News
Generative AI and Risks to CPA Firms
June 11, 2024
“Write a 1,200-word article regarding how CPA firms can manage risk related to the use of ChatGPT and other forms of generative AI.” This easy ChatGPT request would have resulted in the production of this month’s column in a far more expeditious manner than writing one from scratch, but would it have been as informative or accurate? ChatGPT is an example of generative artificial intelligence (AI), and its popularity has soared since its introduction to the public in November 2022. Given ChatGPT’s versatility, speed, and ability to engage in human-like conversations, it’s easy to see why.
Deciding Between Unlimited vs. Flexible PTO: Which May Be Best for Your Business?
June 06, 2024
According to the Society for Human Resource Management, 4 percent of organizations now offer unlimited paid time off. That number may continue to rise as startups and large organizations alike continue experimenting with this policy.
Pipeline Pledge: How small commitments can make a big difference
June 05, 2024
For Sue Coffey, questions about the talent pipeline for the accounting and finance profession have become as common as 100-degree days in Las Vegas.
How do different accounting firms use AI?
June 03, 2024
See how both the Big 4 and smaller firms are utilizing AI in their workflows.
Greater Hartford’s largest accounting firms are increasingly being led by women
May 28, 2024
Several CTCPA members and Executive Director and CEO Bonnie Stewart were featured in this article on the change in demographics at Connecticut accounting firms.
Peacocking, newskilling and digital detox: 9 new workplace trends CFOs must know
May 24, 2024
A new quiet term, reverse mentoring, and shadow policies add to the list.
Will AI block the accounting talent pipeline?
May 22, 2024
Could the new wave of artificial intelligence remove layers of associates and juniors as firms automate more ‘menial’ tasks in search of efficiencies? And what effect could this have on the accounting landscape as we know it today?
Illinois CPA Society Releases Updated CPA Pipeline Report
May 16, 2024
A new national survey reveals “time” is why more accounting majors and young professionals are skipping over becoming certified public accountants.
Can CPA requirement changes solve finance’s talent shortage?
May 10, 2024
CFOs and finance leaders share their takes on whether CPA requirement changes are necessary to address talent issues within corporate finance.
Prepare large estates for TCJA sunset now
May 07, 2024
CPA financial planners need to talk with high-net-worth clients now about the idea of shifting ownership of millions of dollars in assets before the estate and gift tax basic exclusion is essentially cut in half on Jan. 1, 2026, Bob Keebler, CPA/PFS, said in an AICPA Personal Financial Planning (PFP) Section webcast.
Accountants share how they're using AI
May 06, 2024
While many accountants are determined to stay as far away from artificial intelligence as possible, others have found ways to use the technology to yield tangible benefits for their firms (see "Accounting's reluctant AI revolution").
How CFOs can keep restless accountants on staff
May 06, 2024
What it takes is more nuanced than simply offering more money or fewer hours.
Working 9 to 5: Still the way to make a living?
May 03, 2024
Is the typical office day still alive and kicking? Or is the working world leaving it behind? Jon Dudgeon of Blu Sky explains why the 9 to 5 just isn’t for him.
Feds Increase Salary Minimum for Exempt Employees
April 29, 2024
The salary threshold required to exempt a salaried executive, administrative, or professional employee from federal overtime was increased from $35,568 to $43,888 effective July 1, 2024. The salary threshold will further increase to $58,656 on Jan. 1, 2025.
Professional Liability Issues in “Success”ion Planning
April 29, 2024
Congratulations! You’ve decided it’s time to retire. While you may be ready to walk out the door and hang up that 10-key for good, your professional liability risk will not be able to retire when you do. Due to the nature of services provided by CPA firms, claims often arise several years after the service was delivered.
U.S. DOL’s Final Overtime Rule Increases Salary Thresholds for Exempt Employees
April 25, 2024
As of July 1, 2024, an estimated one million employees who are currently salaried, exempt employees in the United States could be impacted by the salary threshold change. These employees, unless there is intervention by their employer, might become eligible for overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) after working 40 hours in a workweek. According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), another estimated three million could be impacted on Jan. 1, 2025.
More than 4 in 5 large companies still offer flexible work model
April 17, 2024
Headlines can leave the impression that large companies are behind the times when it comes to offering corporate employees work location flexibility, but recent research paints a different picture.
Organizations moving forward with generative AI despite concerns, survey shows
March 28, 2024
Finance leaders are still concerned about the expanded use of generative AI programs, such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, but more than a quarter of them say that hasn't stopped their organizations from experimenting with the technology, according to a new AICPA & CIMA survey.
Generative Artificial Intelligence Solutions… Understand Your Risks
March 27, 2024
The artificial intelligence (“AI”) solutions such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT continue to gain popularity. Many CPA firms seek to leverage the use of generative AI to accelerate innovation and increase productivity. As the use of any AI technology is very organization specific, CPA firms need to obtain a solid understanding of their needs and objectives and gain an understanding of how AI works before they can begin to identify what, if any, AI opportunities are the right fit for their firm.
Recruit, Engage and Retain: Create a Workplace Where Your Employees Will Thrive
March 27, 2024
The WIIFM, the age-old acronym for “What’s In it For Me,” is the mantra of today’s workforce, whether for prospective candidates or long-term employees. Firms are being pressed into looking for creative ways to attract talent and to retain that talent. And with the cost of onboarding a professional rising to the tens of thousands, firms are eager to maximize their return on investment.