Technology
Accounting software is the principal professional tool of many CPAs. But how well do the products on the market do the job? How effective are their posting methods? And how effective are their audit trailsso errors can be found? This article examines several of the key features of nine leading mid-price-range Windows-based accounting software packages and reports how well they work.
Tax
CPAs and their clients will need to plan carefully to take maximum advantage of the often complex education tax incentivestax credits, savings programs, penalty abatements and deductionsincluded in the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997.
The Small Practitioner
Latin American businesses and CPA firms are eager for the knowledge and experience of U.S. practitioners. One California firm has become proficient in the language of the Latin market.
Business and Industry
Barter is an increasingly popular way to do business, especially since it provides a bonus for both sides involved in the transaction. Used correctly, it has both financial and marketing benefits. Barter is a technique CPAs should know about so they can advise employers and clients.
The Vision Process
Some 3,000 rank-and-file CPAs contributed input through Future Forums, professionally facilitated one-day visioning sessions held throughout the United States last fall under the aegis of the state CPA societies. The Journal talked with five forum participants to get a feel for the grass-roots reaction to the Vision Process.
The Financial Manager
Small companies are clamoring for help with employment issues. One CPAs company has experienced rapid growth by helping solve their problems.
For the Practicing Auditor
SAS no. 85, Management Representations, supersedes SAS no. 19, Client Representations, with new guidance. There are a few new bells and whistles, including many helpful examples. SAS no. 85 also discusses when and how to tailor representation letters.