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Important tips for job seekers [MNCPA]
Read about insider tips to help in the job search process and to land your next career.

Top 3 reasons your clients will love working with us [MNCPA]
Hear about how the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation can help you!

What’s important for business transitions in Minnesota?
Learn about key issues for owners in their succession and transition planning from the University of Minnesota Extension’s he Minnesota Business Succession and Transition Study.

Cultivating success
As Minnesota’s cannabis market continues to grow and evolve, achieving a deep understanding of the complexities and opportunities within this sector is crucial.

IRS announces second phase
The IRS released a new program allowing businesses that incorrectly filed for an Employee Retention Credit (ERC) refund to return 80% of the funds without interest or penalties. Learn how to help your clients navigate the process.

U.S. Department of Labor issues final rule on independent contractor classifications
Employers need to be aware of a change in determining who is an employee vs. independent contractor effective March 11.

The secret to a winning 48C application
The Advanced Energy Project Credit provides qualifying manufacturers with billions of dollars in tax credits for making investments in advanced energy projects. See how to help your clients with the 48C application process.

What can you learn from Best Firm Award recipients?
Earlier this fall, Accounting Today released its 2023 Best Firms to Work For results, with two Minnesota-based firms scoring high in the midsized employer category.

Employer strategies that address current labor challenges
For many reasons, U.S. businesses are facing an unprecedented shortage of workers, and that’s having a profound impact on where companies choose to locate, how they price their products and services, and how they recruit, train and retain workers while trying to stay competitive nationally and globally.

2023 Minnesota Clean Energy Law SF4
In the wake of recent legislative changes to Minnesota’s clean energy bill SF 4 passed this past February, it’s important for CPAs and financial advisors to understand provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA).

IRS intensifies efforts to combat ERC scams — consider getting a second opinion
The IRS is still encouraging businesses to file legitimate claims, but it is asking businesses to review their claims with a trusted tax professional who actually understands the complex ERC rules. See how getting a second opinion can help.

The dark side of artificial intelligence
While AI has revolutionized countless industries (accounting included), it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The very attributes that make AI so helpful — its ability to learn, adapt and act independently — can also be harnessed for malicious purposes.

Renewable Energy and Advanced Energy Investment Tax Credits
The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are offering billions of dollars in energy-related tax incentives to companies that invest in clean energy and clean energy technologies that help combat climate change. See which credits your clients may qualify for.

Forget weak passwords and automate password security
In today's fast-paced digital landscape — where security breaches are a constant threat — password management is a critical concern for businesses.

Optimal cybersecurity protocols
Cybersecurity concerns are making headlines more frequently, and the threats are ever-present.   One alarming trend is the rise of Business Email Compromise (BEC), leading to substantial financial losses as reported by authorities in the United States and Australia.

Strengthening data protection for you and your clients
Now is the perfect time to delve into the significance of data privacy and explore how we can collectively bolster our defenses against cyber threats.

Safeguarding financial professionals
As October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it's essential for financial professionals — especially CPAs, CFOs and financial controllers — to sharpen their defenses against cyber threats.

4 benefits of mobile payment systems for CPAs
One of the latest payments technologies that has seen rapid growth recently is mobile payments, where customers can send off a payment directly from their bank accounts with a few taps of a mobile app. See how this technology can help your firm.

Evaluating your technology
Here are four keys to help you and your firm get into the practice of consistently evaluating your technology use.

How to leverage technology in times of instability
Finance leaders are facing significant challenges resulting from instability in today’s national and global markets. New drivers of uncertainty have emerged over the last few years, impacting the ways organizations are being led going forward and driving the need for long-term, sustainable change.

Spotlight on Dell MDR: The compelling case for managed detection and response in CPA firms
Just as CPA firms offer specialized services for clients lacking in-house financial expertise, managed detection and response (MDR) services provide much-needed cybersecurity capabilities for organizations that may not have dedicated IT departments.

The Employee Retention Credit: The latest scrutiny
With IRS backlog reduced, additional focus is now on supply chain qualifications, misleading ads and growing fraud risk

The growing market for CPAs in the cooperative business sector
A pressing issue has come to the forefront in the cooperative business community: the scarcity of CPAs specifically equipped with expertise in cooperative accounting. By bridging this knowledge gap, CPAs can seize the opportunity to enter this rapidly expanding market for their services.

Networking groups: A double-edged sword for success
One the most common questions I get asked by accounting professionals is: I was invited to join a networking group, should I join it? Will it be worth my time? Discover the advantages and disadvantages of a networking group to determine next steps.

Minnesota paid sick and safe leave [MNCPA]
Learn how employers can stay compliant with the new Minnesota Earned Sick and Safe Leave Act.

How to measure the success of your hybrid work model for accounting leaders
At this stage, accounting firm leaders are turning their attention to measuring the success of their hybrid work model. But what works well for one company’s culture and working style may not work well elsewhere — even within the same industry.

Developing a succession plan in today’s world [MNCPA]
This article cover four aspects of a succession plan: developing a succession plan, compensating the retiring partner or partners, transitioning clients and transitioning firm management.

An excise exploration: Unpacking Minnesota’s cannabis taxation
Minnesota is poised to become the 23rd state to legalize cannabis use for those 21 and older. The bill legalizing cannabis use spans more than 300 pages and encapsulates a wealth of information.

Legalized use of cannabis in Minnesota: What employers need to know
The increasing social acceptance and legalization of cannabis across multiple states the past decade has brought with it the need for employers to adjust to fit a new normal.

5 tips for creating an impactful off-site team retreat
The best leaders recognize the need to get off the hamster wheel of never-ending operational tasks to focus on building a cohesive, high-performing team and an off-site retreat is one of the best ways to do just that.

The growing importance of IoT security in the accounting industry
Cybersecurity has become a crucial concern for businesses in all industries. With the growing prevalence of the Internet of Things (IoT), it's more important than ever for CPAs and accounting professionals to be aware of the security risks and best practices associated with IoT devices and networks.

Clarity is the key [MNCPA]
Communication is the lifeblood of all organizations. Be sure you're applying the right tool for the task at hand.

Entering a positive work culture | Business Perspective [MNCPA]
Paige Batcha, CPA with Versique Search & Consulting shares her story.

How to address three common staffing challenges [MNCPA]
In the annual survey of MNCPA public practice members, 45% of respondents said their top concern this tax season was not having enough staff to complete the work.

Talent pipeline is the issue of our day [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Data analytics, KPI dashboards and CPAs
Data analytics and KPI (key performance indicators) dashboard reporting is one of the most exciting and valuable innovations to come along in our profession.

ERP is not a four-letter word
While ERP solutions have traditionally been challenging to implement because they are complex and comprehensive, frequently with the gnashing of teeth, smaller ERP systems are easier to implement successfully.

How do you judge innovation? Experts offer their guidance [MNCPA]
Innovation is much sought after, but hard to define. This checklist can help set your vision apart.

Making the most of LinkedIn during busy season
Building a few minutes of LinkedIn time into your daily and weekly routines will help you gain momentum and connections all year.

Empathy: A powerful business construct [MNCPA]
Dr. Shannon Rogers explains how she is eliciting loyalty with data-driven, empathetic user experiences.

Networking: How to make meaningful, in-person connections in 3 easy steps [MNCPA]
Networking is about making contact with people and exchanging information, ideally to the mutual benefit of everyone. Here are tips to successfully work any room.

Tax implications of remote workers [MNCPA]
Adopting a co-employer model is one way to manage the tax compliance and HR requirements associated with remote workers.

5 ways empathetic leadership can make digital transformation real [MNCPA]
Being more empathetic will not only help companies rebound from the last two years, it will also enable them to find their authentic voice and become an unstoppable force in technology and business.

Refresh your leaders with sabbaticals [MNCPA]
Increasing numbers of employers are offering sabbatical leave to combat burnout and inspire employee retention. Read about the experiences of MNCPA members who have taken sabbaticals.

Boost your virtual networking power
Keep the foundational principles of networking in place and apply it to the virtual space.

How to fix the leaky CPA pipeline [MNCPA]
Additional recruitment efforts won’t resolve staffing shortages if retention issues aren’t fixed first.

Breaking myths about neurodiversity
Neurodiversity has always been around, but we’re only just starting to realize how we can support neurodiverse people and take advantage of their skills.

Managing your EX (employee experience) [MNCPA]
In a tight labor market, the employee experience becomes a major part of your recruitment and retention strategy. Employers must define and articulate what makes them stand out from other employers.

Dealing with too many ‘quick questions?’ [MNCPA]
You might think interruptions are just a fact of life when you are an accountant, but for the sake of maximizing productively and maintaining your well-being, it’s important to set boundaries.

Is there a silver lining to the Great Resignation?
Here are five recommendations to implement now to help mitigate a stressful busy season due to staff shortages.

Communication drives everything [MNCPA]
Adapt your communication style to meet others where they are.

Tax survey respondents share telltale signs of busy season [MNCPA]
Once again, we’re in the midst of busy season. For some, it’s as though it never ended.

Business as unusual
Employers are faced with changing traditional ways of addressing employment issues and short-term solutions are not likely to help.

The importance of employer branding [MNCPA]
A dive into what an employer brand is, how to build your employer branding strategy and how to promote it to attract high-quality candidates.

Add HRAs to your client’s tax planning toolkit
With a wage war in many sectors, what more can employers provide to tip the balance for staff retention?

How to prevent turnover when introducing your ‘new normal’ [MNCPA]
It’s time to prepare for a long-anticipated but more gradual shift to the workplace of the future.

Should employers require a mandate to vaccinate?
President Joe Biden last week unveiled new vaccination requirements that are expected to have major repercussions for employers.

Get ahead of the ‘great resignation’ [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

How can you take constructive action understanding Minnesota Nice, diversity, equity and inclusion? [MNCPA]
What steps can you take regarding niceness at work? This article provides you with insights to help you be further educated and action items to help you going forward.

Take care of yourself, each other [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

As organizations move back to work, what does ‘the new normal’ look like? [MNCPA]
The pandemic required employers to rethink office and work arrangements. Employers are also were faced with demographic, economic, cultural and technological changes.

Can we have the best of both worlds? [MNCPA]
Hybrid work may be a win-win for employees and employers.

What is ESG? [MNCPA]
One acronym has quickly risen to the top of many C-suite and board agendas in the past year: ESG, or environmental, social and governance.

Keeping fresh: How to prevent burnout [MNCPA]
Burnout among CPAs and financial professionals happens when people are in a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. 

We can never go back to before [MNCPA]
Now is the time to start thinking about a different normal in the workplace. The future of retaining — and recruiting — staff may depend on it.

Acknowledging the good in challenging times [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Emerging trends in data governance and privacy [MNCPA]
Business professionals have an absolute need to understand critical emerging trends in data governance and privacy.

Upheaval and resilience: The path to accounting amid COVID-19 [MNCPA]
The COVID-19 pandemic will cast a long shadow on our world in ways that even the best futurists have failed to consider. We just don’t know what we don’t know.

Does your employee handbook create an employee contract?
How a recent court case sheds a light on paying out PTO.

3 ways to improve digital marketing campaigns
Now that more firms are exploring and launching digital marketing activities, let’s look at three ways to help CPAs get real digital leads.

A year of lessons, reflections; adapting in the time of COVID [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Flexibility and the workplace of the future: What does that mean? [MNCPA]
Here’s the bottom line as you prepare to lead the workplace of the future: Creating flexibility by design gives your organization a better chance of success than allowing flexibility with ambiguity.

Pulse Survey results guiding MNCPA offerings in 2021 [MNCPA]
Since the start of the pandemic, the MNCPA has sent multiple Pulse Surveys to determine how COVID-19 is impacting your business. Here's what we learned and are doing.

Small, but mighty: Combating microaggressions [MNCPA]
Everyday verbal and nonverbal insults, known as microaggressions, are negatively effecting how we interact with each other.

The hidden gems of the new COVID-19 tax law [MNCPA]
It seems that with all new tax law, it boils down to some basic chunks of data: The headliner provisions (we’ve all heard and read about), the extenders, the esoteric provisions and everything else.

Workplace holiday parties in the virtual world
Holiday parties will be handled differently this year. Here's what you should consider.

Advancement of women in public accounting [MNCPA]
Women continue to be underrepresented in the leadership of public accounting firms and are not progressing to the top of the profession at the same rate as their male counterparts. 

Embracing the ‘silver’ [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Staff connectivity ideas in the age of COVID-19 [MNCPA]
As many CPAs will share, having time to connect with your peers and refresh is a pillar as important to the process as the W-2 and a direct line to an IRS advocate.

Maintaining and enhancing client engagement now and in the future [MNCPA]
Thankfully, there are several actions you can take (that don’t require you to log into Zoom) to maintain a high level of client service from afar.

Business interruption insurance: What does it cover, and should I purchase it for my business? [MNCPA]
Does a pandemic displacing millions of workers and thousands of businesses fall under business interruption insurance? Read on.

Business Perspective: CPACHARGE [MNCPA]
While many have taken to remote work like ducks to water, others are a bit more hesitant. We’ve put together a few of our best practices for successfully working from home.

Leadership in a changing world [MNCPA]
Many CPAs are wondering how to continue leading effectively and inclusively in this new work situation. Keep reading for ways you can lead with intention and help your team continue to do its best.

What’s in a title? Look beyond status [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Outdated routers: Why every remote worker should update or upgrade
Is your router sitting on the shelf blinking away like a ticking time bomb? You may need to update or replace it.

Critical considerations for selecting and implementing an ERP platform [MNCPA]
As organizations seek to improve operations and increase efficiency, many are considering implementing or replacing an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system — and for good reasons.

Home or office: Managing employee stress [MNCPA]
The new normal may be anything but normal, and the playbook remains to be written.

Location’s role in your organization [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Dealing with return-to-work stress
As more workers transition back to the office, what can organizations do to plan for a safe, comfortable transition?

25 firm growth opportunities for 2020 and beyond
With the COVID-19 pandemic changing everything we do and how we do it, I thought it would be appropriate to share with you 25 growth ideas that are always timely no matter what the situation.

2020: The year of embracing change [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

The value of neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is a term that recognizes certain individuals' brains function differently and includes people on the autism spectrum, as well as those with dyslexia or ADHD, among other conditions.

Getting back to the office during the COVID-19 pandemic
For most employees, the future is not circling a “return-to-work” situation, but rather a return-to-the office one. This produces a variety of emotional reactions, ranging from relief and eagerness to see your peers in the flesh, to concern about contracting COVID-19 and how restrictive the office setting may be.

Securing your technology while on the go [MNCPA]
Whether working from a coffee shop or in an airport, you must be vigilant to protect your devices and all the information they contain.

The importance of empowerment [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Going beyond the basics [MNCPA]
Your organization may have a good foundation for diversity, equity and inclusion, but what's next?

Outsourcing tax services — a valuable option in the age of disruption [MNCPA]
As you decipher the disruptions of tax reform, consider outsourcing your tax function to trusted tax advisers who can add value and help you navigate the powerful storm generated by new tax law.

COVID-19 pandemic turns CPAs into emergency workers
Many people think that accountants are just rational unfeeling counting machines who operate completely on logic and reason.

4 tactics for effective change management in the multigenerational workplace [MNCPA]
Managers are progressively tasked with mastering change management. Success depends on how well finance leaders support these changes within their teams.

COVID-19, disaster planning guidance for employers [MNCPA]
Whether for the COVID-19 pandemic or a future disaster, make sure your office has a plan in place to keep operations going.

Culture is key in today’s marketplace [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Adapting your firm in a time of a pandemic
Here are 10 actions your firm can take in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Responding to COVID-19 with remote access? Pay attention to security!
Unfortunately, not everyone has thoughtfully considered the security ramifications of encouraging team members to work remotely. Consequently, many of these new remote workers may potentially and unknowingly compromise sensitive information.

Making teleworking work in a time of crisis
With the spread of COVID-19, which is the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, many employers who have not previously implemented telecommuting/work from home (WFH) arrangements, are being forced to offer WFH arrangements.

COVID-19 (coronavirus) guidance for employers
How should your office leaders prepare for and respond to a potential pandemic affecting the workplace?

In a political world, what topics can be banned in the office?
Given the current highly charged political environment, employers and employees alike may also be wondering: What, if any, political and other conversations in the workplace is acceptable or appropriate?

Generation who cares? [MNCPA]
Do generational differences really matter? Consider these thoughts to address the situation in your office.

Tis the season, but watch out for the Grinch at holiday parties
Many organizations are planning holiday parties — onsite and offsite — to thank employees for their hard work, celebrate the season and build employee morale. Not to be a Scrooge, but there are key issues to be aware of to avoid potential litigation and employee relation issues.

Addressing the frogs in your life [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

The kids are alright [MNCPA]
Sixteen accounting students share their thoughts and expectations for the future of the profession and their respective careers.

Keys to workplace happiness
Happiness at work is something nearly everyone wants, but it can be challenging to achieve.

3 ways new employee surveys can improve retention
Here are three ways that a new employee survey can support and even improve retention. Make sure to ask the right questions and analyze the results for action.

Advice from managing partners on leadership
If you are a new leader or a seasoned one, here is some advice for you. 

A great time to be green [MNCPA]
Go green with 10 new federal tax incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act.

A season of change [MNCPA]
Get insight and news from MNCPA leadership about the organization and professional issues.

Changing the 150-credit rule for CPAs is key to addressing shortages [MNCPA]
Read insights on addressing the pipeline from Julie Blaha, Minnesota State Auditor.

Decoding Section 280E [MNCPA]
As the cannabis industry flourishes, a complex set of regulations and tax codes has emerged, shaping the financial landscape for businesses operating in this dynamic sector.

ESG: Where do I start? [MNCPA]
As stakeholder expectations around environmental, social and governance (ESG) grow and regulatory compliance pressures continue to increase, many organizations are focusing on sustainability.

Harness the power of your mobile devices [MNCPA]
Consider downloading these apps to maximize the power of mobile devices in today’s climate.

Minnesota bans new employee covenants not to compete [MNCPA]
Learn about the new ban on employee covenants not to compete and the impact it will have on the employer-employee relationship.

Post-pandemic changes in finance and accounting [MNCPA]
The past few years have undeniably shifted the work landscape. So, what does that mean for attracting and retaining top talent for the long term?

Quality Management standards [MNCPA]
We’re now a year and a half closer to Dec. 15, 2025, the date by which QM implementation is required. Follow these practical steps to prepare your firm for compliance.

The power of boundaries [MNCPA]
Learn actionable steps to maintain work-life balance.

Thrive through change: MBAC23 [MNCPA]
Highlights from the Management & Business Adviser's Conference 2023.

Top technologies to consider for 2024 [MNCPA]
Learn about key technologies and how they can help your organization achieve its objectives in 2024.

MNCPA Perspectives blog posts

Supporting your staff's success: How employers can help during the CPA exam
Recognize your staff members preparing for the CPA exam will have increased study commitments. Here are some ways employers can support their staff...

CPA pathways discussion: Addressing the objections
The reason driving the change — the declining number of CPAs — is well-documented, so what are the objections to broadening the pathway to CPA licensure? Let’s discuss...

CPA credential legislation is start of discussion
Declining high school graduation sizes, increasing demand for CPAs, increasing retirements and declining number of candidates sitting for the CPA exam are converging...

Response to Journal of Accountancy article, Feb. 10, 2023, ‘NASBA upholds 150-hour education requirement’
We believe we are closer to the AICPA and NASBA in finding solutions for this critical issue than the article leads readers to believe...

An agile accounting profession requires adaptable licensing requirements
There are not enough CPAs now nor expected in the future to meet the needs of communities, entities and clients, setting up a perfect scenario for future financial failures. Introducing legislation was driven by several years of MNCPA member concerns and feedback...

Employee and employer: Shaping the future of work
Let me share something that you’ve either heard or, more likely, have experienced: Today’s workers are not the same ones who went home in March 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic...

Lean into the Fourth Industrial Revolution
We no longer simply live in a world of gadgets and doodads. Welcome to Tomorrowland. Are you prepared?

3 self-leadership tips to navigate uninvited change
Take your pick — the pandemic, supply chain issues, staffing shortages, turnover, tax law changes — there have been plenty of uninvited disruptions lately...

MNCPA members share top concerns for upcoming tax season
In the recent MNCPA Tax Survey of members, we asked what concerns you most about this tax season...

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