Firm operations

TOPICS / FIRM PRACTICE MANAGEMENT

April 8, 2026

What small firms are getting right about tech and why they’re not alone

Small CPA firms, “the heart and center” of the accounting profession, are the focus of this episode of the JofA podcast. An AICPA vice president discusses how AI and automation are leveling the playing field and how innovation can thrive in smaller practices. Listen to the episode or read the Q&A.

April 1, 2026

Tips for writing CAS engagement letters

The nature of a client accounting and advisory services engagement is determined solely by the agreement between the accountant and client.

February 1, 2026

Tell a story with your documentation

In the event of a professional liability claim, your documentation tells your story. Make sure it is the story you want to tell.

January 1, 2026

Don’t let a bankrupt client bankrupt you

When clients go bankrupt, CPAs face major liability risks. Learn how to spot red flags and help protect your firm from costly claims and lawsuits.

December 1, 2025

Common audit claims and defenses

In the professional liability world, audit claims are relatively infrequent but exceptionally expensive.

November 1, 2025

Blocking and tackling: Engagement letters for tax compliance services

Failure to have a proper engagement letter can lead to tax claims being asserted against firms. Learn how to help lower your risks.

November 1, 2025

QM is here: Advice from early adopters

Firms will need to learn from mistakes, fine-tune systems, and adapt to new ways of thinking about quality.

October 27, 2025

CPA firm funding — no one right answer

From tech investments to partner buyouts and private equity, CPA firms are evaluating capital needs in a changing environment. Explore the latest trends in CPA firm funding.

October 1, 2025

Are you prepared for the cost of a data security incident?

Accounting records are a tantalizing target for hackers. Learn about the risks, response strategies, and best practices to help safeguard your business.

October 1, 2025

Building a better firm: How to pick the proper technology

Automation and other technologies are essential for business model modernization. Experts offer tips on choosing the right tech.

September 10, 2025

5 essential tactics of future-ready firms

As the accounting profession continues to evolve at an ever-increasing rate, firm leaders need clarity around what to do to be future-ready. Discover five essential strategies to get ahead in this JofA article.

September 1, 2025

7 retirement tips for small firm CPAs

Former firm owners share advice on how to exit the profession after a fulfilling career and set up the practice for success.

September 1, 2025

Start risk management with employee onboarding

Include risk management training during new employee onboarding to
help establish their risk
management mindset from
Day 1.

August 1, 2025

Professional liability risk stemming from CPA firm acquisitions — part 2

Disparity in processes can lead to heightened risk.

August 1, 2025

Building a better CPA firm: Getting governance right

One firm’s example shows what’s important to consider when firms transform their governance models.

July 1, 2025

Professional liability risk stemming from CPA firm acquisitions – part 1

Failure to perform sufficient due diligence could lead to professional liability claims, as highlighted in the following scenarios.

June 1, 2025

Form 1065: Pay attention or pay up

Along with the changes brought about by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, the IRS’s focus on partnership returns appears to be undergoing a renaissance. Understand how the environment is changing and how you can be prepared.

May 1, 2025

Changes at the firm? What to do with working papers

In the event of a malpractice claim or a regulatory inquiry, you may need to produce working papers to support your defense.

April 1, 2025

Employee ownership and taxes: Why firms are choosing ESOPs

Converting to an employee stock ownership plan offers firms tax benefits and an alternative to private equity.

April 1, 2025

Should I disclose my use of gen AI to clients?

Informing clients about the incorporation of generative AI can enhance transparency and trust, ultimately strengthening the client-accountant relationship.