire\, evaluate\, and treat employees. We will also discuss strategies employers can use to reduce unconscious bias and create a more inclusive workplace. \nDesigned For\nThis course is designed for managers\, supervisors\, and executives. If you are looking to train your non-management employees on unconscious bias\, we recommend Unconscious Bias for Employees: Raising the Bar for Workplace Conduct (CUBE)\, which includes in \nObjectives\n Uncover unconscious processes at play in decision-making\, including during hiring\, candidate selection\, and performance assessments and how these automatic processes can adversely impact ourselves and others\, particularly minority groups Strategize to reduce/eliminate the impact of inaccurate biases in decision-making Understand how to recover from a mistake rooted in unconscious bias in a way that builds trust\, respect\, and a foundation for an inclusive workplace \nMajor Subjects\n Unconscious bias\, including the five defining characteristics of unconscious bias The real-world impacts of unconscious biases\, including impacts on racial minorities\, women\, and older workers The concept of microaggressions\, with examples An effective strategy for adult learning that can be applied to change unconscious biases\, which can also be used to learn other skills A framework for handling mistakes and using them to build trust and respect in the workplace. We call this the “oops\, did I just say that?” section. \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-unconscious-bias-for-managers-supervisors-and-executives-su1637-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T123000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010014-1700643600-1700656200@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Four Tiers of Loss Limitations: A Guide to the Rules for Pass-Through Entities (SU0900/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nOwners of S corporations and partnerships are subject to numerous limitations on pass-through losses\, each with unique rules\, applications\, and complexities. With the increase in popularity of pass-through business entities\, it is essential for CPAs to understand the complexities and interactions of these pass-through loss limitations. \nDesigned For\nExperienced practitioners who desire a refresher on loss limitations and an analysis of the new rules. Inexperienced practitioners who desire to learn the basics of all four pass-through loss limitations and their interactions in one course. \nObjectives\n Analyze how basis in an ownership interest in a pass-through entity is established Discuss how activity of the entity\, distributions\, and optional adjustments increase or decrease basis Discuss when basis is “at-risk” under Section 465\, and the resulting loss disallowance and carryforward related to basis that is not at-risk Define passive activities under Section 469 and exceptions to the passive loss rules Discuss when and how aggregation of activities should be used to avoid the passive loss rules Analyze §461(l) created by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and understand the limitation calculation and resulting carryforward Analyze the hierarchy of the loss limitations with examples of the application of the four tiers of losses and how they interact Use case studies to reinforce the learning objectives \nMajor Subjects\n The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 Tier 1: Basis limitations for S corporation shareholders and partners Tier 2: Section 465 at-risk limitations for S corporation shareholders and partners\, including the impact of debt\, indemnities\, guarantees\, and shareholder/partner agreements Tier 3: Section 469 passive loss limitations and exceptions to the limitations Tier 4: The excess business loss limitation of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (new §461(l))\, American Rescue Plan Act\, and Inflation Reduction Act \nPrerequisites\nBasic familiarity with loss allowance rules of pass-through entities \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-four-tiers-of-loss-limitations-a-guide-to-the-rules-for-pass-through-entities-su0900-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T130000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010016-1700647200-1700658000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's U.S. Taxation of Foreign Corporations: A Case Study Approach (SU0902/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nThis course is a case study designed to provide a comprehensive overview of U.S. taxation of a foreign corporation. Using a specific example\, the course will walk through step-by-step mechanics on how to calculate the income inclusions and foreign tax credits under GILTI (Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income)\, Subpart F\, and PFIC (Passive Foreign Investment Company) regimes. The case study will further evaluate tax impact of subsequent distributions from the foreign corporation and sales of its stock. A compare-and-contrast approach will highlight the different outcomes of these regimes for individuals and for C corporations\, empowering participants to advise their clients on the most tax efficient way to structure their international investments. \nDesigned For\nAny tax practitioner with clients invested in a foreign corporation \nObjectives\n Explain the similarities and differences between GILTI\, Subpart F\, and PFIC regimes Understand the mechanics of income inclusions and foreign tax credits available under GILTI\, Subpart F\, and PFIC regimes Compare and contrast the overall tax liability under different circumstances Identify tax planning opportunities for income from foreign corporations \nMajor Subjects\n Understand how to approach and analyze the U.S. taxation of foreign corporations Using an example\, calculate GILTI\, Subpart F\, and PFIC income inclusions for an individual and C corporation Determine how much foreign tax credit can be claimed against such income inclusions Determine how subsequent dividend distributions from the foreign corporation are taxed Calculate capital gain on the disposition of the foreign corporation Discuss the impact of Section 962 election Compare different outcomes under GILTI\, Subpart F\, and PFIC regimes for individuals and corporations Identify basic strategies for managing tax liabilities related to foreign corporations \nPrerequisites\nA basic understanding of the tax rules relating to individual and corporate income tax \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-u-s-taxation-of-foreign-corporations-a-case-study-approach-su0902-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231122T130000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231116T153011Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231117T050023Z UID:10010620-1700650800-1700658000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Unconscious Bias for Employees: Raising the Bar for Workplace Conduct (SU1638/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nA respectful workplace provides the necessary foundation for an inclusive workplace. This course goes beyond what is legal versus illegal to review the boundaries of respectful workplace conduct. We will discuss the potential barriers to a respectful workplace\, including unconscious bias\, and how to reduce or eliminate those barriers. \nDesigned For\nThis course is designed for employees who are not supervisors\, managers\, or executives. If you are looking to train your managers\, supervisors\, or executives on unconscious bias\, we recommend Unconscious Bias for Managers\, Supervisors\, and Executives (BC \nObjectives\n Understand the differences between a respectful\, inclusive workplace and one that is lacking in these Detail how individuals can help create a more inclusive work environment. (Note: The focus is on things within an employee’s control\, such as greeting all co-workers and practicing active listening.) Know how respect and inclusion foster a better work environment and can lead to better results for everyone Be aware of unconscious processes at play in decision-making\, including when co-workers decide who will be included in group projects\, co-worker social circles\, informal mentoring\, and similar activities. (Again\, the focus is on things within an employee’s control.) Strategize to reduce/eliminate the impact inaccurate biases can have on decision making Share how to recover from a mistake\, in a way that builds trust\, respect\, and a foundation for an inclusive workplace \nMajor Subjects\n The role of respect in creating an inclusive workplace. A respectful workplace is one in which all employees feel comfortable bringing their best selves and best contributions to the workplace. Teaching employees a “red light\, yellow light\, green light” framework\, which is a tool for expressing discomfort with co-worker conduct. This tool helps employees learn to express their comfort or discomfort about certain conduct (for example\, an inappropriate nickname or comment) to co-workers in a safe\, respectful way. Common “derailers” — things that derail efforts to create a respectful workplace\, including workplace gossip\, ignoring mistakes\, and unconscious bias Strategies for reducing the impact of these derailers Unconscious bias\, including the five defining characteristics of unconscious bias A framework for handling mistakes and using them to build trust and respect in the workplace \nPrerequisites\nNone \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-unconscious-bias-for-employees-raising-the-bar-for-workplace-conduct-su1638-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231124T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231124T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010017-1700816400-1700845200@mecpa.org SUMMARY:The Best Federal Tax Update Course by Surgent (SU0903/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nIn this continually revised course\, tax advisors will be fully updated on the most recent enacted legislation and IRS guidance\, as well as major trends on the horizon with a view toward planning considerations. This update course is designed for all practitioners\, both those working in public accounting as well as those in private industry\, who need the latest information on tax changes. Please Note: Due to content overlap\, it is recommended that this course NOT be taken together with BITU. \nDesigned For\nAccounting and Finance Professionals who need to know the latest tax law changes in all areas of practice\, whether newly licensed or a seasoned professional \nObjectives\n Understand the latest enacted tax law changes Understand strategies and techniques to use in light of tax changes Understand current cases and rulings affecting individuals and businesses \nMajor Subjects\n Comprehensive coverage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 Timely coverage of breaking tax legislation Schedules K-2 and K-3 reporting requirements Form 7203\, S Corporation Shareholder Stock and Debt Basis Limitations Donor Advised Funds Residency and Domicile Selling a principal residence\, including tax planning strategies The Independent Contractor vs. Employee Conundrum continues An overview of virtual currency\, including recent developments State of the IRS Section 162(m) Executive Compensation Practice aids\, including all the numbers applicable for the current year — inflation-adjusted amounts\, mileage rates\, retirement contributions\, and more Advanced practice\, reporting\, and other issues intertwined with advanced planning and discussion ideas \nPrerequisites\nExperience with individual and business clients \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/the-best-federal-tax-update-course-by-surgent-su0903-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231124T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231124T170000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044257Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044257Z UID:10010495-1700816400-1700845200@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Annual Accounting and Auditing Update (SU1492/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nDesigned for accounting and attestation practitioners at all levels in both public accounting and business and industry\, this course provides a comprehensive review of recent standard-setting activities of the FASB and AICPA. In addition to providing a detailed review of SAS No. 145\, this course will bring you up to date on FASB and AICPA standards issued over the past few years. The course also provides many hands-on examples and illustrations to help you apply the guidance in practice.In addition to a financial accounting update\, the course will discuss what you will need to do differently as you adopt new audit standards 142-149 over the next few years\, including a detailed review of the new audit requirements under SAS 142. The course will also cover the key changes related to SSARS No. 25. Finally\, the course reviews the AICPA’s quality management project.In summary\, the course is your go-to source for all things A&A and will prepare you for your upcoming engagements throughout the rest of the year. \nDesigned For\nAccounting and auditing practitioners at all levels desiring to remain up to date on recent pronouncements and other standard setters’ activities \nObjectives\n Review and apply recently issued and proposed FASB and AICPA pronouncements Review and apply guidance within ASC 842\, Leases Understand SAS 142 and SAS 145  Recall and apply AICPA quality management standards Be familiar with other important A&A practice matters you should be aware of Utilize hands-on examples and illustrations to increase your overall understanding and application of the material \nMajor Subjects\n Recently issued FASB Accounting Standards Updates\, PCC Update and items on the FASB’s Technical Agenda Leases – Topic 842 ASC 326: CECL Review of SAS 142 – Focus on Audit Evidence Recently issued SASs and other AICPA activity SSARS No. 25 and other recently issued SSARS Detailed review of SAS 145 Other important A&A practice matters \nPrerequisites\nExperience in accounting and attestation \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-annual-accounting-and-auditing-update-su1492-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231124T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231124T120000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044129Z UID:10010018-1700820000-1700827200@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's What Tax Practitioners Need to Know About Medicare (SU0904/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nWhen the first cohort of Baby Boomers turned age 65 several years ago\, tax advisors began to be bombarded with questions concerning all facets of Medicare. How does Medicare work? How do I apply? How much does it cost? Is Medicare optional or required? This program provides a basic introduction to the Medicare program and covers many of the areas of the Medicare program that clients are most interested in. If you\, or some of your clients\, have questions relating to Medicare\, this program is a must for you. \nDesigned For\nTax practitioners who currently advise or who anticipate advising clients with respect to Medicare enrollment and/or Medicare coverage issues \nObjectives\n Understand who is eligible for Medicare Determine whether an individual will have to pay a surtax for Medicare Part B and Part D coverage Ascertain whether private or spousal insurance options are preferable to Medicare \nMajor Subjects\n Eligibility for Medicare How to apply for  Medicare Introduction to Parts A\, B\, C\, and D of Medicare Payments for Parts B and D of Medicare: the higher costs imposed on higher income beneficiaries Late enrollment penalties Medicare Advantage in lieu of original Medicare The Affordable Care Act’s impact on Medicare Current and late breaking legislative and regulatory developments \nPrerequisites\nAn understanding of the tax rules relating to individual income tax \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-what-tax-practitioners-need-to-know-about-medicare-su0904-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231124T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231124T150000 DTSTAMP:20240328T120611 CREATED:20231115T044325Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231115T044325Z UID:10010587-1700830800-1700838000@mecpa.org SUMMARY:Surgent's Ethical Considerations for CPAs (SU1603/23) DESCRIPTION:Event Description\nAs accounting firm’s non-attest offerings to their attest clients become more diversified\, such engagements increase firms’ exposure to independence violations. In order to thread the needle of providing value-added services and upholding their independence obligations\, firms need to have a strong foundational understanding of the applicable ethical and independence rules which govern these engagements. In this course\, we’ll review the relevant sections of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct regarding independence\, objectivity\, and conflicts of interest. The course will focus on the Code’s Independence Rule and common threats to auditor’s independence. In particular\, the course will focus on those unique considerations related to non-attest services\, both from the perspective of AICPA interpretations and other applicable rules and regulations. PLEASE NOTE: THIS COURSE COVERS GENERAL ETHICS AND IS APPLICABLE IN STATES IN WHICH STATE-SPECIFIC ETHICS IS NOT REQUIRED. \nDesigned For\nAll CPAs \nObjectives\n Identify the key sources of guidance on auditor independence Recall key components of applicable independence guidance from the AICPA\, SEC and other regulators Assess independence risks related to common client situations \nMajor Subjects\n Auditor independence and its importance to the public accounting profession Common threats to auditor independence AICPA’s framework for assessing conflicts of interest Unique threats related to non-attest services to attest clients Common safeguards to help assure compliance with relevant rules and regulations \nPrerequisites\nExperience in financial reporting \nInstructions\nNone URL:https://mecpa.org/event/surgents-ethical-considerations-for-cpas-su1603-23/ END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR