Keeping you informed and prepared amid the coronavirus crisis

The spread of the novel coronavirus presents serious concerns and challenges for many around the world. To help, below we’re gathering the latest news stories along with relevant columns, tips, podcasts, and videos from the Journal of Accountancy. You can also read the latest news on advocacy and tax reliefthe CARES Act, and the Paycheck Protection Program.

The Association, the global voice of the American Institute of CPAs and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, is continually monitoring the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on members, staff, exam candidates, students, and the profession. Visit this page on AICPA.org for updates and details about where to find the information you need.

COVID-19 news and resources

Forecasting and impairment tips for an unprecedented time

The economic slump resulting from the pandemic has increased the risk of asset write-downs and added to the pressure on auditors to scrutinize impairment models. Company boards also are paying more attention to forecasting and impairment.

Quiz: Are you prepared to audit fraud risk during a pandemic?

With so many organizations financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and making an abrupt shift to remote working, there’s a perfect storm for increased fraud in financial statements. Take this quiz to see if you know your responsibilities for auditing fraud risks in your engagements.

Temporary e-signature authorization for IRS forms extended

The IRS announced that it was extending taxpayers’ ability to file a number of forms using electronic signatures due to the pandemic. The limited relief extends the authorization through June 30, 2021.

Some teleworkers could be hit with surprise tax bills

With many workers unaware of the implications when remote work crosses state lines, CPAs may face frustration and confusion in clients.

What to know about holiday travel policies during COVID-19

Firms share the approaches they are using to keep employees safe, and HR experts advise firms to stay current with their state’s guidance, know their rights as employers and communicate policies clearly to staff.

US finance leaders wary as pandemic impacts continue

Optimism is higher than in the third quarter, but plenty of obstacles remain, according to the AICPA’s quarterly economic outlook.

Tips for auditing in a COVID-19 environment

The coronavirus pandemic has dramatically disrupted the focus and procedures involved in many audits. These tips provide best practices, fraud considerations and new procedures practitioners may wish to use.

Assessing audit risks during the pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has caused the risks of material misstatement and fraud to change substantially for many audit clients. Here’s how practitioners can continue delivering high-quality audits in this environment.

PCAOB changes 2021 inspection focus areas as a result of COVID-19

PCAOB inspectors will focus more in 2021 on industries and audit areas that have experienced disruption as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Inspectors also will try to become more unpredictable in the audits and areas they examine.

AICPA and trade associations ask Congress to fix PPP loan deductibility

In a letter to Congress, dated Dec. 3, hundreds of national trade associations and their state and regional affiliates asked that legislation be enacted before the end of 2020 reversing the IRS’s position that amounts forgiven in loans under the PPP be nondeductible business expenses.