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

COVID-19 coverage without a deductible ends next year

A high-deductible health plan will no longer be permitted to provide coverage without a deductible for testing for and treatment of COVID-19 after Dec. 31, 2024.

A pandemic-era tax break that remains rife with abuse — the ERC

The IRS issues at least its seventh warning about the employee retention credit since October 2022.

IRS returns to in-person public hearings; telephone still an option

With COVID-19 no longer considered a national emergency, the IRS will return to public hearings for proposed regulations published in the Federal Register beginning in May while keeping telephone access as an option.

ERC claims on returns prepared by others raise questions for tax pros

The IRS Office of Professional Responsibility issued a bulletin that reviews the Circular 230 professional responsibilities that apply to claims for the employee retention credit.

In-person IRS tax forums scheduled for first time since pandemic start

The three-day forums, last held in person in 2019, are designed specifically for CPAs and other tax professionals.

Lookback period extended for refunds related to pandemic postponements

In determining the beginning of the lookback period for refund claims for returns with due dates postponed by Notice 2021-21 or Notice 2020-23, the IRS will disregard the periods from April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020, and from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021. This change will align the lookback periods with the postponed return filing due dates.

IRS seeks information on 21 states regarding special payments, refunds

The national taxpayer advocate criticized the IRS for delaying the release of guidance on state special tax payments or refunds made in 2022 that she said could affect tens of millions of taxpayers.

Congressional report criticizes contractor used by IRS during pandemic

The statement says ID.me inflated the amount of work it could provide and the amount of federal dollars lost to pandemic fraud, the latter in an effort to increase demand for its services. In his response, the CEO says he would not use such a crisis to help his company.

One deadline approaches for over 9 million eligible for pandemic-era benefits

In October, the IRS said it would leave Free File open for an extra month, until Thursday, so eligible taxpayers can claim their share of several benefits including the 2021 recovery rebate credit, the child tax credit, and the earned income tax credit.

Resources for organizations requiring an audit related to COVID-19 relief

AICPA & CIMA tools can assist organizations new to single audits or similar compliance engagements.