Accounting

Creating a continuous learning culture in an accounting firm

Published

1 month ago

October 24, 2024

Every firm leader is looking for the “secret sauce” to attract and retain top talent. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to that problem, one aspect of becoming an employer of choice is creating a culture of continuous learning.

Today’s employees want personal and professional learning and development opportunities. It’s not enough to offer training or talk about growth in performance reviews. An authentic continuous learning culture is embedded in the firm’s ethos, reflected in leadership behaviors and backed by investment. It’s about creating an environment where learning is an ongoing process, not just an annual obligation or an item to tick off during performance evaluations.

Here’s how to build that culture in your firm.

The L&D leadership mindset

For a continuous learning culture to thrive, leaders have to champion it. Firms that excel in learning and development view it as an asset, not an expense. It’s a strategic investment in the firm’s future success. The managing partner and other senior leaders need to visibly and vocally support L&D initiatives, prioritizing L&D with their actions and funding.

Leaders should also model this commitment to learning. The best firms are those where leaders actively participate in continuous learning, setting an example for others. This creates an environment that celebrates knowledge and growth and recognizes learning as a driver of personal and organizational success.

Watching a webinar online - online CPE - online learning

Moving from a ladder to a lattice

Historically, CPA firms followed a clear career path, with steps leading from staff to senior, manager, and ultimately partner. But this rigid structure no longer fits the modern workforce. Today’s firms must adopt a more flexible, customized approach to career development, embracing the idea of a career lattice, rather than a ladder.

This shift acknowledges that people’s careers can move in many directions. Employees may leave the workforce temporarily, pivot within the firm, or take on roles that align with their unique strengths and interests. Customizing L&D opportunities to each individual’s talents helps firms retain valuable employees who might otherwise seek opportunities elsewhere.

Broadening learning beyond required CPE

One common misconception in many firms is that L&D is reserved for CPAs and other employees with professional designations. However, a continuous learning culture involves every team member, in every department, from the newest hire to the most seasoned partner.

Send all staff members — not just CPAs or senior leaders — to conferences, training sessions and seminars. Engage external speakers and host internal knowledge-sharing events to make learning a company-wide initiative.

Graduating from college isn’t the end of learning — it’s the beginning. Encourage and empower accountants, administrators, IT staff and everyone else in the firm to continue learning and growing throughout their careers.

Steps to building a continuous learning culture

Creating a learning culture takes deliberate effort and planning. It’s about more than just offering a few online courses or hosting an annual training day. Here’s a structured approach to building a learning-centric environment in your firm:

1. Examine current L&D programs. Assess the strengths and weaknesses in your existing learning programs. Identify gaps in skills, knowledge or accessibility and address these areas.
2. Plan learning objectives. Define what you want your team members to learn. This could be technical skills, soft skills or specialized industry knowledge. Align learning objectives with firm goals and individual career paths.
3. Empower subject matter experts. Leverage the expertise within your firm by encouraging subject matter experts to create and deliver learning content. This can be formal or informal training, mentoring or knowledge-sharing sessions.
4. Ask employees what they want to learn. Leadership should set broad learning goals but also ask employees what they’re interested in learning to offer relevant and engaging training.
5. Make learning accessible. Online platforms, in-person workshops and microlearning modules help make training accessible to everyone in the firm. Make use of various formats to cater to different learning styles.
6. Set aside time for learning. One barrier to continuous learning is time. Encourage employees to prioritize learning by setting aside dedicated time for development. Whether it’s a weekly “learning hour” or scheduled quarterly training sessions, this shows the firm’s commitment to growth.
7. Experiment with learning methods. Different people learn in different ways, so experiment with various techniques like peer-to-peer learning, on-the-job training or formal courses. Providing multiple options keeps learning dynamic and engaging.
8. Create a library of resources. Build a library of resources like industry journals, webinars, case studies and podcasts for employees to access as part of their learning journey. Encourage employees to share the resources they discover with the rest of the team.
9. Integrate learning into daily workflows. Make learning a natural part of the workday by incorporating it into daily activities. This could involve assigning learning objectives to projects, promoting mentorship programs or offering real-time feedback that supports growth.
10. Make knowledge sharing a habit. Encourage employees to regularly share what they’ve learned with others through internal presentations, team meetings or even informal “lunch and learn” sessions.
11. Reward learning. Recognize and reward employees who actively participate in learning and development. This could be through bonuses or simply public recognition of their efforts.
12. Measure and adapt. Continuously measure the effectiveness of your L&D initiatives. Use employee feedback, performance data and business outcomes to adjust your learning programs. What works today may need to evolve as the firm grows and changes.

Creating a continuous learning culture isn’t just about keeping employees engaged; it’s about building an adaptable, innovative and competitive firm. When learning becomes part of the firm’s DNA, employees feel more engaged and valued, turnover decreases and the firm becomes more agile in responding to market changes.

Remember, learning is a journey — not a destination. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, you invest in your firm’s future.

Accounting

How to Mastering Accounts Receivable Management to Maximize Cash Flow

Published

5 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Business Finance News

Accounts Receivable Management for Maximum Cash Flow

Effective accounts receivable (AR) management is vital for maintaining a company’s cash flow, profitability, overall financial stability and is considered to be best practice for accounting management . By implementing strategic AR practices, businesses can reduce payment delays, minimize financial risks, and improve relationships with customers. Below are in-depth strategies for enhancing AR performance, ensuring financial health, and maintaining strong client relationships.

Establishing Formal Policies and Procedures

A well-defined set of policies and procedures is the foundation of effective accounts receivable management. Clear guidelines ensure consistency across the entire order-to-cash cycle, from invoicing to collection. These guidelines should outline the specific steps involved in generating invoices, tracking payments, and handling overdue accounts. Clearly defined roles and responsibilities for team members contribute to accountability, while setting payment terms and due dates helps streamline the process.

Creating a documented standard operating procedure (SOP) that employees can refer to ensures that everyone follows the same approach, minimizing errors and reducing confusion. Policies should also specify the consequences for late payments, including any penalties or fees. Establishing escalation protocols—such as follow-up reminders, late payment notices, and legal actions if necessary—keeps the collection process organized and efficient.

Leveraging Advanced Technology for Efficiency

Incorporating technology into accounts receivable management can significantly enhance efficiency. Advanced AR software platforms offer a range of features designed to automate and optimize the process, reducing the manual workload and minimizing errors. These platforms often include automated invoicing, payment tracking, customer communication, and collections management.

Automated systems can send reminders for upcoming payments and follow up on overdue accounts without human intervention. This automation saves time and ensures consistency in communication with clients. Many platforms also offer integrated billing systems that sync with existing account receivable software, providing a seamless flow of information across financial operations. Customer portals allow clients to access statements, make payments online, and review their payment history, fostering a more convenient and user-friendly experience. Some of the best account receivable software are: QuickBooks Online, Xero, Sage Intacct and NetSuite ERP.

Implementing Regular Accounts Receivable Reviews and Aging Analyses

Regular reviews of accounts receivable are essential to maintain a healthy cash flow. Implementing a schedule for periodic AR reviews allows businesses to monitor the status of outstanding balances and identify potential problems early. Aging analyses categorize receivables based on how long they have been outstanding—30, 60, or 90+ days—highlighting overdue accounts that require immediate action. These reports are valuable tools for assessing the health of cash flow and making informed decisions about which accounts to prioritize for follow-up.

Analyzing AR data helps identify patterns and trends that may indicate broader issues, such as recurring late payments from specific clients or seasonal fluctuations in cash flow. Businesses can use this data to refine their credit policies and improve collection strategies. A disciplined review process also enables organizations to proactively address cash flow challenges before they escalate, ensuring financial stability.

Strengthening Customer Relationships for Improved Collections

Maintaining positive relationships with customers is a crucial aspect of effective AR management. Accurate and up-to-date customer information, including contact details and payment histories, enables personalized service and facilitates smoother transactions. Keeping comprehensive customer profiles with relevant data helps businesses address issues quickly and negotiate payment plans when necessary.

Clear and transparent communication builds trust with clients, making them more likely to prioritize timely payments. Sending invoices promptly, following up with friendly reminders, and providing clear payment instructions are all practices that enhance client relationships. By understanding customers’ payment behaviors and preferences, businesses can tailor their approach to improve cash flow without jeopardizing long-term partnerships.

Implementing Credit Risk Management Strategies

For companies that extend credit to customers, managing credit risk is a critical part of AR management. Implementing structured credit assessment processes allows businesses to evaluate the risk associated with each customer before offering credit terms. Conducting thorough credit checks and setting credit limits based on each client’s financial history and creditworthiness can significantly reduce the likelihood of non-payment.

Businesses should regularly review credit terms and limits to ensure they remain aligned with evolving market conditions and customer circumstances. Implementing dynamic credit policies that adapt to changes in a customer’s payment behavior or overall economic environment helps minimize risks and protect cash flow. A well-executed credit management strategy reduces the impact of late payments and uncollected debts on the company’s finances.

Utilizing Aging Reports for Strategic Analysis

Aging reports are essential tools for understanding the status of outstanding invoices. These reports categorize receivables based on the duration since the invoice was issued, making it easier to identify overdue accounts. Regularly analyzing aging reports helps businesses prioritize follow-up efforts, allocate resources effectively, and take targeted actions to minimize delinquencies.

A data-driven approach to AR management not only enhances the efficiency of collections but also provides valuable insights into the company’s financial health. Recognizing patterns in payment behavior can inform adjustments to invoicing procedures, credit policies, and follow-up strategies. Accurate and timely aging reports are crucial for maintaining cash flow and ensuring that overdue accounts are addressed promptly.

Balancing Automation with Human Oversight

While automation offers numerous benefits for accounts receivable management, human oversight remains indispensable. Automated systems excel at handling routine tasks like invoicing, sending reminders, and updating payment statuses, but they cannot replace the expertise and judgment of experienced professionals. Human involvement is necessary for analyzing data, handling complex payment disputes, and maintaining customer relationships.

Businesses should strike a balance between automation and manual oversight. Leveraging automation for repetitive tasks allows AR teams to focus on higher-value activities, such as negotiating payment plans and resolving disputes. A well-rounded approach that combines technology with human expertise ensures that AR management remains adaptable and responsive to changing circumstances.

Proactive Collections and Follow-Up Procedures

A proactive approach to collections is crucial for maintaining healthy cash flow. Sending invoices as soon as work is completed and issuing payment reminders well before the due date can significantly reduce payment delays. Establishing a structured follow-up schedule for overdue accounts—such as sending gentle reminders at 15 days and more assertive notices at 30 days—helps businesses maintain consistent cash flow.

Maintaining detailed records of all payment communications provides a clear audit trail and ensures that the collection process remains professional and well-documented. Professional yet firm follow-up procedures demonstrate the company’s commitment to timely payments while preserving the relationship with clients.

Monitoring Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Continuous Improvement

Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) is essential for assessing the effectiveness of AR management strategies. Metrics such as Days Sales Outstanding (DSO), average collection period, and the percentage of overdue accounts provide valuable insights into cash flow health. Setting specific goals for these KPIs encourages continuous improvement and helps identify areas where adjustments are needed.

By regularly monitoring and analyzing these metrics, businesses can refine their AR processes, implement targeted strategies, and optimize collections. Effective AR management not only improves cash flow but also strengthens the organization’s financial foundation, supporting sustainable growth and long-term success.

Accounts receivable management services

Several reputable accounts receivable management services are available to help businesses enhance cash flow and streamline collections. TSI (Transworld Systems Inc.) specializes in customized debt collection and payment reminders, reducing delinquency rates through targeted analytics. Atradius Collections offers global AR management, focusing on credit insurance and tailored solutions for international clients. Dun & Bradstreet Receivable Management Services provides comprehensive AR solutions, including credit risk assessments and data-driven strategies. Gulf Coast Collection Bureau supports industries like healthcare and utilities with services ranging from AR outsourcing to debt recovery. ABC-Amega delivers global commercial debt collection and AR outsourcing, assisting clients in managing complex cases and reducing payment delays. These services are designed to enhance financial stability and improve payment practices across various industries.

Conclusion

Optimizing accounts receivable management is a critical step toward ensuring consistent cash flow and financial stability. By establishing clear policies, leveraging technology, conducting regular reviews, and maintaining strong customer relationships, businesses can minimize risks and improve payment efficiency. A combination of automated tools and human oversight, alongside a proactive collections strategy, allows organizations to manage their receivables effectively. Prioritizing AR management is not just about getting paid—it’s about securing the financial health and longevity of the business.

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Accounting

Tax Fraud Blotter: Partners in crime

Published

24 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Business Finance News

Captive audience; some disagreement; game of 21; and other highlights of recent tax cases.

Barrington, Illinois: Tax preparer Gary Sandiego has been sentenced to 16 months in prison for preparing and filing false returns for clients.

He owned and operated the tax prep business G. Sandiego and Associates and for 2014 through 2017 prepared and filed false income tax returns for clients. Instead of relying on information provided by the clients, Sandiego either inflated or entirely fabricated expenses to falsely claim residential energy credits and employment-related expense deductions.

Sandiego, who previously pleaded guilty, caused a tax loss to the IRS of some $4,586,154.

He was also ordered to serve a year of supervised release and pay $2,910,442 in restitution to the IRS.

Ft. Worth, Texas: A federal district court has entered permanent injunctions against CPA Charles Dombek and The Optimal Financial Group LLC, barring them from promoting any tax plan that involves creating or using sham management companies, deducting personal non-deductible expenses as business expenses or assisting in the creation of “captive” insurance companies.

The injunctions also prohibit Dombek from preparing any federal returns for anyone other than himself and Optimal from preparing certain federal returns reflecting such tax plans. Dombek and Optimal consented to entry of the injunctions.

According to the complaint, Dombek is a licensed CPA and served as Optimal’s manager and president. Allegedly, Dombek and Optimal promoted a scheme throughout the U.S. to illegally reduce clients’ income tax liabilities by using sham management companies to improperly shift income to be taxed at lower tax rates, improperly defer taxable income or improperly claim personal expenses as business deductions. As alleged by the government, Dombek also promoted himself as the “premier dental CPA” in America.

The complaint further alleges that in promoting the schemes, Dombek and Optimal made false statements about the tax benefits of the scheme that they knew or had reason to know were false, then prepared and signed clients’ returns reflecting the sham transactions, expenses and deductions.

The government contended that the total harm to the Treasury could be $10 million or more.

Kansas City, Missouri: Former IRS employee Sandra D. Mondaine, of Grandview, Missouri, has pleaded guilty to preparing returns that illegally claimed more than $200,000 in refunds for clients.

Mondaine previously worked for the IRS as a contact representative before retiring. She admitted that she prepared federal income tax returns for clients that contained false and fraudulent claims; the indictment charged her with helping at least 11 individuals file at least 39 false and fraudulent income tax returns for 2019 through 2021. Mondaine was able to manufacture substantial refunds for her clients that they would not have been entitled to if the returns had been accurately prepared. She charged clients either a fixed dollar amount or a percentage of the refund or both.

The tax loss associated with those false returns is some $237,329, though the parties disagree on the total.

Mondaine must pay restitution to the IRS and consents to a permanent injunction in a separate civil action, under which she will be permanently enjoined from preparing, assisting in, directing or supervising the preparation or filing of federal returns for any person or entity other than herself. She is also subject to up to three years in prison.

Los Angeles: Long-time lawyer Milton C. Grimes has pleaded guilty to evading more than $4 million in federal taxes over 21 years.

Grimes pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion relating to his 2014 taxes, admitting that he failed to pay $1,690,922 to the IRS. He did not pay federal income taxes for 23 years — 2002 through 2005, 2007, 2009 through 2011, and 2014 through 2023 — a total of $4,071,215 owed to the IRS. Grimes also admitted he did not file a 2013 federal return.

From at least September 2011, the IRS issued more than 30 levies on his personal bank accounts. From at least May 2014 to April 2020, Grimes evaded payment of the outstanding income tax by not depositing income he earned from his clients into those accounts. Instead, he bought some 238 cashier’s checks totaling $16 million to keep the money out of the reach of the IRS, withdrawing cash from his client trust account, his interest on lawyers’ trust accounts and his law firm’s bank account.

Sentencing is Feb. 11. Grimes faces up to five years in federal prison, though prosecutors have agreed to seek no more than 22 months.

Sacramento, California: Residents Dominic Davis and Sharitia Wright have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to file false claims with the IRS.

Between March 2019 and April 2022, they caused at least nine fraudulent income tax returns to be filed with the IRS claiming more than $2 million in refunds. The returns were filed in the names of Davis, Wright and family members and listed wages that the taxpayers had not earned and often listed the taxpayers’ employer as one of the various LLCs created by Davis, Wright and their family members. Many of the returns also falsely claimed charitable contributions.

Davis prepared and filed the false returns; Wright provided him information and contacted the IRS to check on the status of the refunds claimed.

Davis and Wright agreed to pay restitution. Sentencing is Feb. 3, when each faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

St. Louis: Tax attorneys Michael Elliott Kohn and Catherine Elizabeth Chollet and insurance agent David Shane Simmons have been sentenced to prison for conspiring to defraud the U.S. and helping clients file false returns based on their promotion and operation of a fraudulent tax shelter.

Kohn was sentenced to seven years in prison and Chollet to four years. Simmons was sentenced to five years in prison.

From 2011 to November 2022, Kohn and Chollet, both of St. Louis, and Simmons, who is based out of Jefferson, North Carolina, promoted, marketed and sold to clients the Gain Elimination Plan, a fraudulent tax scheme. They designed the plan to conceal clients’ income from the IRS by inflating business expenses through fictitious royalties and management fees. These fictitious fees were paid, on paper, to a limited partnership largely owned by a charity. Kohn and Chollet fabricated the fees.

Kohn and Chollet advised clients that the plan’s limited partnership was required to obtain insurance on the life of the clients to cover the income allocated to the charitable organization. The death benefit was directly tied to the anticipated profitability of the clients’ businesses and how much of the clients’ taxable income was intended to be sheltered.

Simmons earned more than $2.3 million in commissions for selling the insurance policies, splitting the commissions with Kohn and Chollet. Kohn and Chollet received more than $1 million from Simmons.

Simmons also filed false personal returns that underreported his business income and inflated his business expenses, resulting in a tax loss of more than $480,000.

In total, the defendants caused a tax loss to the IRS of more than $22 million.

Each was also ordered to serve three years’ supervised release and to pay $22,515,615 in restitution to the United States.