CSTC Newsletter

December 2020

In This Issue...

  1. From the President
  2. December Events
  3. Call for Presenters - 2021 Summer Symposium
  4. Running Start
  5. Welcome New CSTC Members
  6. Legislative Advocacy
  7. News from the IRS
  8. Join CSTC!

CSTC Member Benefits

CSTC members have access to benefits such as free payroll processing services for your tax practice, and the opportunity to earn new revenue through their flexible partnership options.

CSTC is pleased to include the VeriFyle ProTM premium secure online document and message sharing service at no cost to CSTC members!

Wolters Kluwer: Discounts on Tax, Accounting & Audit Resources, Software, Information & Services. 

 CSTC members receive the TaxBook WebLibrary at a special price

Other Member Benefits Include:

$ Savings on all Society Educational Events

$ Savings on Contact, Correspondence & Self Study Education

$ Savings with member specialty CSTC Connects (previouslyYellow Pages) list

$ Savings with E & O Insurance, plus specialty coverage relevant to your profession

$ Online CSTC Find-a-Tax Consultant search to help promote your business!

$ CSTC Member Listserv

Office Depot has partnered with us to provide exclusive savings in-store and online, plus fantastic additional benefits. This program is all about providing preferred pricing to our clubs, and the savings extend to almost every item.

Savings include 20% to 55% off item office supply core list, 20% to 55% off retail on cleaning  & break room items, 10% off branded; 20% off private brand  ink & toner core list, Average 10% off  retail on 200 technology core items, Free next-day shipping on orders of $50 or more, and SIGNIFICANT savings on copy & print. Become a CSTC member to sign up for our Office Depot Small Business Savings Program, administered by Excelerate America.


We are a professional full-service tax advisory firm in San Diego. Our goal is to provide a level of service for our clients that will exceed expectations in every possible way. We strive to offer a diverse level of services to meet the needs of the diverse community we have been working in for more than 30 years.

TaxMama's® EA Exam Course prepares tax professionals to do so much more than just pass the IRS' Special Enrollment Examination. This is an in-depth course that teaches tax law from the ground up. It explains how tax returns work, with examples of basic 1040s, Schedule Cs, 1065s, 1120s, and 1120Ss; you learn tax law, tax research, client representation for audits, appeals and collections. 

 

If you are interested in buying or selling a practice, contact us today! ATB is operated by Enrolled Agents ensuring a complete understanding of our profession. Please give us a call at (855) 428-2225 or visit us online at www.ATBCAL.com for more information and to view our current listings.
CA DRE 02002824

 


CSTC Mission Statement

CSTC advances professionalism within the tax industry by:

  • Providing quality education
  • Creating networking opportunities
  • Advocating professional standards

 

From the President
THANK YOU ALL FOR AN INCREDIBLE YEAR!

Oh, man, great thought! I love that one! Words to live by, for sure! I’m going to write that down! That one is going on my bathroom mirror!  How do you respond when you hear something inspirational or something that resonates with you? We are all on the look-out for things that motivate and inspire us to do what needs to be done.

This pandemic had really changed everything. I am blown away by how people have adapted to the changes and made the absolute best of things. I am inspired by what I see people do and am committed to press forward and make the best of every situation.

What inspires you to do your best? What does it take to get motivated and get going? 

During our Monday morning company meetings, our team members take turns sharing “inspiration” with the rest of the team. Over the past several weeks I have collected some of the thoughts that have been shared and I want to share them with you. Some of these are truly “words to live by” and others, . . . you be the judge. Perhaps one will resonate with you and brighten your day or strengthen your resolve to push forward.

“People won’t forget how you made them feel” - Maya Angelou 

“Do or do not. There is no try” - Yoda

“Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible to the visible” - Tony Robbins

“Push yourself because no one else is going to push you to do it” - Unknown

“The secret to getting ahead is getting started” - Mark Twain

“We are a team because we respect, trust, and care for each other” - Vala Afshar

“See people in the best light” – Unknown 

“Give people the benefit of the doubt” – Brene Brown

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them” - Walt Disney 

“Motivation gets you started. Habit keeps you going” - Jim Rohn 

“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you are right” - Henry Ford 

“Never give up – get better. Never lower your standards- improve your skills” - Todd Duncan

“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny” - C.S. Lewis

And my favorite – “Be cool with the sacrifices you are making” – Michelle Gellan

As this year comes to a close, it is my sincere hope that each of you will looks back on this year as one of growth and learning. The lessons we have learned will make us better in the future. The changes that CSTC has undergone have been transformational. As President I have had the wonderful opportunity of seeing first-hand the hard work and dedication that members of CSTC have put forth to make us better as an organization, as individuals, and as tax professionals. 

I am thrilled with our progress and or future. More changes are coming as we adapt to the ever-changing world of tax professional education. 

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you to everyone who has in any way contributed to the growth, development, and strength of CSTC! 

Have a wonderful December! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

Your friend, Gary Quackenbush, CSTC president.


Calendar of Events
December 2020

December 2, 2020

Topic: Virtual Breakfast Meeting
Inland Empire Chapter Virtual Meeting
No CE Offered
Click here to learn more and register

Topic: Code Breakers - Tax Research for the 21st Century
Temecula Valley Chapter Virtual Meeting
Federal Law Hours (Topics covering existing tax law)
Click here to learn more and register

Topic: Pre-Updates on Things to Come in 2020 for Federal and California Taxes
San Francisco Bay Chapter Virtual Meeting
1 California hours (Topics covering California law issues)
1 Federal Update hours (Topics covering new tax laws)
Click here to learn more and register 

December 10, 2020

Topic: Form 1099 is Changing! What’s New and What Do We Need to Firm Up for General 1099 Compliance (Including 1099 NEC)
North County San Diego Chapter Virtual Meeting
2 Federal Update hours (Topics covering new tax laws)
Click here to learn more and register

December 15, 2020

Topic: Two-Part Webinar
Year Update & Review- State and Federal Update
Part One Hosted by the Central Valley Chapter
Part Two Hosted by the Sacramento and Central Valley Chapters

2 California hours (Topics covering California law issues)
6 Federal Update hours (Topics covering new tax laws)
Click here to learn more and register

Topic: Orange County South Federal Tax and State Update
Orange County South Chapter Virtual Meeting
1 California hour (Topics covering California law issues)
1 Federal Update hour (Topics covering new tax laws)
More information coming soon

December 16, 2020

Topic: Retirement Plans
San Jose Chapter Virtual Meeting
2 Federal Tax Law Hours (Topics covering existing tax law)
Click here to learn more and register

Topic: Shannon’s Hall of Tax Curiosities: Curiouser
Inland Empire Chapter Virtual Meeting
2 Federal Law hours (Topics covering existing tax law)
Click here to learn more and register

Click here to view the CSTC calendar.


Call for Presenters
2021 Summer Symposium

The California Society of Tax Consultants (CSTC) provides quality tax education for tax professionals, including CTEC-registered preparers, Enrolled Agents, CPAs and attorneys. CSTC’s premier education event is the Summer Tax Symposium.

The 2021 Symposium will be an online event, and CSTC is looking for speakers to share their tax knowledge and expertise with their peers and colleagues. The webinars are two- or four-hour classes that provide attendees with information about the topic as well as practical applications they can use in their practice.

We are accepting submissions in all areas of taxation including:

  • Current tax updates
  • Individual tax
  • Businesses
  • Nonprofits
  • Trusts and estates
  • California tax
  • Representation
  • Other topics related to taxation 

We will also consider submissions relating to practice management and accounting.

Please CLICK HERE to fill out the Call for Presenters Form in its entirety and submit it no later than December 4, 2020 at 5 pm. Only complete submissions will be considered.

Presenters are selected by the Education Committee based on recommendations and fit with the overall goal of the Symposium. All submitters will be notified by December 22, 2020.

If you have any questions, please contact Linda Dong by phone at 626-288-8558 or by email at [email protected].

 


Register TODAY for Running Start
ON-DEMAND Webinar

Not just theory...Real-life application! All the latest news about how the CARES Act, the SECURE Act, the Disaster Act, and other recent legislation impact federal and CA tax returns, including new forms explained line-by-line.

Things you'll learn...
· Complete coverage of IRS & CA forms
· Latest news about the CARES Act, SECURE Act, Families First Relief Act, Disaster Act, and more...
· Reconciliation of advance payment (rebates) to stimulus credit
· How does PPP discharge affect tax return? Are expenses paid with loan proceeds deductible?
· New forms with real-life examples to show you how to complete them
· Line-by-line calculations on new forms & worksheets
· CA adjustments calculated and illustrated on Form 540 Sch CA
· Case studies – Client documents to completed tax return
· Court cases, revenue rulings, and more...
· Worksheets, flowcharts, and checklists to help you keep it all straight
· 400+ page manual mailed to you
· Free FAST FACTS reference card!
· NEW Free CA nonconformity reference card!
· Information you can use in the REAL WORLD!

This on-demand webinar will allow you to take the class whenever it is convenient for you, either all at once or a little bit each day. Attendees who register before December 1 will not receive their materials until December 1. Attendees who register after that date will receive their login information within three business days of registration. Books will be mailed to the address on the registration form within 7 business days of purchasing the course.

 


Welcome New CSTC Members!

Please help us in joining our newest CSTC Members!

John Alagha
Orange County Chapter

Jairo Bautista
San Gabriel Valley Chapter

John Blanc
Inland Empire Chapter


Gary Correia
San Diego Chapter


David Dick
San Diego Chapter


Lawrence Fade
San Francisco Bay Chapter


Joseph Franck
San Jose Chapter


Monica Germana
Los Angeles Chapter


John Gilbert
Los Angeles Chapter


Elizabeth Heise
San Jose Chapter


Leo Hill
Greater Long Beach Chapter


Joanne Hutsel
San Diego Chapter


Nicole Inverno
East County San Diego Chapter


Mohsin Kalia
Orange County Chapter


Gill Lackritz
North County San Diego Chapter


Lan Lam
San Jose Chapter


Gregory Linarelli
North County San Diego Chapter


James Mason
Central Valley Chapter

Robert Mayhall
Inland Empire Chapter

Jerrie Muir
South Orange County Chapter

Susan Noble
North County San Diego Chapter

George Nunez
Orange County Chapter

James Peebles
South Orange County Chapter

Rose Sarabia
San Gabriel Valley Chapter

Ralph Walson
Orange County Chapter


Legislative Advocacy

CSTC has been the leading Association in supporting legislation to provide protection for our profession, to support our profession, and to enhance our profession. CSTC continuously leads our industry through legislative advocacy, educational opportunities, and professional inclusion.

CSTC works closely with a Legislative Consultant to keep an eye on important bills that would affect taxpayers and small business owners.

Please click here to view the bills that CSTC is currently monitoring.


   

News from the IRS

National Tax Security Awareness Week opens with warnings to all taxpayers and tax professionals as holidays, 2021 tax season approach

IR-2020-265, November 30, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service and the Security Summit partners today issued warnings to all taxpayers and tax professionals to beware of scams and identity theft schemes by criminals taking advantage of the combination of holiday shopping, the approaching tax season and coronavirus concerns.

Special $300 tax deduction helps most people give to charity this year – even if they don’t itemize

IR-2020-264, November 25, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded taxpayers of a special new provision that will allow more people to easily deduct up to $300 in donations to qualifying charities this year.

Get Ready for Taxes: Steps to take now to make tax filing easier in 2021

IR-2020-263, November 24, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service today encouraged taxpayers to take necessary actions this fall to help file federal tax returns timely and accurately in 2021.

The Treasury Department and IRS issue final regulations regarding like-kind exchanges of real property

IR-2020-262, November 23, 2020 — Today the Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service issued final regulations relating to section 1031 like-kind exchanges.

IRS announces procurement research partnership to improve contracting processes

IR-2020-261, November 23, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service’s Office of the Chief Procurement Officer today announced a research partnership with Data and Analytic Solutions, a small business located in Fairfax, Virginia.

Register by Nov. 21 to get an Economic Impact Payment; same deadline for federal beneficiaries to get missed $500 per child payments

IR-2020-260, November 19, 2020 — The IRS Service today reminded people who don’t normally file tax returns that they have until November 21 at 3 p.m. Eastern time to register for an Economic Impact Payment.

Security Summit partners announce National Tax Security Awareness Week dates; urge increased security measures as fraudsters exploit COVID-19 concerns

IR-2020-259, November 19, 2020 — The IRS, state tax agencies and the nation's tax industry today announced that the 5th Annual National Tax Security Awareness Week will take place between November 30 and December 4.

IRS Advisory Council issues 2020 Annual Report

IR-2020-258, November 18, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service Advisory Council (IRSAC) today issued its annual report for 2020, including recommendations to the IRS on new and continuing issues in tax administration.

Nov. 21 deadline nears to register online for Economic Impact Payment; Some people can claim special credit next tax filing season

IR-2020-257, November 17, 2020 — The IRS today reminded anyone who doesn’t normally file a tax return that they have until 3 p.m. EST this Saturday, November 21, to register with the IRS for an Economic Impact Payment.

Get Ready for Taxes: Get ready now to file 2020 federal income tax returns

IR-2020-256, November 17, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service today encouraged taxpayers to take necessary actions this fall to help them file their federal tax returns timely and accurately in 2021, including special steps related to Economic Impact Payments.

IRS Criminal Investigation releases Fiscal Year 2020 Annual Report; identifies $2.3 billion in tax fraud

IR-2020-255, November 16, 2020 — The IRS today released the Criminal Investigation Division's annual report, highlighting the agency’s successes and criminal enforcement actions taken in fiscal year 2020, the majority of which occurred during COVID-19.

IRS to mask key business transcript details; protect taxpayers from identity theft

IR-2020-254, November 13, 2020 — Moving to protect business taxpayers from identity theft, the Internal Revenue Service today announced that starting December 13 it will begin masking sensitive data on business tax transcripts.

IRS reminder to non-filers: Nov. 10 is ‘National EIP Registration Day;’ Community partners can help people sign up for Economic Impact Payment

IR-2020-253, November 9, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service today urged anyone who doesn’t normally file a tax return and has not yet received an Economic Impact Payment (EIP) to take advantage of “National EIP Registration Day,” on Tuesday, November 10.

IRS provides certainty regarding the deductibility of payments by partnerships and S corporations for State and local income taxes

IR-2020-252, November 9, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) today issued Notice 2020-75, which announces rules to be included in forthcoming proposed regulations.

IRS provides guidance on certain distributions from terminating 403(b) plans

IR-2020-251, November 5, 2020 — The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service today issued guidance for employers and employees with terminating 403(b) plans that fund benefits through 403(b)(7) custodial accounts.

Many college students may still qualify for an Economic Impact Payment; review the guidelines and register by Nov. 21 at IRS.gov

IR-2020-250, November 5, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service today urged any eligible self-supporting college student who doesn’t need to file a tax return to register by November 21 so they can receive an Economic Impact Payment before the end of the year.

Security Summit partners warn taxpayers of new COVID-related text scam

IR-2020-249, November 4, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service, state tax agencies and the tax industry today warned of a new text scam created by thieves that trick people into disclosing bank account information under the guise of receiving the $1,200 Economic Impact Payment.

IRS makes it easier to set up payment agreements; offers other relief to taxpayers struggling with tax debts

IR-2020-248, November 2, 2020 — The Internal Revenue Service today announced a number of changes designed to help struggling taxpayers impacted by COVID-19 more easily settle their tax debts with the IRS.

News Release and Fact Sheet Archive

Find an archive of news releases and fact sheets from November 2002 and news releases and a listing of fact sheets from 1997.

Click here for more information fro the IRS

Join the California Society of Tax Consultants!

Click here to fill out an online application.

CSTC advances professionalism within the tax industry by:

  • Providing quality education
  • Creating networking opportunities
  • Advocating professional standards

California Society of Tax Consultants | 320 Pine Ave, Suite #1050, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone (949) 715-4192 | [email protected]