Day 2

Keynote Speaker (TAX CPE)
Thomas H. Mattox, Commissioner, NYS Department of Tax and Finance

New York State Tax Update (TAX CPE) (CFP-ITP) (CLE)
Mark S. Klein, Esq., William J. Comiskey, Esq.

This is a repeat of Course 1052

New York has completely revamped its corporate tax scheme, and made significant changes to its estate tax. This seminar will cover these breaking developments, as well as new decisions, rulings, and administrative releases affecting New York's personal income and sales and use taxes. The impact of recent Tax Department enforcement initiatives will also be discussed.

Sales Tax Audits and General Audit Updates (TAX CPE)
NYS Depart of Tax & Finance: Joseph Carzo, Director of Tax Audit Division and Frank Grillo, Section Head, LI Regional Office

Audit managers from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance will discuss issues related to sales tax audits, including best practices and procedures that will result in efficient audits.

Myth Busters, Reality vs. Perception (SK CPE) (CFP-INV)
Mark Badami, CFP® & John Baldi, PFS, CPA

Want to learn more about the myths of Real Return vs. Average Returns on an investment portfolio? Interested in understanding and finding the tax savings in a Qualified Plan? Want to make sure that you can’t out live your assets regardless of market performance? During this informative Myth Busting session, we will uncover and expose uncommon knowledge and destroy those hardwired, commonly misunderstood notions of today’s retirement planning.

The Retirement Journey (SK CPE) (CFP-RP)
Audrey Kirwin, Financial Advisor/Park Ave Securities, Sound Wealth Financial Group

Retirement planning is more than crunching numbers. Situations are often different for each person based up their financial habits & desired lifestyle. The importance of holistic financial guidance is imperative to coordinate assets & goals, and to avoid unexpected surprises. Whether they are in the financial accumulation or distribution phase, there are potential challenges, risks & strategies that need to be addressed & these will be reviewed. Issues with retirement income distribution & planning options will also be discussed.

SSARS Clarity Project - Compilation And Review Procedures Under SSARS No. 21 (A & A CPE)
Frank A. Gallo, CPA

We will review the new clarified and revised standards issued by Accounting and Review Services Committee (ARSC) for compilations and reviews engagements. We will discuss the new standards when the accountant is engaged to prepare financial statements but is not engaged to perform an audit, review or compilation on those financial statements. We will discuss the new wording required on compilation and review reports.

Strategies To Accelerate Revenue Growth: Develop the Tools, Resources and Mindset to Grow Your Business (MAP CPE)
Paisley Demby, MBA Business Services Director, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Initiative operated at LaGuardia Community College

Experience an actual class of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Initiative. Learn impactful strategies to develop the mindset, tools and resources to accelerate growth within your business. Join the interactive discussion on what iconic CEO’s have and use on a daily basis to develop strategies for successful business growth.

IRS Criminal Investigation and Identity Theft (TAX CPE) (CLE) (CE G1U2N-T-00077-14-I)
Anthony Roberto Jr., IRS - Criminal Investigations, Supervisory Special Agent, Giovanni Lepore, IRS - Criminal Investigations, Special Agent, Linda Henson, IRS - Small Business/Self-Employed Operating Division, Senior Stakeholder Liaison.

An overview of IRS Criminal Investigation including; discussion on what Identity Theft is; how it is being used by criminals and what IRS-CI is doing about Identity Theft. This presentation will also include information on where to report Identity Theft and that the participants’ clients need to do if they are victims of Identity Theft.

Reasonable Compensation (TAX CPE) (CLE) (CE G1U2N-T-00078-14-I)
Beanna J. Whitlock, EA, CSA, RTRP

Every Federal Tax Classification from Sole Proprietors to S Corporations has issues with Reasonable Compensation. Participants will learn the pitfalls of clients who take too little or too much compensation and their role in reporting compensation on a tax return. Attendees will learn how to determine compensation, when it is proper to not take compensation and how the Internal Revenue Service is handing Reasonable Compensation.

Fiduciary Income Tax: The Basics and Beyond - Part 1 (TAX CPE)(CLE) (CFP-EP) (CE G1U2N-T-00079-14-I)
Karen L. Goldberg, Principal, EisnerAmper LLP

In this two part workshop, we will address the income tax treatment of trusts and estates, including the following: Different types of trusts and how they are taxed, Distributions and their tax implications, Charitable contributions and depreciation, depletion and amortization deductions, Application of the passive activity rules, Elections available to trusts and estates, What happens when a trust or estate terminates and Trusts and estates as eligible “S” corporation shareholders.

Will You Retire Successfully or Work Forever? (TAX CPE) (CFP-RP)
Dr. H William Wolfson

Preparation is the key to a successful buy or sell of any practice. Often, CPA’s are the “go to” experts for assistance, but what if that business is your own? Attend and learn financing options and proper planning needed to make these transitions successful.

CT/NJ Tax Update (TAX CPE) (CLE)
(CT) Louis B. Schatz, Esq. & (NJ) Alan J. Preis, CPA, P.C.

Practitioners representing Connecticut and New Jersey clients will discuss significant recent legislative developments in their respective jurisdiction. In addition, the practitioners will provide a review of significant recent case law and administrative and regulatory developments that affect business and individual income tax returns. Recent developments in nexus policies of each state will also be discussed.

NYC/NYS Tax Law Updates (TAX CPE)
Mwisa Chisunka, NYS Business Ombudswoman – Director of Business Tax Services and Education for Empire State Development and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance and Akeem Ayinde, Assistant Director, General Corp. Tax, NYC Department of Finance

A presentation on tax law updates (legislative and administrative in nature) and economic development updates including, but not limited to, the Start-Up NY and Global NY programs.

It’s a Digital World (MAP CPE)
David Bergstein, CPA, CITP, CGMA

This fast paced session will update attendees on why they should be should be thinking “apps”, “mobile” & “workflow” instead of programs in their professional and personal life. At the end of the session each attendee will be better equipped to help themselves and their clients in increasing productivity and profitability. It’s no longer about compliance in the life of a CPA today, it’s about reliance.

Owning Life Insurance Inside Qualified Plans (TAX CPE) (CFP-RP)
Philip M. Herr, JD, CPA, PFS

A unique and engaging presentation illustrates the concept of using life insurance in a Qualified Plan, essentially paying for the insurance with “tax deductible” dollars. At retirement, the extra cost “leverage” provides a major advantage to this strategy. Even at death asset shrinkage due to estate and income taxes can be achieved. We will cover the basics, who should consider it and various strategies.

How to Read a Trust and Will for Tax Considerations (1 TAX CPE) (1 CLE)
Gregory L. Matalon, Esq.

Come and get the “legalese” dictionary and prepare an accurate 1041. Properly distinguish trust categories from the simple to the complex. Learn how to determine whether a trust is a grantor or a nongrantor trust and whether it is a simple or a complex trust. Panelists will discuss how tax apportionment can unknowingly shift the burden of paying the estate tax. In addition, panelists will discuss proper trust funding and the estate tax consequences.

Negotiation: How to Get What You Want Without Giving Away The Store (1 SK CPE)
Les Kule, Friendly Software, Inc.

Negotiation is a critical part of life, we engage in negotiation all the time, in business, in society, and in our personal lives. Most people dread negotiation, believing it is a process where one side wins and one side loses. This does not have to be true – a successful negotiation results in a win/win situation.

This presentation will show you numerous ways to embrace the process with a better understanding of what negotiation really is, how it works, and how to work with the person on the other side of the table instead of against them. Many of the techniques conveyed can be put to use immediately, others will take some time and practice. Ultimately, when these skills are learned and used, quality of life will be better with less stress and more success.

Eat Your Way To A Healthier Web Image (1 MAP CPE)
Bob Torella, MBA

Your web image is more important and more visible than ever. During this lunch program, we’ll discuss 5 core (non-food) groups that are essential to your practice’s overall web health including: your website, Google, social media, mobile, and regular web check-ups. Eating right and exercising are good too!

How To Maximize Client Tax Deductions in a Qualified Plan while Minimizing Trustee Liabilities (1 TAX CPE) (1 CFP-INV)
Louis C. Ciliberti, CFP, CLU, ChFC, James J. Zabatta, CFA, Paul Carmichael, AKA, ERPA

A review of different plans available to business owners such as New Comp Profitability Profit Sharing Plans and Defined Benefit Plans that will allow maximum contributions by the owners and key employees. Minimizing Trustee Liability topics include the need for an Investment Policy Statement, ensuring the plan is competitively priced and providing proper employee education programs.

Reducing Risk: Avoiding Common Audit Triggers and Other Pitfalls in Qualified Retirement Plans (1 TAX CPE)(1 CLE) (1 CE G1U2N-Q-00081-14-I)
Todd E. Heller, Esq., CPC (Certified Pension Consultant), President of Heller Pension Associates, Inc.

Tax-qualified retirement plans are subject to many laws and regulations. Noncompliance can result in substantial penalties. This session will provide insight as to the most important issues that the IRS and DOL are currently investigating, and ways to decrease related risk.

Revenue Recognition – Getting Ready for the New Standard (1 A & A CPE)
Joel Steinberg, McGladrey LLP

Revenue is one of the most important financial statement measures. The long-awaited revised revenue recognition standard was issued by the FASB in May 2014. The new standard can have a significant impact on companies’ revenue recognition policies, particularly for companies in certain industries. This session provides an overview of the standard, highlighting practical implications.

1040 Update Part 1 (TAX CPE) (CE G1U2N-U-00002-12-O)
Robert Katz, J.D., LL.M, and Neil Katz, J.D., LL.M, CPA

This is a repeat of course 1041

This presentation will focus on the tax law changes that affect the preparation of the 2014 Form 1040. In addition, there will be a discussion of the latest cases, rulings and regulations that affect the preparation of the 2014 Federal Income Tax Return.

Fiduciary Income Tax: The Basics and Beyond - Part 2 (TAX CPE) (CFP-EP) (CLE) (CE G1U2N-T-00080-14-I)
Karen L. Goldberg, Principal, EisnerAmper LLP

This is a continuation of Course 2022

Advanced Strategies That Will Protect Your Clients Assets - Income & Estate Planning Strategies You Need To Understand (TAX CPE) (CFP-INV)
Frank Melia, CMPS, Moss Kaufman, CFP®, EA and Robin Burner-Daleo, Esq.

Your clientele have accumulated their wealth & now look to you for guidance on how to protect their assets from Estate taxation & Health Care costs. Learn how to implement strategies that will protect your clients’ assets & help them sleep better at night. Our session will provide you with up to date advanced techniques regarding asset protection, life time income options, as well as strategies that provide liquidity to pay for the rising cost of Health Care.

Branding Your Practice as a Tech-Savvy Firm (MAP CPE)
Christina Wiseman, Product Manager, Thomson Reuters

The tax and accounting profession is currently in the midst of technological upheaval, undergoing a number of paradigm shifts. Many clients have come to expect technology which as little as two years ago was only found in the most progressive, early adopting firms. As a result, there is significant opportunity for any firm to brand and position itself as savvy. Firms should embrace this new business model, adopt the technology which drives it, and pare down to a leaner tax workflow. Opportunities abound to both increase profit margins on existing client engagements, as well as offer new, more profitable advisory services alongside tax preparation – value-added offerings which can differentiate your firm in its market. Join us for an overview of the shift to updated technology, including a focus on mobile technology and devices, and the related strategies which you can start putting to work for your current clients today – and future clients tomorrow.

Update on Uses of Life Insurance in Estate Planning (TAX CPE, CFP-EP)
Lee Slavutin, MD, CLU

During this program, we will address the following: Recent rulings on transfer for value, Valuation of policies for gift tax purposes, Term conversion opportunities and pitfalls, MEC traps, Utilizing Older Annuity and Insurance Products with High Guaranteed Interest Rates, Impact of Financial Weakness of a Life Insurance Company on the Cost of Insurance, Beneficiary Designation, Key Man Life Insurance, Selling a Policy from One Trust to Another, Insurance as Part of a Split Dollar Agreement, Private Placement Variable Life Insurance (PPVL).

Are Long Term Care Needs Creating a Hole in Your Client’s Tax & Estate Planning? (TAX CPE) (CFP-IP)
Natalie Karp, MBA, CLTC, Rona Loshak, MBA, CLTC

Why it does NOT make sense to self-insure for long term care costs. THE TRUE COST of self-insuring is eye opening. The new landscape, legislation and tax incentives will be discussed. WE help clients protect their family’s lifestyle, retirement, independence, family relationships and your practice liability.

The Affordable HealthCare Act – Update (TAX CPE) (CE G1U2N-U-00082-14-I)
Beanna J. Whitlock, EA, CSA, RTRP

Course repeats at 3025

What we know, what we think we know, and what we have no clue about; the ACA of today. Participants will review the 2013 filing season with examples of how the .9 per cent Medicare Tax and the 3.8 Net Investment Income Tax affected their clients. Examples will be reviewed to determine how tax professionals must analyze the returns they prepare in order to assist their clients. The 2014 Individual Mandate will be examined with a focus on filing returns and how the tax professional must adjust their practices for this Tax Act. Finally, a brief forecast of the delayed Employer Mandate to assist in applying the ACA to applicable employers in 2015.

1040 Update Part 2 (TAX CPE) (CE G1U2N-U-00003-12-I)
Robert Katz, J.D., LL.M, and Neil Katz, J.D., LL.M, CPA

This is a repeat of Course 1051

This is a continuation of Course 2041

10 Keys to Successful Firm Management (MAP CPE)
Michael Giardina, CEO, Office Tools Professional

We all need to constantly review how our firms are managed. One key to success is finding new ways to work more productively. To do that requires finding the right technology tools and best practices that meet the needs of the firm and its clients. When we find the right combination, increased profits, less stress and fewer hours worked lead to a greater work-life balance. All of this can be realized without sacrificing firm success or profit. Finding the methods and technologies that best fit an evolving firm’s workflow is a huge part of the equation.

Join us as we explore the 10 keys to a more productive and profitable firm.

Financial Planning: An Essential Tool for Your Practice (CFP-FP)
Chris Danzer, Financial Advisor, & Shamir Hirsch, CFP®, MBA, CIMA

Learn how to provide the guidance your clients need to reach their financial goals and in the process fulfill your fiduciary responsibilities. We will discuss what financial planning entails; the pros and cons of doing it in house and how it can benefit your practice including adding an additional revenue stream.

The Truth about Commercial Mortgage Financing (SK CPE)
Moderator: Mike Minerva, SVP, Group Sales Executive, Capital One Bank;
Panelists: Paul Krische, SVP, Market Credit Executive, Sue Kiesel, SVP, Market Credit Executive, Bridgette Neville, Senior Investment Real Estate Underwriter and Caroline S. Taylor, Senior Manager,  SBA Underwriting, VP

Find out how banks analyze Commercial Mortgage requests so you can help your clients obtain the financing they need. Learn how banks view Owner-Occupied mortgages versus Investment Real Estate. You will also learn how to use SBA financing to reduce the down payment and lower monthly payments via extended amortizations. You will come away with a working knowledge that you can use to help your client prepare a complete package which will drive a timely and productive review with the bank. This program will include a detailed presentation, a hands-on exercise as well as an active panel discussion.

Mastering Lacerte: Top Time Saving Features & What’s New (MAP CPE)
Jim Buffington, CPA

For experienced Lacerte users, this course teaches you how to put the power of Lacerte to work for you beyond the basics. Learn ins & out’s of Lacerte’s most popular time savings features and the tips & tricks hand picked from some of Intuit’s longest term Lacerte customers. Plus get a preview from Intuit on what’s coming down the pipeline for Tax Year 2014.

New York City Real Property Tax Appeals (TAX CPE)
Eric W. Olson, Partner, Akerman LLP

This program examines the New York City real property tax appeal process (aka "tax certiorari"), including review of the tax appeal calendar and procedure, Department of Finance notices, and Tax Commission forms. Applicable valuation methods and financial analysis techniques are discussed and presented, as well as special issues related to tax-exempt/abated and leased properties.

Executive Bonus Arrangement-What They Can Mean For Your Business (TAX CPE)
Leslie Joy Larson, MS, LUTCF, Ari Kirschbaum, BS and Gerry Gaeta, J.D., MSFS

Explore the many issues facing the closely held business owner trying to attract and retain key employees. Among the topics covered are; how the executive bonus arrangement may assist the business owner reach their recruiting and retention goals for key employees; how attractive the executive benefit arrangement can be for the executive; and, how a restrictive agreement can give the employer more control over the benefit.