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

House approves additional funding for Paycheck Protection Program

The US House of Representatives voted to approve $370 billion in additional pandemic-relief funding for small businesses as part of a $484 billion aid package.

Tips for navigating CPA challenges related to PPP

The Paycheck Protection Program has created a lifeline for small businesses — and challenges for CPAs. A new document published by the AICPA Center for Plain English Accounting contains guidance for CPAs to consider as they navigate these issues.

Effective dates of 3 AICPA ethics interpretations may be delayed

The AICPA Professional Ethics Division staff is proposing a one-year delay in ethics interpretations on “Information Systems Services,” “State and Local Government Client Affiliates” and “Leases.”

Relief for tax residency impacts of COVID-19 travel disruptions

Individuals and businesses can avoid having their prolonged stay in a country affect their tax residence if their cross-border travel was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, under limited relief the IRS announced in two revenue procedures and FAQs.

Senate approves $370 billion in additional small business funding

The Senate voted to approve a new coronavirus pandemic relief bill that includes $370 billion in additional funding for small businesses, the bulk of which would go to the Paycheck Protection Program.

Guidance sought on employee retention credit

In a letter to Treasury and the IRS, the AICPA pointed out several issues involving the new employee retention credit that need clarification and guidance.

FASB’s relief proposal includes lease accounting delay for private companies

FASB proposed pandemic relief actions that included a one-year delay in its lease accounting standard for private companies and most not-for-profits.

Deadline looms for nonfilers to register for child stimulus payments

Social Security and Railroad Retirement beneficiaries who didn’t file 2018 or 2019 tax returns must enter their children’s information by noon EDT on Wednesday, April 22, to get an automatic $500 child stimulus payment.

IRS explains how to file returns to receive economic impact payments

The IRS issued guidance on how to file tax returns in order to receive an economic impact payment for taxpayers who do not normally file income tax returns or who have zero adjusted gross income amounts to report can file returns using special IRS procedures.

The indirect impacts of COVID-19 on CPA firms

When money is lost, those who are damaged will seek recourse from wherever they can find it, and CPAs can be high on that list of targets.