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 relief, the 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

A tale of the PPP tape: Why relationship building matters

The number of small businesses receiving Paycheck Protection Program loans can be linked to the number that had bank financing before the pandemic, data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows.

IRS allows midyear changes to health coverage, dependent care elections

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the IRS is allowing employers to permit their employees to change their health coverage elections or dependent care elections during the year and is extending the carryover period for health flexible spending arrangement (FSA) expenses.

AICPA, small business advocates call for clarity in PPP rules

The AICPA joined with other organizations that advocate for small businesses to urge the US Small Business Administration to provide clarity related to Paycheck Protection Program funds.

Options for clients with student loans during the pandemic

Here’s a rundown of the relief the CARES Act offers for student loan borrowers, who is eligible for it and what clients can do if they’re not covered by the CARES Act or if they’ve become unemployed or had their hours reduced.

Be wary of charity requests in wake of COVID-19

Accountants can remind clients of bad actors who pop up in times of crisis.

Coronavirus concerns for ESOPs and ESOP auditors

Employee stock ownership plans, their sponsors, and auditors all face new challenges and risks related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Taxpayers must act soon for direct deposit of stimulus payments

The IRS announced that taxpayers for whom the Service does not have direct deposit information should go to its “Get My Payment” website and enter that information by noon on Wednesday, May 13, so they can receive their stimulus payments electronically.

Pandemic-related CPE exceptions granted to auditors under GAGAS

Auditors performing engagements under government auditing standards were granted relief from certain CPE requirements by the US Government Accountability Office as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

GASB delays effective dates of recent pronouncements

GASB is giving state and local governments extra time to implement much of its recently issued guidance as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

How to have hard client conversations during a crisis

A four-step approach can help CPAs facilitate the difficult, often emotional conversations needed to help their clients find their way to calmer waters.