Firm operations

TOPICS / FIRM PRACTICE MANAGEMENT

July 9, 2026

From estate planning to AI: Managing CPA liability

A coauthor of the JofA’s Professional Liability Spotlight column discusses the risks for CPAs related to the Great Wealth Transfer, how accountants can serve as a “critical guardrail” for clients, and the key components of an effective AI policy. Listen to the podcast episode or read the Q&A.

July 1, 2026

Drafting an AI policy that actually works

Find out what firms can do to create and maintain effective generative AI policies that align with professional and regulatory obligations.

June 16, 2026

Crowe partners with private equity; Baker Tilly on the move

Crowe is the latest top 15 firm to strike a private-equity deal. Also, Baker Tilly announced plans to relocate its headquarters to New York and acquire another top 100 firm.

June 8, 2026

Making the right choice when no one is watching

When clients think nobody is watching, the CPA’s judgment becomes an even more critical guardrail between short‑term temptation and long‑term consequences.

June 4, 2026

Aligning with AI: Lisa Simpson on how to overcome sense of overwhelm

An AICPA vice president reflects on the growth of Town Hall and shares how CPAs can manage AI overload. Also, get a breakdown on the recent AICPA and CIMA survey on CPA decision-makers’ economic sentiment.

May 1, 2026

Managing CPA liability in the Great Wealth Transfer

As Baby Boomers transition trillions to their heirs, CPAs face growing estate, gift, and trust liability risks. Learn how costly claims arise — and practical steps to reduce exposure.

April 23, 2026

How to start a CPA practice: Lessons from a firm founder and a risk expert

Thinking of starting your own CPA firm but not sure where to begin? Two experts with deep knowledge on the topic detail what it takes, including a focus on managing risk in the early years. Listen to the episode or read the Q&A.

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.

FROM THIS MONTH'S ISSUE

Drafting an AI policy that actually works

As AI use accelerates, many firms are discovering their policies haven’t kept pace. This article breaks down what CPAs and finance leaders should consider when drafting an AI policy that’s practical, flexible, and fit for real world use.