CONSYM24: 85th Annual Symposium

Join us for the 85th annual NCACPA Symposium! Participants will receive current and in-depth coverage of tax, accounting, business, and legal compliance trends critical to the profession, as well as an understanding of the challenges and opportunities on the horizon. Additionally, participants will leave Symposium with comprehensive knowledge of several hot topics best practices in day-to-day operations and technology trends, as well as practical strategies to implement to enhance client service.

 

Highlights: *Federal Tax Update *State Tax Updatem *PTE Update *Lease Accounting *Secure Act 2.0 *Ethics *Technology Skills *Excel *Medicare & Elder Care *Valuation *Profession Update *Work Culture *Generationalism
Who Should Attend: CPAs and other financially-minded professionals working in public practice and industry.
Event Level: Update
Required Knowledge: None
Advanced Preperation: None
Field of Study: Various
CPE: 24.00

 

THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS!

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Technology Associates

 

Specialty Tax Group

 

BRAYN Consulting LLC

 

GOSE

 

 

 

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Drake Software Logo 2024

 

 

 

 

McGriff Homepage

Objectives
  • Participants will be able to describe current tax, accounting, business, and/or legal compliance trends and the challenges and opportunities on the horizon; assess whether their organizations are utilizing best practices in day-to-day operations and technology trends; and enhance client/customer service by implementing strategies and practical tips.
Event Information
Start Time:
November 18, 2024 8:00 AM Eastern
7:00 AM Central, 6:00 AM Mountain, 5:00 AM Pacific
Add to Calendar:
Estimated Length:
2 days, 8 hours
Registration Time Remaining:
113 days, 23 hours
Click on a topic name to see details and purchase options.
Monday November 18, 2024
GS1: Technology is the Competition: Time to Get Radical

Tradition is giving way to cutting-edge advancements. As the profession says goodbye to the old, reliable methods of old-school firms, it’s waving hello to fresh ideas and new players reshaping the landscape. AI isn't just shaking things up—it's revolutionizing how services are delivered and how companies are using price to compete. In this session, we'll dive into the economic forces behind these seismic shifts, unveiling the innovative pricing models established firms and newcomers use to stay ahead of the game. Let’s explore the sweeping changes engulfing accounting and tax, fueled by the power of new technology and a need to enhance the customer experience.

 

Key takeaways:

 

• Who really is an accounting firm’s competition today

• How are today’s customer needs affecting what we are selling

• How is money from the outside influencing the marketplace

• How can a firm move forward with all these changes

 

Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
CPE: 1.20

Speaker Information
Jody Padar  [ view bio ]
GS2: Federal Tax Update

After the elections, tax laws might change, and it’s crucial for CPAs to stay updated. In this 75-minute session, we’ll cover the potential changes in federal tax laws that could impact how you plan for the next year. You'll get clear explanations on potential new rules and how they apply to real-world situations. We’ll look at what's likely to change in deductions, credits, and tax brackets, and provide you with strategies to adapt to these changes.  We will also cover any legislative updates and any court cases that change the way we interpret tax law.  

 

This session is practical and straight to the point. You will leave with a solid understanding of the post-election tax updates and a set of tactics to help your clients save money and avoid surprises. We’ll go through examples that are common in your day-to-day work, so you can apply what you learn right away. Join us to make sure you're prepared.

 

Field of Study: Taxes
CPE: 1.50

Speaker Information
Art Werner   [ view bio ]
GS3: North Carolina State and Local Tax Update

This session will review recent North Carolina tax developments, including significant court cases, decisions of the Office of Administrative Hearings, statutory and regulatory developments and changes in tax administration.

 

Field of Study: Taxes
CPE: 1.30

Speaker Information
Keith Wood   [ view bio ]
1A: CECL

Overview: 
*Current Expected Credit Losses Standards
*Application to non-financial institutions
*Changes due to implementation
*Application of common measurement techniques

 

Field of Study: Accounting
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Mike Cheng  [ view bio ]
1B: Business and Individual Tax Update

If you're a CPA , you understand tax laws can change.  In addition to actual congressional actions, certain laws have an expiration date.  We know this as Sunset.  Many provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are scheduled to sunset on December 31, 2025.  In this 50-minute session, you'll learn what tax provisions are scheduled to expire and what that means for you and your clients. The following tax provisions are set to sunset at the end of 2025: limitations of itemized deductions; the expanded standard deduction; the elimination of personal exemptions; the child tax credit; the expanded charitable contribution deduction; and the mortgage interest deduction limitation. Notably, the deductions for state and local taxes, pass-through business income, and certain types of expensing will also revert to previous limitations or expire. Changes will also affect the Alternative Minimum Tax thresholds, ABLE accounts, and estate and gift taxes, with the latter seeing a significant reduction in exclusion amounts.  Join us for this session and become an expert in sunset issues.

 

Field of Study: Taxes
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Art Werner   [ view bio ]
1C: Late Life Divorce and the Tax Law

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Business Law
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Carolyn J. Woodruff  [ view bio ]
2A: A&A Update

The course will start with a review of the accounting standards effective this year. Then we’ll switch to the audit side of the house with a discussion of how quality management will impact firms and things to do to prepare for the change.

 

After attending this course, attendees will be prepared to:  

• Recall the impact of ASUs effective in 2024

• Identify the core elements of the quality management standards

 

Field of Study: Accounting
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Melisa Galasso   [ view bio ]
2B: Payroll Tax: Contractors vs W-2 Employees

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Taxes
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
David Peters
2C: Oh BOI - Updates on Corporate Transparency Act

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Business Law
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Heyward Armstrong  [ view bio ]
3A: SAS 145

SAS 145, Understanding the Entity and Its Environment and Assessing the Risks of Material Misstatement, was issued in October 2021. The audit standard amends AU-C 315 including many changes to address common audit deficiencies. This course will provide an overview of SAS 145 and its changes to AU-C 315.

 

Upon session completion, attendees will be prepared to: 

• Describe impact of change on audit engagements

• Recall changes to significant risk identification, inherent risk assessments and controls

 

Field of Study: Auditing
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Melisa Galasso   [ view bio ]
3B: Understanding IRS Notices

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Taxes
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
David Peters
3C: Elder Law - Topic

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Steve Arrington  [ view bio ]
4A: Equity Incentives and Executive Compensation

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Jim Earle  [ view bio ]
4B: Cash Balance Retirement Plans: Basics and Success Plan Tool

Research shows that 75% of business owners want to transition out of their business in the next 10 years.  However, most of those owners have no succession plan nor have they saved or planned enough to enjoy life after work.  This session will address these issues by examining how Cash Balance plans can help owners accomplish both goals.  In addition, we will review the basics on how these plans work, the tax advantages, and explore several case studies.

 

Session highlights: 
*  How to supersize business owner's savings
* How these plans add value and help retain clients
* Designing plas for 5-500 person companies

 

Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Matthew O'Neil  [ view bio ]
4C: The Art of Persuasion

In today’s workforce, just about everything is up for debate, and the give-and-take mentality is a daily reality. Knowing the fine art of persuasion can help you understand how you can state your case in a way that persuades others to follow the best path for success. In short, understanding persuasion can help you know how to influence others healthily, and be aware of the techniques that others might use to try and change your beliefs and behaviors This interactive seminar will help participants understand how persuasion can be used, for good, in the workforce. This is a 50-minute interactive seminar. Each participant will receive a workbook and interactive instruction.

 

Field of Study: Personal Development
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Holly Sullenger  [ view bio ]
Tuesday November 19, 2024
GS4: Human Leadership in an AI-World

Human Leadership in an AI World” session is designed to equip current and aspiring leaders with understanding of the essential skills and insights needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven workplace. This interactive and forward-thinking session challenges participants to harness the power of Generative AI and other new technologies while emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human leadership.

 

Session objectives will include the following competencies:
• Identify the six particularly human parts of every job – parts that AI will never replace
• Apply learnings to leverage Gen AI for decision making while retaining critical thinking and accountability
• Augment human skills with AI, rather than viewing AI as a replacement or threat
• Use learnings to foster a team/workplace culture that embraces the possibilities that AI advances
• Choose to lead confidently in an AI-integrated world

 

Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
CPE: 1.50

Speaker Information
Kassi Rushing  [ view bio ]
GS5: FOP - Advocacy & Professional Update

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge
CPE: 1.30

Speaker Information
Robert Broome   [ view bio ]
Courtney Knoll   [ view bio ]
Mark Soticheck  [ view bio ]
GS6: 2024 PTE Update and Case Studies

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Taxes
CPE: 1.20

Speaker Information
Dylan Stafford  [ view bio ]
5A: QMS - Timeline & Actions 2024 - Beyond

The effective date for designing and implementing a quality management system that complies with the AICPA’s new quality management (QM) standards is Dec. 15, 2025. We will provide an overview of the Quality Management suite of standards and discuss the steps you need to take to be ready for implementation.

 

Field of Study: Auditing
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Mike Manspeaker  [ view bio ]
5B: Ethics 2024

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Behavorial Ethics
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Cal Christian
5C: K2's Microsoft Copilot - Uses and Functions for Executives

Microsoft’s Copilot service provides tremendous options for executives to take advantage of artificial intelligence to get better results in less time. As a generative AI tool, Copilot allows users to generate content in response to prompts they issue. In this session you will learn you will learn how you can use Copilot to create memos, conduct research, write emails, create PowerPoint presentations, and even write reports.

 

Generative AI is here, and Copilot is one of the leaders…make plans today to learn how to use this powerful tool!

 

Learning Objectives:

• Differentiate between the subscription options for Copilot

• List options for accessing Copilot

• Cite the steps necessary to create content using Copilot

• Identify examples of risks associated with using Copilot and other forms of generative AI

 

 

Field of Study: Information Technology
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Randy Johnston   [ view bio ]
6A: QMS - AICPA Tool Kit

The AICPA has developed a Practice Aid titled “Establishing and Maintaining a System of Quality Management for a CPA Firm’s Accounting and Auditing Practice” to assist Firm implementation of the suite of Quality Management Standards. We will discuss the content of the Practice Aid and how it can be used to efficiently design your QM system to comply with the new standards.

 

Field of Study: Auditing
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Mike Manspeaker  [ view bio ]
6B: Nexus

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Taxes
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Jack Schmoll  [ view bio ]
6C: K2's Microsoft Copilot - Unleashed

Microsoft Copilot Unleashed covers the evolution and application of generative AI tools in Microsoft's ecosystem, including the introduction of Microsoft 365 Copilot and its integration into various Microsoft 365 apps. This course discusses the importance of perfecting prompts for effective AI interaction and the use of Copilot across the Microsoft Office Suite. Also covered are Copilot privacy concerns associated with AI tools, as they learn from user data, and the need for clear and specific prompts to ensure confidentiality and usability. The presentation emphasizes Microsoft's foundational principles of security, compliance, privacy, and responsible AI to protect data at all organizational levels while demonstrating how Copilot can improve you and your organization’s productivity.

 

Learning Objectives: 
•    Understand the capabilities and applications of Microsoft 365 Copilot within the Microsoft ecosystem, including its integration with various Microsoft 365 apps and upcoming features.
•    Recognize the importance of constructing effective prompts for AI interaction and the foundational principles of security, compliance, privacy, and responsible AI in the context of generative AI tools.
•    Explore the advancements in AI tools, and how these innovations can enhance productivity and decision-making processes across different Microsoft applications.

 

Field of Study: Information Technology
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Randy Johnston  [ view bio ]
7A: Risk in Focus Report

What risks should your organization be preparing to address next year? The Institute of Internal Auditors’ annual Risk in Focus report provides insight to help leaders answer that question. The session will go in-depth on the findings of the just-released 2025 report, providing practical, data-driven research that finance professionals can use to better understand today’s evolving risk environment and prepare audit plans for the year ahead. In this session, participants will: • Learn about the new North American Risk in Focus report. • Explore the major risks impacting organizations today as identified by thousands of Chief Audit Executives. • Discover the major risks that survey respondents expect to impact internal audit plans in next 3 years. • Review resources for advising your board members on the key risks impacting your organization.

 

Field of Study: Auditing
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Carey Blakeman
7B: Nearshoring and Outsourcing Workforce Trends

This session will provide an in-depth exploration of nearshoring, a strategic approach to outsourcing business processes to nearby countries. Participants will learn about the business drivers prompting the shift to nearshore talent, including cost savings and risk management.   The presenter will cover the benefits and considerations of nearshoring, practical steps for getting started, and best practices to ensure success. Through industry examples, attendees will understand the do's and don'ts, commonly nearshored roles, and how to effectively manage nearshore engagements for optimal results.

 

Field of Study: Personnel/Human Resources
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Gus Perez   [ view bio ]
7C: K2's Power BI in Five Easy Steps

Micrsoft’s Power BI Platform provides tremendous opportunities to improve financial and operational reporting. Yet, many business professionals have yet to explore Power BI and how to capitalize on the the capabilities of this reporting platform. 

 

In this session, you will learn the five steps necessary to get started with Power BI. Upon completing this session, you will be well on your way to building professional quality business intelligence reports and dashboards.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Identify necessary steps to link data into Power BI datasets

• List examples of useful visualizations

• Cite examples of data analytics options in Power BI

• Differentiate between reports and dashboards

 

Field of Study: Information Technology
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Randy Johnston
8A: Employee Benefit Plan Audit Update

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Auditing
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Kelsey Mayo  [ view bio ]
8B: Estate Planning and Asset Protection for the Elderly

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Finance
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Abigail Peoples  [ view bio ]
8C: WISP IRS Requirements

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Management Services
CPE: 1.00

Speaker Information
Eric Hobbs   [ view bio ]
Wednesday November 20, 2024
9A: Managing the Black Holes of Client and Engagement Management

Sound client and engagement management can influence both the effectiveness and efficiency of an audit engagement. 

 

Session highlights:

• Guidelines for better ensuring that clients are ready for the start of engagements

• Best practices for improved delegation and project management

 

Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge
CPE: 1.20

Speaker Information
Jennifer Louis   [ view bio ]
9B: State Board Update

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge
CPE: 1.20

9C: ChatGPT: Custom GPTs for Accountants - What They Are and How to Use Them

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Information Technology
CPE: 1.20

Speaker Information
Don Tomoff  [ view bio ]
10A: Strengthening Inquiry Skills – Tips for Gathering the Information You Need on Audits

Inquiry is an important procedure for gathering audit evidence.  


Session highlights:
•    Designing questions to illicit the information you need to evaluate the fair preparation of financial statements 
•    Structuring inquiry sessions to meet your objectives – whether the interactions are in person or virtual

 

Field of Study: Auditing
CPE: 1.30

Speaker Information
Jennifer Louis
10B: Elevate Your Retirement: Social Security Strategies for Success

When contemplating retirement income over a longer life, most begin with Social Security – and some key questions. When should I start collecting benefits? How do I estimate and maximize them? Is Social Security sustainable? How can I coordinate my benefits with other retirement income sources to maximize overall income? Find out how Social Security rules and strategies can work for you!

 

Field of Study: Finance
CPE: 1.30

Speaker Information
Paula McMillan   [ view bio ]
10C: ChatGPT: Custom GPTs for Accountants - What They Are and How to Use Them

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Information Technology
CPE: 1.30

Speaker Information
Don Tomoff  [ view bio ]
11A: High Value AI Use Cases in Professional Services

Unleash the potential of AI in your professional services firm! Our "High-Value AI Use Cases" session spotlights proven applications that deliver real ROI. Discover how AI can revolutionize everything from document analysis and legal research to client engagement. Walk away with actionable strategies to streamline workflows, boost efficiency, and unlock hidden value across your organization.

 

Field of Study: Business Management & Organization
CPE: 1.50

Speaker Information
Tim Reagan
Zackery Reichenbach-Carr  [ view bio ]
11B: Balancing Retirement Health Care Quality and Cost: Medicare and Long-Term Care

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Finance
CPE: 1.50

Speaker Information
Paula McMillan  [ view bio ]
11C: CPA Cyber Compliance -What you Need to Know

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Information Technology
CPE: 1.50

Speaker Information
Rafe Martin  [ view bio ]
GS7: Creating a Dynamic Firm Culture

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Personnel/Human Resources
CPE: 1.50

Speaker Information
Kimberly Jessup Ripberger   [ view bio ]
Vicki Martin  [ view bio ]
Kelly Puryear  [ view bio ]
Mark Soticheck   [ view bio ]
Deetra Watson   [ view bio ]
GS8: Economic Update

Coming Soon!

 

Field of Study: Economics
CPE: 1.30

Speaker Information
Michael Walden  [ view bio ]
GS9: Tech Update

In our ever-evolving digital era, 2024 stands as no exception. Technology, like a tempest, disrupts and transforms every facet of our lives—both personal and professional. From Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI to 5G networks, blockchain, IoT, robotics, and electric vehicles (EVs), innovation reshapes virtually every product and service we come in contact with.  
 
Join Inspector Gadget on an expedition through the latest tech trends and vendor solutions. We’ll explore cutting-edge gear, decode algorithms, and uncover the secrets of this dynamic landscape. In an age where technology is paramount, equip yourself with the essential knowledge to navigate the digital road ahead.

 

Field of Study: Information Technology
CPE: 1.30

Speaker Information
David Cieslak   [ view bio ]
Individual topic purchase: Selected
North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants
Various: 24.00
Products
CONSYM24: 85th Annual Symposium Full Event (Early Bird) - Cutoff: 11/3/24
Member: $850.00
Non-Member: $950.00
CONSYM24: 85th Annual Symposium - Full Event
Member: $885.00
Non-Member: $985.00
CONSYM24: 85th Annual Symposium - 2 Day Registration (Early Bird) - Cutoff: 11/3/24
Member: $650.00
Non-Member: $750.00
CONSYM24: 85th Annual Symposium - 2 Day Registration
Member: $700.00
Non-Member: $800.00
CONSYM24: 85th Annual Symposium - 1-Day Registration (Early Bird) - Cutoff: 11/3/24
Member: $350.00
Non-Member: $450.00
CONSYM24: 85th Annual Symposium - 1-Day Registration
Member: $400.00
Non-Member: $500.00