Thomas Reuters
florida C P A
TODAY
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
VOLUME 31, NUMBER 5
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E F LO R I DA I N S T I T U T E O F C E R T I F I E D P U B L I C A C C O U N TA N T S
cover story
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departments 5 Chair’s message 7 President’s message 20 CPAs in the spotlight 24 Staff reports 26 News briefs 28 DOR update 30 Marketplace
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Patrick Murphy Putting Florida First in Washington
features 8
Auditor Independence and Nonattest Services: The Revised Ethics Rule 101
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How Prevalent is Occupational Fraud?
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F L O R I D A
PRESIDENT/CEO Deborah L. Curry, CPA, CGMA DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Dave Cone EDITOR Suellen D. Wilkins GRAPHIC DESIGNER Loleta K. Bolden EDITORIAL COMMITTEE David J. Hochsprung, CPA, chair Keith C. Blackman, CPA • Walter C. Copeland, CPA Douglas E. Day, CPA • Lynda M. Dennis, CPA Michael S. Kridel, CPA • Troy Y. Manning, CPA Ryan A. Myers, CPA • William C. Quilliam, CPA All articles submitted to Florida CPA Today are subject to technical review, Editorial Committee review, space availability and editing requirements and restrictions. Please contact the editor before submitting unsolicited manuscripts. Florida CPA Today publishes letters to the editor in its Members’ Forum. For information about the guidelines, visit www.ficpa.org/letterstoeditor. Statements expressed herein are those of the identified authors and not necessarily those of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Inc., nor should statements be considered endorsements of products, procedures or otherwise. The FICPA reserves the right to reject any editorial material or paid advertising that does not meet Florida CPA Today criteria or detracts from its ethical and professional standards. Florida CPA Today is published bimonthly by the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Inc., P.O. Box 5437, Tallahassee, FL 32314. Telephone: (850) 224-2727 or (800) 342-3197. (Street address: 325 West College Ave., Tallahassee, FL 32301.) Visit our website at www.ficpa.org. This magazine is provided to members of the FICPA. No specific amount of your dues, either expressed or implied, is for this publication. This magazine is not available for purchase by either FICPA members or nonmembers. For display advertising information, contact the FICPA Marketing Department at (850) 224-2727, Ext. 270. © 2015 by the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of the FICPA.
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chair’s
MESSAGE
It’s a Great Time to Be a CPA M
ost mornings, I wake up looking forward to visiting with clients and working on projects. It’s the people I work with, and my peers, who really make a difference. It’s also taking “leaps of faith” that keep me energized and ready for the next venture that lies ahead. During my first month as your Chair, I had the pleasure of meeting with chapter officers at our Leadership Conference. We learned what you and other members enjoy about FICPA membership – advocacy for our profession, continuing education, collaborating with other CPAs and professionals, being a part of the YCPAs, or attending sporting and other social events to name just a few. I also met with our Board of Directors and Council members to discuss and vote on various initiatives, and talked with our chapter officers about ideas for our appointed Chapter Model Task Force. I met with our PACs, which have a busy election year coming up and several advocacy issues in the pipeline. I also met with our committees during Committee Days. It was refreshing to feel the committees’ energy as they planned and shared ideas. At the chapter level, I attended the Central Florida YCPA meeting and loved hearing their plans and the great community outreach they’re doing. And to top off the month, I spoke to our members during our Educational Foundation Ocean Reef Retreat. Thank you for saying “yes” to joining the FICPA, and to the members serving
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on our committees and governing boards. Passionate members such as George Gulisano, past president of the Educational Foundation, remind me how great it is to be a CPA. His dedication to raising scholarship funds for our Foundation and collaborating with our business community puts a smile on my face. And I know many of you are as committed to our profession as George is.
Mia Thomas, CPA
Support our PACs and Foundation and become an active volunteer with an FICPA committee or chapter. You’ll meet some of our most passionate members. It truly is a great time to be a CPA.
FCT
Pictured left to right: George Gulisano, Mia Thomas, Jason Chorlins and John Foster (Amzur Technologies) enjoy the Educational Foundation’s 2015 Ocean Reef Retreat.
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president’s
MESSAGE
Bold Steps Define Institute’s Future
T
he 2014-2015 Fiscal Year was an exciting one. The FICPA leadership worked on the strategic direction our Institute will follow to prepare for the future. The Board of Governors (BOG) and chapter officers followed up by engaging in another working strategy session during FICPA Planning Days, held in Tampa in July. These strategic sessions have resulted in a set of seven bold steps. Throughout the year I’ll highlight the steps and the actions we’re taking to ensure our success in each area.
First step Increase efficiency and effectiveness The first of the bold steps is governance and our need to streamline operations to be proactive, yet nimble. We must ensure we have the checks and balances necessary to operate with the integrity required of an association’s leadership. During this year our BOG has focused on higher strategic priorities, such as: • Defining how we can become more valuable to our members • Branding the FICPA as the ultimate thought leadership organization for Florida CPAs • Outlining top priorities for FICPA staff To that end, the BOG determined its major value is to focus on the Institute’s big picture, such as overseeing our strategic plan; approving a budget to meet the goals outlined in that plan; approving bylaws and articles revisions; and maintaining general charge of the Institute’s property. Oversight and management of the monthly operations should be under the direction of the newly named Board of Directors, currently known as the Executive Committee (EC). Optimizing governance structure The ultimate goal is to create a Board that can act quickly, when necessary, to make decisions allowing staff to operate at the speed of business – just as you operate in your businesses and organizations. All of the Board’s decisions will fall within the guidelines of the strategic plan and budget, as approved by the body to be known as the Council (currently known as FLORIDA CPA TODAY
Deborah L. Curry, CPA, CGMA
the BOG). The new titles for these two bodies will take effect July 1, 2016. Improving annual budget process One of the most productive changes will be the budget process. The staff and the Board of Directors will be able to go through the initial phase of budget preparation much more expediently. The final budget will be presented to the Council for approval, just as it is now. The Council may accept or reject the budget and send it back to the Board for revisions. However, we expect to experience improvements in the process. To reduce redundancy, the current Finance and Office Advisory Committee (F&OA) will transition to a subcommittee of the new Board of Directors. We found each time we had an F&OA Committee meeting, we followed it with an EC meeting discussing the same information. There’s also an overlap of the F&OA and EC committee members. Discussions at the BOG meeting revealed we didn’t believe this created value for members and wasn’t an efficient use of our time. In addition, members making decisions about the budget should be those who’ve been involved in the strategic-planning sessions to ensure expenditures and income agree with the organization’s strategic direction. To help provide appropriate separation of duties, the Board of Directors taking office in July 2016 will have 10 members – two more than the current EC. Although I serve as the Board’s secretary/treasurer, I’m not a voting member. Streamlining nominations process We also have identified an efficiency that increases member involvement in our Nominations Committee. Previously, members were required to wait two years after serving on a standing committee, or on the Board of Directors, before serving on the Nominations Committee. The same held true moving in the opposite direction. That period has been reduced to one year. In the coming months we’ll address other bold steps and keep you apprised of our progress. Stay tuned!
FCT
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Auditor Independence and Nonattest Services: The Revised Ethics Rule 101
D
uring 2014, the AICPA made numerous changes to its Code of Professional Conduct (the Code),1 most of which are effective with audit engagements covering periods beginning on or after Dec. 15, 2014. One of the more significant changes is the specific identification of financial statement preparation; cashto-accrual conversions; and reconciliations as nonattest services that are outside the scope of an attest engagement. When auditing small and medium-size entities having few or no experienced accounting staff, CPAs2 often provide any or all of these, as well as other nonattest services, to their attest clients. Several changes to the Code relating to providing nonattest services are expected to significantly impact CPAs providing nonattest services to attest clients. However, under the revised Code, financial statement preparation; cash-to-accrual conversions; and reconciliations will not impair the CPA’s independence if certain requirements3 are met. Performing nonattest services for attest clients creates several threats to the CPA’s independence that may or may not be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level through the application of safeguards4. CPAs are required to be independent under the Code’s Independence Rule (the Rule) when performing attest services, and CPAs performing nonattest services for attest clients may impair their independence. The Code requires the CPA to use the Conceptual Framework for Independence (the Framework) to evaluate threats to independence when particular relationships or circumstances of a specific attest engagement are not addressed by an interpretation of the Rule. Under the Framework approach, the CPA • Identifies threats to compliance with the Rule. • Evaluates the significance of any identified threats individually and in the aggregate. • Identifies and applies safeguards to each threat identified as significant, to either eliminate the threat or reduce it to an acceptable level.
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By Lynda M. Dennis, CPA
this is the case, the CPA will need to use the Framework to evaluate the effect of such nonattest services on his or her independence. In applying the Framework, the CPA evaluates whether relationships or circumstances will lead a reasonable and informed third party (who is aware of the relevant information) to conclude there is a threat to the CPA’s independence. When safeguards are applied, and such safeguards eliminate or reduce to an acceptable level any identified threats to independence, the CPA’s independence likely will not be impaired. When CPAs perform nonattest services for attest clients, independence threats often include self-review, management participation and advocacy. These threats will impair the CPA’s independence if not eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level through the application of safeguards. The Code identifies certain examples of nonattest services creating threats to compliance with the Rule that would not be at an acceptable level and could not be reduced to an acceptable level by the application of safeguards. Therefore, providing such nonattest services to attest clients would impair a CPA’s independence. Examples of nonattest services that would impair independence as noted in the Rule include: • Determining or changing journal entries, any account coding/classification of transactions, or any other accounting records without first obtaining approval of the attest client. • Preparing source documents or changing source documents without first obtaining approval of the attest client. CPAs, guided by their responsibility to act in the public’s best interest, are required to act with integrity in resolving these and the other specific nonattest services delineated in the Rule.
CPAs are considered in violation of the Integrity and Objectivity Rule if they cannot show they applied safeguards that eliminated or reduced significant threats to an acceptable level.
Other nonattest services provided to attest clients include bookkeeping, payroll and other disbursement services which may create self-review and management participation threats to the CPA’s compliance with the Rule. However, if the CPA applies the General Requirements for Performing Nonattest Services interpretation of the Rule, these threats would be at an acceptable level and independence likely would not be impaired.
Because the nature and extent of nonattest services varies, an interpretation of the Rule may not exist for all nonattest services CPAs may provide to their attest clients. When
When a CPA performs multiple nonattest services for an attest client, the significance of these and other threats increases. The Code requires the CPA to evaluate the
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cumulative effect of performing multiple nonatttest services to determine if, in the aggregate, they create a significant threat to independence that cannot be reduced to an acceptable level. Evaluation of the cumulative effect of providing nonattest services, and the application of applicable safeguards,5 is required to be done before the CPA agrees to perform the nonattest services. In addition, the CPA is required to establish and document, in writing, his or her understanding with the attest client regarding the following as it relates to performing the nonattest services: • • • • •
Objectives of the nonattest services engagement Nonattest services to be performed Attest client’s acceptance of its responsibilities Responsibilities of the CPA Any limitations of the nonattest engagement
As long as the CPA establishes an understanding with the attest client, failure to prepare the required documentation is a violation of the Compliance With Standards Rule, rather than an impairment of independence.
who possesses suitable skill, knowledge and/or experience. The Code now requires the CPA to assess the designated individual’s skill, knowledge and/or experience and to be satisfied such individual understands the nonattest services to be performed sufficiently to oversee them. o Evaluate the adequacy and results of the nonattest services performed. o Accept responsibility for the results of the nonattest services. 2. The CPA does not assume management responsibilities (as discussed in the Management Responsibilities interpretation) when providing nonattest services and he or she is satisfied the attest client and its management will be able to: o Meet all of the criteria identified in (1) above. o Make an informed judgment on the results of the nonattest services provided. o Accept responsibility for making the significant judgments and decisions that are the proper responsibility of management.
Unless an interpretation of the Nonattest Services subtopic states otherwise, threats would be at an acceptable level, and independence would not be impaired, when all of the following safeguards are met:
Independence is impaired if the CPA performs nonattest services when the attest client is unable or unwilling (because of lack of time or desire) to assume the above noted responsibilities.
1. The CPA determines the attest client and its management agree to: o Assume all management responsibilities as described in the Management Responsibilities interpretation. o Oversee the nonattest services by designating an individual, preferably within senior management,
Creditors, investors and others in the financial community rely on the objectivity and integrity of CPAs. Therefore, it is critical that CPAs providing nonattest services to attest clients recognize the importance of serving the public interest in such circumstances. The Code provides a framework for performing high-quality attest services in all circumstances with competence, integrity, objectivity ➡
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and independence. To ensure CPAs lead by example when performing nonattest services for attest clients, it is necessary for them to fully understand their responsibilities under the revised Code, including application of the Framework when appropriate. FCT Lynda M. Dennis, CPA, PhD received her PhD in public affairs and her master’s in public administration from the University of Central Florida, and her under graduate degree in accounting and finance from the University of West Florida. She is a Certified Government Finance Officer and a full-time lecturer in the Kenneth Dixon School of Accounting at the University of Central Florida. She also is a contract CPE discussion leader and course developer in the areas of accounting and reporting for governmental and not-for-profit organizations. Dennis’ experience includes serving in a financial capacity, including chief financial officer, in governmental and not-for-profit organizations primarily in Florida. Her experience also includes working as an auditor for local and Big 4 firms with an emphasis in the insurance, government and not-for-profit sectors. Dennis actively participates in committee and other volunteer work for the AICPA and FICPA and is a frequent speaker at governmental and not-for-profit accounting
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conferences. She has published several CPE courses and a book on strategy implementation (for governmental and not-for-profit organizations).
Endnotes The Code of Professional Conduct (the Code) applies to members of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants that are in public practice and business as well as other members. Prior to the 2014 revisions, standards relating to independence were primarily in Ethics Rule 101 and its various interpretations. The revised Code uses a numeric indexing system and the standards relating to ethical conflicts, integrity and objectivity, as well as independence are found in Part 1 sections 1.000, 1.100, and 1.200. 2 The term CPA as used in this article refers to an individual CPA and/or a CPA’s firm. 3 This article discusses only a few of these requirements. See interpretations of the Nonattest Services subtopic of the Code for a complete discussion of these requirements. 4 A discussion of the numerous safeguards included in the Code is outside the scope of this article. Please see the Code for a full discussion of safeguards the CPA may apply in various circumstances. 5 See the General Requirements for Performing Nonattest Services interpretation of the Code for a complete discussion of these requirements. 1
A
How Prevalent is By Dr. Lynn H. Clements, CPA, CFE, CGMA and Dr. Tara Shawver, CMA
rrest warrants for embezzlements, employee fraud, customer fraud, vendor fraud and financial statement fraud are commonly reported in the news. No matter how many fraudsters are caught and convicted, the problem appears to be growing instead of diminishing. Accounting professionals are in a great position to recognize fraud and often can uncover it before a company is beyond the point of recovery, if they’re trained to search for fraud and report their findings. But to recognize fraud, professionals need to know which frauds are prevalent. First, we need a definition of fraud, and, specifically, occupational fraud. AU-C §240.11 defines fraud as, “An intentional act by one of more individuals among management, those charged with governance, employees, or third parties, involving the use of deception that results in a misstatement in financial statements that are the subject of an audit.”1 According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), an estimated 5 percent of revenues are lost to organizations, which translates to approximately $3.7 trillion globally.2 In their report, the ACFE considers there to be three categories of occupational fraud: 1) asset misappropriations; 2) corruption; and 3) financialstatement fraud. So, what types of occupational fraud are most prevalent? To answer that, we developed a list of 12 scenarios (four from each of ACFE’s three categories). We then asked a group of FICPA members at a chapter meeting whether they agreed or disagreed with the statement, “This situation occurs in many organizations today” using a scale of one (strongly disagree that the situation occurs) to seven (strongly agree that the situation occurs). The results are not unexpected – but they are alarming.
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Exhibit 1 lists the 12 actions in order of how often they are believed to occur. We included one action that is neither fraudulent nor unethical: “A staff accountant prepares the annual schedule of inventory obsolescence and sends it to the controller for approval. The controller reduces the estimate and provides reasonable justification and disclosure for the change.” We expected that scenario to be the most common, since it simply is a good business practice and is not fraudulent or unethical. It was the second most common scenario reported. The most common scenario was this: “A purchasing agent often chooses businesses that are owned by personal friends or family to provide services to the company without disclosing the personal relationship.” This isn’t fraudulent, but it is unethical and provides an opportunity for fraud. According to the AICPA, “A perceived opportunity to commit fraud may exist when an individual believes internal control can be overridden (for example, because the individual is in a position of trust or has knowledge of specific deficiencies in internal control).”3 Also, AU-C §240.A75 states that opportunities to engage in fraudulent financial reporting can arise from significant related party transactions that are not in the ordinary course of business. The third most frequently cited action, “The warehouse supervisor places inventory in his personal vehicle,” does not necessarily indicate fraud. However, it is a red flag indicating a need to probe further. The remaining nine scenarios are fraudulent – and the accountants surveyed believe they occur frequently (between 3.3 and 4.8 on a seven-point scale.) Sadly, fraud continues to abound. The 2014 Report to the Nations on Occupational Fraud and Abuse reported a median of $145,000 lost to fraud, but 22percent of the frauds reported exceeded $1 million. With internal and external pressure for company managers to achieve
Occupational Fraud? earnings targets and/or achieve expected outcomes, and with myriad opportunities to defraud, it should be no surprise that fraud continues. The 2014 Report to the Nations offers many recommendations. Two of them are especially noteworthy. First, accounting professionals should be trained to recognize behavioral warning signs. Certain employee behavioral traits (such as living beyond their means or having unusually close relationships with vendors or customers) were present in 92 percent of the frauds reported in the report. Second, proactive data monitoring and analysis should become more common for accounting professionals. Only 35 percent of the victim organizations in the study had used those procedures. We hope accounting professionals will think more about the pressure to commit fraud, search for it more extensively and expose it more – and that as a result, fewer people will be willing to commit fraud. Dr. Lynn H. Clements, CPA, CFE, CGMA is the Dorotha C. Tanner chair in Ethics in Business & Economics; director of the Institute of Accounting Excellence; senior
editor of Journal of Accounting and Free Enterprise; and director of the Master of Accountancy program at the Barney Barnett School of Business & Economics at Florida Southern College. Her research interests include financialreporting, ethics, whistleblowing and fraud. Dr. Tara J. Shawver, CMA is a professor of accounting at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. She earned her doctor of business administration degree with a concentration in accounting from Nova Southeastern University. Shawver is a member of the American Accounting Association and the Institute of Management Accountants. She has authored or co-authored numerous articles that have appeared in professional journals. Her research interests include financial reporting, ethics, whistleblowing, fraud and ethics education.
Endnotes AICPA ACFE, Report to the Nations, 2014 3 AU-C §240.A1 1 2
“We developed a list of 12 scenarios and asked FICPA members if they agreed the situations occur in organizations today. The results are not unexpected – but they are alarming.”
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Exhibit 1 Statement: “This situation occurs in many organizations today.” 1. A purchasing agent often chooses businesses that are owned by personal friends or family to provide services to the company without disclosing the personal relationship. 2. A staff accountant prepares the annual schedule of inventory obsolescence and sends it to the controller for approval. The controller reduces the estimate and provides reasonable justification and disclosure for the change. 3. The warehouse supervisor places inventory in his personal vehicle. 4. The controller removes several invoices from the box of “invoices to be processed” and states that these invoices should not be paid until the next quarter. 5. An employee accepts a payment from a customer, places the money in his pocket and does not record the sale of the merchandise. 6. The controller ignores all of the customer returns received during the last week of the fourth quarter, planning to record them in the following fiscal year. 7. An employee purchases personal items and submits an invoice to the employer for payment. 8. The controller records twelve-month service contract revenue when payment is received. These service contract revenues were previously recognized over the 12 month life of the service contract. 9. A manager often receives undisclosed cash payments from customers for preferential pricing for company products. 10. The controller authorizes the capitalization of routine maintenance expenses of production machinery. 11. A staff accountant prepares a schedule of depreciation on production machinery using the company’s normal useful lives and depreciation methods, and then sends it to the controller for approval. The controller changes the depreciation methods and increases the useful lives of the production machinery without providing additional justification or disclosure for the change. 12. The controller creates a fictitious company that bills your employer for services not actually rendered. * On a scale of 1 (strongly disagree) to 7 (strongly agree).
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Average* 5.07 4.91 4.89 4.82 4.64 4.30 4.28 4.14 4.05 4.02 3.95
3.33
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Patrick Murphy Putting Florida First in Washington
I
t is rare to hear that a CPA is running for elected office. It’s even rarer to hear of a CPA being elected to the U.S. Senate. According to the Senate Historical Office, only one CPA – Hank Brown (R-Colorado, 1991-97) – has held a Senate seat. At age 32, Congressman Patrick Murphy has set his sights on being the second CPA to do so, and is off to a running start. “Florida, and the United States, are fortunate to have Patrick dedicated to our service,” said FICPA President/ CEO Deborah Curry, CPA, CGMA. “His experience and knowledge as a businessperson and financial professional are well suited to placing this country on a path of fiscal responsibility. He focuses on the task and seeks consensus to achieve the results – character traits that honor the CPA profession.” In the U.S. Congress Murphy has united with other CPAs serving in the House of Representatives, forming a bipartisan CPA and accountants’ caucus. He is proud of the credential, and that translates into leadership on issues that matter most to CPAs in Florida and elsewhere. As a candidate for Senate, he has rallied the support of several of the most prominent members of Florida’s Democratic Party and already has received the AICPA’s support. “From the moment I met Patrick, I was impressed by his commitment to solving problems in a bipartisan and common-sense manner,” said AICPA President and CEO Barry Melancon. “He has reached across party lines to do what is best for Florida and America. When Patrick asks, ‘How can I help?’ he means it. I wish we could clone him.” We spoke with Murphy recently about his motivation for serving in public office, and his aspirations for the future. Where are you from originally? I was born and raised in the Florida Keys and I’ve spent my entire life on the Florida Coast.
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How did you like to spend your free time growing up? And how do you spend it now? My family always jokes I could swim before I could walk and I could fish before I could talk. Anything to do with the water – boating, fishing, diving, anything outdoors – is how I like to spend my free time. I love sail fishing, tuna fishing and spear fishing. Where and when did you earn your accounting degree? I graduated from the University of Miami in 2006 with a degree in finance and accounting before I went to work as an auditor at Deloitte and Touche. Why did you decide to pursue accounting as a career? Throughout college I worked various jobs at the family business, a construction company. I worked in the accounting department and in the estimating department, and on job sites – my first job was digging holes as a laborer. So after experiencing a lot of different parts of the business, I realized I liked the financial side of the business. I enjoyed the accounting piece of it, and that was a career path and an area I wanted to dive into and learn more about. Tell us what working in public accounting taught you. What lessons did you learn, and how have they impacted your life? You need to be detail oriented. One of the first pieces of legislation I put forward was called the SAVE Act. This year’s version identified $480 billion in duplicative, fraudulent government spending. Once you get into the finer details you can see numerous ways to save taxpayer money. That is certainly something you learn as a CPA and as an auditor. What advice would you give 20-year-old Patrick Murphy, or other up-and-coming CPAs? To follow their heart – whatever their desire is, what wakes them up in the morning. To find the career path that fits. I think it’s especially challenging for 18-, 19- or ➡
From FICPA staff reports
“It’s my job to be the voice of everybody – it doesn’t matter what party they belong to or where they’re from. I’m their voice in Washington.”
Patrick Murphy was born and raised in the Florida Keys and has spent his life on the Florida Coast. Here, he visits Jupiter Inlet lighthouse in Jupiter. FLORIDA CPA TODAY
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20-year olds who go to college, pick a major and decide what they want to do for the rest of their lives. Often times they’ve never worked in the private sector. I’d encourage them to do their best to find internships at various jobs, and try to find that career path that makes them happy – and not be scared to change gears if they’re unhappy. Because no matter what it is they end up doing, if they’re passionate about it, they’ll be successful. What are your thoughts about the importance of, or your approach to, work/life balance? I don’t mind working long hours. I got used to it at Deloitte. I still keep up an 80-100 hour work week. But I love my job. I enjoy what I’m doing, I enjoy representing my district. There’s no question – it does take a toll on your personal life. There are things I simply do not have time to do. But I do enjoy seeing my family and friends as often as I can. And if I can convince them to come fishing with me, all the better. Have you had role models in your life, and what have you learned from them? My biggest role model is my dad. He spent his life here in Florida and built a successful business. Two things I especially learned from him are the value of hard work and attitude. When I heard him give advice about the business, attitude was, in his opinion, the most important thing about how you approach any situation. Unfortunately we’re all going to face troubling times and circumstances in our lives. But how you deal with it – your attitude toward it – is the most important thing.
That’s a Fact How many people are in your family? I have two half-brothers and a cousin who’s like a brother. My brothers are 12-13 years older than I, so I’m almost like an only child. What was your first car? A Ford F-150 What was your first dog and what was his name? A golden retriever named Boomer What’s your favorite sports team? The Miami Hurricanes Who’s your favorite Floridian? Former U.S. Sen. Bob Graham 18 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
Serving in the U.S. Congress is a tremendous personal, professional and political achievement. What kind of person does it take to successfully serve in public office? No. 1, your passion and desire to serve has to come from deep inside. It can’t just be a whim. There are some very grueling times – whether it’s the negativity, or seeing your name in an article you don’t agree with, or the frustration of serving in areas of gridlock, with which we’re all too familiar. Being committed to solving problems – not being part of the problem – is key. Probably one of the most important things we need to do is to get more “problem solvers” – people who are willing to compromise, and understand that they’re not going to get 100 percent of a deal – but if they can get 80 percent of a deal, take that and move on to the next issue. What have you enjoyed most, and what’s been the most difficult, about being a member of the U.S. House of Representatives? I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to meet so many people from across the district and the state, and know that I’ve been able to help a lot of those folks. I think the vast majority of people who get into public service do it to help others. I’ve tried to place a unique emphasis on spending time with Floridians, hearing their problems and finding ways to address them – whether it’s helping a senior with Medicare or a veteran with the Veteran’s Administration, or addressing the violence in some of our communities, or the education woes. There are so many different areas. By meeting and going to so many different groups and constituencies, you learn some specifics and can be a part of legislation to help. The most difficult
Murphy’s Laws Murphy is a member of the House Financial Services Committee, which has jurisdiction over the CPA profession’s issues. His colleagues seek his advice and counsel on related matters that come before the committee and the House for consideration. Here’s a summary of legislation Murphy has supported and opposed in advocacy of the profession. Co-sponsored and actively supports Mobile Workforce legislation. This bill would ease burdens on employers and employees who travel across state lines for work. Currently, Floridians pay state income taxes in other states but don’t receive reimbursement/credit for those taxes. Co-sponsored HR 901 the Tax Return Due Date Simplification and Modernization Act (last Congress). The bill better facilitates pass-through information required of taxpayers involved in partnerships when filing federal tax returns, and creates a more logical flow of information between taxed entities. Co-sponsored appraiser/fiduciary definition bills (last Congress), keeping appraisers from being considered fiduciaries under ERISA. Signed a letter to Treasury Secretary Jack Lew on IRS taxpayer services. The letter asks the secretary to review IRS services and provide options for improvement for the FY2015 filing season. Voted for a bill prohibiting the PCAOB from requiring auditor rotation (HR 1564) in June 2013. The profession strongly supported the bill. Supports the profession’s position of adding accounting to STEM.
thing about serving in Congress has been finding ways to break through the gridlock. We’re probably in the most polarizing time in our nation’s history, and that gridlock is keeping us from doing the work the American people expect and, quite frankly, deserve. Is there one moment where you felt a connection with a constituent and said, “You know what? This is why I’m here”. There’ve been several of those moments. The toughest day I’ve had in Congress was only a few months after I was sworn in, and went to the airport to receive the body of a young man who was killed overseas at war. His family was there and my job was to help receive his body off the plane, receive the folded American flag and deliver it to his family, and give some remarks about his service to our country and what his sacrifice means. That was a very sobering moment and something I will always remember. Anytime there’s any debate about foreign affairs involving our brave women and men abroad, that’s the first thing that enters my mind. Staying in touch with his family throughout my tenure here, and making sure his life is remembered correctly, is something that definitely stays with me. It’s been a busy week in the news relating not only to Greece, but to high-level security threats around the world. As you look toward the U.S. Senate, what do you think are our country’s most important challenges? The single biggest challenge we face in our country is the disappearing middle class. I think the same factors that helped build that middle class are, in large part, the things FLORIDA CPA TODAY
that need to be addressed to fix it. Assessing and investing in education; reforming our tax code, to making sure America is competitive domestically and internationally; investing in our infrastructure; strengthening Social Security and Medicare; ensuring that folks who want to invest in property have that opportunity and aren’t stuck in rental pools. I think those are some of the fundamental pillars that have to be addressed. And in doing that, we have to avoid partisanship and find the middle ground. By working together and focusing on this task, that’s where we can make real progress. What’s your favorite part of campaigning? I love getting to know people. I’m really looking forward to going to every county and getting to know the various issues, and how I can be effective. My title is “Representative,” right? It’s my job to be the voice of everybody – it doesn’t matter what party they belong to or where they’re from. I’m their voice in Washington. So that’s one of my favorite things – sitting down with folks in their living room and really digging in to what’s going on in their community. And more often than not, there are some local issues my office can help with. Our office has been able to do some great things for folks and I look forward to doing that at an even higher level. Why is being an FICPA member important to you? I’m proud to be a CPA and believe it’s important for leaders in Florida and Washington to know how valuable CPAs are from economic growth and policy-making perspectives. The FICPA’s communication of that value is important to me as a member. FCT www.ficpa.org
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the spotlight
Transitions Boca Raton: Grau & Associates promoted David Caplivski to audit manager.
Ryan Barnes
Curt Castetter
Chicago: BDO USA, LLP announces an expansion into Central Florida through the addition of 95 professionals and staff from Cross, Fernandez & Riley, LLP. Florida offices: James Moore is pleased to announce that Katharine Lavenhagen and Justyna Mueller have been promoted to manager; Andrea Newman has been promoted to nonprofit tax director; Kyle Paxton has been promoted to staff consultant in the accounting and controllership services department; and Alfredo Ruiz has been promoted to senior accountant. Also, the firm welcomes Rick Feldman as a senior consultant. Hialeah: Ed Duarte joined Foreign Parts Distributors Inc. to become their chief financial officer.
Ed Duarte
Oksana Gonzalez
Jacksonville: The LBA Group is pleased to announce that Curt Castetter has been named partner at the firm. Also, Emily Cornaire, Scott Mattson and Becky Mincer have been named principals of the firm. And, Mark Klebe, Daniel Brock, and Jennifer Koopman have been promoted to senior tax manager; Therese Zeman has been promoted to senior manager; and Oksana Gonzalez has been promoted to tax manager.
Becky Mincer
Tallahassee: Thomas Howell Ferguson (THF) welcomes Leigh Jenkins as the new assurance services department manager and welcomes Gabe Crook and Trevor Godfrey to the assurance services department. Also, the firm congratulates Ryan Barnes on passing the CPA exam and becoming a fulltime member of THF.
Who’s News
Linda B. Trugman
Miami: Berkowitz Pollack Brant announces that David E. Kolan has been promoted to directorin-charge of the firm’s audit and attest services practice. Miami: Walter Villela and Josh Shilts announce they have merged their practices for form Villela & Shilts LLC. Also, they’ve launched their new website – www.villelashilts.com. Pensacola: Jennifer Mostert of Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund has been promoted to manager. St. Petersburg: Gregory, Sharer & Stuart is proud to announce and congratulate three new shareholders: Victoria (Toria) R. Bartlett, Bo S. Brault and Scott C. Pearce.
Averett Warmus Durkee with offices in Orlando and Central Florida, announces that the not-for-profit organization Opportunity, Community, Ability presented its first annual Sandi Breitenstein Volunteer of the Year Award in honor of Sandi Breitenstein, who was a shareholder of the firm until she passed away earlier this year. Richard A. Berkowitz of Berkowitz Pollack Brant in Miami has been honored by the University of Miami Citizens Board with its Joyce A. Galya Excellence Award. Cross, Fernandez & Riley LLP in Orlando has been named one of the best places to work for millennial employees in America. Maria del Calvo-Hevia of Ocariz, Garrastacho, Hevia LLP in Coral Gables has been named treasurer of the Commercial Real Estate Women’s Miami Chapter. ➡ Pg. 22
For more news about members and other Florida CPAs, visit CPAs in the Spotlight at www.ficpa.org/Content/News/Spotlight.aspx. The space for Who’s News, Transitions and other announcements published on this page is limited to news focusing on promotions and new hires for FICPA members; speeches by members at professional conferences; and other firm news, such as recognition of business achievements. We do not publish FICPA committee appointments as a part of this feature because of space limitations. Submissions for CPAs in the Spotlight can be emailed to communications@ ficpa.org.
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FLORIDA CPA TODAY
www.ficpa.org
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C PA s I N
the spotlight
➡ Continued from Pg. 20
FICPA Past President Berri Davis recently was a witness before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs at a hearing entitled: Examining Federal Improper Payments and Errors in the Death Master File. She has been working at the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) since 2011and is a director in the Financial Management and Assurance team, where she is responsible for the audits of numerous federal programs. In her position with the GAO, Berri has testified five times before Congress. The EY-Earthwatch Ambassadors Program, a collaboration between EY and the Earthwatch Institute, provided more than 13,000 hours of pro bono consulting and environmental research in Latin America. The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship in the Florida State University College of Business
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has appointed Allison Harrell, a shareholder with Thomas Howell Ferguson in Tallahassee, to its North Florida Outreach Fellows Program.
Mario Nowogrodzki of Mendelson Consulting in Pembroke Pines has been chosen among the Top 10 QuickBooks ProAdvisors of 2015.
Kerkering, Barberio & Co., announces that its Young Professionals, in conjunction with Leading Edge Alliance, participated in the fifth annual Global Volunteer Week. For its part, Kerkering Barberio’s Young Professionals raised more than $1,700 in donations for Save Our Seabirds. Also, the firm was named to the second annual Accounting MOVE Project Equity Leadership List.
Stroemer & Company was named the Associate Member of the Year at the Florida Association of Special Districts Annual Conference.
Gerard “Jerry” McHale of McHale, Caruso, Scullion & Knox in Fort Myers has been named to the American Bankruptcy Institute’s Commercial Fraud Committee. For the sixth consecutive year, the entire staff of Myers, Brettholtz & Company will volunteer as Meals on Wheels drivers for the summer.
Trugman Valuation Associates Inc. in Plantation announces that Linda B. Trugman has been elected to serve as international president of the American Society of Appraisers and that Gary R. Trugman has been elected to serve on the Business Valuation Committee of the American Society of Appraisers. Warren Averett Asset Management LLC in Birmingham announces that it has been named to the Financial Times 300 Top Registered Investment Advisers. Also, the firm is ranked as one of the Top Fee-Only Wealth Management Firms in the country by CNBC. FCT
FLORIDA CPA TODAY
www.ficpa.org
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STAFF
reports
From FICPA staff reports
Governmental Affairs
Young CPAs
By Justin Thames, director of governmental affairs
By Jennifer Allen, student initiatives manager
Legislators Begin Special Sessions
T
he Florida Legislature has gone into extra innings this summer after they abruptly concluded the 2015 Session. The first of three Special Sessions was called to address the budget shortfalls caused by disagreements over health care funding. The second was announced after the Florida Supreme Court ruled eight congressional districts, constructed by the Legislature during the redistricting period, were flawed and needed to be redrawn. After additional scrutiny the Legislature admitted the state Senate districts also needed to be redrawn, because they wouldn’t meet with voter-approved “fair districts” amendments requirements if challenged in court. The ripple effect of redrawing Congressional and state Senate district maps will make big changes to the 2016 ballot. The shifting of wouldbe candidates and opportunistic incumbents likely will continue into November. Until the dust settles, there will be much speculation about the names voters will see on their ballots at the polls. FCT For more information as the 2016 elections approach, see the FICPA governmental affairs e-newsletter, IMPACT Report (archives at www. ficpa.org/impactreport).
Students Gain Valuable Experience at Leadership Symposium
T
he FICPA’s first Accounting Scholars Leadership Symposium (ASLS) was held June 1112 in conjunction with the Mega CPE Conference in Orlando. TwentyFICPA student members network in the Exhibit Hall during the 2015 Mega four students CPE Conference. Pictured left to right: Ashley Mulet, Stancey Kwakwa, attended the Natasha Velez, Amanda Read, Tamieka Christopher, Patrick Cala and Joseph Huard. symposium, an invitational program for the best and the brightest college On the first day, CPA guest speakers students to strengthen their professional discussed various careers in accounting; skills and learn about the limitless interviewing and resume-writing skills; possibilities and benefits of the CPA strategies for acing the CPA exam; and credential. More than 40 students applied becoming a workplace leader. Students for the program. enjoyed lunch with Mega Conference attendees and had professional photos “This program offered an abundant amount taken. They ended day one with a special of knowledge that will help me achieve all I etiquette dinner taught by FICPA Chair aspire to accomplish,” said Ashley Mulet of Mia Thomas. On the second day, students Florida International University. “It showed sat through one CPE session of their me where to look and it’s now my obligation choice, toured Disney Park and Resorts to foresee my future and strive each day to Financial Department and dined in the attain it.” cafeteria before departure. ASLS was built from the model of the “Thank you so much for the opportunity Minority Summer Residency Program to be a part of this program. It was of (MSRP), which was aimed at minority a tremendous value to me,” said Alina community college and high school students Gridley of Florida Atlantic University. “I interested in exploring the accounting learned a lot, made very good connections profession. At the end of the week, all and gained the confidence to proceed attendees confirmed they planned to sit for the CPA exam within two years. with getting my CPA license.” FCT
New and Newly Certified Members The FICPA welcomes many new members throughout the year and congratulates those who recently have become certified. Visit www.ficpa.org/newmembers to meet our new members. Visit www.ficpa.org/newlycertified to congratulate our newly certified members. 24 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
FLORIDA CPA TODAY
www.ficpa.org
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NEWS
briefs
West Appointed Assistant Vice President and University Controller
F
ICPA Director Alan West recently was appointed as assistant vice president and university controller at the University of Florida. In this position, he will oversee the day-today functions of the finance and accounting department. Alan West, CPA
West previously served as a senior associate controller for the university and as assistant vice president, advancement services and controller of the UF Foundation, where he oversaw the financial management of assets of more than $1.8 billion. West is a Chartered Global Management Accountant and holds an MBA from Nova Southeastern University. He is involved with several local charitable Boards and is a member of the AICPA Council. FCT
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Monk Appointed to FAF’s Private Company Council
H
arold L. Monk Jr., a Gainesvillebased partner with Carr, Riggs & Ingram LLC, was appointed Tuesday as a new member of the Private Company Council (PCC) by the Financial Accounting Foundation (FAF) Board of Trustees. The appointment is effective Jan. 1, 2016. “Harold Monk is an accounting icon, having been named numerous times by Accounting Today as one of the 100 most influential people in accounting,” said FICPA President/ CEO Deborah Curry, CPA, CGMA. “He never stops learning or giving to the profession.” Monk served as a member of the AICPA’s governing Council and its Board of Directors. He chaired the Auditing Standards Board and the
Private Companies Practice Section Executive Committee, and was president of the Accounting Research Association.
Harold L. Monk Jr., CPA, CFE
Monk was appointed by former U.S. Comptroller General David Walker to the Government Accountability Office’s Advisory Committee on Auditing Standards. He also has taught auditing as an adjunct faculty member of the University of Florida’s School of Accounting. FCT
Florida Trend Names FICPA Firms Best Companies to Work For
F
lorida Trend recently released its 2015 list of “Best Companies to Work For in Florida.” Among this year’s honorees were five FICPA-member firms: Best midsized companies • Cross, Fernandez & Riley in Orlando – No. 12 • Berkowitz Pollack Brant in Miami – No. 16 • Gregory, Sharer & Stuart, CPAs in St. Petersburg – No. 17 Best small companies • Ennis, Pellum & Associates, CPAs in Jacksonville – No. 9 • Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Co. in Fort Myers – No. 20 FCT To see the complete Florida Trend list, visit www.ficpa.org/floridatrend.
FLORIDA CPA TODAY
www.ficpa.org
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DOR
update
DOR Administers Central Parts of Tax Package By Danielle Scoggins, director, legislative and cabinet services
H
B 33A, a tax package including reductions to the state’s cell phone and TV tax, became effective July 1 (with certain exceptions). It comprises more than $400 million in tax cuts. The Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) is responsible for implementing numerous provisions of the law, including some key features: a 10-day, back-to-school sales tax holiday in August; a one-year sales tax exemption on the purchase of college textbooks; a permanent rate reduction of 1.73 percent on the Communications Services Tax; various new or expanded sales-tax exemptions; and modifications to the Corporate Income Tax.
DOR has published Tax Information Publications (TIPs) explaining the new law. They are available at dor.myflorida.com in the Current Topics box, and in the Quick Links box under Revenue Law Library. In late summer, DOR will offer a PostLegislative Review summarizing legislation DOR is implementing. The review will be available at dor.myflorida.com in the Quick Links box under About Us. FCT Contact Danielle Scoggins at scogginsd@dor. state.fl.us for more information.
Website to Feature New Videos, Mobile Apps DOR continues to work on Phase 2 of its website-redesign project. The redesigned site will have a new look and feel and will feature streamlined, user-friendly content. Phase 2 of the project includes the addition of new YouTube videos and mobile apps. Contact Renee Watters at wattersr@dor.state.fl.us for more information.
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FLORIDA CPA TODAY
www.ficpa.org
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Positions available Kendall-area CPA firm is seeking to hire a tax manager(s) CPA w/nearterm partnership potential. The candidate(s) must have a strong tax background & personal skills. Compensation will be commensurate w/the candidate’s ability. Our firm has a good reputation & is well-established & profitable. Reply to reply@ficpa.org & reference file number R PA 09 10 15.
We are a mid-sized health care organization in Miami looking for an accountant/CPA. Must have at least 3-5 yrs experience. A master’s degree & experience w/ corporate accounting & health care is preferred. Please send resumes to applicants@kidzmedical.com. Ahearn Jasco + Company, one of Broward’s oldest & most recognized public accounting firms, is hiring tax accountants
w/1-3 yrs of exp in public accounting. Bachelor’s degree in accounting, CPA or actively pursuing CPA certification by sitting for all scheduled exam sections. Compiled F/S through the tax preparation of individual, corporate, partnership & S corp returns is required, along w/strong account reconciliation skills. We offer motivated graduates a competitive salary & benefits & a friendly, team-oriented environment to
For complete classified policies, visit www.ficpa.org/Content/CPAResources/ClassifiedsJobs/Classifieds.aspx. 30 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
start achieving their accounting goals. Visit our website at www. ahearncpa.com & send your resume to hr@ahearncpa.com. Assistant controller, Fort Pierce Utilities Authority – This full-time position assures that financial & statistical information presented to internal & external users is correct & presented in a timely manner & that adequate records are maintained; requires considerable judgment in planning & organizing, as well as in implementing mgmt objectives; requires considerable knowledge of computer systems & ability to identify & correct complex system or procedural problems. Proficient in Word 2013 & Excel 2013; Dynamics GP acct system exp; prefer bachelor’s deg. w/ major in accounting, finance or business administration; requires 4 yrs accounting exp & supvisory exp preferred. Apply at Fort Pierce Utilities Authority’s employment page located at http://agency. governmentjobs.com/fortpierce/ default.cfm. Sarasota-based statewide trade association seeks accountant to prepare monthly financial statements; accounts payable; payroll, etc. Approx. 10-15 hrs/ week; 5 yrs experience; Peachtree experience preferred. Email Wendy@floridapoolpro.com for additional information. Fiduciary tax accountant III, Jacksonville – Senior fiduciary tax accountant. Prepares & reviews complex fiduciary returns, achieves client-focused service standards, effectively
FLORIDA CPA TODAY
manages risk. Recognized expert in fiduciary & generation skipping tax; proven success in a highvolume processing environment; proficient in conducting tax research; demonstrated leader & key contributor. Qualifications: An undergraduate/graduate degree in accounting or tax; CPA certification or MST desired. A min of 7 yrs fiduciary tax experience required. Contact Susan Membrino, executive recruiter at Bank of America; (978) 779-9869 or susan.j.membrino@bankofamerica. com. Professional staff needed for dynamic CPA firm – dynamic CPA firm w/ offices in Bonita Springs/ Naples & New York seek CPAs (or CPA eligible) for its full-time staff. Requirements include 6 yrs+ of CPA firm experience, QuickBooks certified, preparation of GAAP financial statements, performing attest engagements & preparation of complex personal & business tax returns. A successful candidate will be a self-starter, team player, client focused & have excellent communication skills (oral & written). Please email resume, salary history & references to reply@ficpa.org & reference file number F PA 09 10 15.
communities. We are seeking a full time general accountant/CPA for tax preparation & client services. We offer a competitive salary & an excellent opportunity for growth. Email your resume to Cassy@ BeauchampEdwardsCPA.com.
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Access Florida CPA Today Archives Online For your convenience, Florida CPA Today articles from 1997-present are posted on the FICPA’s website at www. ficpa.org/Content/Members/ Tools/Publications/FCT/ Archives.aspx. The archives provide a variety of previously published information, including technical articles written by member CPAs, legislative updates, DOR and IRS updates and much more.
Tired of the rat race? Beauchamp and Edwards CPAs in Chiefland is the firm for you. We offer a family friendly atmosphere in a community that is a wonderful place to live, work, raise a family & call home. With excellent schools, churches & people, you are sure to have a quality of life that is not found in the urban
www.ficpa.org
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➡ Continued from Pg. 31
Polk County Clerk of Courts seeking accounting manager responsible for all areas of operation for the finance & accounting department to include payroll; revenue collections & reporting; BoCC minutes & records; & the Value
699 Billion
$
Estimated Value of Homes in Florida Community Associations
Adjustment Board. Submit resume to ivaturner@polk-county.net. Okaloosa County firm looking for experienced, partner track CPA(s). Your career will start immediately with reviewing compiled financials; preparing and reviewing tax returns; developing
9.9 7.9 Billion Million $
Estimated Annual Assessments of Florida Community Associations
#ficpaCIRA
32 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
Number of Residents in Florida Community Associations
1st 47,100 Number of Community Associations in Florida
Florida’s State Rank for Number of Community Associations
strong relationships with clients; and mentoring staff accountants. Our team approach to serving our clients requires excellent interpersonal skills, strong writing skills and exceptional accounting proficiency. This is a great location to live and work. Each member of our team knows and lives a good work/life balance. Please email resume, salary history & references to reply@ficpa.org & reference file number J PA 09 10 15. Experienced tax professional w/growing firm – Fort Myers CPA firm seeking a staff accountant w/public accounting experience. Working knowledge of tax (UltraTax), compilations & reviews is mandatory. CPA or CPA candidate preferred but not required. Professional social skills, work ethic & the ability to meet deadlines are crucial for this position to be successful. Experience: 5+ yrs tax; 4-yr accounting degree; business, trust & individual taxes; full-time plus tax season; self-starter & finisher; detail-oriented w/time mgmt, organizational skills & efficiency. Benefits: salary & benefits commensurate w/experience; license & continuing education paid; paid time off policy; team oriented, relaxed, friendly & professional atmosphere If so, please call (239) 278-4869, Ext. 314 & leave a message along w/your contact information. Adamson + Co., P.A. is hiring a tax manager w/a min of 15 yrs experience in public accounting, a min of 10 yrs of experience in a tax department & a Florida CPA license. Apply by sending resume to HumanResources@adamson-co.com.
Staff Accountant – Miami Gardens; entry level position w/nationwide rental company. Competitive salary & benefits. CPA required. Prepare tax returns, financial statements & bank reconciliations. Perform audits & monitor asset acquisition & disposition. Email info@ rentmywedding.com. Panhandle – Expanding Pensacola CPA & financial services firm seeking additional team members w/3+ years of public accounting experience, good social skills & a solid work ethic. Respond to reply@ficpa.org & reference file number O PA 09 10 15.
Well-established South Broward CPA firm seeking to share office space in class “B+” building located near all major highways. Willing to relocate for the right situation. Email inquiries to ajcpapa@aol.com or call Cary at (954) 985-1040. Boca Raton CPA firm looking to rent out a newly-renovated single office. Additional space available for an associate, if needed. Great opportunity to share resources or work together. Please call Mike at (954) 798-4744.
Practices wanted for purchase or merger
Growing South Florida CPA firm looking to purchase a practice from a retirement-minded CPA in Dade or Broward County. Favorable purchase terms offered w/continuing employment opportunities available. Please contact Jeffrey Taraboulos at info@ ksdt-cpa.com or (305) 670-3370.
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Venice-based CPA/PFS (former tax partner with an international firm) with a thriving tax & financial planning practice is looking to joint venture with a local CPA. We need help from this coming tax season to prepare tax returns for our 250300 tax clients. We have space available in our upscale office for a sole practitioner looking to add feebased financial planning to his/her practice. Email resume to reply@ ficpa.org & reference file number N PA 09 10 15.
Office Space Dadeland-area CPA has ofc & cubicles available for lease in CPA suite. Furnished, floor-toceiling windows, conference room, kitchen, telephone & other ofc equipment, filing cabinets & Internet access included. Free parking. Call (305) 661-1040 or email ronweintraubcpa@bellsouth.net.
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➡ Continued from Pg. 33 Established quality Fort Lauderdale CPA firm seeks to acquire practice from retirement-minded CPA w/ transition of your choice. Email inquiries to ajcpapa@aol.com or call Cary at (954) 985-1040. Broward County (Margate) CPA firm seeking merger partner. Sole practitioner retiring in 3 yrs. 2014 collections $420K, 3 full-time staff. Own ofc in new business park, 2,000 sq. ft. Call (954) 7011007 to inquire.
For sale
Successful transitions require experienced, confidential,
34 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
professional services you can trust. This is what Akins Professional Brokerage provides. Specializing exclusively in the brokerage of CPA firms, we have no upfront fees. List your firm with a professional. Call David Akins, CPA at (877) 2770272. Visit our website at www. ProfessionalCPAbroker.com.
Practices Wanted. Cash Buyers Waiting. List your practice w/ Florida’s No. 1 Accounting Brokerage Firm – Professional Accounting Sales. No upfront fees.
No long term listing agreements. Recent references available. Selling practices in Florida for over 32 years. Available for sale: Broward County $350,000; GainesvilleOcala area $650,000; Fort Lauderdale $1,250,000; Tampa Bay $525,000 & $285,000; Gainesville $750,000+; Naples area $200,000; Palm Beach County $275,000+ & $700,000; Miami $350,000+; many others. Contact Erwin Rosenblatt (561) 666-6737 or Leon Faris, CPA (800) 729-9031 w/Professional Accounting Sales or visit our website at www.cpasales.com.
We know CPAs and CPA regulations. The FICPA’s redesigned ethics courses go beyond the requirements, providing you with real-world applications of the practices that safeguard your career. Make your entire organization solid on ethics with the FICPA’s group learning solutions via on-site training, seminars, webcasts and OnDemand.
OUR OUTSTANDING ETHICS DISCUSSION LEADERS Paul N. Brown William “Bill” Blend Gary A. Fracassi Richard Gray J. Edward Grossman Michael S. Kridel
Bonnie L. Mackey Charles E. Newman Cecil “Pat” Patterson Jr. Marc A. Spiewak Kenneth J. Strauss Irving Uncyk
The course complies with the ethics requirements for Florida CPAs established by the Florida Board of Accountancy.
www.ficpa.org/Ethics
F L O R I D A
Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants P.O. Box 5437 Tallahassee, FL 32314-5437
Ft. Lauderdale or Online Sept. 16-18, 2015 www.ficpa.org/AnnualShow #AnnualShowFICPA
Endorsed by: