The WashingtonCPA Magazine - September/October 2010 by Washington Society of CPAs

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CPA September/October 2010 Volume 53, Number 2

Elder Care Issue

Recognizing the Signs of Elder Abuse The Medicare Maze Medicaid Long-Term Care Coverage Long Term Care Insurance Financial Fraud Targeting Older Americans

Not All Money is Good Money: Evaluating Funding Sources

Health Care Reform: Potential Penalties for Employers under â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pay or Playâ&#x20AC;? Rules

Meet the Longest Serving CPA in Washington State

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Contents

wa s h i n g t o n

CPA www.wscpa.org • memberservices@wscpa.org Tel (425) 644-4800 • Toll free in WA (800) 272-8273 Fax (425) 562-8853 902 140th Ave NE Bellevue, WA 98005-3480 BOARD OF DIRECTORS James R. Ladd Chair Mark A. Hugh Vice Chair David E. Katri Secretary Mary D. Marino Treasurer Carmen J. Aguiar Immediate Past Chair Richard E. Jones President & CEO

Robert M. Cole, Jr. Jolene G. Cox Peter E. Doubleday Joyce G. Etheridge Michelle H. Gretsch Susan E. Legel Lucy L. Liu Nerelys M. Ortiz

Russell D. Price Thomas A. Pucci Lisa J. Sunderman David E. Trujillo Randy L. Wells William L. Wells Glenn G. Wisegarver

CHAPTER BOARD CHAIRS Bryce Hansen Bellevue Area Joseph Crowther Central Joseph M. Reid Central — North Seattle Richard E. Helke, II Northwest Vicki Dixon Olympia — Peninsula — Pierce County Amanda J. Goodman Sammamish Valley Connie L. Griffith Seattle Court Carter Snohomish County Michael K. Briggs South King County John Vogel South Sound Industry Trayson J. Harmon Southwest Shaun W. Johnson Spokane — Wenatchee Katrina L. Cantu Yakima

Elder Care Issue

6 8

Recognizing the Signs of Elder Abuse The Medicare Maze: How CPAs Can Help New Medicare Enrollees Plan for a Healthy Financial Future 9 Medicaid Long-Term Care Coverage in Washington State: An Update and a Caution 20 Understanding Long Term Care Insurance 22 Financial Fraud Targeting Older Americans 4

CPE Alternatives—How Do You Want Yours?

Rocky Mountain High ... and Advocacy?

Free Resource: Financial Statement Reviews

Not All Money is Good Money: Evaluating Funding Sources

The products and services advertised in The Washington CPA have not been reviewed or endorsed by the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants, its board of directors or staff.

Health Care Reform: Potential Penalties for Employers under the “Pay or Play” Rules

Meet the Longest Serving CPA in Washington State

The WashingtonCPA (USPS 009754) is published six times annually by the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants, 902 140th Avenue NE, Bellevue, WA 98005-3480. $12 of members’ annual dues goes toward a subscription to The WashingtonCPA.

Departments

Jeanette Kebede

Editor

The WashingtonCPA is published by the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants for its members. Views and opinions appearing in this publication are not necessarily endorsed by the WSCPA.

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WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Leadership lens

CPE Alternatives—How Do You Want Yours? By Rich Jones, CPA, President & CEO

ommunications experts say that people need to hear or see something as many as 15 times before a message registers. So consider this one of those times as it relates to changes in the CPE offerings at the WSCPA. In a survey of members conducted by the WSCPA last year, 91.7% of respondents reported that they complete a portion of their CPE with the WSCPA and these members reported that they obtain an average of 41.7% of their CPE from the WSCPA. CPE revenues account for 60-65% of revenues at the WSCPA, so it is clear that CPE programs at the WSCPA are important to members and to the long-term success of the organization. That is why I want to make sure you know about the changes we have made to our curriculum. As is true in most other businesses, the internet has changed the world of CPE. Nowhere is this more true than in the world of state CPA societies, since these organizations are geographically based, whereas the internet does not recognize geography. For example, if you are considering enrolling in an eight hour webcast on a particular subject, the identity of the program sponsor is probably of very little concern or interest to you, other than perhaps as a gauge for the quality of programs typically presented by that organization. In our member survey, the following were the top criteria that members reported as a factor in their CPE purchasing decision (using a scale of 1-5 with 5 being the highest): Relevance of topic Location Expected value of materials Cost Reputation of speaker

4.72 4.41 3.98 3.84 3.82

Our CPE team designed the current

offering of courses with these criteria in mind. Let’s look at how this played out in our current curriculum.

Relevance of Topic

We have added more than 150 webcasts and webinars to our course catalog for this year. These courses are delivered via the internet, most in a “live” session, i.e. there is an opportunity to ask questions of the speaker (electronically) in order to confirm concepts or apply the information presented in the seminar.

As is true in most other businesses, the internet has changed the world of CPE. Nowhere is this more true than in the world of state CPA societies, since these organizations are geographically based, whereas the internet does not recognize geography.

These courses have allowed us to provide a much broader spectrum of subject matter, since we do not need to have a critical mass of registrants at a particular location in order for the seminar to make economic sense. For example, we recently broadcast an outstanding conference from California that focused on key issues and best practices for working with high net worth and celebrity clients. The conference had over 200 people in attendance; five WSCPA members participated in the program online. Whether the WSCPA had five participants or 50, the program would still be

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

presented, so we were able to provide high quality relevant subject matter to our members without concern about the economic viability of the program. This creates real value for our members.

Location

We continue to offer more than 90 group live CPE programs outside of the Puget Sound every year. In addition to these live seminars and conferences, members are now able to participate in the Society’s online offerings without having to leave their home or office.

Expected Value of Materials

We know that CPE participants place great value on the printed course materials they receive and use these materials for future reference. We continue to provide these materials regardless of the medium being used to deliver the course and are making more of these materials available in an electronic format for those who prefer to have the materials accessible electronically.

Cost

In these tough economic times, it is clear that we are all looking for ways to maximize the value of our CPE expenditures.WSCPA course fees continue to be the lowest of any state CPA society in our region. Our standard fee for a member for an eight hour course is $265, which compares favorably to the fees of $280 to $315 for other states, and our fees include lunch, which is often not the case in other states. In addition, this year we have added some new low cost options for CPE, including the following: •

WA Pros—unlimited access to two hour webcasts for an annual fee of $175 to $289 (plus tax), depending on your area of interest (e.g. industry, nonprofit, public practice). www.wscpa.org

Leadership lens

Let’s Take Webcasts for a Test Drive “I, along with every member of the WSCPA Board of Directors, have committed to take at least eight hours of the WSCPA’s new online CPE this year. I invite and encourage you to join me in exploring this exciting new education format.”

•

Webinars (PowerPoint presentation with audio of speaker)—typically $20 for one hour

•

Webcasts (live webcast of program) o Two hour--$79 o Three hours--$99 o Four hours—$129 o Eight hours--$255

Reputation of Speaker

With our enhanced curriculum, you are able to learn from an additional lineup of talented speakers. Many of the new courses are also designed for a more experienced practitioner, which has been a member request for many years.

Jim Ladd, CPA WSCPA Chair

Summary

You can now pick the CPE courses and delivery mechanisms that best suit your needs and preferences. We are committed to responding to your feedback, so please register today for one or more courses and let us know what you think. Our Board of Directors has committed that each of them will take at least eight hours of new online

(webcast or webinar) CPE this year in order to better understand our offerings. I hope you will do the same and let us know what you like and what you would like to see changed. I promise we will listen. You can contact rjones@wscpa.org.

Rich

Jones

Online CPE... easy as 1, 2, 3 More than 150 webcasts Earn from 2 to 16 CPE credits per webcast

1 Select webcasts or webinars to attend (see page 35)

www.wscpa.org

Learn more View Select webcasts and register at webcasts and or webinarsonline www.wscpa.org webinars to attend (or call the Society) (see list at right)

Accounting and Auditing Employee Benefits Estate/Financial Planning Ethics Government/NFP Management Specialized Knowledge Taxation Technology

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

cover story

Elder Care

Recognizing the Signs of Elder Abuse By Randy R.Werner, J.D., LL.M., CPA, CAMICO

s the elderly population (those 65 and older) continues to grow, the incidence of financial abuse perpetrated against them has grown along with their numbers. When one considers that the elderly population is projected to grow to 80 million by 2050, the potential for widespread abuse becomes alarming. As trusted financial advisors, many CPAs have an intimate knowledge of client finances, business matters, and family dynamics, and they may be in a position to detect and prevent problems and to render assistance. It is therefore important to be aware of the main warning signs of elder financial abuse.

Signs of Exploitation

One of the more common and prominent warning signs is isolation. The abuser controls the elder’s social life, telling callers or visitors that the elder does not want to talk with them, or providing an excuse that prevents the elder from speaking with callers or visitors. The abuser then tells the elder that no one has called or visited and that the abuser is the only one who cares about the elder. Another common tactic is to tell the elder that if anyone asks questions, it is only for the purpose of placing the elder in a nursing facility. This intimidates the elder into refraining from speaking with anyone, including those who are trying to help. Signs of intimidation or threats would include unusual submissiveness or fear toward the caregiver, withdrawn behavior, or anxiety about personal finances and other issues. While some elder abuse is perpetrated by family members, much is carried on by strangers who insinuate themselves into the senior’s life, whether as a new caregiver, friend, romantic interest or even as a financial “advisor.” All too often, seniors who feel isolated in retirement are vulnerable to this kind of approach.

While some elder abuse is perpetrated by family members, much is carried on by strangers who insinuate themselves into the senior’s life, whether as a new caregiver, friend, romantic interest or even as a financial “advisor.”

Elders who have few contacts with the outside world may also be vulnerable to telemarketers and sales people. Such sales “professionals” are often able to persuade elders to purchase inappropriate and risky investments by promising unrealistic investment returns. Or they may convince an elder to purchase a variable annuity with high commissions to the seller and high surrender charges, causing the elder’s funds to be illiquid and unavailable. Other signs and symptoms of exploitation include but are not limited to:

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Lifestyle/care • the sudden appearance of previously uninvolved relatives claiming their rights to an elder’s affairs and possessions • missed appointments, substandard care being provided, or bills unpaid despite the availability of adequate financial resources • the provision of unnecessary services or goods (e.g., large appliances, expensive jewelry) • pharmacy or grocery receipts

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Elder care

•

for purchases inconsistent with the client’s prescriptions or lifestyle (e.g., alcohol for a nondrinker) significant changes in spending patterns

Banking/credit • unexplained disappearance of funds or valuable possessions • sudden changes in a bank account or banking practices, including an unexplained withdrawal of large sums of money by a person accompanying the elder • the inclusion of additional authorized signers on bank and other financial accounts • unauthorized withdrawal of the elder’s funds using the elder’s ATM card, especially when the elder is physically unable to leave home • credit card statements reflecting increased and unusual activity • an increase in the number and amount of credit card accounts • check numbers out of sequence • addresses for bank or credit card statements changed to an address other than the elder’s home Legal/property • changes in a power of attorney from a long-time friend or family member to a person new to the situation • abrupt and/or unexpected changes in beneficiaries or provisions in a will, trust or other legal or financial documents • unexplained sudden transfer of assets to a family member or someone outside the family

www.wscpa.org

• • •

assigned power of attorney to someone, deeds reflecting changes in title ask the client for the person’s name and to property contact information in the event an illa refinanced mortgage and an ness or disability necessitates contacting unexpected cash-out discovery of an elder’s signature being forged for financial transacIf the client has assigned power of attorney tions or for the to someone, ask the client for the person’s titles of his/her possessions name and contact information in the event

How Can CPAs Help?

an illness or disability necessitates contacting that person.

CPAs should encourage their clients to explain their dispositive and gift-planning desires, particularly if there is a second marriage. Emphasize that planning now will help avoid ambiguity about their future desires. Clients should consider arranging for a living will or other type of medical directive, such as an Advanced Health Care Directive, to make their own health care desires known in the event someone has to intercede on their behalf. CPAs can also advise their older clients to consider consulting with family members and legal counsel regarding the options for assigning financial guardians or power of attorney. If the client has

Reporting and Dealing with Elder Abuse The National Center on Elder Abuse, a division of the U.S. Administration on Aging, provides a database of contact information for county Adult Protective Services agencies and hotlines. Find the database at www.ncea.aoa.gov. Click on “Help Hotline.”

that person. CPAs may also suggest that the client provide the contact information and written consent to contact a responsible adult son or daughter in the event the CPA suspects any type of elder abuse. There are many resources for reporting and dealing with elder abuse. For example, the National Center on Elder Abuse, a division of the U.S. Administration on Aging, provides a database of contact information for county Adult Protective Services agencies and hotlines (www.ncea.aoa.gov, “Help Hotline”). As laws on reporting potential elder abuse vary from state to state, CPAs who suspect their senior clients are being abused should contact the firm’s lawyer or insurance provider for advice and guidance on the best way to proceed.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Elder Care

The Medicare Maze How CPAs can help new Medicare enrollees plan for a healthy financial future. By Mary Re Knack,Williams Kastner

veryone’s nerves are a little on edge these days. Older Americans face particular challenges when it comes to planning their financial future. Health care costs are one of their biggest concerns. As your clients inch closer toward age 65, you can play a critical role in helping them decide when and whether to enroll in Medicare. To the untrained eye, Medicare’s breadth and complexity can be overwhelming. With a little knowledge, you can help your client navigate the Medicare maze. Medicare is the nation’s largest health insurance program, covering over 45 mil-

of care. It is available to most eligible people without a premium if the person or her spouse paid Medicare taxes while employed. The Part A benefit period has different costs depending on the number of days a beneficiary has spent in a hospital. For example, in 2010, a patient is required to pay $1,100 for the first 60 days in a hospital.1 For the next thirty days, the patient must pay $275 per day.2 If the hospital stay is longer than 90 days, a patient can remain in the hospital for up to 60 more days at $550 per day.3 With the onset of a debilitating illness that requires hospi-

B when she turns 65, but she can forego Part B and continue coverage through her employer’s health insurance. There is no issue while a person is employed.4 However, once a person retires or terminates her employment, the eight-month Part B enrollment period begins, even if she is still covered by other insurance (e.g., through COBRA).5 When her employer’s coverage ends, she may have to wait to enroll in Part B until the next enrollment period (January 1 through March 31), creating a lapse in coverage. High-income beneficiaries may also face higher premiums. Generally, Part B

To the untrained eye, Medicare’s breadth and complexity can be overwhelming. With a little knowledge, you can help your clients navigate the Medicare maze.

MEDICARE

Part A Part B Part C Part D

lion people. Beneficiaries include those age 65 or older, and those under age 65 who have certain disabilities or end-stage renal disease. For those about to turn 65, there is a seven-month enrollment period that begins three months before a person turns 65. A person can choose to enroll in some or all of Medicare’s four parts, commonly referred to as Parts A, B, C, and D. Each has different enrollment criteria.

Medicare Part A

Part A governs hospital insurance and helps pay for inpatient hospital, home health, skilled nursing, and other types

What is covered? Hospital insurance, inpatient hospital, home health, skilled nursing and other types of care Medically necessary services, with a monthly premium Medicare Advantage program, allows Medicare beneficiaries to enroll in private health plans already approved by Medicare Subsidized prescription drug insurance

tal care, Medicare beneficiaries may face steep costs. A CPA can advise families and individuals to determine how best to plan for potential health costs.

Medicare Part B

Part B covers payments for medically necessary services and requires a monthly premium. A person who gets Social Security benefits is usually eligible for Part B beginning the first day of the month she turns 65. If a person does not sign up for Part B when she is first eligible, there may be a late enrollment penalty and, worse, a lapse in coverage. A person is eligible to sign up for Part

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

provides coverage for a premium ($110.50 per month in 2010).6 But wealthier seniors may face higher premiums if their income reaches a certain level. For example, to determine a person’s premium for 2010, information is used from her 2008 tax return.7 Starting in 2011, recent health care reforms froze the threshold for income related premiums at the 2010 premium level until 2019.8 To plan for a higher premium, a CPA can help those nearing age 65 manage their income.

Medicare Part C

Part C, the Medicare Advantage program, allows Medicare beneficiaries to www.wscpa.org

Elder Care

Medicaid Long-Term Care Coverage in Washington State: An Update and a Caution enroll in private health plans already approved by Medicare. Each plan is required to cover all of the services Medicare covers, including emergency care, and some offer extra coverage, like dental or vision. Most plans also include prescription drug coverage. While each plan works differently, a monthly premium is usually required. Recent health care reforms cut $132 billion in payments to private companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans.9 As a result, some private insurers may choose to drop certain benefits or may not offer Advantage plans altogether. A CPA can help Medicare enrollees decide whether an Advantage plan fits within their health needs and financial limitations.

By Jacob H. Menashe, Hickman Menashe, P.S.

edicaid is a huge federal government welfare program and is administered and partly funded at the state level. It is the biggest payer of long-term care for the approximately 10 million Americans who, because of a chronic illness or disabling condition, require assistance and services with their activities of daily living. In 2005, Medicaid accounted for 49% of all long-term care spending. National Spending for Long-Term Care (Georgetown University Long-Term Care Project, Updated February 2007, fact sheet). In Washington State, our long-term care Medicaid program consists of a nursing home component and a community-based component called COPES, which can pay for in-home care or for care in an assisted living facility or adult family home. All Medicaid programs have strict income and asset tests. For instance, a single person is only allowed to have $2,000 of “countable” assets and a married couple, together, is only allowed between $50,639 and $111,560 (depending on the particular program applied for and the couple’s circumstances). Some assets, such as a residence (in most cases), a vehicle, and personal possessions are considered exempt. This short update on Medicaid long-term care coverage in Washington State will address recent changes to the program, discuss planning opportunities that still exist, and will end with a caution about risks that come with Medicaid planning.

Medicare Part D

Under Part D, Medicare beneficiaries who enroll in Part D receive subsidized prescription drug insurance coverage. To receive drug coverage, a person must join a Medicare drug plan, have Part A and/or B, and pay a premium.Whether a medication is covered and at what cost depends on the plan. A CPA can help Medicare beneficiaries deduct certain qualified medical expenses, including prescription drug costs, from their tax return. However, recent health care reforms increased the income threshold from 7.5 percent to 10 percent of a person’s adjusted gross income.10 This change begins in 2013, but the increase is waived until 2016 if the taxpayer or her spouse is 65.11 As more Americans approach age 65 and look to CPAs for guidance about how to plan ahead, a CPA can play a vital 1 United States Social Security Administration, Update 2010, January 2010, http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10003.pdf (last visited Aug. 2, 2010). 2 Id. 3 Id. 4 United States Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Medicare & You, 22, January 2010, available at http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/10050.pdf (last visited Aug. 2, 2010).

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Major Recent Changes

We have recently seen a tightening of Medicaid’s eligibility rules. One major change, for gifts made on or after May 1, 2006, is that the “look back period” (i.e., the period during which transfers, unless qualifying under an exception, cause a period in eligibility) increased from three years to five years. This by itself was a major change, but even more significant is how a period of ineligibility is calculated during the look back period. For starters, gifts that total over $227 in any month (not per person, but total) are added up and divided by continued on page 10

role in reducing the confusion new beneficiaries face. By creating a map of important enrollment deadlines, potential loopholes, and possible financial consequences, a CPA can offer customized advice to reduce the uncertainty that comes with entering the maze.

Mary Re Knack is an attorney with Williams Kastner. You can reach her at mknack@williamskastner.com.

Id. United States Social Security Administration, Medicare Part B Premiums: Rules For Beneficiaries With Higher Incomes, July 2010, http://ssa.gov/pubs/10161.pdf (last visited Aug. 2, 2010). 7 Press Release, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, CMS Announces Medicare Premiums, Deductibles for 2010 (October 16, 2009), http://www.cms.gov/apps/media/ press/factsheet.asp?Counter=3534 (last visited Aug. 2, 2010). 8 Health Reform Implementation Timeline, Henry J. Kaiser

Family Foundation, 4, June 15, 2010, http://www.kff.org/ healthreform/upload/8060.pdf (last visited Aug. 2, 2010). 9 Press Release, United States Senate Committee on Finance, Health Care Reform: Saving Taxpayer Dollars by Cutting Fraud, Waste, Abuse (April 1, 2010), http://finance.senate. gov/newsroom/chairman/release/?id=1e7794a0-4bb4-4cb59807-d33f56345524 (last visited Aug. 2, 2010). 10 Health Reform Implementation Timeline, supra note 9, at 2. 11 Id.

5 6

The author wishes to thank Sarah Joye, University of Washington School of Law, for her assistance.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

cover story Elder Care

Elder Care

Learn More and Earn CPE September 22 | Bellevue How to Guide Your 60+ Clients on Tax, Long-Term Care, Planning, Estate, Social Security, Medicare, and Eldercare Strategies (GYEC) November 4 | Webcast -- Online WEBCAST: Advanced Personal Financial Planning Update (WEB49) November 5 | Tacoma Social Security, Medicare, and Prescription Drug Retirement Benefits: What Every Baby Boomer Needs to Know (SSRB) January 14 | Seattle Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Medicare, Tax Favored Health Care Plans & Medical Expenses (TFHCP) For details and to register, visit www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog.

the number 227 – a figure which changes each October. Then, the corresponding penalty does not begin to run until the person requires nursing home level care, is down to $2,000 in countable assets, and an application is submitted to Medicaid and approved in all respects but for the gift. This, as was intended, has made gifting to qualify for Medicaid much more difficult because, in many cases, all of the funds gifted, and then some, will be needed to pay for care during the period of ineligibility. The other major change has to do with the use of annuities which, for couples, have been used to qualify one spouse for Medicaid coverage. This planning involves using excess countable resources (above the Medicaid standard of $50,639 to $111,560) to purchase an immediate,

Related Resources Washington LawHelp www.washingtonlawhelp.org Washington State Department of Social & Health Services Washington State Medicaid http://hrsa.dshs.wa.gov Centers for Medicare & Medicare Services www.cms.gov

commercial annuity for the spouse of the prospective Medicaid applicant. Before April 1, 2009, these annuities had to have no cash surrender value and be irrevocable, non-assignable, and pay out monthly (or be budgeted that way) and within the annuitant’s life expectancy. But now, since that date, the term of a qualifying annuity must also be for five years or the annuitant’s life expectancy, whichever is less, and the annuity must, in most cases, name the state as the remainder beneficiary, in first position, for the total amount of medical assistance paid for the Medicaid recipient. These changes, and more, are discussed in state-of-the-art pamphlets on the Northwest Justice Project’s’ excellent website, www.washingtonlawhelp.org.

Highlights of Medicaid Planning Options

With Medicaid’s now much stricter gifting rules, the most often considered gifting now involves a large gift, and waiting out the five year look back period. Another option still possible, but only when a person is already receiving benefits, is what used to be termed a “half a loaf” gift where some assets, often consisting of the proceeds from the sale of a home, are gifted and the other part is retained to pay for care during the period of ineligibility caused by the gift. For couples, albeit with the nowrequired payback to the State, using an annuity, as discussed above, is the most common way to more quickly qualify one

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

spouse for Medicaid. This planning can be used to convert even rather substantial assets to a non-disqualifying income stream for the non-applicant spouse. In addition, there are several ways planning can be done using a special needs trust of one sort or another. The idea behind a special needs trust is that assets in such a trust can provide supplemental benefits, beyond those provided by the government, to a disabled or elderly beneficiary without counting as “available” for the beneficiary’s Medicaid eligibility. This can come up when a disabled person has assets or is due to receive a lump sum such as an inheritance or settlement. In these cases, there is no transfer penalty and the assets do not count for eligibility purposes if: the beneficiary is under age 65; and the assets are transferred to a special needs trust that is either established by a parent, grandparent, guardian, or the court, or that is operated by a non-profit. These sorts of trust require “payback” of benefits received to Medicaid or retention of trust assets by the non-profit. A special needs trust can also be used to enable the giver to qualify for Medicaid because the transfer to a special needs trust for the sole benefit of a disabled child or any other disabled person under age 65 are specific exceptions to Medicaid’s transfer penalty. The most common way special needs trusts are used is in testamentary planning. With this planning, one can provide for a loved one, including a spouse, with a www.wscpa.org

Elder care

special needs trust that should be off the table for Medicaid eligibility and estate recovery purposes.

Cautions and a Final Word about Medicaid Planning

Some clients wish to consider the probity of planning to qualify for a government welfare program. For a critical discussion of Medicaid planning, please see articles and reports at the Center for Long-Term Care Reform, www.centerltc. com. The central arguments made by the Center are that the availability of Medicaid has anesthetized the public to the risk of long-term care and that government funding limitations impact quality of care and threaten Medicaidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role as a safety net for the poor. Beyond these more global issues are practical considerations and pitfalls that clients should be aware of before

www.wscpa.org

embarking on Medicaid planning. Medicaid planning should not be seen as without risk, as it is not. For one thing, divesting assets, whether to a family member or trust, inherently means a loss of control, which can also mean a loss of independence. A second area of risk is the potential for changes in the recipientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s situation. For instance, what if the gift recipient has creditor issues or faces a divorce or dies? These are important questions clients should consider. A third area to consider is that Medicaid gifting may have negative tax consequences, such as a loss of home exclusion exemption, the loss of a step-up in basis, or the shifting of income to a higher tax bracket. A fourth pitfall, often overlooked, is that planning can create disagreements and tension between family members,

especially between siblings, about how best to use gifted funds for the parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s benefit and who is going to pay for what. In conclusion, I hope even this short article has shown that Medicaid is a complicated topic, planning options are decreasing, and risks associated with planning are significant. Considering these factors, and the demands the baby boomers will bring on the long-term care system, I think all of us, and our clients, should not expect to depend on the Medicaid program for our future long-term care needs and instead we should be considering how long-term care insurance can help insure we receive quality care when we need it. Jacob Menashe, JD, is an attorney with Hickman Menashe, P.S., in Lynnwood. He can be reached at jacob@hickmanmenashe.com.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

news briefs

News from AICPA

Call for Nominations The WSCPA Board is accepting nominations for the 2011-2012 Board of Directors. To submit a nomination, e-mail Ann Young at ayoung@wscpa.org before November 1, 2010.

Easy Marketing for Your Firm: Enroll Now in Find a CPA Referral Service Would you like to expand your client base? Is your firm currently enrolled in the WSCPA Find a CPA Referral Service? The WSCPA’s online Find a CPA Referral Service is a cost effective way to market your firm’s services to the public. For just $175, you can list your firm with this service. Plus, you can add satellite offices for $50 each. Enroll or renew now and your firm will be in the service from July 1, 2010-June 30, 2011. This service is marketed in directories statewide and online. Hundreds of individuals and businesses statewide looking for CPAs visit this service at www. wscpa.org or call the Society. To enroll, visit www.wscpa.org, and click Find a CPA. Questions? Call Jennifer Ayoub, (425) 586-1142 or (800) 272-8273, Ext. 1142 (toll-free in WA), or e-mail memberservices@wscpa.org.

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The WashingtonCPA magazine is online.

Go to www.wscpa.org and click the social networking icons. Or watch for links in your next Short Form.

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In May 2010, the AICPA governing Council unanimously voted to ballot AICPA members on a proposed bylaw amendment to update the requirements for admission to the Institute. The bylaw amendment would add a provision to the current CPA certificate requirement for voting membership. The amendment would permit people to qualify for admission in the AICPA as voting members if: •

•

they at any time possessed a valid CPA certificate and the certificate was not revoked as a result of a disciplinary action, or if they meet the education, examination and experience requirements set out in the Uniform Accountancy Act and are of good moral character and have never been granted a right to practice.

To learn more, visit www.wscpa.org and enter “Proposed Bylaw Amendment” in the search box.

New CPA Logo Read it in the Newsroom at www.wscpa.org

The AICPA has released a new CPA logo, which may be used on marketing and advertising materials, business cards, stationery, or websites to promote your CPA designation. Find the logo at www.aicpa.org (search for “CPA logo”).

S pecial Member Discount Save 20% on CCH U. S. Master Tax Guide

Reserve your copy of the industry’s leading tax guide and save 20% off the list price of $86.60. You pay only $69.28 plus tax and shipping. You will not be billed until after the book ships. (Cancel before shipment without charge.) The 2011 edition will contain timely and precise explanations of federal taxes for individuals, corporations, partnerships, estates and trusts. To order, visit http://tax.cchgroup.com/members/wscpa and enter your member discount number: Y5596.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

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AICPA Members to Vote on Proposed Bylaw Amendment

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advocacy

Rocky Mountain High ... and Advocacy? By Judy Love,WSCPA Director of Advocacy

aybe it was the altitude and lack of oxygen. Or perhaps the sheer beauty of the Colorado mountains and the jagged red rocks. But on a recent breathtaking hike in Aspen I found myself thinking about WSCPA members and . . . the looming deadline for this column. As I reflected on some of your vacation plans – biking across Montana, sweet ocean sailing in the San Juans, climbing Mt. Rainier, doing exhaustive research on the London theatre and restaurant scene, camping and exploring Native American cave dwellings, traveling to Iceland or Turks and Caicos – I was reminded that CPAs’ political and policy views are often as diverse as their recreational pursuits. There, see how easy that was? That’s the link between hiking in Aspen and WSCPA advocacy. Some members enjoy the political fray, seeing it as a part of their professional responsibility as well as an opportunity to help shape outcomes. Others would rather let someone else worry about the overwhelming number of issues and changes. And a very small number hope that by keeping their heads down they can avoid change entirely. If you are in the first group, thank you! WSCPA grassroots volunteers, PAC, Government Accounting and Auditing,

Some members enjoy the political fray, seeing it as a part of their professional responsibility as well as an opportunity to help shape outcomes. Others would rather let someone else worry about the overwhelming number of issues and changes. And a very small number hope that by keeping their heads down they can avoid change entirely.

fill in the blank is the Society doing about__________?” Thank you to WSCPA members Frank Starace and Guy Easter who made such a phone call with their concerns about the federal Tax Extenders bill that would significantly change the way compensation is taxed for S-corps.* Not only does this please me, it tells me you are aware of the considerable resources your membership organization dedicates to advocating for the profession. And WSCPA’s advocacy efforts on behalf the WSCPA partnership with the of the profession will always be a balAICPA on federal issues increases the strength of that advocacy. ancing act, but one that is enhanced by If you are in the third group, member participation. please make a commitment to your professional growth. Put your head up and scan the environment on a and Accounting Auditing Review Stan- regular basis. Look to your Society as a dards committee members and legisla- resource. The profession – and by extentive task forces are the profession’s eyes, sion the way you will do business – is ears and voice with state and federal law- undergoing major changes. You will thank makers and regulators.Your participation yourself. is priceless. *The Snow-Enzi amendment to strike If you are in the second group, thank that provision is still in play in the Senate. you! Some of you even call to ask, “What Thank you to all who called Senators

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and Murray asking for their vote in support of that amendment. But thank you also to several members who called to let me know that they would not be making a phone call because they support the proposed Tax Extenders change to the S-corps compensation. I appreciated their honest feedback and sense of accountability to a call to action from the Society. Which brings us back to the diversity of the profession. In any organization of 10,000 members it would be highly unlikely to identify an issue that every member would agree on, as the S-corps compensation tax so clearly illustrates. WSCPA’s advocacy efforts on behalf of the profession will always be a balancing act, but one that is enhanced by member participation. Contact me if you have concerns about an issue or if you would like to learn more about communicating with legislators. You can reach Judy Love at jlove@wscpa. org; (425) 586-1130, (800) 272-8273, Ext. 1130.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

COMMITTEES

Free Resource: Financial Statement Reviews

re the financial statements you are issuing in accordance with GAAP or OCBOA? Did you know the WSCPA offers FREE, confidential comments on your financial statement format, presentation, and other professional issues based on reviews of post-issuance financial statements? Submit up to two redacted statements by December 15 to Sharon Olene-Marander at smarander@wscpa. org or call (425) 586-1138 for details.

There’s room for you at the table! Join the WSCPA Financial Statement Review Committee. Sign up at

Top 10 Reasons to Submit a Post-issued Financial Statement The service is free. Everyone can use a second set of eyes. 3. The service is confidential. 4. Particularly useful for small town sole practitioner. (see #3 above) 5. The service is free. 6. Practitioner risks have increased with all the required new changes. 7. Sharpens your skills for future engagements. 8. Highlights potential trouble spots. 9. Prepares you for Peer Review or State Board QAR. 10. Keeps you on top of the latest standards.

www.wscpa.org or contact Sharon Olene-Marander at

1. 2.

AARS • BV & Litigation services • Taxation Construction • Gov’t A&A • International Not-for-profit • Personal financial planning Firm administrators • IT directors

Connect with other members who work in your area of interest.

Join a WSCPA committee Sign up today at www.wscpa.org. Log in and go to WSCPA Community > Committees > Sign up today!

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

smarander@wscpa.org, (425) 586-1138.

Top 10 Reasons to be on the Financial Statement Review Committee (as told in the words of current committee members) 1.

“(Being on the committee) is a huge professional growth opportunity for me.” 2. “I don’t think anyone can effectively review their own work. Everyone can use a second set of eyes.” 3. “I always pick up some technical information or an idea about a better way to do something.” 4. “As a sole practitioner I don’t have anyone to bounce ideas off. Being on this committee lets me see what other people do and how they do it.” 5. “This is such a great service for WSCPA members. I’m surprised more people don’t take advantage of it.” 6. “Everyone’s risk factors have increased.” 7. “Have you seen some of those footnote disclosures? You need to be an expert!” 8. “As a sole practitioner I miss the face-to-face interaction with co-workers. Working with this committee on a review gives me a network.” 9. “We can carpool from Tacoma.” 10. “So, do you guys want to go out to lunch after the meeting?” www.wscpa.org

Not-for-profit

Not All Money is Good Money: Evaluating Funding Sources By Carolyn Hojaboom, CPA, MNPL and Erin Welch, CPA, Jacobson Jarvis

uring tough economic times, an increasing number of not-forprofit organizations may feel pressured to accept various types of funding sources in order to meet their fundraising objectives. This may lead to accounting complexities, donor management issues and other unforeseen costs. Knowing what to expect before your organization pursues more complex funding sources can limit your exposure to unnecessary financial and operational difficulties. Below is an overview of the most common types of complex funding sources to be aware of: Restricted Contributions. Individuals, corporations or private foundations may often restrict the use of their gift on a temporary or permanent basis. Such gifts are typically not intended for general operations or administrative and fundraising costs. As there may be significant cost associated with tracking this income, the gift should be large enough to merit the additional monitoring expense. Donor-Advised Funds. Some funding organizations allow individual donors to provide advice as to how grants of their funds will be made. However, this practice can lead to issues with tax deductibility and appropriate accounting. To avoid these issues, make sure that prospective donors understand the limits of their influence after the contribution to the donor-advised fund is made. Organizations that are recipients of grants from foundations and other funding sources using donor-advised funds should make sure that the understanding with donors is clear prior to accepting funding, and should alert the organization to any behavior on behalf of the donor that might impact its tax classification. Government Funding. While government funds typically come with exten-

sive tracking and reporting requirements, the recipient may also be barred from using grant money to manage or administer the program(s) that the funding was intended to support. In addition, if the organization spends more than $500,000 in federal funds each year, it is required to have a compliance audit in addition to the financial statement audit. This leads to increased audit fees, which are not always covered by the funding source. Pass-Through Relationships. Many not-for-profits receive donations on behalf of another organization that has not yet received its tax-exempt status. There are generally administrative costs associated with these funds, for which the host organization may not receive reimbursement. In addition, there are fiscal responsibilities to ensure that the funds are used for charitable purposes. Annual Auctions and Other Fundraisers. It is common for not-for-profits, or someone on their behalf, to host fundraising events. However, in addition to requiring a significant time commitment from staff and volunteers (and placing the organization at risk for fraud if they are not properly supervised), there are numerous other accounting and donor perception issues that can diminish the returns these events deliver. In addition to the above, there are other enticing revenue streams such as land grants and stock gifts, which may produce unanticipated tax consequences. Your organization should also be aware of the tax and accounting implications before accepting revenue from sources such as advertising, parking fees, rent and retail sales. Fortunately, there are ways to protect your organization, including the following:

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Learn More and Earn CPE

For updates on topics of interest to not-for-profit organizations, attend the Not-For-Profit Conference (NFPC), November 18-19, in Seattle. For details and to register, visit www.wscpa.org/CPE/conferences.

• •

Read the fine print on grants and federal funding programs; Implement a comprehensive gift acceptance policy that establishes gift evaluation, acceptance and acknowledgement processes; Weigh cost and benefits of each opportunity against required resources; and Always consider how funding sources may or may not align with your mission.

Not all money is good money, but with the right set of tools and procedures to determine appropriate funding sources, your organization will be better prepared to proactively assess risk and to simplify decision-making in the future. Carolyn Hojaboom, CPA, MNPL is Principal at Jacobson Jarvis. She can be reached at chojaboom@jjco.com. Erin Welch, CPA, is Partner at Jacobson Jarvis. She can be reached at erin@jjco. com. www.wscpa.org

Health care reform

Health Care Reform: Potential Penalties for Employers under the “Pay or Play” Rules By Dan Fisher, EmSpring Corporation

he Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) will force many changes upon employers and health plans. The biggest such change for employers with more than 50 employees may be the requirement to offer health care coverage to employees or face a monthly penalty. These employers will either pay the penalty to the federal government, or play by offering an “affordable” health plan that provides coverage for “essential services” determined to be above a “minimum value.” While everything in quotes has yet to be clearly defined, it‘s important for all employers to understand these pay or play rules now. PPACA does not explicitly mandate an employer to offer employees health insurance. However, beginning in 2014, certain employers with at least 50 fulltime equivalent employees will face penalties if one or more of their full-time employees obtain a premium credit through an exchange – a federally controlled and state administered insurance marketplace that also doesn’t start until 2014. An individual may be eligible for a premium credit either because the employer does not offer coverage or the employer offers coverage that is either not “affordable” or does not provide “minimum value.” This article summarizes the potential penalties applicable to employers under the PPACA along with examples to help you advise your employer and/or clients. While all employers have something to worry about from the PPACA, only a large employer may be subject to these penalties. A “large employer” is one with more than 50 full-time equivalent employees during the preceding calendar year. To determine whether an employer is large enough to be penalized, both full-time and part-time employees are included in the calculation. Fulltime employees are those working 30 or more hours per week. The number www.wscpa.org

of full-time employees excludes fulltime seasonal employees who work for less than 120 days during the year. The hours worked by part-time employees (i.e., those working less than 30 hours per week) are included in the calculation of a large employer, on a monthly basis, by taking their total number of monthly hours worked divided by 120. Example. A company has 35 full-time employees (30+ hours) and 20 part-time employees who all work 24 hours per week (96 hours per month). These parttime employees’ hours would be treated as equivalent to 16 full-time employees: 20 part-time employees

96 hours 120

1920 120

= full-time

employees

This company would be considered a large employer, based on a total full-time equivalent count of 51. That is, 35 fulltime employees plus 16 full-time equivalents based on part-time hours.

Potential Tax Penalties in 2014 on Large Employers

Regardless of whether or not a large employer offers coverage, it may be liable for penalties beginning in 2014 if at least one of its full-time employees obtains coverage through an exchange and receives a premium credit. A full-time employee includes only those individuals working 30 hours per week or more. Part-time workers are not included in penalty calculations even though they are included in the determination of whether an employer is large. An employer will not pay a penalty for any part-time worker, even if that part-time worker receives a premium credit. This highlights one of the “unintended consequences” of the PPACA by encouraging more employers to limit hours to 30 and thereby take them off the hook for the penalties. Conversely,

seasonal workers are not included in the calculation of a large employer. However, if an employer is determined to be large (over 50), without counting its seasonal workers, it could still potentially face a penalty for each month that a full-time seasonal worker received a premium credit for exchange coverage. If the goal is to eliminate the penalty, then employers will be incentivized to keep seasonal workers under 120 working days per year.

The Insurance Exchanges

Beginning in 2014, individuals who are not offered employer-sponsored coverage and who are not eligible for Medicaid or other programs may be eligible for premium credits for coverage through an exchange. These individuals will generally have income between 138 percent and 400 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL). It’s a safe bet that the vast majority of seasonal workers (legal ones, anyway) and many part time workers will qualify for a premium credit.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Health care reform

Not a large employer

Large employer 50 or more full-time equivalent employees Does not offer coverage Offers coverage A No full-time employees get credits for exchange coverage

less than 50 full-time equivalent employees

B 1 or more full-time employees get credits for exchange coverage

C No full-time employees get credits for exchange coverage

Lesser of: Number of full-time employees minus 30, multiplied by $2,000.

Potential Annual Penalties Beginning in 2014 for Large Employers Applies to For-profit

No penalty

and Nonprofit Organizations

Individuals who are offered employersponsored coverage can only obtain premium credits for exchange coverage if, in addition to the income limits above, they are not enrolled in their employer’s coverage, and their employer’s coverage meets either of the following criteria: the individual’s required contribution toward the plan premium for self-only coverage exceeds 9.5 percent of their household income OR the plan pays for less than 60 percent, on average, of covered health care expenses. Basically, this means many of those full time employees who have already waived off their employer plan will qualify for a premium credit.

Penalty for Large Employers Not Offering Health Insurance Coverage

Beginning in 2014, a large employer will be subject to a penalty if any of its full-time employees receives a premium credit toward an exchange plan. In 2014, the monthly penalty assessed on employers that do not offer coverage will be equal to the number of full-time employees (minus 30) multiplied by 1/12 of $2,000

Number of full-time employees minus 30 multiplied by $2,000 (Penalty is $0 if employer has 30 or fewer full-time employees)

for any applicable month. After 2014, the penalty amount will be indexed.

Penalty for Large Employers Offering Health Insurance Coverage

Employers that do offer coverage may still be subject to penalties if at least one full-time employee obtains a premium credit in an exchange plan because the employer’s coverage is unaffordable or insufficient. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), about 1 million individuals per year will enroll in an exchange plan because their employer’s plan was unaffordable. I expect the number of people running for the exchange coverage will be much, much larger and, unless better regulations are forthcoming, enrollment will come only in months when care is needed. There are no limits currently on when one can enroll. In 2014, the monthly penalty assessed on an employer for each full-time employee who receives a premium credit will be 1/12 of $3,000 for any applicable month. However, the total penalty for

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

D 1 or more full-time employees get credits for exchange coverage

No penalty

Number of full-time employees who get credits for exchange coverage, multiplied by $3,000. (Penalty is $0 if employer has 30 or fewer full-time employees)

an employer would be limited to the total number of the company’s full-time employees (minus 30), multiplied by 1/12 of $2,000 for any applicable month. After 2014, the penalty amounts would be indexed. So, let’s see: 1/12 of $2,000 is $167, but let’s gross that up to $200 per month since the penalty is a nondeductible business expense. Compare that $200 to your current health plan’s employee only premium. Which would you, your employer, and your clients rather pay? As 2014 approaches and more employers learn how these pay or play rules affect them, are they more or less likely to continue an employer-sponsored health plan? If employers drop their plan and use the money to attract and retain talent in other ways, then the employees will end up with coverage through the exchanges. Do you think the drafters of the PPACA legislation might have planned it this way? Dan Fisher is CEO of EmSpring Corporation. He can be reached at dan. fisher@emspring.com. www.wscpa.org

industry voice

On Fire CPE For Industry CPAs Put Some New Tools in Your Toolbelt! Thirty-Plus Practical Tools and Techniques for Making Your Key Financial Decisions (TTMD) August 18 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

Looking to Merge, Sell or Acquire? NEW! Acquisitions to Grow the Business: Structure, Due Diligence and Financing (AGB) September 13 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

CPAs and all financial professionals are required to take an active, if not leadership, role in numerous activities for their organizations. This course introduces and explores analytical tools and techniques to assist in routine and nonroutine situations. These include: identifying and addressing structural blockages to decision-making; data management; providing information and analysis; improving operations; model building; designing tests; valuing and financing acquisitions and divestitures; as well as, evaluating capital programs and other long-term investments.

Should your company look for acquisitions, seek a merger or consider selling all or part of your business? How do you know what to look for in an acquisition or merger candidate? How do you arrive at a fair price and create incentives for future growth? How do you perform effective and efficient due diligence? What should you look for in the legal documents? What do the new accounting rules mean for mergers and acquisitions? How can you plan a post-merger business to take advantage of synergies and reduce culture shock? This seminar will answer all your questions regarding mergers and acquisitions.

Born to Negotiate? Negotiating Skills for Finance Professionals: Get What You Want When You Want It (NSFP) August 19 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

The ability to negotiate is not something people are born with—it is a skill that grows with practice. Negotiating is not compromising, nor is it creating a win/lose outcome. In this interactive workshop, discover that you are better able to negotiate for what you want when you want it by knowing the four critical skills of negotiation (participating, anticipating, relating and communicating). This seminar will help you learn to negotiate your way through any situation—buying a building, hiring someone, dealing with a difficult employee or managing resource allotments at budget time. Looking for additional CPE? Learn about more seminars for CPAs working in business and industry at www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog. Plus, learn about management webcasts, such as: WEBCAST: Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure (WEB136 and WEB137) WEBCAST: Intellectual Property Institute (WEB11) WEBCAST: Employment Practices Conference (WEB58) WEBCAST: Pricing on Purpose: How Better Pricing Leads to Better Profits (WEB84) WEBCAST: Myths of Budgeting and How to Overcome Them (WEB158)

How to Avoid Tricky and Potential Tax Traps Form 990: AICPA’s Answer to Unlocking the Tax Complexities (EOF9901) September 20 | Hampton Inn Spokane

Updated for the completely redesigned Form 990! Not only is the IRS crackdown on nonprofits continuing but the Form 990 has been completely redesigned - are you ready? New legal traps for the organization and its officers and directors created by the excess benefit rules make this course a must! Find out how to deal with the very tricky 990 problems that will confront your clients. With the more complex Form 990, not only are CPAs required to perform numerical computations, but they must also now answer probing IRS questions. This course addresses tricky and potential tax-trap issues you will face. Get practice in completing the revised 990 tax form and solving unique filing problems. Let Excel Do the Work for You Excel Budgeting and Forecasting Techniques (EBT) September 27 | WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue

Recent research reveals that nearly 75% of North American companies use Excel as their primary budgeting and forecasting tool. This course is designed to provide participants with the Excel knowledge and skills necessary to prepare budgets and forecasts more efficiently and with greater accuracy.

Learn more and register today at www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog www.wscpa.org

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Insurance

Long Term Care Insurance: What to Consider Before You Buy By Jeffry J. Peterson, CLU, Pacific Advisors Planning is the key to affording longterm care, whether it is through an insurance policy, self-funding, or a combination of both. The cost of care can be staggering and can deplete assets quickly. Take the cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home in Washington as an example.The average cost is $248 per day or $7,440 per month! While it is a good idea to check costs in specific facilities where you might want to receive care, the Mature Market Institue (online at www.maturemarketinstitute. com) provides research on the cost of care in most metropolitian areas across the country and is a good place to start the evaluation process. Long-term care insurance has the most benefit for people who want to protect assets, such as savings, investment and retirement plans from being depleted by care costs. It is especially important to protect a spouse from having to spend assets designed to provide a comfortable retirement on the need for care. The decision on whether to buy a long-term care insurance policy may depend on age, family history, health status, overall retirement goals,income and assets. If you have adequate assets to fund your retirement or a large number of assets to protect, purchasing a longterm care insurance policy can help preserve all or a portion of those assets. While the policy may not cover all the costs of long-term care, it will help you avoid depleting life savings if you need care, leaving assets for a spouse to maintain their standard of living and/or allow assets to be passed on to children and grandchildren. It is important to keep in mind that while studies show 45% of individuals will need some form of longterm care assistance during their lifetime,

you assume the need for protection very much like your purchases of automobile or homeowners insurance--knowing that it may never be utilized and hoping you never need it. So when should you buy it? The average age of the person that buys a longterm care policy is 57 years old.That said, the younger you are, the less expensive premiums will be, so it’s important not to wait too long. It’s also important to consider that aging itself often brings additional medical conditions, so buying a policy while you are in good health is also important. You must ask yourself if you can afford to pay premiums for the balance of your life. With most policies, you will pay premiums for the life of the policy (premi-

ums are waived if you go on claim) so it is important to consider whether you can afford to pay premiums well into retirement. Additionally, companies can increase rates (with state approval) during the life of the policy, so it’s important to consider the affordability of the premium if it were to increase by 15-20%. Some companies offer premium payments that are limited to 10 years, where premiums are about 3 times the annual

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

cost of paying over the life of the policy, but after 10 years, the policyholder stops paying premiums and the policy is paid in full. This can be a great option if you can afford the additional up-front cost. If you decide to purchase a long-term care policy, only consider policies that cover all types and levels of long-term care including skilled, intermiate and custodial care in nursing homes, assisted living facilities or at home. Once you decide on a policy, make sure you understand how the policy works and when it will start to pay benefits. Benefits usually begin after an elected elimination period and the insured needs assistance with at least two of six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) or has a cognitive impairment. The ADLs are: eating, toileting, transferring, bathing, dressing or continence. Determination of either is made by the policyholder’s physician, and the elimination period stated in the policy must be satisfied before any claims will be paid. There are many options to consider when designing a policy to fit your needs: • Benefit amount – usually chosen on a daily or monthly basis. For example, $200 per day, or $6,000 per month; • Benefit period – Options range from two years to unlimited lifetime. Five years is the most common • Inflation option – choosing how fast your benefits will grow each year, e.g., 5%, 3%. Age influences this choice; and it is important to hedge against the rising costs of care. Most policies offer some form of inflation protection such as annual benefit increases (5% compound or 5% simple are common) or future purchase options which www.wscpa.org

Insurance

•

allow the insured to purchase additional coverage during the life of the policy. Some companies may not offer each type, but will generally have more than one option. Elimination period/waiting period – similar to a deductible period. This is how long you will pay your own expenses. Ninety days is the most common, but not always the best choice. Most plans only require you satisfy this period once in your life. Other options to consider include shared care, restoration of benefits, nonforfeiture and waiver of the home care elimination period.

Qualified long-term care insurance policies also receive special tax treatment. To be “qualified,” policies must offer the consumer the options of “inflation” and “nonforfeiture” protection, although the consumer can choose not to purchase these features. The policies must also offer both activities of daily living (ADL)

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and cognitive impairment triggers. Premiums for qualified long-term care policies will be treated as a medical expense and will be deductible to the extent that they, along with other unreimbursed medical expenses (including “Medigap” insurance premiums), exceed 7.5 percent of the insured’s adjusted gross income. If you are self-employed, the rules are a little different.You can take the amount of the premium as a deduction as long as you made a net profit— your medical expenses do not have to exceed 7.5 percent of your income. The deductibility of premiums is limited by the age of the taxpayer at the end of the year, as illusrated in the chart at right (the limits are adjusted annually with inflation). Finally, consider the emotional side of long-term care. Long-term care insurance not only protects your assets and provides the care you may need if you have a long-term care event. It also allows your family members to support you as family members instead of primary caregivers. A family member who is also a caregiver for a relative who needs long term care

Age attained before the end of 2010 40 or under 41 - 50 51 - 60 61 - 70 71 or older

Amount allowed as a medical expense $330 $620 $1,230 $3,290 $4,110

is more likely to suffer health problems of their own, may need to leave or reduce hours at their regular job to provide care or may not be emotionally or physically capable of providing the care needed. Long-term care insurance can be a valuable addition to your lifelong financial plan and with careful consideration and research, you can protect your assets and be prepared if you should ever need care. Jeffry Peterson, CLU, is with Pacific Advisors, a brokerage organization specializing in disability and long-term care insurance options. Jeffry can be reached at jeff@ pacificadvisors.net.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Financial literacy

Financial Fraud Targeting Older Americans By Amy O’Donnell,WSCPA Financial Literacy Program Manager

n 2009 Meltife issued a report showing nearly $2.6 billion is stolen annually from older Americans through fraud or financial abuse. AARP found that as many as one in five older Americans have been taken advantage of through unreasonably high fees for financial services, inappropriate investments or outright fraud. Many of their adult children are unaware of the situation and financial loss can be devastating. Financial abuse can even lead to a life threatening situation. It affects the victim’s ability to purchase the basic necessities for daily living and even access to medical care.

Common Frauds Targeting the Elderly

Scam artists have fine tuned their strategies for this age group. Many target victims repeatedly and use embarrassment to prevent exposure. The Washington Department of Financial Institutions issued a list of common frauds targeting the elderly: •

•

Prizes and Sweepstakes Frauds: The person is told by phone or a letter that they have won a prize or money in a lottery or sweepstakes. To receive the “winnings” they need to pay fees upfront. The fees are “paid” by wiring the money to an account. In some cases, a check is sent to cover these “expenses.” The wired money is lost and the prize never comes. Fraudulent investments: A firm or individual “guarantees” high returns on investments, business opportunities or other “no-risk” deals. The return rate will be higher than current bank offerings. Eventually, the seller will take the money and run. To protect yourself, ask questions

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

and always check out whether the individual or company is registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the state securities regulator. •

Charitable Donation Scams: Donations are collected in the name of a charity or raffle, never to be seen again. Before donating to a cause, check with the local Better Business Bureau or check out charities at www.bbb.org/us/charity.

•

Home or Repair Scams: Who knew your roof was in such poor shape? Good thing this person is here to tell you and provide a solution. The timing is too good to be true. With these scams, once the money is handed over either the work is not done or is of very poor quality. Always get a second opinion if you think you need repairs done.

•

Loan or Mortgage Fraud: Misleading sales tactics are used by “predatory” lenders (typically from the non-bank or home improvement industries) to pressure homeowners into high cost loans that they can’t afford. Individuals then enter a cycle of “loan flipping”—repeatedly refinancing and paying additional fees. Borrowers may lose the house they were trying to save in the first place and a lot more money on the way. Help Avoiding Foreclosure: Scammers search the local records for houses going into

foreclosure and contact the owners to offer “assistance.” The victim signs paperwork without reading the fine print which turns ownership of the house over to the fraudster. •

“I Need Your Help” Scams: The con artist asks the victim for assistance in order to obtain personal information or access to funds. For example, a scammer will pose as a bank examiner claiming to need your assistance in investigating a possibly fraudulent withdrawal from your account. They ask for the victim’s information to assist with the “investigation.”

•

Counterfeit Checks: One example is a check is sent for a transaction, such as a sale on eBay. The check is for more than the sale and the issuer asks for the excess amount to be wired back.

Other common forms of fraud and financial abuse include: • • • •

Abuse of Power of Attorney authorization (one of the fastest growing crimes in the U.S.); Forcing a person to sell their belongings; Denying services including medical care; and Identity theft.

Who are the Abusers?

These scams may be perpetrated by a stranger, but in many cases elder financial abuse is committed by family members or caregivers who misuse their position of trust. Family members may have financial problems, stand to inherit money, have a poor relationship with the victim www.wscpa.org

financial literacy

Follow the steps taken to prevent identity theft and always guard your personal information. Before giving out personal information, ask, “Why do you need this?”

or the family members who will inherit the money, or a history of violence.

Who are the Victims?

You might be surprised by who is the typical victim of elder fraud. Many victims are accomplished, college educated, have above average financial knowledge, and are self reliant when it comes to making decisions. Since many scammers know their victims they are able take advantage of any physical or mental vulnerabilities a person may have, such as dementia, health conditions or medication cycles. They also can use any fears a person has to persuade the victim. Some examples are fear of not having adequate income to remain independent, not being able to pass on assets to their family, being alone, or an imminent danger like a collapsing roof. As part of their strategy, scammers also use fear to “block the exits.” For example, for house repair scams, victims will be warned not to call the police because they may send out an inspector which could result in fines and extra expenses. Or, the victim is advised that telling family about a transaction might cause them to take away access to their bank accounts.

•

• •

Ways to Protect Yourself

Taking steps to protect yourself or loved ones are the key to avoid losing a lifetime of savings. Here are recommendations to protect yourself and others: •

Common Warning Signs

Look for these warning signs that someone is a victim of financial abuse: •

Recent changes to legal documents and accounts that give

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someone else the rights to make decisions on a person’s behalf. Bank accounts were recently switched or unusual activity on the accounts. Inappropriate financial or investment products were obtained. Access to the person is blocked. For example, when you call you must leave messages rather than gain direct access to the person. Life circumstances don’t match the size of the person’s estate. The person becomes withdrawn from family, friends or other community members. They may become secretive.

•

Check the credentials and/ or licenses of anyone you hire. Ask for the details of any offer in writing. Consult a financial advisor or attorney before signing any documentation. Never feel the need to rush into any financial decision and say “no” if something seems off. Maintain security over your personal information.

•

Remember that you do not need to pay a fee to collect money from a lottery or sweepstakes winning—and you will never win a foreign lottery.

•

Consider letting your bank send a duplicate copy of your monthly statement to a trusted family member, financial advisor or attorney.

If you suspect an older person is being financially abused or is a victim of fraud, don’t be afraid to speak up. In some cases you could be saving someone’s life. Contact the local adult protective services to report it. The Eldercare Locator (www.eldercare.gov) will assist you with finding the local contact. For more information on this topic visit: • The Washington Department of Financial Insitutions, www.dfi.wa.gov • Washington Attorney General Office, www.atg.giv • AARP, www.aarp.org • Saveandinvest.org • National Council on Aging, www.ncoa.org • Elder Financial Protection Network, www.bewiseonline.org Amy O’Donnell is the author of the Financial Literacy blog at www.wscpa.org. Sources: Elder Financial Protection Network, AARP, SaveandInvest.org,WA DFI, FDIC; “Fraud Vulnerability and Aging” by Virginia H. Templeton, MD, and David N. Kirkman, JD

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

member discounts

New & d Improve r e b m Me t n u o c Dis

UPS Savings Program Save up to 30% on UPS Shipping WSCPA members can now save up to:* • 16% off UPS Commercial Ground • 30% off UPS Express air and international shipments • 30% off UPS Next Day Air

Members currently enrolled in the UPS Savings Program must re-enroll to take advantage of this new exclusive offer.

Here’s a sample of the discounts you can receive by enrolling in the UPS Savings Program: *See Rates and Services Chart for detail of Savings and Discounts, which depend on total weekly gross shipping charges incurred.

When you ship with UPS, you get the peace of mind that comes from using the carrier that delivers outstanding reliability, greater speed, more service, and innovative technology. UPS guarantees delivery of more packages around the world than anyone, and delivers more packages overnight on time in the US than any other carrier. Simple shipping! Special savings! It’s that easy!

Use promo code PAC299 to enroll. For complete details or to sign up go to www.savewithups.com/enroll. Total Weekly Gross Shipping Charges

UPS Next Day Air® or Air Saver®

UPS Worldwide Express®/

UPS Commercial Ground

Saver® / Expedited® Export (Ltr/Doc/Pkg)

(1-10 lbs)

(11-30 lbs)

(31-150 lbs)

Up to $49.99

16%

11%

$50 to 99.99

17%

12%

$100 to 249.99

18%

13%

$250 to 499.99

20%

10%

14%

$500 to 999.99

24%

11%

15%

$1,000 and up

30%

12%

16%

(Ltr/Pkg)

IRS or Washington State Tax Problems? Experience Can Make A Difference. IRS, Revenue and Labor & Industries Audits: Administrative and Judicial Appeals & Refund Actions; Lien & Collection Problems; Tax Planning; Commercial Litigation.

Martin Silver  L.L.M. (Tax) New York University  Author of Washington Taxes: Representing Taxpayers Before The Department of Revenue, (Butterworths 1992)  Adjunct Professor, Golden Gate Representing Businesses and Professionals Nationwide, Confidentiality Guaranteed.

OFFICES OF

Martin Silver, P.S. Attorneys & Counselors

800 - 5th Avenue, Suite 4000 • Seattle, WA 98104 • Telephone: (206) 224-3461 • Fax (206) 224-3459

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

www.wscpa.org

Events

2010 New Professionals Networking Events SPOKANE Events OCT 21 New! Billiards Tournament (NP07), Far West Billiards Puget Sound Events SEPT 16* memAllbers Members’ Reception (NP06), Rock e! welcom Bottom Brewery, Bellevue, complimentary OCT 28 New! Whirly Ball (NP08), Seattle NOV 17* Casino Night (NP09), Redhook Ale Brewery, Woodinville * One lucky eligible attendee will win a CPA exam review prize. $20/person (unless noted otherwise) Register and learn more at www.wscpa.org (search for NP in the Education & Events Catalog) or call (425) 644-4800. Locations subject to change. Check online at www.wscpa.org for latest event details. Sponsors Event fees are low thanks to these sponsors:

New! Happy Hour Networking Events The Bellevue, Sammamish Valley, and Seattle chapters invite you to new monthly happy hour networking events. These events are held from 5-7:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at a new location. Use HH as a keyword in the WSCPA CPE and Event Catalog to view the other dates and locations. Meet members from all three chapters and enjoy free light appetizers. Dates

Happy hour location

Sept 14

Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue, Seattle (HHO1)

Oct 12

Hector’s Restaurant, Kirkland (HH02)

Nov 9

Rock Bottom Brewery, Seattle (HH03)

Dec14

Tap House Grill, Bellevue (HH04)

Learn more at www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog or call (800) 2728273 (Toll-free in WA) or (425) 644-4800. *

Conference Schedule Dates

Conference

Oct 13

Business Valuation & Litigation Services Conference (BVLSC) Bellevue

Oct 25-27

Northwest Tax Institute™ (NWTI) Seattle

Nov 11-12

Pacific NW Construction Industry Conference (CIC) Seattle

Nov 18-19

Not-for-Profit Conference (NFPC) Seattle

Dec 3

Fraud Conference (FDC) Bellevue

Dec 13-14

Information Technology Conference (ITC) Bellevue

Spokane Chapter Golf Tournament | June 28

Photo Album BBQ Picnic | July 16

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

www.wscpa.org

CPE Digest

Conferences................................. page 28 Education and Events................. page 30 Registration.................................. page 37

On a quest for credits? Look inside for CPE to match your needs x x

Webinars

Chapter meetings

WA Pros self study

An hour (or two) at a time Four hours at a time A day (or two) at a time When I have time

Webcasts

WHEN?

Conferences

Seminars

WSCPA CPE

x x

WHAT? A&A CS EB PFP Ethics GNP

WHERE? Bellevue Bellingham Everett Kennewick Kent Lynnwood Olympia

www.wscpa.org

LOCATIONS p. 30 p. 32 p. 32 p. 32 p. 33 p. 33 p. 33

Seattle p. 33 Spokane p. 34 Tacoma Vancouver p. 34 Wenatchee p. 34 p. 35 Yakima PLUS... p. 33

SK TAX TEC

SUBJECTS

Accounting and Auditing Consulting Services Employee Benefits Estate/Financial Planning Ethics Government / NFP Management Personal Development Specialized Knowledge Taxation Technology

ONLINE

Webcasts & Webinars, p. 35 WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

CPE DIgest Conferences

Business Valuation and Litigation Ser vices Conference

2010 Nor thwest Tax Institute™

Invest one day. Uncover what’s new. Propel your practice.

One of America’s Premier Tax Institutes

October 13, 2010 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:10 p.m. WSCPA Learning Center, Bellevue, WA

October 25-27, 2010 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Bell Harbor International Conference Center, Seattle, WA

CPAs who engage in business valuation and litigation support engagements encounter specialized issues unique to this niche area. The 2010 Business Valuation and Litigation Services Conference will cover a broad range of today’s hottest topics and new developments in the business valuation and litigation services world. • Characterization of Property and Standard of Value in Washington Marital Dissolution Cases • Divorce, Business Valuation and Litigation Case Studies Using an Investigative Forensic Accountant in Addition to Other Experts • Panel Discussion: The Battle of Impairment • Total Beta: Using a Market Approach to Develop a Cost of Equity • Valuations for Share-Based Compensation: Updated Guidance and Best Practices 8 Technical CPE credits WSCPA Members Non Members

Learn the latest on federal tax issues that affect you and your clients from recognized tax experts. The 2010 Northwest Tax Institute™ returns to the grandeur of the Pacific Northwest. This year’s location is in the heart of Seattle’s popular waterfront district. With outstanding amenities and breathtaking view of Elliott Bay, you will find this a meeting location to remember! 20Technical CPE credits WSCPA or OSCPA Members Non Members

$775 $850

First time attendee? Save $50 off the member rate. To receive this discount call the WSCPA, (800) 272-8273 or (425) 644-4800. Cosponsored by the Washington and Oregon Societies of Certified Public Accountants

$215 $290

Register today for NWTI at www.wscpa.org/CPE/conferences The Washington Society of CPAs has partnered with CPA Crossings, LLC to provide you with access to an extensive catalog of CPA Technology Best Practices webinars that qualify for “live” CPE credits. Take advantage of these conveniently scheduled two hour live presentations focused on topics that will help you become more productive and you can save time and money by participating from the convenience of your office or home. Featured topics include: • Adobe Acrobat Series • Excel Series • Outlook Series • Client Portals • And much more! Visit www.wscpa.org for more information.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

www.wscpa.org

Conferences CPE DIgest

Pacific NW Constr uction Industr y Conference

Not-For-Profit Conference

Identifying opportunities in the NW construction industry

Because it’s a worthwhile quest

November 11-12, 2010 | 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Bell Harbor International Conference Center, Seattle, WA

America’s November 18-19, 2010 One | 8:00ofa.m. - 4:30 p.m. Premiere Tax Institutes Bell Harbor International Conference Center Seattle, WA

The 2010 Pacific NW Construction Industry Conference tackles current issues, recent changes and future trends facing construction financial management. Join national and local experts for an exchange of cutting edge information on the operational and financial issues facing this unique industry.

Not-for-profit organizations regularly face unique fiscal challenges but 2010 brings more than its fair share of change. This conference will provide an update on hot topics and make sure you are prepared for what lies Co-sponsored byahead. the Washington

General Sessions: • Mastering the Art of Influence* • Leadership During Challenging Times* • How to Survive a Recession in the Construction Industry • Fraud - Why Construction Companies are Easy to Steal From • Critical Trends Driving the Future of this Industry

General Sessions: • Nonprofit Turnaround • GAAP Update from the FASB • Organizations and Their Ethical Environments • Behind the Headlines October 25-28, 2009 • Federal Tax & IRS Update • E-mail Management 101* Planet Hollywood Resort &

Plus, select from numerous Concurrent Sessions! 2010 Federal Tax Update GAAP and GAAS Update Professional Liability ...for CPAs Serving Construction

Plus, select from numerous Concurrent Sessions! GAAP Focus Session on Hot Topics Recent Changes in Washington Taxes and State Registration Requirements

Recent Changes in Washington State and Local Taxes Financial Reporting: Pressing Issues... IT Developments and Trends

Techniques for Managing Your Information Technology in Today’s Environment Legal and Accounting Aspects of Fiscal Sponsorship Arrangements: Best Practices and Traps for the Unwary

Create a Dream Team: The Magic is in the Mix* Challenges Facing Accounting Professions... Constructing a Smart Social Media Program

and Oregon Societies of CPAs

Northwest Tax Institute Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada

A-133 Audit Update Panel discussion on Not-for-Profit Sustainability

Building the World’s Largest ... Ecosystem Preventive Strategies in Dealing with a Recession Protecting the Profit in Trying Times

What the Watchdogs are Looking for on Form 990: Things That Could Make You Look Foolish or Get You in Trouble Auditing Standards Update

Developing Future Talent: Hiring...“High Potentials” Strategic Planning in a Down Market Panel Discussion: Federal Contracting

Preparing for Your Auditor Trends in NFP Capital Financing

16 CPE credits (up to 4 non-technical credits) WSCPA and CFMA Members $525 Non Members $600

* non-tech credits

The Power of Public Advocacy Dollars & Sense: Maximizing Returns on Marketing and Development Investments

New! This conference is available as a webcast,WEBCIC.

16 CPE credits (up to 1 non-technical credit) * non-tech WSCPA Members $335 credits Non Members $410 New! This conference is available as a webcast,WEBNFPC.

www.wscpa.org

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Education and events

Fees Date

Course

events by location WSCPA education and events scheduled for September November 2010 are listed below, chronologically by location. If you are looking for a program in another location, it may be scheduled for later in the year. Using the online CPE/Event Catalog at www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog, you can search by location. Locations in this CPE Digest issue Bellevue

p. 30

Seattle

p. 33

Bellingham

p. 32

Spokane

p. 33

Everett

p. 32

Tacoma

p. 34

Kennewick

p. 32

Vancouver

p. 34

Kent

p. 33

Wenatchee

p. 34

Lynnwood

p. 33

Yakima

p. 35

Olympia

p. 33

Online Webcasts and Webinars

p. 35

LEARN MORE To view complete course details, please visit the CPE/ Event Catalog at www.wscpa.org/CPE/catalog.

Code

WSCPA Member Fee

NonMember Fee

Facility

AICPA

PFP

SUBJECTS The main subject area is listed for each program.

Ethics GNP MG PD

Need help finding a seminar or webcast? Call (800) 272-8273 or (425) 644-4800.

SK TAX TEC

Estate/Financial Planning Ethics Government / NFP Management Personal Development Specialized Knowledge Taxation Technology

Fees Date

Subject

Member For more information, 2010-2011 EVENT SCHEDULE Discount enter code in catalog at www.wscpa.org To view the complete schedule of events through May 2011, refer to the CPE/Event Catalog at www.wscpa.org/cpe/ catalog or the 2010-2011 Washington Professional Education Catalog. To request a copy of the catalog, call A&A Accounting and Auditing (800) 272-8273 (toll-free CS Consulting Services in WA) or e-mail cpe@wscpa.org. EB Employee Benefits

Course

Code For more information, enter code in catalog at www.wscpa.org

WSCPA Member Fee

NonMember Fee

AICPA Member Discount

Facility

Subject

Bellevue Sep 1

Excel Pivot Tables

COMEX4

230

305

WSCPA

TEC

Sep 2

Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint

COMPP2

230

305

WSCPA

TEC

Crystal Reports Intermediate

COMCR2

230

305

WSCPA

TEC

Sep 8

Sep 3 S

Career Workshop: Interviewing Tips Part One, 12-1:30 pm

CW03

WSCPA

Sep 8-9

Northwest Accounting Educators Conference, 7:30 am-4:10 pm

NAEC

225

WSCPA

A&A

Compilation and Review Standards Update and Review by Walter Haig

CRUR4

295

370

WSCPA

A&A

ç Sep 13

Sep 10

Acquisitions to Grow the Business: Structure, Due Diligence and Financing

AGB

265

340

WSCPA

ç Sep 14

Driving Corporate Performance: The CFO’s Role in Developing Competitive Advantage

DCP

265

340

WSCPA

Sep 15

Career Workshop: Interviewing Tips Part Two, 12-1:30 pm

CW04

WSCPA

Sep 16

Members’ Reception - Networking Event Must be 21 or older to attend, 6-8:30 pm

NP06

Rock Bottom Restaurant

Sep 21

Form 990: AICPA’s Answer to Unlocking the Tax Complexities

EOF9902

265

340

-30

WSCPA

TAX

Sep 22

Real Estate Accounting and Auditing

REAA

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Sep 22

How to Guide Your 60+ Clients on Tax, Long-Term Care, Planning, Estate, Social Security, Medicare, and Eldercare Strategies

GYEC

265

340

WSCPA

TAX

Sep 23

Sep 23 Sep 24

Tips and Traps for Dealing with the IRS: From Start to Finish

DIRS

265

340

-30

WSCPA

TAX

Construction Contractors: Accounting, Auditing and Tax

CAAT

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Closely Held Business Taxation: 49 Practical Ways to Cut Taxes

CHBT1

265

340

-30

WSCPA

TAX

Sep 27

Cash and Tax Basis Financial Statements - Preparation and Reporting

CTB1

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Sep 27

Excel Budgeting and Forecasting Techniques

EBT

265

340

WSCPA

TEC A&A

Sep 28

Public Company Update: SEC, PCAOB, and Other Developments

PCOU

265

340

-30

WSCPA

Sep 28

Microsoft Word: Essential Tools and Techniques for Accountants

WOR

265

340

WSCPA

TEC

Sep 29-30

SEC Reporting

SECR

425

540

-60

WSCPA

A&A

Google Apps for Accountants - An Alternative to Microsoft Office, 12:30-4 pm

GAP41

140

170

WSCPA

TEC

ç Sep 29

Full day courses are from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and qualify for eight credit hours unless otherwise noted.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

www.wscpa.org

Education and events Fees

Date

Course

Code For more information, enter code in catalog at www.wscpa.org

Sep 29

WSCPA Member Fee

NonMember Fee

AICPA Member Discount

Facility

Subject

Excel PivotTables for Accountants - Part I, 8-11:30 am

PT141

140

170

WSCPA

TEC

Sep 30

Surviving and Growing Your Company in Difficult Times: Essential Skills for the Finance Team

SGYC2

265

340

-30

WSCPA

Sep 30

Security for Accountants: New Legal Requirements and Practical Solutions

SEC

265

340

Meydenbauer Center

ç Oct 4

Auditing: What’s New for 2010 Engagements

AWN10

265

340

WSCPA

A&A

ç Oct 5

Fraud: 15 NEW Hot Topics

F2010

265

340

WSCPA

A&A A&A

ç Oct 6

Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure - A Realistic Approach

FSPD

265

340

WSCPA

ç Oct 6

Controllers Profit Building Toolkit

CPBT

265

340

WSCPA

ç Oct 7

The Role of Internal Control in the Risk Based Audit

RIC

265

340

WSCPA

A&A

ç Oct 8 Oct 12

EÍ

Yellow Book Essentials for New Staff - A Realistic Approach Workshop

YBE

265

340

WSCPA

GNP

CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

CENRW404

175

210

WSCPA

Ethics

Oct 13

Business Valuation and Litigation Services Conference, 8 am-4:10 pm

BVLSC

215

290

WSCPA

Oct 13

Career Workshop: Job Search Strategies, 12-1:30 pm

CW05

WSCPA

Oct 14

Word Tips Tricks & Techniques

COMWO2

230

305

WSCPA

TEC

Oct 15

Excel Functions Tips Tricks Techniques

COMEX5

230

305

WSCPA

TEC

Oct 18

Applying A-133 to Nonprofit and Governmental Organizations

EOOMB

265

340

-30

WSCPA

GNP

Oct 18

Advanced Excel

ADE

265

340

WSCPA

TEC

Advanced Estate Planning: Practical Strategies for Your Clients

AEP

265

340

-30

WSCPA

TAX

Oct 19

QuickBooks Advanced Features, Tools, and Techniques

ADQ

265

340

WSCPA

TEC

Oct 20

Excel Data Analysis

COMEX6

230

305

WSCPA

TEC TAX

Oct 20

S Corporation Key Issues, Compliance, and Strategies: An IRS Target Area

SCORP1

265

340

-30

WSCPA

Oct 20

Career Workshop: Resumes Top to Bottom, 12-1:30 pm

CW06

WSCPA

Business Sustainability: Keeping Lean but with More Green for the Company’s Long Haul

SKLG

265

340

-30

WSCPA

Oct 21 Oct 21

Using Outlook as a Personal Information Manager

COMOU1

230

305

WSCPA

TEC

Oct 22

Lean Accounting for Service and Nonmanufacturing Businesses

LASN

265

340

-30

WSCPA

Oct 22

Internal Control Essentials for Financial Managers, Accountants, and Auditors

ICDAD2

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Staff Training - Basic

STP1A

655

770

WSCPA

A&A

ç Oct 25

Oct 25-27 6

Getting On Top of It All: The New Science of Increasing Productivity in Yourself and Others

GOT

265

340

WSCPA

Oct 26

Triple Your Memory and Confidence, and Halve Your Stress

TYMC

265

340

WSCPA

Oct 27

AICPA’s 2010 Tax Review Series: S Corps, LLCs, and Other Pass-Through Entities

TRPT

265

340

-30

WSCPA

TAX

ç Oct 27

Understanding Accounting Issues for Estates and Trusts: Meeting Your Accounting and Auditing CPE Requirements

UAET

275

350

WSCPA

A&A

Oct 28

Choice of Entity - Key Issues: S Corp, C Corp, Partnership, LLC and Sole Proprietorship

CEKI

265

340

-30

WSCPA

TAX

Oct 28

Fiduciary Income Tax Returns - Form 1041 Workshop

1041

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

Oct 29

Advanced Income Tax Accounting - Including Practical Application Exercises

ADTX

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Advanced Concepts in Estate Planning

ACEP

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

Nov 1

Introduction to QuickBooks for the Accounting Professional

COMQB1

230

305

WSCPA

TEC

Nov 1

Audit Work Papers: Documenting and Reviewing Field Work

ATDR

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Nov 2

Analytical Review Procedures Using Excel

COMEX7

230

305

WSCPA

TEC

ç Oct 29

Nov 3

The Best Income Tax, Estate Tax and Financial Planning Ideas of 2010

IEFP

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

Staff Training - Semi Senior

STP2A

655

770

WSCPA

A&A

CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

CENRW414

175

210

WSCPA

Ethics

Nov 5

Governmental & Nonprofit Annual Update

GNAU2

265

340

-30

WSCPA

GNP

Nov 5

Washington State Community Property and Estate Tax Law Update

WKCP

265

340

WSCPA

TAX

Creating a Positive Work Culture with Performance Feedback

CPW2

265

340

WSCPA

Nov 3-5 Nov 4

ç Nov 9

EÍ

Full day courses are from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and qualify for eight credit hours unless otherwise noted.

www.wscpa.org

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Education and events

Fees Date

Course

Code For more information, enter code in catalog at www.wscpa.org

WSCPA Member Fee

NonMember Fee

AICPA Member Discount

Facility

Subject

Nov 9

Annual Update for Accountants and Auditors

AUAA2

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Nov 10

The Top 50 Mistakes Practitioners Make in Nonprofit Taxation and Governance Issues and How to Fix Them

GIBB

275

350

WSCPA

GNP

Nov 10

Advanced Update for Compilation, Review and Accounting Services

RPCR1

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Nov 11-12

IFRS Essentials with GAAP Comparison: Building a Solid Foundation

IFRS

425

540

-60

WSCPA

A&A

ç Nov 11

Preparing the Nonprofit Series of Tax Returns for New Staff and Para-Professionals

PNPR

275

350

WSCPA

TAX

ç Nov 12

Money Laundering - A Guide for CPAs

MLCPA

265

340

WSCPA

ç Nov 15

Team Building Within the Finance Function: A Challenge for Today’s CPA

TBFF

265

340

-30

WSCPA

Nov 15-17 ç Nov 16 Nov 17

Staff Training - Beginning In Charge

STP3A

655

770

WSCPA

A&A

Inside the IRS - A Tour for CPAs, EAs and Accountants

ITI2

265

340

WSCPA

TAX

Getting Ready for Tax Season - Individuals and Self-Employeds

GTSI

265

340

WSCPA

TAX

Nov 17

EÍ

CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

CENRW411

175

210

Meydenbauer Center

Ethics

Nov 18

Innovative Tax Planning for Small Businesses: Corporations, Partnerships & LLCs

TPOC2

265

340

-30

WSCPA

TAX

Nov 18

Cash and Tax Basis Financial Statements - Preparation and Reporting

CTB2

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Nov 19

Studies on Single Audit and Yellow Book Deficiencies

SAYB

265

340

-30

Meydenbauer Center

GNP

ç Nov 19 Nov 22 ç Nov 23 ç Nov 23 Nov 30

Advanced Real Estate Accounting, Auditing & Taxation

ARE

265

340

-30

WSCPA

A&A

Compilation and Review Standards Update and Review by Walter Haig

CRUR6

295

370

WSCPA

A&A

GAAP Update and Review for Small and Medium-Sized Entities (SMEs) by Walter Haig

GURSME5

295

370

WSCPA

A&A

Traps and Pitfalls in Estate Planning

TRAP

265

340

WSCPA

PFP

International Taxation: To and From the United States

ITTF

265

340

-30

WSCPA

TAX

Compilation and Review Standards Update and Review by Walter Haig

CRUR3

295

370

Hampton Inn Bellingham

A&A

GAAP Update and Review for Small and Medium-Sized Entities (SMEs) by Walter Haig

GURSME3

295

370

Hampton Inn Bellingham

A&A

Bellingham Sep 8 ç Sep 9 Nov 3

Basis/Distributions for Pass-Through Entities: An IRS Hot Spot

BDPTE1

265

340

-30

Lakeway Inn & Conf Ctr

TAX

Nov 4

Innovative Tax Planning for Small Businesses: Corporations, Partnerships & LLCs

TPOC1

265

340

-30

Lakeway Inn & Conf Ctr

TAX

Nov 8

Annual Update for Accountants and Auditors

AUAA1

265

340

-30

Lakeway Inn & Conf Ctr

A&A

Nov 18

Nonprofit Auditing and Accounting Update

NAU1

265

340

-30

Lakeway Inn & Conf Ctr

GNP

Whirly Ball - New Professionals Networking Event, 6-8:30 pm

NP08

Whirly Ball

Common Frauds and Internal Controls for Revenue, Purchasing and Cash Receipts

CFIC2

265

340

-30

Edward D. Hansen Conf Center

A&A

CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

CENRW403

175

210

Edward D. Hansen Conf Center

Ethics

Bankruptcy Today: What Every CPA Must Know!

BNKT

265

340

-30

Edward D. Hansen Conf Center

Taxation Essentials of LLCs, LLPs, LPs and Other Partnerships

TLLLO

265

340

-30

Edward D. Hansen Conf Center

TAX

FASB Review for Industry

FASBI2

265

340

-30

Edward D. Hansen Conf Center

A&A

Internal Control Essentials for Financial Managers, Accountants, and Auditors

ICDAD1

265

340

-30

Hilton Garden Inn TriCities/Kennewick

A&A

CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

CENRW406

175

210

Hilton Garden Inn TriCities/Kennewick

Ethics

Edmonds Oct 28

Everett Oct 20 Oct 22

EÍ

ç Nov 8 Nov 10

Nov 22 Kennewick Oct 21 Nov 2

EÍ

Full day courses are from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and qualify for eight credit hours unless otherwise noted.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

www.wscpa.org

Education and events Fees

Date

Course

Code For more information, enter code in catalog at www.wscpa.org

WSCPA Member Fee

NonMember Fee

AICPA Member Discount

Facility

Subject

Nov 9

Annual Update for Accountants and Auditors

AUAA3

265

340

-30

Hilton Garden Inn TriCities/Kennewick

A&A

Nov 11

Advanced Update for Compilation, Review and Accounting Services

RPCR2

265

340

-30

Hilton Garden Inn TriCities/Kennewick

A&A

Nov 18

Federal Tax Update - Individuals (Form 1040)

FTUI1

265

340

Three Rivers Conv Ctr

TAX

Nov 19

Federal Tax Update - C & S Corporations, Partnerships & LLCs (Forms 1120, 1120S & 1065)

FTUB1

265

340

Three Rivers Conv Ctr

TAX

Pay Now or Pay Later? The Pros & Cons of a Roth IRA Conversion, 8 am-9 am

CHSK03

Golden Steer Restaurant

TAX

Forensic Accounting: Fraudulent Reporting and Concealed Assets

FAFR2

265

340

-30

Holiday Inn Hotel/ Suites

A&A

Washington B & O and Sales Tax

WSTX2

265

340

Lynnwood Conv Center

TAX

Basis/Distributions for Pass-Through Entities: An IRS Hot Spot

BDPTE2

265

340

-30

Lynnwood Conv Center

TAX

Nov 16

Advanced Controller and CFO Skills

ACCS2

265

340

-30

Lynnwood Conv Center

Nov 18

Your 2010 Guide of Taxsmart Ways to Cut Taxes for Closely-Held Business and Professionals

TWCB

265

340

Lynnwood Conv Center

TAX

IFRS Small and Medium-Sized Entities (IFRS for SMEs)

IFRSS

265

340

Red Lion Hotel Olympia

A&A

Nov 2

Auditor/Accountant Communications: SASs 112 & 115 and Other Critical Requirements

ACCNR

265

340

-30

Red Lion Hotel Olympia

A&A

Nov 3

Compilation and Review Engagement Essentials

ICRE

265

340

-30

Red Lion Hotel Olympia

A&A

Closely Held Business Taxation: 49 Practical Ways to Cut Taxes

CHBT3

265

340

-30

Red Lion Hotel Olympia

TAX

Annual Update for Accountants and Auditors

AUAA4

265

340

-30

Red Lion Hotel Olympia

A&A

Kent Sep 16

Oct 27 Lynnwood Oct 26 Nov 5

Olympia ç Oct 18

Nov 9

Nov 11 Nov 16

EÍ

CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

CENRW410

175

210

Red Lion Hotel Olympia

Ethics

Nov 19

AICPA’s Hottest Tax Topics for 2010

HOT1

265

340

-30

Red Lion Hotel Olympia

TAX

ç Sep 23

The LLC and LLP Supercourse - How to Guide Families, Professionals and Closely-Held Clients on Limited Liability Companies and Limited Liability

LLSC

265

340

Hilton Seattle Airport

TAX

ç Sep 24

Today’s Complex Real Estate Tax Planning Strategies for Distressed Real Estate, LLCs, Contractors/Builders, Investors, Homeowners, and Like-Kind Exchanges

DREP

265

340

Hilton Seattle Airport

TAX

Sep 28

Accounting for Income Taxes: Applying SFAS No. 109/FIN 48: A Whole New Ballgame!

AIT

265

340

-30

DoubleTree Guest Suites Southcenter

A&A

Oct 19

Solving Complex Single Audit Issues for Government and Nonprofit Organizations

EOSAI

265

340

-30

WA State Conv Center

GNP

Seattle

Oct 21 Oct 25-27

Forensics and Financial Fraud: Real-World Issues & Answers

FFF2

265

340

-30

WA State Conv Center

A&A

Northwest Tax Institute, 8 am-4:30 pm

NWTI

775

850

Bell Harbor Intl Cnf Ctr

TAX

Oct 28

FASB Review for Industry

FASBI1

265

340

-30

WA State Conv Center

A&A

Nov 9

Business Law Essentials for Accountants

BLT

265

340

-30

DoubleTree Guest Suites Southcenter

Nov 11

Advanced Tax Strategies for S Corporations

ADVSC

265

340

-30

DoubleTree Guest Suites Southcenter

TAX

Nov 11-12

Pacific NW Construction Industry Conference, 8 am-5 pm

CIC

525

600

Bell Harbor Intl Cnf Ctr

Nov 18-19

Not-for-Profit Conference, 8 am-4:30 pm

NFPC

335

410

Bell Harbor Intl Cnf Ctr

A&A

Full day courses are from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and qualify for eight credit hours unless otherwise noted.

www.wscpa.org

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Education and events

Fees Date

Course

Code For more information, enter code in catalog at www.wscpa.org

ç Nov 22 Nov 23

WSCPA Member Fee

NonMember Fee

AICPA Member Discount

Facility

Subject

Estate Planning for 2010 and Beyond

2010

265

340

Cedarbrook Lodge

PFP

Fair Value Accounting: A Critical New Skill for All CPAs

FVA

265

340

-30

WA State Conv Center

A&A MG

Spokane Sep 8

An Introduction to Negotiations, 12-1 pm

CHSP08

The Spokane Club

Sep 8

Spokane Chapter Meeting Registering for All 8 Meetings, 12-2 pm

CHSP13

200

The Spokane Club

Form 990: AICPA’s Answer to Unlocking the Tax Complexities

EOF9901

265

340

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

TAX

Surviving and Growing Your Company in Difficult Times: Essential Skills for the Finance Team

SGYC1

265

340

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

Sep 20 ç Sep 29 Oct 13

Computer Security: Keeping Your Company’s Finances Safe in a Digital World, 12-2 pm

CHSP09

The Spokane Club

TEC

Oct 14

Introduction to Providing Litigation Services, 12-2 pm

CHSP01

Red Lion River Inn

Oct 14

Spokane Chapter Fall Series Registering for All 6 Programs CHSP01 CHSP06, 12-2 pm

CHSP07

240

Red Lion River Inn

Oct 18

Forensics and Financial Fraud: Real-World Issues & Answers

FFF1

265

340

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

A&A

Oct 19

Common Frauds and Internal Controls for Revenue, Purchasing and Cash Receipts

CFIC1

265

340

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

A&A

Employment Update for Spokane and Kootenai County, 12-2 pm

CHSP02

Red Lion River Inn

Oct 21

Billiards Tournament - Networking Event, 6-8:30 pm

NP07

Far West Billiards

Advanced Controller and CFO Skills

ACCS1

265

340

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

Economic Update and Portfolio Investment Strategy, 12-2 pm

CHSP03

Red Lion River Inn

Governmental & Nonprofit Annual Update

GNAU1

265

340

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

Federal Tax Update, 12-2 pm

CHSP04

Red Lion River Inn

TAX

GAAP Update and Review for Small and Medium-Sized Entities (SMEs) by Walter Haig

GURSME4

295

370

Hampton Inn Spokane

A&A

S Corporation Key Issues, Compliance, and Strategies: An IRS Target Area

SCORP2

265

340

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

TAX TAX

Oct 28 Oct 28 Nov 4 Nov 4 ç Nov 5 Nov 8

GNP

Nov 9

Advanced Tax Strategies for LLC & Partnership Transactions

APLPT1

265

340

-30

Hampton Inn Spokane

Nov 10

E Clair Daniels Event

CHSP12

The Spokane Club

Nov 11

Improving Lives Through Market Solutions - Recommendations on Education Environment, Government Reform, Health Care, Transportation and Small Business, 12-2 pm

CHSP05

Red Lion River Inn

The Top 50 Mistakes Practitioners Make and How to Fix Them: Dealing with the IRS

IRSM

275

350

Hampton Inn Spokane

ç Nov 12 Nov 15

Nov 16 Nov 18

Nov 19

TAX

Surgent McCoy’s Advanced Critical Tax Issues for S Corporations

ACTS

275

350

Hampton Inn Spokane

TAX

Advanced Technical Tax Forms Training - LLCs, S Corporations, and Partnerships

ACTL

275

350

Hampton Inn Spokane

TAX

Identification and Mitigation of Fraud Risk “Red Flags”, 12-2 pm

CHSP06

Red Lion River Inn

A&A

Compilation and Review Standards Update and Review by Walter Haig

CRUR5

295

370

Hampton Inn Spokane

A&A

Nov 22

The Coming IFRS Conversion: Preparing for the Ultimate GAAP Makeover

IFRSC1

265

340

Hampton Inn Spokane

A&A

Nov 23

Only Financial Officer 2.0: More Skills for Smaller Company Financial Managers

OFO

265

340

Hampton Inn Spokane

Tacoma Oct 20

Controllership: Leading Edge of Corporate Performance

CLECP1

265

340

-30

Pacific Grill Events Ctr

Nov 4

Federal Estate and Gift Tax Returns - Forms 706 and 709 Workshop

GIFT

275

350

Pacific Grill Events Ctr

TAX

Nov 5

Social Security, Medicare, and Prescription Drug Retirement Benefits: What Every Baby Boomer Needs to Know

SSRB

275

350

Pacific Grill Events Ctr

TAX

Getting Ready for Tax Season - Business Clients: A Year-End Update for Small Business Clients LLCs, “S” Corporations, “C” Corporations and S

GTSB

265

340

Pacific Grill Events Ctr

TAX

Nov 16 Vancouver Nov 4 Nov 8

Small Business Accounting and Auditing Update

SBAA

265

340

-30

Red Lion at the Quay

A&A

Closely Held Business Taxation: 49 Practical Ways to Cut Taxes

CHBT2

265

340

-30

Red Lion at the Quay

TAX

EÍ

CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

CENRW407

175

210

Red Lion Wenatchee

Ethics

Wenatchee Nov 17

Full day courses are from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and qualify for eight credit hours unless otherwise noted.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

www.wscpa.org

Education and events Fees

Date

Course

Code For more information, enter code in catalog at www.wscpa.org

WSCPA Member Fee

NonMember Fee

AICPA Member Discount

Facility

Subject

Woodinville Nov 17

Casino Night - New Professionals Networking Event, 6-8:30 pm

NP09

Redhook Ale Brewery

Forensic Accounting: Fraudulent Reporting and Concealed Assets

FAFR1

265

340

-30

Clarion Hotel & Cnf Ctr

A&A

ç Sep 1

WEBCAST: S Corporations Workshop, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB37

255

295

Online

TAX

ç Sep 2

WEBCAST: Accounting and Finance For Non-Financial Managers, 12-4 pm

WEB124

129

159

Online

ç Sep 15

WEBINAR: Cash Reporting: Hazards for the Accountant and Business, 9-10 am

WNR09

Online

A&A

ç Sep 15

WEBCAST: Budgeting Wars Prevention! How to Ensure Accountability In Your Budget Process, 2-4 pm

WEB125

109

Online

ç Sep 15

WEBCAST: Governance - Enhancing Risk Management: Setting The Right Balance Innovation and Controls, 11 am-1 pm

WEB126

109

Online

ç Sep 16

WEBCAST: High Road Corporate Governance from the Inside - Out: The CFO Controller’s Tool Kit, 11 am-2 pm

WEB127

129

Online

ç Sep 16

WEBCAST: High Road Leadership Strategies for Eliminating Silos, Bureaucracy, or Turf Wars from Your Culture, 2-4 pm

WEB128

109

Online

ç Sep 16

WEBCAST: High Road Approach to Difficult Conversations: How to Face and Grow from Them, 8-10 am

WEB129

109

Online

ç Sep 20

EÍ

WEBCAST: CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

WEB111

149

179

Online

Ethics

ç Sep 20

Yakima Oct 26 Webcasts & Webinars

WEBCAST: Myths of Budgeting and How to Overcome Them, 8 am-12 pm

WEB130

129

159

Online

ç Sep 22

WEBCAST: Farmers Tax and Accounting Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB38

255

295

Online

TAX

ç Sep 23

WEBCAST: Federal Taxation of Partnerships and LLCs Part I: Formation, Operation and Allocations, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB39

255

295

Online

TAX

WEBCAST:Accounting Basics for Finance Professionals, 8-11 am

WEB131

129

Online

WEBCAST: Common Interest Realty Associations Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB40

255

295

Online

ç Sep 24

ç Sep 24 ç Sep 27

WEBCAST: IFRS Adoption and Financial Statement Convergence: Two Topics; One Business Issue, 7-11 am

WEB132

129

159

Online

ç Sep 29

WEBCAST: Banking Financial and Compliance Update Series - Third Quarter 2010, 8 am-12 pm

WEB133

129

159

Online

ç Sep 29

WEBCAST: Audits of HUD-Assisted Projects, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB41

305

355

-30

Online

GNP

ç Sep 30

WEBCAST: Fraud in the Governmental and Not-For-Profit Environments: What a Steal!, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB42

305

355

-30

Online

A&A

ç Oct 1

WEBCAST: Best Practices for Industry - Understanding Your Liability And How to Secure and Protect Corporate Information, 7 am-3 pm

WEB134

195

225

Online

ç Oct 1

WEBCAST: Federal Taxation of Partnerships and LLCs Part II: Sales, Bequests, Redemptions and Liquidations, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB43

255

295

Online

TAX

ç Oct 4

WEBCAST: Financial Statement Analysis From an Operational Perspective, 7-9 am

WEB135

109

Online

ç Oct 5

WEBCAST: Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure - Part 1, 7-11 am

WEB136

129

159

Online

ç Oct 5

WEBCAST: Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure - Part 2, 12-4 pm

WEB137

129

159

Online

WEBCAST: Representing Clients in the Marriage Dissolution Process: Accounting, Tax, Estate and Financial Planning Issues, 7 am-3 pm

WEB105

195

225

Online

A&A

ç Oct 6 ç Oct 7

WEBCAST: High Road Corporate Governance from the Inside - Out: The CFO Controller’s Tool Kit, 1-4 pm

WEB138

129

Online

ç Oct 7

WEBCAST: High Road Leadership Strategies for Eliminating Silos, Bureaucracy, or Turf Wars from Your Culture, 8-10 am

WEB139

109

Online

ç Oct 7

WEBCAST: High Road Approach to Difficult Conversations: How to Face and Grow from Them, 11 am-1 pm

WEB140

109

Online

ç Oct 8

WEBCAST: Budgeting Wars Prevention! How to Ensure Accountability In Your Budget Process, 8-10 am

WEB141

109

Online

ç Oct 8

WEBCAST: Governance - Enhancing Risk Management: Setting The Right Balance Innovation and Controls, 2-4 pm

WEB142

109

Online

Full day courses are from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and qualify for eight credit hours unless otherwise noted.

www.wscpa.org

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Education and events

Fees Date

Course

Code For more information, enter code in catalog at www.wscpa.org

ç Oct 12

ç Oct 19 ç Oct 20

WSCPA Member Fee

NonMember Fee

AICPA Member Discount

Facility

Subject

WEBCAST: Banking Financial and Compliance Update Series - Third Quarter 2010, 8 am-12 pm

WEB144

129

159

Online

WEBCAST: Fraud: Exposures and Solutions in the Non-Audit Environment, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB44

255

295

Online

A&A

WEBCAST: 2010 Accounting & Auditing Update, 7 am-3 pm

WEB106

195

225

Online

A&A

ç Oct 21

WEBCAST: The CFO’s Role in Banking and Financing, 9-11 am

WEB143

109

Online

ç Oct 22

WEBCAST: Myths of Budgeting and How to Overcome Them, 11 am-3 pm

WEB145

129

159

Online

WEBCAST: Deal Structure for Mergers Acquisitions Transactions, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB45

255

295

Online

TAX

WEBCAST: Accounting and Finance For Non-Financial Managers, 7-11 am

WEB146

129

159

Online

WEBCAST: Accounting and Auditing Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB46

255

295

Online

A&A

ç Oct 29

EÍ

WEBCAST: CPE in Ethics: A Requirement in Washington State, 8-11:30 am

WEB112

149

179

Online

Ethics

ç Oct 29

WEBCAST: Asset Protection Planning, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB47

255

295

Online

TAX

WEBCAST: Small Firm Best Practices Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB48

255

295

Online

ç Nov 4

WEBCAST: IFRS Adoption and Financial Statement Convergence: Two Topics; One Business Issue, 12-4 pm

WEB147

129

159

Online

ç Nov 4

WEBCAST: Advanced Personal Financial Planning Update, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB49

255

295

Online

PFP

ç Nov 5

WEBCAST: Family Law Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB50

255

295

Online

ç Nov 8

WEBCAST: Green Accounting and Sustainability Issues, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB51

255

295

Online

A&A

ç Nov 8

Date Change - WEBCAST: Intellectual Property Institute, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB11

255

295

Online

ç Oct 22 ç Oct 27 ç Oct 27

ç Nov 2

ç Nov 9

WEBCAST: Professional Issues Update - Complimentary to WSCPA Members!, 9-10:30 am

WEB200

Online

ç Nov 9

WEBCAST: Enterprise Risk Management for SMEs - Small to Medium Enterprises: Risk Plays No Favorites, 7-11 am

WEB148

129

159

Online

ç Nov 10

WEBCAST: Bankruptcy Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB52

255

295

Online

ç Nov 11-12

WEBCAST: Pacific NW Construction Industry Conference, 8 am-5 pm

WEBCIC

425

500

Online

ç Nov 11

WEBCAST: Pension and Profit-Sharing Plan Strategies, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB53

255

295

Online

TAX

ç Nov 15

WEBCAST: Practical Financial Accounting and Auditing Update, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB54

255

295

Online

A&A

ç Nov 16

WEBCAST: Accounting & Auditing for the Tax Practitioner, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB55

255

295

Online

A&A

ç Nov 17

WEBCAST: Knowing Your Client’s Numbers: Beyond Activity -Based Costing, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB56

255

295

Online

A&A

ç Nov 18-19

WEBCAST: Not-for-Profit Conference, 8 am-4:30 pm

WEBNFPC

310

Online

A&A

ç Nov 18

WEBCAST: Real Estate Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB57

255

295

Online

TAX

WEBCAST: Budgeting - Basic Elements of Effective Operational Budgeting, 7-9 am

WEB149

109

Online

WEBCAST: Employment Practices Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB58

255

295

Online

WEBCAST: Creating Competitive Advantage: Developing A Roadmap for Sustainable Performance, 6-8 am

WEB150

109

Online

WEBCAST: Federal Tax Update-Individuals (Form 1040), 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB59

255

295

Online

TAX

WEBCAST: Federal Tax Update-C & S Corporations, Partnerships & LLCs (Forms 1120, 1120S & 1065), 8:30 am-4:30 pm

WEB60

255

295

Online

TAX

ç Nov 19 ç Nov 19 ç Nov 22 ç Nov 29 ç Nov 30

Need help finding a seminar, conference or webcast? Call the WSCPA at (800) 272-8273 or (425) 644-4800.

Full day courses are from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and qualify for eight credit hours unless otherwise noted.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

Networking Event | S Season Ticket and Coupons N/A

www.wscpa.org

Registration

Questions? E-mail cpe@wscpa.org or call (425) 644-4800 or (800) 272-8273 (toll-free in Washington).

Code

Title

Date

City

Fee1

WSCPA CPE policies apply to all programs in the CPE Digest. Review the CPE policies at www.wscpa.org. www.wscpa.org

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

classified ads

Detailed advertising information is available online at www. wscpa.org. Classified Ads are $40 for 40 words or less and $1 for each additional word.Active E-mail and web site addresses count as two words and are $10 additional each. Positions available ads are for magazine placement only. Contact Sharon Olene-Marander at (425) 586-1138, (800) 272-8273, Ext. 1138, or classifieds@wscpa.org for more information. All ads must be pre-paid.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE Established Bellingham CPA firm is seeking experienced auditor to join our team of professionals. 5+ years of audit experience required. Collaborative working environment, excellent advancement opportunities and salary and benefits package. Submit resume and cover letter to Varner Sytsma & Herndon, CPA’s, 2200 Rimland Drive, Suite 205, Bellingham, WA 98226,Attn: H/R Established Bellingham CPA firm is seeking experienced CPA to join our team of professionals. 3+ years of tax experience required. Collaborative working environment, excellent advancement opportunities and salary and benefits package. Submit resume and cover letter to Varner Sytsma & Herndon, CPA’s, 2200 Rimland Drive, Suite 205, Bellingham, WA 98226,Attn: H/R

OFFICE SPACE Mercer Island based personal financial management firm looking to sublease up to 1,000 sq ft (4 window offices and reception space, plus interior bathroom) for $2,500/ month. 1 year lease, then available month to month. Please respond by e-mail: berit@paracleadvisors.com or phone: (425) 646-9292. Bellevue CPA Firm has office space for rent. 500 sq ft complete with services. East access to 520 & 405 freeways and great parking. Email Scott@MoserCPAs.com or call 425-818-9400.

MERGERS & SALES Looking for sole proprietor practice for possible affiliation. We have office and support team infrastructure and also can help increase your revenues by providing to your clients fee only wealth management. Contact Curtis Erickson at 206-734-3705 or curt@curtcpa.com. CPA looking for $150,000-$250,000 size practice to purchase in the Bellingham area. Cash purchase. Please respond toTom by phone, (707) 545-0701 or email,TJTCPA@aol.com. Local Firm Looking for Practice. Are you thinking of retiring or selling your practice soon? We are a Redmond based CPA firm looking to purchase another firm. We are looking for a firm with revenues between $200,000$1,000,000. Most of our work is with business clients and high net worth individuals. We have purchased practices before and are very familiar with how to transition a client base. Please call Bruce Sult at 425 883-3111 or email bruce@falcosult.com if you are interested in discussing a sale. You can review our website at www.falcosult.com. Considering Selling Your Practice? Consider all your options. We do the work. Confidential. We have buyers actively seeking practices. Call Mark Hause at 877-345-7722 or visit our website at www.accountingpracticesales.com. Accounting Practice Sales.We make dreams happen! IBA Sells Privately Held Companies. Do you represent a client who is ready to retire or has taken a company as far as they want to or can? IBA is the Pacific Northwest’s oldest business brokerage (M&A) firm. We are professional negotiators with over 4000 completed transactions. Please contact us if we can be of assistance at (800) 218-4422 or www.ibainc.com. We Sell Practices! --- ProHorizons has been helping CPAs sell their practices since 1995.Confidential,prompt,professional and stress free. Call for a FREE sales package and confidential

consultation with our regional representative, Ken Berry at 888-729-9476 or visit www.prohorizons.com. PRACTICES FOR SALE Contact Mark Hause atAccounting Practice Sales by e-mail at MARKHAUSE@CONTACTAPS.COM or call 877-3457722 for more information on the following practices: Anacortes CPA Firm for Sale: This CPA firm is a traditional CPA firm with income tax, write-up, along with financial services to round out the practice.The firm revenue mix breaks out 76% tax, 18% write-up, and 6% financial services.The buyer will have the opportunity to retain the current office location indefinitely as the Seller owns the building.With a loyal client base and good fees, this firm offers opportunity to a firm looking to expand or a CPA wanting to be on their own. Bellevue CPA Firm for Sale: This CPA located in Bellevue wants to sell a highly profitable practice. The firm revenue mix is heavily concentrated in the area of tax preparation with over 92% of all fees coming from the rendering of tax services. The future of this firm is further enhanced by a significant number of clients having a high net worth with the need for additional services in a variety of areas. The ideal buyer will be one who has the experience of working with high net worth individuals who can take advantage of the solid fees and loyal practice base. Blaine CPA Tax Firm for Sale: This CPA firm located close to the Canadian border is primed for a new owner and has wonderful potential.The firm is the only CPA firm in town and receives referrals from all types of professionals including banks and real estate agents.The practice revenues are predominantly from tax services with that segment of the business generating approx. 86% of total revenues for the firm. The balance is split almost equally between write-up and consulting. With opportunities for cross border tax and consulting services along with traditional income tax services, this firm is a solid opportunity for any accountant who wants to own their own firm or a firm looking to expand or open a branch office. Bremerton, Port Orchard, Silverdale Area CPA Firm for Sale: This outstanding CPA firm (single location) with an excellent fee structure and solid cash flow is for sale. The firm is a tax practice with no auditing and enough write-up work to balance out cash flow over the course of the year. The firm client base composed of long term loyal clients is the product of the owner’s long term commitment to the community coupled with top of the mind name recognition when seeking professional accounting services. This firm is further enhanced with knowledgeable staff, no concentration of clients either by fees or segment of the local economy. All of the foregoing creates an opportunity for any firm or practitioner to acquire a firm that is a proven entity. Everett Franchise Tax Practice For Sale: The Seller(s) are offering the unique opportunity to own a tax preparation franchise with 3 territories and 3 locations. The locations are turn key, firmly established, with existing clients, and are located in areas that provide for excellent growth prospects. The buyer will benefit from a national brand name, national name recognition, brand awareness, and excellent support. The buyer has everything in place to own this tax preparation franchise or for a current practitioner to acquire a second business. Everett Tax Practice for Sale: The seller of this practice has several locations and wishes to sell two locations whether together or singly and focus on the remainder of the practice. The locations have established clients and have lease’s in place insuring the availability of the current location for several years. Each of the locations were previously national franchise tax preparation locations who are no longer affiliated with the organization. What remains are high visibility locations with staffing in place that would be a profitable addition to an existing firm seeking to expand or a great starter practice(s) for an individual that are located within 15 minutes of each other.

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

North Seattle CPA Firm for Sale: This CPA firm located in North Seattle has been in the business of providing top drawer professional services for over 30 years. The firm is a full service practice offering all traditional accounting services including attestation. The revenue mix breaks out 73% income tax,10% write-up,14% auditing,3% reviews and compilations with excellent per return and/or engagement fees. The practice has a significant number of business returns that will require a good business minded accountant that is comfortable with rendering advice and counsel on a variety of business related matters. The firm has great staff, established methods and procedures which make this a turn key practice. All of these qualities combine to make this firm a must see for any accountant or firm looking for an acquisition. Puget SoundAccounting,Bookkeeping,& Consulting Practice for Sale: This practice’s revenue comes from accounting, bookkeeping, and consulting with individuals and companies who need professional help with their accounting function of their business.The marketing strategy has been based on referrals,networking,and some advertising. A lot of the work is performed in the offices of the client with some completed at the home office of the Seller. Currently, the missing component of this practice is tax work which could come the Buyer’s way with the proper background and credentials. The ideal buyer will understand QuickBooks and possibly be a QuickBooks ProAdvisor along with a solid background in accounting with good customer service skills. Spokane CPA Firm for Sale: The owner of this accounting practice with an emphasis on tax preparation is ready to retire. The firm revenue mix is 87% tax preparation with the balance being write-up and representation before taxing authorities. The clients of the firm are loyal due to receiving hands on personalized service from the owner. The firm is further enhanced by having a high visibility office location on a heavily traveled thorough fare. All of these qualities add up to create a firm that is an excellent prospect for acquisition whether for an individual who has aspirations of owning a practice or a firm wanting to expand their customer base.

SOLD

Volunteer Opportunities The following organizations need a CPA to serve on the board of directors or provide other guidance on financial matters. Learn more at www.wscpa.org (enter volunteer positions in the search box). The Pacific Harp Institute New Moon Farm The Arc of King County Washington Pilots Association Retired Football Veterans Pacific Northwest Diabetes Research Institute (PNDRI) The Groundbreakers’ Program One Day’s Wages The Arc of Tri-Cities Foundation 206 Universal The Washington State Department of Social and Health Serivces (DSHS) Aging & Disability Services Administration (ADSA) Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification (IICRC) TisBest Philanthropy Best Little Rabbit, Rodent & Ferret House International District Housing Alliance (IDHA) Theater Puget Sound

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MEMBER profile

Longest Serving CPA in Washington State Delmar Pearson, CPA

he WSCPA recently recognized Delmar Pearson, who was born in 1919, as the longest serving CPA in the State of Washington. The WashingtonCPA and several Yakima CPAs talked with Delmar about his extremely successful career and how the profession has changed since he became a CPA in 1946. How did you, the son of a Yakima farmer, become a CPA? I graduated from high school in 1937. Originally I had an Annapolis appointment, but when I took the required physical they found a heart murmur. Then the summer of ‘37 something happened to our farm that shouldn’t happen to anybody. A hail storm left about six inches of hail on the ground. It tore the limbs out of the trees in our orchard. The crop on our 60 acres was lost and the buds for the next year’s crop were damaged. The only reason the orchard survived was that we packed our own fruit--apples, peaches, cherries, Bartlett pears. Because I was needed on the farm, instead of attending the University of Washington or University of Southern California, I went to junior college for two years. I transferred to the University of Washington and minored in accounting. Once I graduated, I started law school in 1941. Then Pearl Harbor happened and I went in the Army. After the war, I went back to the U and had to choose between law or accounting. I had a conflict between teaching the accounting lab or taking a law class. The dean of the law school told me, “You’re either going to be a lawyer or a CPA.” I already had a child at the time, so I abandoned my plan to return to law school and began working instead. I received my CPA in May of 1946. I took the CPA exam in Seattle, at a city building. It was a two day affair, accounting on the first day, then law and auditing the next day. In those days you couldn’t even have a slide rule.

Del Pearson (seated), with Dan Fisher, Jeff Buege, Sara Edson, Susan Schoolcraft, and Carol Wagar.

There have been significant changes in auditing. To keep up you have to become a specialist. It is hard to start a practice and keep up with the accounting practice (tax or auditing), without being a specialist.

The part of Yakima that used to be your family’s orchard has streets like Triple Crown Way and Slew Way.What is your family’s connection to horse racing? I inherited the family farm in 1956. My daughter always wanted a horse. I recalled the hard work of taking care of my family’s horses, and told her no. When her husband made a little extra money, my daughter convinced him to buy a horse. The horse won 2-3 races at Longacres. Later my daughter bought Seattle Slew. As everyone knows, he was the big winner—the only undefeated Triple Crown winner. We were going to name What would a CPA today recognize if they worked for a public the streets something else.Then we decided to switch to horse accounting firm back then? Very little. Before I started law school, I started working for names. After I “retired” in 1985, I was busy with horses part Boyd Olson in the summer of ’41.When I passed the CPA exam, of the year, and handled some accounts through the end of the there were only a handful of us that had certificates. We did 1990s, just before the firm was sold to Moss Adams. balance sheet auditing primarily. The bulk of our practice here in Yakima was agricultural clients. Some of our clients were log- You donated land for the Children’s Village in Yakima.Why is philanthropy important to you? gers, retail, and we audited the S&Ls. My father taught me as a child that “it’s nice to have a bank I was a tax specialist and I really enjoyed the practice of tax account, but it’s better to leave this world a little better than accounting. Compared to today, the worst part of tax returns we found it.” was you didn’t have any equipment. And returns were typed or handwritten. When the 10 key was invented--that was The Yakima community is better thanks to the many contria blessing! butions of Delmar Pearson. You can meet Del at Yakima Chapter meetings, which he attends faithfully. If you are lucky enough What advice would you give to new CPAs? Go back to school. Take all the English and writing you can. to sit by him, he might share one of his many stories (like how No matter what you do, auditing, tax or anything else, you need during his senior year at the U, he outran two cops as he drove from Yakima to Seattle in record time). to be able to clearly communicate. www.wscpa.org

WashingtonCPA September/October 2010

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