Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://laporte.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Mauldin & Jenkins Expands National Reach and Service through Strategic Merger with LaPorte](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/mauldin-jenkins-expands-national-reach-and-service-through-strategic-merger-with-laporte) - Mauldin & Jenkins, a Top 100 Certified Public Accounting and Advisory firm, is proud to announce a significant expansion of its geographical reach and service capabilities through a strategic merger with LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors, effective December 1, 2025. As one of the largest independent accounting and business advisory firms in the region, LaPorte - [Feeling Charitable? Act (or Don't Act) Now](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/feeling-charitable-act-or-dont-act-now) - The One Big Beautiful Bill (“OBBBA”) preserved one familiar charitable giving rule, but quietly changed several others in ways that make timing more important than ever. While OBBBA extended the provision allowing taxpayers to deduct cash contributions to public charities of up to 60% of their contribution base (modified adjusted gross income (AGI)), it also - [LaPorte Named to CityBusiness Reader Rankings 2025 Best Accounting Firms List](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-citybusiness-reader-rankings-2025-best-accounting-firm-list) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors (LaPorte), is proud to announce that it has been named to the New Orleans CityBusiness Reader Rankings 2025 Best Accounting Firms list. Now in its ninth consecutive year, the Reader Rankings highlights the companies and services that CityBusiness readers have rated most highly across a variety of categories. The survey - [LaPorte Directors Receive Women to Watch Awards from LCPA](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-directors-receive-women-to-watch-awards-from-lcpa) - The Society of Louisiana CPAs (LCPA) has named two LaPorte leaders as recipients of its 2025 Women to Watch awards. Christina Chifici, Audit and Assurance Services Director-in-Charge, was honored in the Experienced Leader category, and Nicole Reynolds, Audit and Assurance Services Director, received the Emerging Leader award. Since taking the helm of LaPorte’s Audit and - [Key Proposed Changes in the 2025 OMB Supplement Draft and What They Mean for Nonprofits](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/key-proposed-changes-in-the-2025-omb-supplement-draft-and-what-they-mean-for-nonprofits) - The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently released the draft of the 2025 Compliance Supplement, an essential resource for auditors and organizations receiving federal funds. The draft highlights several important changes that nonprofits should prepare for now. These updates are designed to align with the 2024 revisions to the Uniform Guidance (UG), simplify some - [Uniting Healthcare and Community to Support an Aging Society](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/uniting-healthcare-and-community-to-support-an-aging-society) - Medicaid/Medicare rollbacks under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act have reduced reimbursement rates, putting many healthcare providers under financial strain. - [Update to Louisiana’s Statewide Agreed-Upon Procedures Reduces Compliance Requirements for Entities that Receive Government Funds](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/update-to-louisianas-statewide-agreed-upon-procedures-reduces-compliance-requirements-for-entities-that-receive-government-funds) - The Louisiana Legislative Auditor issued an update that reduces testing requirements for entities that show patterns of strong internal controls and compliance. - [Health care industry trend watch: Week of Sept. 22, 2025](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/health-care-industry-trend-watch-week-of-sept-22-2025) - The race is on for states to secure a piece of a new $50 billion federal program aimed at revitalizing rural health care. - [LaPorte Named a Top 200 Firm by INSIDE Public Accounting](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-a-top-200-firm-by-inside-public-accounting) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named to the “Top 200 Firm” list by INSIDE Public Accounting for the 16th consecutive year. - [Why Timely Unclaimed Property Reporting Matters: A Crucial Reminder as State Deadlines Loom](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/why-timely-unclaimed-property-reporting-matters-a-crucial-reminder-as-state-deadlines-loom) - Businesses required to complete unclaimed property reporting should begin planning for upcoming state compliance deadlines. - [Tax Law Update: How the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Impacts the Construction Industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/tax-law-update-how-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act-impacts-the-construction-industry) - The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (P.L. 119-21) introduces permanent tax changes that directly impact the construction industry. From equipment investment to labor incentives, the law provides clarity and planning opportunities for contractors and construction firms. Extension of TCJA Provisions Offers Continuity The One Big Beautiful Bill Act permanently extends several provisions from the Tax - [How will Medicare Cuts in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Affect Rural Healthcare?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/how-will-medicare-cuts-in-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act-affect-rural-healthcare) - President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) into law on January 4, 2025. Buried within the 330-page bill are a handful of provisions on Medicare. These changes — along with changes to Medicaid — could have a tangible effect on hospital revenues and on the health and well-being of seniors, especially those - [Director Anthony Rutledge Named Chair of LCPA](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/director-anthony-rutledge-named-chair-of-lcpa) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors (LaPorte) is proud to announce that Anthony Rutledge, CPA, MBA, Audit and Assurance Services Director in the firm’s Covington office, has been selected to serve as the 2025–2026 Chair of the Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants (LCPA). In this leadership role, Anthony will help guide the statewide organization of - [Construction's AI maturity hinges on strategic investment](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/constructions-ai-maturity-hinges-on-strategic-investment) - A new survey of the middle market in the U.S. and Canada shows AI use in the construction industry is on the rise. This article provides a snapshot on use of AI in the construction industry. - [Victory for Louisiana Contractors: Sales Tax Exemption Now in Place for Public Projects](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/victory-for-louisiana-contractors-sales-tax-exemption-now-in-place-for-public-projects) - Thanks to LA AGC legislative efforts, Act 384 now exempts sales tax for contractors on public construction projects, effective July 1, 2025. - [Overview of the Budget Reconciliation Bill: the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”(PL 119-21)](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/overview-of-the-budget-reconciliation-bill-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-actpl-119-21) - On July 4, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed into law the so called ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’ The law effectively extends many of the provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which would otherwise have expired on December 31, 2025, resulting in increased taxes for most taxpayers. This law also follows - [Medicaid Funding Is at Risk](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/medicaid-funding-is-at-risk) - What Should Hospitals Expect from the Medicaid Cuts Proposed in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act? On July 3, 2025, the House of Representatives approved the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). President Donald J. Trump signed the bill into law on July 4, 2025. The OBBBA proposes a nearly $1 Trillion cut to federal - [Camille Kent](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/camille-kent) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re at the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional - [Medicaid State Directed Payments — How Do They Work?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/medicaid-state-directed-payments-how-do-they-work) - State directed payments (SDPs) are an important funding source for hospitals and providers that serve the Medicaid population. SDPs do a few things: (1) they supplement base Medicaid payments so that providers can financially afford to serve Medicaid beneficiaries; (2) they help eliminate disparities between patient populations; and (3) they incentivize hospitals and providers to - [Rachel Vela](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/rachel-vela) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Health care industry trend watch: Week of June 23, 2025](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/health-care-industry-trend-watch-week-of-june-23-2025) - The Senate's version of the One Big Beautiful Bill has cleared a significant hurdle, but not without changes that are concerning to the health care industry. - [Jude Breaux](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/jude-breaux) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [LaPorte: Spanning the Chasm Between Traditional Expectations and True Partnership.](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-spanning-the-chasm-between-traditional-expectations-and-true-partnership) - Deep Commitment As a full-service accounting firm for more than 75 years, we’ve built a reputation for industry specialization, extensive experience, and long-term client relationships. But what inspires true confidence is our commitment to being a trusted advisor. And a true partner, every step of the way. Understanding Matters Based on a consultative, collaborative approach - [Trish Thibodeau](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/trish-thibodeau) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Kiah Delatte](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/kiah-delatte) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Be Aware of the Payroll and Tax Changes in 2025](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/be-aware-of-the-payroll-and-tax-changes-in-2025) - As we move further into 2025, it’s crucial for nonprofit organizations to stay ahead of the curve with the latest payroll and tax updates. From changes in tax withholding limits to new state sales tax rates, these updates can have a significant impact on your operations and mission-driven initiatives. In this article we give a - [Explore Outsourced Accounting Services for Your Construction Business](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/explore-outsourced-accounting-services-for-your-construction-business) - Construction accounting is unique due to complex rules and accounting methods like contract revenue recognition, job cost accounting, estimates of costs to complete, change orders and allocation of indirect costs. Fortunately, outsourced accounting professionals can help ease some of that burden. What is outsourced accounting for construction? When you outsource accounting services, you can delegate - [Kyle Hubbard](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/kyle-hubbard) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [What Can You Do to Prevent Fraud?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/what-can-you-do-to-prevent-fraud) - Fraud doesn’t discriminate. It affects businesses of all types, in all industries, with any ownership structure. While it’s not possible to mitigate every fraud scheme there is, there are plenty of ways to reduce the likelihood your business will experience significant losses from fraud. Internal Controls Internal controls are the policies, procedures, and processes your - [Occupational Fraud: What Is It, and How Can You Prevent It?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/occupational-fraud-what-is-it-and-how-can-you-prevent-it) - Managing fraud risk is always important, but it becomes critical in times of economic uncertainty. Fraudulent activity rises during recessions and economic downturns for a variety of reasons. Layoffs are more common, which leaves internal controls systems lacking. This creates more opportunities for fraud. Employees and companies are financially strapped, which makes it easier to rationalize - [The Psychology of Fraud](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/the-psychology-of-fraud) - No business is immune to fraud. Even if you’ve built a robust control environment, your business could be vulnerable to threats. This is especially true in times of economic uncertainty. As the economy becomes more unpredictable, fraud risk increases, which makes 2025 a great time to review your fraud prevention techniques. When assessing and addressing - [Taylor Boudreaux](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/taylor-boudreaux) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Health care industry trend watch: Week of April 28, 2025](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/health-care-industry-trend-watch-week-of-april-28-2025) - Mounting tariffs are triggering concerns across health care organizations grappling with already thin margins. - [Nicholas Pregeant](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/nicholas-pregeant) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Bosch and Duke named to Forbes' 2025 America's Best-In-State CPAs list](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/bosch-and-duke-named-to-forbes-2025-americas-best-in-state-cpas-list) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors (LaPorte) is proud to announce that Eric Bosch, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Allison Duke, Director of Audit and Assurance Services, have been named to the Forbes 2025 Best-In-State CPAs list. The Forbes’ America’s Best-In-State list is “a compilation of the finest CPAs active in public practice, culled from - [Health care's emerging cybersecurity challenges](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/health-cares-emerging-cybersecurity-challenges) - Cybersecurity threats remain a significant concern for health care organizations, and they should consider several best practices to mitigate risks. - [Jeffrey Borne](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/jeffrey-borne) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Market minute: U.S. effective tariff rate hits 23%, creating conditions for downturn](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/market-minute-u-s-effective-tariff-rate-hits-23-creating-conditions-for-downturn) - The recent tariffs may translate into a $410 billion tax on American households and businesses at a cost of $3,585 per household. - [Kate McKeever](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/kate-mckeever) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Health care faces ongoing regulatory scrutiny](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/health-care-faces-ongoing-regulatory-scrutiny) - Health care providers face rising medical debt, unpredictable reimbursements, greater scrutiny on private equity, and stricter nonprofit benefit requirements. - [Mo Al-kawafha](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/mo-al-kawafha) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Corporate Transparency Act Beneficial Ownership Reporting - 3.24.25 - UPDATE](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/corporate-transparency-act-beneficial-ownership-reporting-2) - The Corporate Transparency Act has gone through many stages of filing requirements. Check here for the latest. - [LaPorte Named a 2024 Top 200 Accounting Firm](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-a-2024-top-200-accounting-firm) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named a 2024 Top 200 Firm by Inside Public Accounting. - [Ethan Allen](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/ethan-allen) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Arman Alizadeh](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/arman-alizadeh) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Market minute: Will the economy keep on truckin"? An indicator is saying no.](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/market-minute-will-the-economy-keep-on-truckin-an-indicator-is-saying-no) - Treasury Secretary emphasizes focusing on the real economy amid market volatility and the Dow Jones U.S. Trucking Index is a key indicator of economic direction. - [How nonprofits can protect their donor information from cyberattacks](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/how-nonprofits-can-protect-their-donor-information-from-cyberattacks) - Nonprofits must prioritize safeguarding donor information to maintain trust and protect their financial stability as cyberthreats become more sophisticated. - [Hunter Ward](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/hunter-ward) - We are pleased to introduce Hunter Ward, a Senior Tax Accountant who recently transferred from Houston to our Baton Rouge office as one of our Faces of LaPorte. - [What would an estate tax repeal mean for you?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/what-would-an-estate-tax-repeal-mean-for-you) - Even with potential estate tax repeal, estate planning is vital for wealth preservation, minimizing taxes and preparing generations for responsible inheritance. - [Market minute: Soft economic landing at risk](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/market-minute-soft-economic-landing-at-risk) - The Fed is close to a soft landing with disinflation, but rising tariffs could threaten inflation control, disrupting potential economic growth. - [Initial claims rise slightly as federal layoffs and wildfire impact was muted](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/initial-claims-rise-slightly-as-federal-layoffs-and-wildfire-impact-was-muted) - The number of initial claims for jobless benefits rose slightly to 219,000 last week, close to our forecast and the pre-pandemic average of 218,000. - [US rejects OECD global tax deal, raising policy questions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/us-rejects-oecd-global-tax-deal-raising-policy-questions) - The White House issued a pair of executive orders on Jan. 20, 2025 that may significantly impact the U.S global tax and trade policy. - [Estate Planning Q&A: Plan for estate tax and GSTT liquidity](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/estate-planning-qa-plan-for-estate-tax-and-gstt-liquidity) - Estate taxes are due 9 months after death. Does your estate plan leave your family with enough cash to pay them? We can help you plan now. - [LaPorte Wins Clearly Rated's 2025 Best of Accounting Award](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-wins-clearly-rateds-2025-best-of-accounting-award) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors (LaPorte,) the largest independent accounting and business advisory firm headquartered in Louisiana, is proud to announce that it has won the Best of Accounting Award for providing superior service to clients. ClearlyRated’s Best of Accounting® Award recognizes accounting firms that have demonstrated exceptional service quality based exclusively on ratings provided - [Cybersecurity webcast Q & A](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/cybersecurity-webcast-q-a) - RTICLE | August 10, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP Since a large percentage of cyber breaches result from users/people falling victim to an attack, how do we justify the significant technical expenditures? In simplistic terms, there are three control types that we spend money on—preventive, detective and corrective. Since a control can fail via - [GASB 101 Compensated Absences](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/gasb-101-compensated-absences) - GASB 101,superseding GASB 16, is now in place for public sector entities that pay out work-related absences like sick leave and paid time off. - [Tax effects of cancellation of debt across different entities](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/tax-effects-of-cancellation-of-debt-across-different-entities) - Explore the tax implications of debt cancellation across different entities with this overview on the Cancellation of Debt Income (CODI). - [Death and taxes: Critical opportunities for nonprofits](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/death-and-taxes-critical-opportunities-for-nonprofits) - With the American population aging, postmortem contributions are critical opportunities for nonprofits to receive charitable contributions. - [IRS releases plan to triple its audit rates on large corporations](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-releases-plan-to-triple-its-audit-rates-on-large-corporations) - In its annual update, the IRS pledged to triple audit rates on corporations with assets over $250million, utilizing funds from the Inflation Reduction Act. - [New retirement plan distribution options introduced by SECURE 2.0](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/new-retirement-plan-distribution-options-introduced-by-secure-2-0) - SECURE 2.0 provides new opportunities for plan participants to take retirement distributions without incurring early withdrawal penalties. - [Estate planning Q&A: Qualified Personal Residence Trusts Explained](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/estate-planning/estate-planning-qa-qualified-personal-residence-trusts-explained) - Qualified Personal Residence Trusts can be a valuable tool to make a lifetime transfer of your home to your family and potentially reduce your estate taxes. - [The journey to 2025 tax reform begins](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/the-journey-to-2025-tax-reform-begins) - Committee Tax Teams were created to address key tax provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that are set to expire in 2025 and identify solutions. - [Credits and incentives available to retirement plan sponsors](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/credits-and-incentives-available-to-retirement-plan-sponsors) - ARTICLE | March 25, 2024 Authored by RSM US LLP Executive summary: Credits for retirement plan sponsors Continued concerns by congressional leaders for employees to attain retirement security have led to legislative changes intended to make it more affordable for certain employers to sponsor a retirement plan. Non-refundable credits were already in place to help - [Cybersecurity perception is reality until facts intervene](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/cybersecurity-perception-is-reality-until-facts-intervene) - To ensure cybersecurity preparedness, boards need to transform their perception of cybersecurity governance into reality. - [AI's true value in banking](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/ais-true-value-in-banking) - ARTICLE | February 27, 2024 Authored by RSM US LLP ChatGPT may have sparked the initial buzz around generative artificial intelligence just a little over a year ago, but plenty of businesses have already either made it through or are approaching the implementation stage with AI tools. Global spending on AI is expected to top - [Beyond M&A: Hospitals turn to joint ventures for growth, patient focus](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/beyond-ma-hospitals-turn-to-joint-ventures-for-growth-patient-focus) - In addition to leveraging mergers and acquisitions, some health systems are leaning toward joint ventures to diversify revenue and expand offerings. - [Post-pandemic tailwinds offer new opportunities in rural health care](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/post-pandemic-tailwinds-offer-new-opportunities-in-rural-health-care) - For rural hospitals, applying for REH designation & grant funding, forming networks & adopting technology can help with rising labor & supply costs. - [The IRS urges businesses to review ERC claims for 7 common red flags](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/the-irs-urges-businesses-to-review-erc-claims-for-7-common-red-flags) - IRS urges employers to review ERC claims before the Voluntary Disclosure Program deadline of3/22/2024 and warns of 7 common signs that claims may be incorrect. - [4 key considerations for a secure cloud migration](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/4-key-considerations-for-a-secure-cloud-migration) - This blog highlights four common scenarios and solutions for overcoming obstacles when securing a company's cloud applications, data, and infrastructure. - [Bad debt tax deduction method proposed for financial institutions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/bad-debt-tax-deduction-method-proposed-for-financial-institutions) - Many banks, insurance companies & financial companies now have an opportunity to simplify their tax accounting and deduct book debt charge-offs on tax returns. - [Remote workforces are complicating state tax nexus and withholding](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/remote-workforces-are-complicating-state-tax-nexus-and-withholding) - ARTICLE | January 25, 2024 Authored by RSM US LLP As remote and hybrid work have become institutional factors in business operations and labor markets, an increasing number of organizations have formalized policies governing their employees’ work location. However, policies that do not consider relevant state and local tax ramifications potentially expose companies to costs - [New guidance on section 174 research expenditures](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/new-guidance-on-section-174-research-expenditures) - IRS Notice 2024-12 clarifies rules regarding research performed under a contract while Rev. Proc. 2024-9 updates guidance on accounting method changes. - [New York hospitals face new cybersecurity rules. Will other states follow?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/new-york-hospitals-face-new-cybersecurity-rules-will-other-states-follow) - The governor of New York has proposed cybersecurity regulations applicable to all hospitals located within the state to address ongoing cybersecurity threats. - [Health care operations professionals discuss the power of generative AI](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/health-care-operations-professionals-discuss-the-power-of-generative-ai) - Health care systems are using generative AI to address tough challenges facing hospital operations including patient portal communication and chart reviews. - [IRS issues guidance on the transfer of clean vehicle credits](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/dealership-services/irs-issues-guidance-on-the-transfer-of-clean-vehicle-credits) - ARTICLE | November 21, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP Executive summary IRS and Treasury release guidance on the transfer of credits under sections 25E and 30D The IRS and the Department of the Treasury (Treasury) have released proposed regulations and a revenue procedure with guidance on the rules for buyers transferring clean vehicle credits - [IRS Releases 2024 tax inflation adjustments](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-releases-2024-tax-inflation-adjustments) - The IRS released its annual revenue procedure containing the inflation-adjusted items for 2024, related to individual and business income taxes. - [Supreme Court tax case could have outsized ramifications on income taxation](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/supreme-court-tax-case-could-have-outsized-ramifications-on-income-taxation) - The tax case Moore v. United States is currently being reviewed by the Supreme Court and could have big ramifications on income taxation. - [The great rate reset: The end of easy money, rising yields and the onset of a new era](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/the-great-rate-reset-the-end-of-easy-money-rising-yields-and-the-onset-of-a-new-era) - In the current American economy, one are the years of easy money, with near-zero interest rates and unorthodox polices to avoid a depression. - [Priority Guidance Plan 2023-2024](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/priority-guidance-plan-2023-2024) - ARTICLE | October 06, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP Executive summary: FY 24 Priority Guidance Plan items affect exempt organizations The Treasury Department and the IRS released the 2023-2024 Priority Guidance Plan (PGP), which contains a list of projects that are priorities for allocating Treasury Department and IRS resources for the plan year. For - [Looking forward: 3 tips for strategic value with internal audit](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/looking-forward-3-tips-for-strategic-value-with-internal-audit) - Mid-market orgs see internal audit serving one function—but it can add more value. Learn tips to convey its strategic value across stakeholders. - [Housing prices set a record as consumer confidence dips](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/housing-prices-set-a-record-as-consumer-confidence-dips) - Economic data released recently added more mixed signals on the housing market in the wake of the wide fluctuations in mortgage rates over the past two months. - [The economics of another U.S. government shutdown](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/the-economics-of-another-u-s-government-shutdown) - The cost of a government shutdown is clear. Each week that the federal government is shut down would exert an estimated 0.2 percentage point drag on GDP. - [What to do if you filed an employee retention credit claim with the IRS](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/what-to-do-if-you-filed-an-employee-retention-credit-claim-with-the-irs) - The IRS stopped processing claims through 12/31/23 to help limit fraudulent activity. This blog covers next steps for those who have submitted ERC claims. - [Accounting implications of digital transformation in health care](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/accounting-implications-of-digital-transformation-in-health-care) - Health care organizations are embracing digital transformation, but with it comes a bundle of accounting and control issues with which to contend. - [IRS releases guidance on Roth catch-up contributions under SECURE 2.0](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-releases-guidance-on-roth-catch-up-contributions-under-secure-2-0) - ARTICLE | September 05, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP Executive summary IRS releases guidance on Roth catch-up contributions under SECURE 2.0 The IRS has provided additional guidance in Notice 2023-62 (Notice) regarding catch-up contributions under SECURE 2.0 Act (Act) section 603. Section 603 of the Act eliminated catch-up contributions after Dec.31, 2023, and required - [Compensation-related tax risks when cashing out employee shareholders](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/compensation-related-tax-risks-when-cashing-out-employee-shareholders) - ARTICLE | September 04, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP Executive summary For many privately owned companies, an investment by a private equity fund (PEF) or venture capital (VC) provides an opportunity for liquidity to founders and other employee-shareholders. In many cases, the PEF or VC invests via a new class of preferred stock, while - [Identity crisis: 5 answers to critical identity access management questions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/identity-crisis-5-answers-to-critical-identity-access-management-questions) - ARTICLE | August 29, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP The clear and present danger of a cybersecurity incident has middle market organizations and their IT teams leveraging every security technology at their disposal. Protecting sensitive data across the attack surface is an essential element of this effort, helping companies gain customer trust, empower employees - [The value of cyber insurance for health care providers](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/the-value-of-cyber-insurance-for-health-care-providers) - It's more important than ever that health care organizations understand and monitor their cyber insurance coverage to help mitigate cybersecurity risks. - [Industrial production and housing rebound in July, affirming GDP growth outlook](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/industrial-production-and-housing-rebound-in-july-affirming-gdp-growth-outlook) - Industrial production, housing starts and permits in July have set the tone for a robust Q3, as GDP growth should be stronger than the long-run level of 1.8%. - [Safeguard your legacy by avoiding these 8 estate planning pitfalls](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/safeguard-your-legacy-by-avoiding-these-8-estate-planning-pitfalls) - Estate planning tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and safeguard your wealth and legacy. - [Tax complexities don't have to offset the benefits of open-end real estate funds](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/tax-complexities-dont-have-to-offset-the-benefits-of-open-end-real-estate-funds) - Open-end real estate funds come with significant administrative and tax complexities due to the open-end investment structure. - [Private foundation do's and don'ts: Common self-dealing issues](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/private-foundation-dos-and-donts-common-self-dealing-issues) - Private foundations generally may not engage in transactions with disqualified persons, even under terms that are favorable to the private foundation. - [IRS provides guidance for required minimum distributions for SECURE 2.0 Act](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-provides-guidance-for-required-minimum-distributions-for-secure-2-0-act) - The IRS issued Notice 2023-54 which said the Department of the Treasury and the IRS intend to issue final regulations related to RMDs under section 401(a)(9) which will apply no earlier than the 2024 distribution calendar year. - [IRS clarifies employee retention credit guidance](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-clarifies-employee-retention-credit-guidance) - IRS guidance addresses full or partial suspensions of operations due to supply chain disruption for ERTC and erroneous ERTC refunds. - [The road to financial transformation](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/the-road-to-financial-transformation) - Review this finance function assessment to illuminate specific actions to achieve accounting and finance process optimization. - [Strategic procurement can help combat market uncertainty and control costs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/strategic-procurement-can-help-combat-market-uncertainty-and-control-costs) - Ongoing challenges in middle market supply chains have highlighted the downside to years of global sourcing and single sourcing. - [As physicians are strained by surging demand, AI may provide relief](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/as-physicians-are-strained-by-surging-demand-ai-may-provide-relief-2) - Generative artificial intelligence (AI) could ease the burden on physicians as they struggle to meet the needs of patients. - [Digital transformation and the middle market](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/digital-transformation-and-the-middle-market) - This infographic outlines how technology is changing how midsize companies do business. - [Financial services update: FedNow, banking results, reinsurance disruption](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/financial-services-update-fednow-banking-results-reinsurance-disruption) - This update takes a look at the launch of the Federal Reserve's instant payment system, banking results for Q1 2023 and disruption in the reinsurance sector. - [Commercial real estate is high among bankers' debt concerns](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/commercial-real-estate-is-high-among-bankers-debt-concerns) - ARTICLE | June 08, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP Lenders continue to digest the long-term implications of the recent failures of Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank and First Republic Bank, as the fallout focus shifts to potential trouble spots. Signs point to increasing credit risk in commercial real estate loan portfolios, as recent skittishness - [6 questions you need to ask about internal audit outsourcing](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/6-questions-you-need-to-ask-about-internal-audit-outsourcing) - More organizations are turning to outsourcing for internal audits, but knowing whether this is the right choice for your company requires thorough analysis. - [Risk of losing tax-exempt status could be disruption for many nonprofit hospitals](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/risk-of-losing-tax-exempt-status-could-be-disruption-for-many-nonprofit-hospitals) - Hospitals with tax-exempt status face legislative scrutiny as Congress discusses the value of the tax-exemption benefit received by nonprofit hospitals. - [Consumer confidence falls to six-month low](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/consumer-confidence-falls-to-six-month-low) - REAL ECONOMY BLOG | May 30, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP Consumer confidence inched down in May to the lowest level in six months as sentiment on both the current economy and expectations weakened. More important, labor market sentiment fell to the lowest level in two years, signaling a potential significant slowdown in May’s - [ACO not entitled to exemption under section 501(c)(4)](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/aco-not-entitled-to-exemption-under-section-501c4) - The U.S. Tax Court upheld IRS’s determination that Memorial Health Accountable Care Organization does not qualify for tax exempt status under section 501(c)(4). - [The debt ceiling agreement and the financial health of the U.S.](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/the-debt-ceiling-agreement-and-the-financial-health-of-the-u-s) - Biden and Speaker McCarthy reached an agreement to lift the debt ceiling until 2025, avoiding the financial turmoil that would have ensued following a default. - [FinCen releases FAQs to clarify Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/fincen-releases-faqs-to-clarify-beneficial-ownership-information-boi-reporting) - FinCen’s new FAQs aim to clarify beneficial ownership information reporting requirements. - [Jobless claims and producer inflation show mixed results](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/jobless-claims-and-producer-inflation-show-mixed-results) - For the week ending May 6, 2023, initial jobless claims rose by 9.1% to 264,000, the most since 2021 as producer prices rebounded in April. - [FAQ: Capitalization and amortization of R&D costs under new section 174 rules](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/faq-capitalization-and-amortization-of-rd-costs-under-new-section-174-rules) - ARTICLE | April 25, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP The required capitalization and amortization of research and development costs under the new section 174 rules are proving problematic, costly, and confusing for many middle market companies—especially those in industries and sectors heavily engaged in R&D and software development, such as life sciences and technology. - [Tax-advantaged health reimbursement arrangements for employees](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/tax-advantaged-health-reimbursement-arrangement-for-employees) - Health Reimbursement Arrangements can be an important component of an employer’s benefit package for attracting and retaining employees. - [M&A considerations resulting from the new required tax treatment of R&D costs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/ma-considerations-resulting-from-the-new-required-tax-treatment-of-rd-costs) - Achange in the required tax treatment of R&D expenditures is affecting M&As by introducing buyers to new potential costs and tax liabilities via their targets. - [Fewer vehicles to qualify for clean vehicle credit in the short term](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/fewer-vehicles-to-qualify-for-clean-vehicle-credit-in-the-short-term) - New rules for EV credit reduce the number of eligible models after Apr. 17, 2023. However, the list of eligible models is likely to grow. - [Rethinking risk assessments: From "checking the box" to competitive advantage](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/rethinking-risk-assessments-from-checking-the-box-to-competitive-advantage) - Conducting a comprehensive risk assessment is just the beginning of digital risk transformation. Executives must use risk assessments to guide improvements . - [IRS issues proposed regulations on micro-captive transactions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-issues-proposed-regulations-on-micro-captive-transactions) - The IRS has issued proposed regulations identifying micro-captive insurance transactions as reportable transactions. - [Health savings account benefits for employees and employers](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/health-savings-account-benefits-for-employees-and-employers) - Employee interest in health savings accounts (HSAs) has increased so employers should understand the benefits of offering them to employees. - [IRS releases spending plan for $80 billion IRA funds](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/irs-releases-spending-plan-for-80-billion-ira-funds) - TAX ALERT | April 07, 2023 Authored by RSM US LLP Executive summary: Over half of IRS $80 billion additional spending allocated to enforcement. The Internal Revenue Service issued an ambitious strategic operating plan for spending $80 billion in additional funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act. The 150-page plan details five key objectives, 42 - [Banking regulatory tide set to turn in 2023](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/banking-regulatory-tide-set-to-turn-in-2023) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and Federal Reserve have zeroed in on numerous regulatory changes for 2023. - [5 key areas where banks can implement automation solutions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/5-key-areas-where-banks-can-implement-automation-solutions) - Banks need to take advantage of automated solutions to streamline manual systems and processes and maintain a competitive edge. - [Tax Court denies bad debt deduction; advances were equity and not debt](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/tax-court-denies-bad-debt-deduction-advances-were-equity-and-not-debt) - With the Keeton decision, the IRS reminds taxpayers to properly document related party cash advances if they wish to treat the advances as debt for tax purposes - [Tax-exempt organizations: Clean energy incentives and direct pay](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/tax-exempt-organizations-clean-energy-incentives-and-direct-pay) - The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 enables tax-exempt entities to claim energy incentives including solar, wind, combined heat and power, and many others. - [Bank Term Funding Program: Government response to the banking crisis](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/bank-term-funding-program-government-response-to-the-banking-crisis) - Bolstering the nation's banking system, the $25 billion Bank Term Funding Program was announced to prevent a bank run that could tip the economy into recession. - [Real estate industry outlook](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/real-estate-industry-outlook) - This 2023 real estate industry outlook explores what's ahead for middle market business leaders. - [Raneen Badr](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/faces-of-laporte/raneen-badr) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Tax Director Authors Article for CityBusiness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/tax-director-authors-article-for-citybusiness-2) - Jennifer Bordes, Tax Director at LaPorte, recently authored an article on estate planning for New Orleans CityBusiness. - [President Biden Signs Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/president-biden-signs-federal-disaster-tax-relief-act) - President Biden signed the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act into law, providing favorable tax provisions for victims of disasters occurring after December 2020 - [Significant change to federal estate tax exemption slated for January 1, 2026](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/estate-planning/significant-change-to-federal-estate-tax-exemption-slated-for-january-1-2026) - Beginning in 2026, the federal estate tax exemption will be reduced to approximately $7,000,000 per person. A solid estate plan can help preserve your wealth. - [Business structure and entity choice: Keys to a complex decision](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/business-structure-and-entity-choice-keys-to-a-complex-decision) - Choosing the right business structure and entity is crucial for private company owners, with implications for cash flow, taxes and strategic foresight. - [Long-awaited disaster relief tax bill officially becomes law](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/long-awaited-disaster-relief-tax-bill-officially-becomes-law) - The Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2023 signed into law. This legislation provides long-awaited tax provisions for disaster victims. - [Louisiana enacts significant tax reform](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/louisiana-enacts-significant-tax-reform) - Louisiana flattens income tax rates, eliminates the corporate franchise tax and increases sales tax rates in comprehensive reform. - [Explore Outsourced Accounting Services for Your Real Estate Business](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/explore-outsourced-accounting-services-for-your-real-estate-business) - LaPorte’s outsourced accounting services can help your business thrive through delegating various financial, accounting, and strategic tasks to professionals. - [LaPorte Director Anthony Rutledge Named to Northshore Forty Under 40](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-anthony-rutledge-named-to-northshore-forty-under-40) - LaPorte is proud to announce that Anthony Rutledge, a Director of Audit and Assurance Services, has been named to the Northshore Forty Under 40. - [Protecting private foundations amid the uncertainty of new tax laws](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/protecting-private-foundations-amid-the-uncertainty-of-new-tax-laws) - Private foundations can lobby when a foundation's existence, power and duties, exempt status, or deductibility of contributions is at risk. - [Real estate and construction companies can prepare for tax changes under Trump](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/real-estate-and-construction-companies-can-prepare-for-tax-changes-under-trump) - How tax changes in 2025 under the Trump administration could affect real estate and construction companies, and how they can prepare. - [How businesses can plan for tax changes under the Trump administration in 2025](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/how-businesses-can-plan-for-tax-changes-under-the-trump-administration-in-2025) - Tax changes are coming in 2025 under the new Trump administration and unified Republican Congress. Here's how businesses can prepare. - [How individuals and families can plan for tax changes under Trump in 2025](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/how-individuals-and-families-can-plan-for-tax-changes-under-trump-in-2025) - How individuals and families can prepare for potential tax changes in 2025 under the new Trump administration and unified Republican Congress. - [New guidance on long-term, part-time employee eligibility for 403(b) plans](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/new-guidance-on-long-term-part-time-employee-eligibility-for-403b-plans) - New guidance on 403(b) plans clarifies rules for long-term, part-time employee inclusion and nondiscrimination compliance. - [IRS releases 2025 retirement and fringe benefit plan limitations](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-releases-2025-retirement-and-fringe-benefit-plan-limitations) - Cost-of-living adjustments to retirement and fringe benefit plan limits for 2025 have been published by the IRS. - [Strong gains in Income and spending boost economic growth in September](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/strong-gains-in-income-and-spending-boost-economic-growth-in-september) - American households are well positioned to keep spending at a 3% to 3.5% pace as inflation moves back to 2% and real wages continue to increase. - [Consumer confidence strengthens despite cooling labor demand](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/consumer-confidence-strengthens-despite-cooling-labor-demand) - Job openings fell to 7.4 million from 7.86 million, while hirings rose to 5.56 million from 5.4 million according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. - [IRS releases 2025 tax inflation adjustments](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/irs-releases-2025-tax-inflation-adjustments) - The IRS revenue procedures provides the amount for inflation-adjusted items for 2025. - [Former LaPorte Equity Director Awarded LCPA Life Member Award](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/former-laporte-equity-director-awarded-lcpa-life-member-award) - LaPorte is proud to announce that former equity partner Holly Sharp, CPA, CFE, CFF, has been honored as a Life Member of the Society of Louisiana CPAs. - [5 key IRS audit triggers and how corporations can minimize their risk](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/5-key-irs-audit-triggers-and-how-corporations-can-minimize-their-risk) - The IRS is intensifying its scrutiny of corporate tax returns with an ambitious plan to triple audit rates for large corporations by 2026. - [5 key IRS audit triggers and how wealthy individuals can minimize their risk](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/5-key-irs-audit-triggers-and-how-wealthy-individuals-can-minimize-their-risk) - Discover five key IRS audit triggers for high-net-worth individuals. Learn how to navigate scrutiny and avoid common tax risks. - [5 key IRS audit triggers and how partnerships can minimize their risk](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/5-key-irs-audit-triggers-and-how-partnerships-can-minimize-their-risk) - Explore five critical IRS audit triggers for partnerships and discover strategies to stay compliant and minimize tax risks. - [LAPORTE NAMED TO 2024 NEIGHBORHOOD FAVES](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-2024-neighborhood-faves) - LaPorte is proud to announce that the firm has been voted as a 2024 Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave in Houston, TX. - [Nonprofits face unique challenges with cybersecurity](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/nonprofits-face-unique-challenges-with-cybersecurity) - By adopting strategies, embracing best practices and leveraging resources, nonprofits can build a cybersecurity platform that protects their critical assets. - [LaPorte Named to ‘Best Places to Work’ and ‘Top Workplaces’ Lists in Local Publications](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-best-places-to-work-and-top-workplaces-lists-in-local-publications) - LaPorte is proud to announce that it has been named to the Baton Rouge Business Report’s ‘Best Places to Work’ and The Times-Picayune ‘Top Workplaces’ lists. - [Qualified disaster relief through charitable organizations](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/qualified-disaster-relief-through-charitable-organizations) - For businesses, providing assistance through a tax-exempt charitable organization can offer added benefits over direct assistance for employees. - [U.S. CPI: Further evidence of disinflation supports another rate cut](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/u-s-cpi-further-evidence-of-disinflation-supports-another-rate-cut) - Further evidence of disinflation and the return of price stability are the primary takeaways from the inflation data released on Thursday - [Exempt organizations matters on 2024-2025 Priority Guidance Plan](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/exempt-organizations-matters-on-2024-2025-priority-guidance-plan) - FY 25 Priority Guidance Plan items affecting exempt organizations. - [FinCEN announces four extensions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/fincen-announces-four-extensions) - FinCEN has announced the extension of deadline for filing Reports of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts for individuals impacted by recent natural disasters. - [October surprise: U.S. economy added 254,000 jobs in September as unemployment fell to 4.1%](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/economic-insights/october-surprise-u-s-economy-added-254000-jobs-in-september-as-unemployment-fell-to-4-1) - The U.S. economy added 254,000 jobs in September as unemployment fell to 4.1% - [LaPorte Named to Business Report's Best Places to Work List](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/uncategorized/laporte-names-to-business-reports-best-places-to-work-list) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors is proud to announce that it has been named to the Baton Rouge Business Report’s list of ‘Best Places to Work’ for 2024. - [Nonprofits need to cultivate a new type of workforce](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/nonprofits-need-to-cultivate-a-new-type-of-workforce) - Nonprofits need to cultivate a new type of workforce by adopting a more operational mindset and investing in technology, which will attract top talent - [Director Sarah Franatovich Named to CityBusiness Women of the Year List](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/director-sarah-franatovich-named-to-citybusiness-women-of-the-year-list) - Sarah Franatovich, LaPorte Director of Audit and Assurance Services, has been named to the 2024 “Women of the Year” list by New Orleans CityBusiness. - [IRS Offers Tax Relief for Victims of Tropical Storm Francine](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/irs-offers-tax-relief-for-victims-of-tropical-storm-francine) - The IRS is offering extended filing and payment deadlines for Louisiana victims of Tropical Storm Francine. - [Estate Planning Q&A: Family limited partnerships explained](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/estate-planning/estate-planning-qa-family-limited-partnerships-explained) - A Family Limited Partnership is a valuable tool to transfer wealth out of your estate during life by transferring partnership interests to your family members. - [How Will CECL Affect Your Nonprofit?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/how-will-cecl-affect-your-nonprofit) - Like many other entities, CECL requires nonprofits to evaluate its financial instruments for potential credit losses. - [Our Commitment to Our Nonprofit Clients](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/our-commitment-to-our-nonprofit-clients) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has a proud history of serving the nonprofit community. A principal component of that commitment is sharing our knowledge and resources with nonprofits in the communities we serve. We developed our annual Nonprofit Educational Series to provide information on a wide variety of topics that affect the nonprofit community. These - [How nonprofits can navigate digital transformation](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/how-nonprofits-can-navigate-digital-transformation) - Nonprofits that learn how to navigate digital transformation are better positioned to thrive. But unique constraints necessitate a different approach. - [Looking to Make Operations More Efficient? Consider a Business Process Review.](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/looking-to-make-operations-more-efficient-consider-a-business-process-review) - A business process review (BPR) is a service that helps you optimize an organization’s performance with input from a risk management professional. - [LaPorte Director Named LCPA Women to Watch: Emerging Leader](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-named-lcpa-women-to-watch-emerging-leader) - Allison Duke, Director of Audit and Assurance Services, has been awarded the Women to Watch: Emerging Leader award by the Society of Louisiana CPAs (LCPA). - [IRS announces second ERC Voluntary Disclosure Program, ERC updates & warnings](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-announces-second-erc-voluntary-disclosure-program-erc-updates-warnings) - The IRS announced a second ERC Voluntary Disclosure program for employers who claimed and received an ERC refund for a tax period in 2021 but were not eligible. - [Kamala Harris' economic agenda sheds some light on her tax policy priorities](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/kamala-harris-economic-agenda-sheds-some-light-on-her-tax-policy-priorities) - Kamala Harris announced several tax proposals in an economic agenda that illuminates some of her tax policy priorities if she wins the election for president. - [CARES Act 2.0, Main Street Lending Program, and Additional Guidance on All PPP Loans](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/coronavirus/cares-act-2-0-main-street-lending-program-and-additional-guidance-on-all-ppp-loans) - If you missed your chance to receive a loan for your business under the original CARES Act, you have another chance. - [Responding to the CrowdStrike outage](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/responding-to-the-crowdstrike-outage) - What can IT service leaders learn from the the CrowdStrike outage? What should you consider to best prepare for the future? Risk professionals weigh in. - [IRS Offers New Extension Date to Victims of Hurricane Beryl](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/irs-offers-new-extension-date-to-victims-of-hurricane-beryl) - The IRS announced on July 22, 2024, that it is offering tax relief for individuals and businesses in 67 Texas counties affected by Hurricane Beryl. - [Estate planning Q&A: Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts explained](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/estate-planning-qa-spousal-lifetime-access-trusts-explained) - A Spousal Lifetime Access Trust (SLAT) can be a valuable tool to transfer wealth to future generations while helping to ensure your spouse’s financial security. - [LaPorte Named to Best Accounting Firm List](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/uncategorized/laporte-named-to-best-accounting-firm-list) - LaPorte has been named Top Winner in the Accounting Firms category by the readers of New Orleans CityBusiness for the eighth time. - [LaPorte Named to Top Workplaces List for Fifth Time](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-top-workplaces-list-for-fifth-time) - LaPorte is proud to announce that the firm has been named to The Times-Picayune ‘Top Workplaces’ list for the fifth time since the award’s inception. - [IRS announces new phase of ERC Processing](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-announces-new-phase-of-erc-processing) - The IRS has finished a detailed review of ERC claims and will use that data to strategically process pending claims, but the Sept. 2023 moratorium remains. - [Plan Sponsors, are You Ready for New Forfeiture Rules?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/plan-sponsors-are-you-ready-for-new-forfeiture-rules) - Employers may want to tweak how and when they use retirement plan forfeitures in response to proposed regulations released by the IRS in February 2023. - [Important Coronavirus Business Resources](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/coronavirus/important-coronavirus-business-resources) - Both LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors and RSM US LLP have created Coronavirus Resource Centers with valuable information for businesses and individuals. - [What are the different types of financial statement services?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/what-are-the-different-types-of-financial-statement-services) - The term "audit" gets used liberally when businesses need to provide financial statements to outside parties, but an audit may not actually be what many businesses need to meet their financial reporting requirements. - [Gilbert Herrera Joins LaPorte in Houston Office](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/gilbert-herrera-joins-laporte-in-houston-office) - Gilbert A. Herrera has joined LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors as a director. He joins the firm’s Consulting Services Group in the Houston office. - [LaPorte: When Confidence in Your CPA Firm Matters](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/when-confidence-in-your-cpa-firm-matters) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors, bearing the name of one of its two founders, was created in 1946. John LaPorte and his partner had a vision of growth based on hard work, the highest level of client service, and technical expertise, but it’s unlikely they could have imagined today’s LaPorte: A top 200 firm serving - [LaPorte CEO and Audit Director Named as CityBusiness MoneyMakers Award Honorees](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-ceo-and-audit-director-named-as-citybusiness-moneymakers-award-honorees) - Eric E. Bosch, CPA and Tracy Tufts, CPA, CCIFP, have been selected as recipients of the 2024 MoneyMakers award from New Orleans CityBusiness. - [Cybersecurity Rapid Assessment®](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/uncategorized/cybersecurity-rapid-assessment) - Quickly identify your risks and learn how to remediate gaps Organizations of all sizes face growing cybersecurity threats, from ransomware attacks to social engineering campaigns. Compounding these challenges are increased regulatory compliance demands, designed to protect sensitive data and intellectual property from falling into the wrong hands. With cyberattacks at an all-time high, you need - [LaPorte Director Named to Louisiana Tax Commission](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-named-to-louisiana-tax-commission) - Gregory P. Romig, CPA, Director of Audit and Assurance Services, has been appointed to serve on the Louisiana Tax Commission. - [Corporate Transparency Act: Beneficial Ownership Reporting](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/corporate-transparency-act-beneficial-ownership-reporting) - The Corporate Transparency Act is intended to help combat money laundering, tax fraud, and terrorism and reporting requirement go into effect on Jan. 1, 2024. - [The Importance of Choosing a Quality Auditor for Employee Benefit Plans](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/the-importance-of-choosing-a-quality-auditor-for-employee-benefit-plans-2) - The DOL and the AICPA EBP Audit Quality Center have stressed the importance of hiring highly qualified auditors for Employee Benefit Plan audits. - [Wind Energy Projects in Louisiana - What's Happening?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/wind-energy-projects-in-louisiana-whats-happening) - Louisiana approved over 65,000 acres of coastal waters to be used for two new wind projects, to be located near Cameron, Terrebonne, and Lafourche parishes. - [Improving Back-Office Efficiencies to Ensure Project Success](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/improving-back-office-efficiencies-to-ensure-project-success) - Project successes are never guaranteed. Even when everything goes right during construction, your company could be subject to losses after the job closes. Fortunately, there are a few tried-and-true techniques that can mitigate job losses—techniques that you can implement before the job commences, during construction, and after you’ve signed off. We discussed a few best - [Improving Project Outcomes Through Proper Jobsite Management](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/improving-project-outcomes-through-proper-jobsite-management) - Construction leaders know that project successes rely on the proper management of both the jobsite and the back-office. This article delves into improving efficiencies at the jobsite. The following best practices will lay the ground work for a successful construction project. Implement Physical Security Measures To properly manage your job, you must protect your assets. - [LaPorte Says Goodbye to Former Named Partner](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-says-goodbye-to-former-named-partner) - James J. “Jimmy” Hand, III, a named partner of LaPorte Sehrt Romig Hand (now LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors) passed away peacefully on September 27, 2023. - [Join our Client Accounting Services Team](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/uncategorized/join-our-accounting-services-team) - LaPorte is looking to expand our Accounting Services team. We're looking for senior managers in our Covington, LA and Houston, TX offices. - [LaPorte Honored Among 'Best Places to Work’ in Two Markets](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-honored-among-best-places-to-work-in-two-markets) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named to the 2023 'Best Places to Work’ lists by both the Baton Rouge Business Report and New Orleans CityBusiness. - [LA Parishes Affected by Saltwater Intrusion Have More Time to File Returns](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/la-parishes-affected-by-saltwater-intrusion-have-more-time-to-file-returns) - The IRS announced that individuals and businesses affected by seawater intrusion in parts of LA have until 2/15/24 to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. - [LaPorte Hosts Nonprofit Panel Webcast Series](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-hosts-nonprofit-panel-webcast-series) - LaPorte hosts regional nonprofit leaders as they gather to share inspirational stories of their specific challenges, and successes, during the COVID pandemic. - [IRS Temporarily Halts Processing of New ERC Claims](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/irs-temporarily-halts-processing-of-new-erc-claims) - Amid a surge in new Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims, the IRS has put a moratorium on processing of any new ERC claims through December 31, 2023. - [Securing Your Cloud Data: Navigating Containerization for Business Owners](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/securing-your-cloud-data-navigating-containerization-for-business-owners) - While containerization offers additional efficiency, it may introduce additional security risks. Following some best practices may help mitigate risks to your business. - [Jodie Arceneaux Receives LCPA's Distinguished Public Service Award](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/jodie-arceneaux-receives-lcpas-distinguished-public-service-award) - Tax Director Jodie Arceneaux, CPA, has been named as the recipient of the Society for Louisiana CPAs' Distinguished Public Service Award for 2023. - [Senators Request Review of Tax-Exempt Status of Hospitals](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/senators-request-review-of-tax-exempt-status-of-hospitals) - A bipartisan group of senators, including Senator Dr. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, called for the IRS to investigate the tax-exempt status of nonprofit hospitals. - [LaPorte Acquires Gomez & Company](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-acquires-gomez-company) - 9/1/23 Gomez & Company joined regional firm LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors through an asset acquisition, according to LaPorte President/CEO Eric E. Bosch, CPA. - [LaPorte Team Members Receive Both Women to Watch Awards from LCPA](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-team-members-receive-both-women-to-watch-awards-from-lcpa) - For the LCPA's Women to Watch awards, Wendi Berthelot won the Experienced Leader award and Trish Thibodeau won in the Emerging Leader category. - [Tommy Freel Named New Shareholder](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/tommy-freel-named-new-shareholder) - Tax Director Thomas (Tommy) E. Freel, CPA, has been promoted to shareholder with LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors. He began with LaPorte as an intern in 2001. - [IRS Introduces New Form 1099-NEC for 2020 Tax Year Reporting](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-introduces-new-form-1099-nec-for-2020-tax-year-reporting) - Beginning in January of 2021, the IRS will require businesses to report non-employee compensation using a new Form 1099-NEC. - [Is a Cost Segregation Study Right For You?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/is-a-cost-segregation-study-right-for-you) - Even knowing the benefits of a cost segregation study, it's important to know whether the study would assist you. - [LaPorte Team Members Named to Capital Region 500](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-team-members-named-to-capital-region-500) - LaPorte is honored to announce that Eric Bosch, President and CEO, and Wendi Berthelot, Director of Audit and Assurance Services, have both been named to the Capital Region 500 list by the Baton Rouge Business Report. The Capital Region 500 list, produced after nearly a year of research and review, “highlights key influencers representing a - [LaPorte Named to "Best Accounting Firm" List by CityBusiness Readers](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-best-accounting-firm-list-by-citybusiness-readers) - LaPorte is honored to announce that we have been named “Top Winner” in the “Best Accounting Firm” list in CityBusiness’ 2023 Reader Rankings poll. - [Cybersecurity special report | MMBI](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/cybersecurity-special-report-mmbi) - This Cybersecurity Special Report leverages data from over 400 senior executives, detailing cybersecurity challenges, severity of attacks, and ongoing concerns. - [The Public Health Emergency Has Expired](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/the-public-health-emergency-has-expired) - On 5/11/2 the Department of Health and Human Services officially ended the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. Here's what healthcare administrators need to know. - [Reconsidering Pass-Through Entity Tax Elections](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/reconsidering-pass-through-entity-tax-elections) - Pass-through entity tax may be able to circumvent this SALT limitation, which is enticing to many business owners. But is it the right move for your company? - [Holly Sharp Named as a MoneyMakers Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/holly-sharp-named-as-a-moneymakers-honoree) - Holly Sharp, CPA, CFE, CFF, Director of Consulting Services and shareholder at LaPorte, has been selected as a 2023 MoneyMaker from New Orleans CityBusiness. - [Accounting Methods for the Construction Industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/accounting-methods-for-the-construction-industry) - The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act changed tax planning for many business owners in the construction industry and may make more options available to them. - [Tax Director Authors Article for CityBusiness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/tax-director-authors-article-for-citybusiness) - Jennifer Bordes, CPA, CSEP, MS, Tax Director at LaPorte, authored an article on estate planning which appeared in the 1/13/23 issue of New Orleans CityBusiness. - [Requirements for Form 1099-NEC Filers](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/requirements-for-form-1099-nec-filers) - Louisiana Dept. of Revenue Information Bulletin 23-006 contains information on filing requirements for all businesses required to file IRS Form 1099-NEC. - [Dawn Laborie Named New Shareholder](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-names-new-shareholder) - Dawn Laborie, CPA, was recently named a shareholder with LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors. - [Surety Bond Execs Share Insights for Coming Year](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/surety-bond-execs-share-insights-for-coming-year) - The National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) recently published insights on the year ahead from surety executives. Check out this useful supplement to NASBP’s quarterly publication on their website. - [Ted Mason, LaPorte's Former President and CEO, Retires](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/ted-mason-laportes-former-president-and-ceo-retires) - William “Ted” Mason III, former LaPorte President and CEO, will retire from the firm effective December 1, 2022. Ted has been with LaPorte for 39 years overall, including 20 years in the position of President and CEO. When he assumed that position, he spearheaded a long-range strategic plan with a vision of becoming a regional - [Cherish van Mullem Named Women of the Year Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/cherish-van-mullem-named-women-of-the-year-honoree) - Tax Director Cherish van Mullem, CPA, JD, LLM, has been selected as one of the honorees of the 2022 Women of the Year award from New Orleans CityBusiness. - [Company Layoffs May Lead to EBP "Partial Plan Terminations"](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/company-layoffs-may-lead-to-ebp-partial-plan-terminations) - Significant employee layoffs may lead to unintended employee benefit plan partial plan terminations. - [Does Your Employee Benefit Plan Need an Audit?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/does-your-employee-benefit-plan-need-an-audit) - Employee benefit plans must file an annual independent auditor's report with the U.S. Department of Labor through a Form 5500, as well as any other applicable schedules and financial statements. - [Wasielewski Named New Shareholder with LaPorte](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/williams-and-wasielewski-named-new-shareholders-with-laporte) - Tax Director Jonathan Wasielewski, CPA, has been promoted to shareholder with LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors. He works out of LaPorte's Houston, Texas office. - [2022 Year-End Tax Considerations](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/2022-year-end-tax-considerations) - Whether you are planning for a business or for your family , there are many considerations to take into account when conducting year-end tax planning. - [A Guide to Building a Successful Board](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/a-guide-to-building-a-successful-board) - Finding the right board members for a nonprofit and maintaining a balance within the board itself requires a great deal of consideration and dedication. - [LaPorte Cafe: Our Commitment to Our Public Sector Clients](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/laporte-cafe-our-commitment-to-our-public-sector-clients) - At LaPorte, we take seriously our commitment to educating clients about new accounting standards or legislative updates. In an effort to provide timely topics of interest to our public sector clients, we created LaPorte Café, a monthly webcast. Taking place on the second Thursday of every month, LaPorte Café is a casual conversation between technical - [LaPorte Honored Among "Best Places to Work" in 2022](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-honored-among-best-places-to-work-in-2022) - New Orleans CityBusiness, a business publication, has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors to the list of ‘Best Places to Work’ for the thirteenth year. - [Estate planning and income tax: Key considerations and planning points](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/estate-planning/estate-planning-and-income-tax-key-considerations-and-planning-points) - It's important to consider the income tax ramifications of each decision throughout the estate planning process to avoid unintended consequences. - [Basic Cyber Hygiene](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/basic-cyber-hygiene) - Basic IT hygiene can go far in controlling the negative effects of cyberattacks and many of these fixes are simple and quick to implement. - [LaPorte Named to Top Workplaces List for Fourth Time](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-top-workplaces-list-for-fourth-time) - LaPorte is proud to announce that the firm has been named to The Times-Picayune Top Workplaces list for the fourth time since its inception. - [What’s In the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/whats-in-the-2022-inflation-reduction-act) - The Inflation Reduction Act is a 273-page bill covers lowered drug costs, revenue raisers, and a slew of renewable energy incentives, among other things. - [90-Day Pre-Exam Compliance Program for Retirement Plans](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/90-day-pre-exam-compliance-program-for-retirement-plans) - In June, the IRS began piloting a new compliance program for benefit plan sponsors. This program gives benefit plans 90-days’ notice of an upcoming examination, giving taxpayers time to self-correct compliance errors before the IRS performs its official examination. The IRS hopes that having the opportunity to self-correct errors will reduce audit times and relieve - [Executive Order Defers Payroll Taxes but Questions Remain](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/executive-order-defers-payroll-taxes-but-questions-remain) - President Trump signed an executive order that allows employers to defer payment of the employee’s portion of payroll taxes from 9/1/2020 to 12/31/2020. - [LaPorte Announces Promotions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-announces-promotions-2) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors is proud to announce several promotions effective July 1, 2022. - [LaPorte Completes Merger with Hidalgo Banfill Zlotnik & Kermali PC in Houston; Names Four New Directors](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-completes-merger-with-hidalgo-banfill-zlotnik-names-four-new-directors) - LaPorte Sehrt Romig Hand CPAs (LaPorte), headquartered in New Orleans, has officially merged with Hidalgo Banfill Zlotnik & Kermali PC (HBZK) of Houston. Four former principals of HBZK have also been named LaPorte directors in the Houston office. The merger of the two firms, operating as LaPorte Sehrt Romig Hand, is effective today and creates - [When Will Coronavirus Uncertainties Affect Going Concern, and What Should Management Do About It?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/when-will-coronavirus-uncertainties-affect-going-concern-and-what-should-management-do-about-it) - Going concern is the assumption that an organization can meet its financial obligations. Learn management responsibilities as it relates to going concern. - [Why IRS offers in compromise are so rarely obtained](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/why-irs-offers-in-compromise-are-so-rarely-obtained) - OIC acceptance is quite rare, thanks to specific criteria that are difficult to meet for many taxpayers. - [Renewing the tax-extenders debate on Capitol Hill](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/renewing-the-tax-extenders-debate-on-capitol-hill) - The struggle to renew temporary tax breaks is spreading to all corners of Congress. - [Financial institutions must prepare for updated customer-contract revenue requirements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/financial-institutions-must-prepare-for-updated-customer-contract-revenue-requirements) - The FASB and IASB recently issued jointly converged standards for revenue recognition, the implications for which include adjustments that will need to be made by many credit unions and community banks. - [LaPorte Named Top Winner in Accounting Firms in CityBusiness Poll](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-top-winner-in-accounting-firms-in-citybusiness-poll) - Readers of New Orleans CityBusiness, a weekly business publication, named LaPorte “Top Winner” in the “Best Accounting Firm” list. - [Accounting for Investments: Unrealized Misstatements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/accounting-for-investments-unrealized-misstatements) - Nonprofit organizations face potentially complex accounting issues. As an example, nonprofit accounting for investment income is unique. While all entities reporting under U.S. GAAP must report investments at fair value, for nonprofits unrealized gains and losses flow through the statement of activities rather than through other comprehensive income. Typically, nonprofits will “mark to market” entire - [Accounting for Investments: Unrealized Misstatements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/accounting-for-investments-unrealized-misstatements) - Nonprofit organizations face potentially complex accounting issues. As an example, nonprofit accounting for investment income is unique. While all entities reporting under U.S. GAAP must report investments at fair value, for nonprofits unrealized gains and losses flow through the statement of activities rather than through other comprehensive income. Typically, nonprofits will “mark to market” entire - [To Catch a Cheat: Spotting Fraud](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/to-catch-a-cheat-spotting-fraud) - The best way to fight fraud is to prevent it. This blog offers tips on the best ways to prevent financial fraud in your company. - [Nonprofit Concerns About Controls for Accepting Online Donations](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/nonprofit-concerns-about-controls-for-accepting-online-donations) - Nonprofits are increasingly turning to the online donation option. LaPorte outlines some security aspects for nonprofits to factor into internal controls. - [The AICPA's New Financial Reporting Option](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/the-aicpas-new-financial-reporting-option) - AICPA produced the Financial Reporting Framework for Small- and Medium-sized Entities (FRF for SMEs) as an alternative to cumbersome generally accepted accounting principles. - [Accounting for Leases in 2022](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/accounting-for-leases-in-2022) - Under the new accounting standard, ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), nearly all long-term leased assets should be recorded on the balance sheet. - [The Many Benefits of Outsourcing the CFO Function](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/the-many-benefits-of-outsourcing-the-cfo-function) - An outsourced CFO can provide a lot of value to a business and free up the owner to focus more on the core business. - [A Cash Flow Analysis Can Save Your Business](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/a-cash-flow-analysis-can-save-your-business) - It is essential that companies carefully analyze cash flow in order to avoid becoming a small business failure statistic. - [Don't Be Left Cyber-Defenseless](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/dont-be-left-cyber-defenseless) - All organizations are targets any time they hold, use, or share sensitive information. How can you protect your organization from being targeted by hackers? - [AS Director-in-Charge Named a MoneyMakers Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/as-director-in-charge-named-a-moneymakers-honoree) - Kevin Hand, CPA, Accounting Services Director-in-Charge, has been selected as one of the honorees of the 2022 MoneyMakers award from New Orleans CityBusiness. - [LaPorte Directors Develop Article for New Orleans CityBusiness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-directors-develop-article-for-new-orleans-citybusiness) - Directors Bruce Prendergast, Steven Sissac, and Lindy Stonecypher developed an article on the Employee Retention Tax Credit for New Orleans CityBusiness. - [What You Need to Know to Help Protect Your Company from Business Email Compromise Scams](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/what-you-need-to-know-to-help-protect-your-company-from-business-email-compromise-scams) - Business email compromise (BEC) scams are on the rise. LaPorte outlines steps to take to help protect your business. - [When Will Market Uncertainties Affect Going Concern, and What Should Management Do About It?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/when-will-coronavirus-uncertainties-affect-going-concern-and-what-should-management-do-about-it-2) - Going concern is the assumption that an organization can meet its financial obligations. Learn management responsibilities as it relates to going concern. - [Three Reasons Why You Should Upgrade Your Expense Management Software](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/three-reasons-why-you-should-upgrade-your-expense-management-software) - One of the easiest ways for a growing business to become more efficient is to upgrade their expense management process. - [Eric E. Bosch Assumes Role of President and CEO](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/uncategorized/eric-e-bosch-assumes-role-of-president-and-ceo) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors is proud to announce that Eric E. Bosch, CPA, has assumed the role of President and CEO effective December 1, 2021. - [Understanding In-Kind Contributions for Nonprofits](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/understanding-in-kind-contributions-for-nonprofits) - If your nonprofit organization is set up to accept in-kind donations, you must be able to determine their value and correctly record them on your financials. - [IT risk management for nonprofits: Securing your technology and data](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/it-risk-management-for-nonprofits-securing-your-technology-and-data-2) - INSIGHT ARTICLE | March 25, 2021 Authored by RSM US LLP For many nonprofit organizations, the effects of the pandemic have been amplified by a general decrease in availability of funding. Personal and corporate budgets alike have tightened, greatly reducing the amount of individual giving, spending and programmatic funding, which is the lifeblood for so - [IRS Offers New Extension Date to Victims of Hurricane Ida](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-offers-new-extension-date-to-victims-of-hurricane-ida) - Victims of Hurricane Ida in six states, including Louisiana, now have until 2/15/2022 to file various individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. - [Construction Companies Win When Their Equipment Fleets are Well Managed](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/construction-companies-win-when-their-equipment-fleets-are-well-managed) - A comprehensive equipment management process and well-managed fleet play an essential role in the success of any construction business. - [Safe Harbor Provides Path Forward to Deducting PPP Loan Expenses](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/safe-harbor-provides-path-forward-to-deducting-ppp-loan-expenses) - On November 18th, 2020, the IRS once again addressed the deductibility of eligible Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan expenses. - [Estate and Gift Taxes: Trying to Predict the Future](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/estate-and-gift-taxes-trying-to-predict-the-future) - As Congress considers changes to estate and gift tax provisions, many Americans are likely wondering what they can do now to prepare for upcoming changes. - [Provisions for Estimated Contract Losses](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/provisions-for-estimated-contract-losses) - Revenue Recognition Options Companies with long-term fixed-priced contracts typically recognize revenue using one of two methods: The percentage-of-completion method, whereby income is recognized over the life of the contract, typically using cost-to-cost recognition The completed contract method, whereby income is recognized upon substantial fulfillment of the contract The selection of a revenue recognition policy is - [Treasury-Backed “Fiscal Recovery Funds” Present Unique Funding Opportunities to State and Local Governments](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/treasury-backed-fiscal-recovery-funds-present-unique-funding-opportunities-to-state-and-local-governments) - State and local governments who have not already applied for a share of the funding under the American Rescue Plan Act should see whether they are eligible. - [How the Look-Back Interest Calculation Can Impact Taxes Due on a Long-Term Construction Project](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/how-the-look-back-interest-calculation-can-impact-taxes-due-on-a-long-term-construction-project) - Estimating costs is difficult for construction contracts. If expected profit on a long-term job is less than expected, you may benefit from the look-back rule. - [LaPorte Honored as One of the 'Best Places to Work'](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-honored-as-one-of-the-best-places-to-work) - New Orleans CityBusiness has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors to the list of ‘Best Places to Work’ in the large company category for the twelfth time. - [Topic 842: Lease Accounting Standards: What You Need to Know in 2021](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/topic-842-lease-accounting-standards-what-you-need-to-know-in-2021) - ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) applies to almost all types of leases, including construction equipment. LaPorte highlights what you need to know in 2021. - [Claiming the Employee Retention Tax Credit? Received a PPP Loan? Know Your Accounting!](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/claiming-the-employee-retention-tax-credit-received-a-ppp-loan-know-your-accounting) - The ERTC PPP were created to help businesses to keep workers employed through the worst parts of the pandemic, but accounting for them can be complicated. - [Best Practices for Month-End Close](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/best-practices-for-month-end-close) - LaPorte offers a few best practices to help streamline the month-end close process and allow business owners to focus more on other aspects of the business. - [COVID-19 Impact on Asset Impairment](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/covid-19-impact-on-asset-impairment) - Businesses need to identify consequences of adverse effects on their asset base and reflect those outcomes in their financial statements. - [LaPorte is Gold Sponsor of Fast 100 and Innovation Awards](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-is-gold-sponsor-of-fast-100-and-innovation-awards) - For the fifth consecutive year, LaPorte is proud to be a 2021 gold-level sponsor of the Houston Business Journal’s Fast 100 and Innovation Awards. - [Louisiana: Road to Recovery (Update 9/14/21)](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/louisiana-road-to-recovery) - LaPorte stand ready to meet our client needs in this difficult time. Here we provide updates on LaPorte assistance and disaster-related guidance from the IRS. - [LA Department of Revenue Grants Automatic Extensions for Some](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/la-department-of-revenue-grants-automatic-extensions-for-some) - The La Department of Revenue issued Bulletin No. 21-024 which grants automatic extensions for eligible individuals and businesses impacted by Hurricane Ida. - [Hurricane Ida Disaster Assistance: Small Business Administration](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/hurricane-ida-disaster-assistance-small-business-administration) - As you assess the impact to your business from Hurricane Ida, keep in mind the ability to access capital through the Small Business Administration (SBA). - [Business Sale Transfers: What Are Your Options](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/transaction-advisory-services/business-sale-transfers-what-are-your-options) - With a business sale, one of the biggest issues buyers and sellers have to address is how the business is transferred. LaPorte offers key points to consider. - [Estate Planning](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/transaction-advisory-services/estate-planning-services) - Estate planning is crucial in driving decisions for business owners looking to exit their businesses. LaPorte provides an overview of key points to consider. - [Business Valuation for Transactions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/transaction-advisory-services/business-valuation-for-transactions) - Thinking of selling your business? The LaPorte Transaction Advisory Services Group offers guidance to help you determine what your business is worth. - [LaPorte Director Named Secretary/Treasurer of Board for CICPAC](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-named-secretary-treasurer-of-board-for-cicpac) - Christina Chifici, LaPorte director, has been elected Secretary/Treasurer to the Board of Directors of Construction Industry CPAs and Consultants. - [LaPorte Named a 2021 Top 200 Accounting Firm](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-a-2021-top-200-accounting-firm) - For the 12th consecutive year, LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named one of the ‘Top 200 Accounting Firms’ in the country by INSIDE Public Accounting. - [Alternative Cost Method for Common Improvements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/alternative-cost-method-for-common-improvements) - Developers who use the alternative cost method can accelerate deductions on common improvements so expenses are deducted more equitably throughout the project. - [LaPorte Named to Top Workplaces List for Third Time](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-top-workplaces-list-for-third-time) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors was recently named to The Advocate/Times-Picayune Top Workplaces list for the third time since its inception. - [Worker Classification Guidelines Not Changing Yet](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/worker-classification-guidelines-are-not-changing) - The Dept. of Labor withdrew a rule that provided details on how a business was to determine whether a worker was an employee or an independent contractor. - [Worker Classifications – Where Are We Now, and Where Are We Headed?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/worker-classifications-where-are-we-now-and-where-are-we-headed) - Companies may soon face new scrutiny on worker classification at the federal level under the Biden administration. - [Reporting Requirements Changed Yet Again for Recipients of Provider Relief Funds](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/reporting-requirements-changed-yet-again-for-recipients-of-provider-relief-funds) - In a notice released on June 11, 2021, the US Dept. of Health and Human Services announced three major changes to the Provider Relief Fund program. - [LaPorte Named to "Best Accounting Firm" List for Fifth Year](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-again-named-to-best-accounting-firm-list) - Readers of New Orleans CityBusiness named LaPorte to the “Best Accounting Firm” list in the publication’s Reader Rankings poll for the fifth consecutive year. - [Final Section 1031 Regulations Passed – What This Means for Like-Kind Exchanges](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/final-section-1031-regulations-passed-what-this-means-for-like-kind-exchanges) - These regulations, finalized in December 2020, help clarify what property exchanges qualify for preferential tax treatment under Section 1031. - [Businesses Required to Subsidize COBRA Premiums Will Be Reimbursed with Payroll Tax Credits](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/businesses-required-to-subsidize-cobra-premiums-will-be-reimbursed-with-payroll-tax-credits) - To help Americans struggling with job loss, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 will subsidize the costs of COBRA insurance premiums effective April 1, 2021. - [IRS Announces Tax Relief for Certain Louisiana Parishes](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-announces-tax-relief-for-certain-louisiana-parishes) - On 6/10/21 the IRS announced a tax filing and payment extension for individuals living and working in some Louisiana parishes affected by recent severe storms. - [LaPorte Sponsors Monthly Business Forum Webcast](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-sponsors-monthly-business-forum-webcast) - Beginning January 2021, LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors is proud to sponsor the monthly Business Forum presented by the Baton Rouge Business Report. - [LaPorte CEO Honored with LCPA Lifetime Membership Award](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-ceo-honored-with-lcpa-lifetime-membership-award) - William "Ted" Mason III, LaPorte President and CEO, has been honored with the Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants Life Membership Award. - [Can You Benefit From a Casualty Loss Tax Deduction on Personal-Use Property?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/can-you-benefit-from-a-casualty-loss-tax-deduction-on-personal-use-property-2) - You may qualify for a casualty loss deduction for Personal Use Property on your income taxes if you are not fully reimbursed for the loss. - [Lessons in Resilience: Volunteers of America Southeast Louisiana](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/lessons-in-resilience-volunteers-of-america-southeast-louisiana) - In this edition of Lessons in Resilience, we highlight the ways Volunteers of America Southeast Louisiana pivoted to help their community during the pandemic. - [Christina Chifici Named as a MoneyMakers Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/christina-chifici-named-as-a-moneymakers-honoree) - LaPorte Audit Director-in-Charge Christina Chifici has been selected as one of the honorees of the 2021 MoneyMakers award from New Orleans CityBusiness. - [Lessons in Resilience: Learning to Survive–and Thrive–in a Pandemic](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/lessons-in-resilience-learning-to-survive-and-thrive-in-a-pandemic) - Our two-part webinar series allows nonprofit leaders to share inspirational stories of their specific challenges and lessons learned during the pandemic. - [Lessons in Resilience: STARC of Louisiana, Inc.](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/lessons-in-resilience-starc-of-louisiana-inc) - Lessons in Resilience: STARC shares the inspirational story of how STARC overcame the challenges of the pandemic with their ingenuity and flexibility. - [Do You Have Support for Your Provider Relief Fund Payments?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/do-you-have-support-for-your-provider-relief-fund-payments) - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services requires recipients of the Provider Relief Fund program to follow a specific post-payment reporting process. - [A Conversation with the Authors of Deconstructed](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/a-conversation-with-the-authors-of-deconstructed) - LaPorte hosts a conversation with the authors of Deconstructed to explore the complex issue of immigration and trace the family history of author Stan Marek. - [Louisiana Department of Revenue Grants Tax Extension](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/louisiana-department-of-revenue-grants-tax-extension) - The LA Dept. of Revenue is granting an automatic filing and payment extension till June 15, 2021, to individuals and businesses impacted by the winter storm. - [IRS Announces Tax Extensions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/irs-announces-tax-extensions) - The IRS has announced a variety of extension deadlines based on the winter storms in Texas and Louisiana as well as the pandemic. LaPorte provides highlights. - [How Should Provider Relief Funds Be Presented on the Financial Statements?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/how-should-provider-relief-funds-be-presented-on-the-financial-statements) - The healthcare industry struggled to make ends meet during much of 2020. Even when coronavirus-related hospitalizations increased, healthcare systems, physicians, and a host of other providers reported sharp downturns in revenue, and many continue to struggle to this day. When President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act into law in - [Highlights of the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2021](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/highlights-of-the-consolidated-appropriations-act-2021) - In this webcast, LaPorte professionals cover highlights on key provisions of The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and making the most of relief offered. - [Taking Advantage of Disaster-related Tax Positions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/taking-advantage-of-disaster-related-tax-positions) - As flood waters are receding across South Louisiana, there are many actions to take now to help take advantage of possible disaster-related tax positions. - [Deducting or Amortizing Start-up Costs and Organizational Costs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/deducting-or-amortizing-start-up-costs-and-organizational-costs) - Whether you are forming your first company or expanding into a new area, it is important to properly account for start-up and organizational costs. - [Tax Ramifications of a Remote Workforce](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/tax-ramifications-of-a-remote-workforce) - Offering a remote work option can have tax ramifications for business owners. LaPorte Tax Director Gretchen Ockman provides an overview of these tax implications. - [Employee Retention Tax Credit Extended and Expanded by Consolidation Appropriations Act, 2021](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/employee-retention-tax-credit-extended-and-expanded-by-consolidation-appropriations-act-2021) - The Consolidation Appropriations Act, 2021, extends the Employee Retention Credit through 7/1/21. LaPorte gives a comparison between this act and the CARES Act. - [LaPorte CEO-Elect Participates in Business Roundtable](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-ceo-elect-participates-in-business-roundtable) - LaPorte CEO-elect, Eric Bosch, participated in a roundtable discussion with prominent business leaders to share views on business and community trends for 2021. - [Forbes Names LaPorte to List of “America’s Best Tax and Accounting Firms”](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/forbes-names-laporte-to-list-of-americas-best-tax-and-accounting-firms) - For the second year in a row, Forbes magazine has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors to the list of "America’s Best Tax and Accounting Firms." - [LaPorte Auditors Partner with Houston Business Journal on EBP Article](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-auditors-partner-with-houston-business-journal-on-ebp-article) - LaPorte auditors recently partnered with the Houston Business Journal to offer tips on avoiding common 401(k) administration mistakes. - [Laying a Firm Foundation for a Successful Digital Transformation](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/laying-a-firm-foundation-for-a-successful-digital-transformation) - Here are several key steps that construction firms can take to lay a firm foundation for the transition to a digital environment. - [Webinars: Financial Reporting Model Improvements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/webinars-financial-reporting-model-improvements) - GASB is offering webinars meant to help viewers learn more about Financial Reporting Model Improvements. - [LaPorte Announces Eric E. Bosch as President and CEO-Elect](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-announces-eric-e-bosch-as-president-and-ceo-elect) - Eric E. Bosch, CPA, has been selected as President and CEO-Elect for LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors. He will assume that role effective Dec. 1, 2021. - [Is your employee benefit plan compliant?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/is-your-employee-benefit-plan-compliant) - It's more important than ever for employers to determine that their benefit plans adhere to Department of Labor and Internal Revenue Service regulations as these regulatory bodies have become better at identifying businesses that fail to comply with fiduciary responsibilities. That means more and more benefit plan administrators are being hit with fines that can total up to $1,100 a day. - [What to Expect from Biden's Tax Policy](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/what-to-expect-from-bidens-tax-policy) - Without knowing who is going to control the Senate, we are in limbo from a tax planning perspective. Here we outline what we know about Biden's tax policy. - [What is a Quality of Earnings Report, and Why is It Useful?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/what-is-a-quality-of-earnings-report-and-why-is-it-useful) - Quality of earnings reports, prepared by third-party professionals, provide a truer picture of the quality of a company's earnings than just net income can. - [Changes to Voluntary Correction Program Compliance Fees](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/changes-to-voluntary-correction-program-compliance-fees) - Through the VCP, the IRS offers a way for companies not currently undergoing an IRS audit to remedy errors in their retirement plan documents. - [Comfort Letters and Third-Party Verification Requests](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/comfort-letters-and-third-party-verification-requests) - Verification letters are often required in application processes that can be of special significance to client's life. However, in responding to a third party verification, a CPA may violate professional standards. - [FASB looking to improve revenue reporting standards](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/fasb-looking-to-improve-revenue-reporting-standards) - In an effort to improve revenue recognition, the Financial Accounting Standards Board and International Accounting Standards Board recently released converged guidance for contracts with customers. - [SEC member calls for more accountability and engagement from business officials](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/sec-member-calls-for-more-accountability-and-engagement-from-business-officials) - At a recent conference in Atlanta, Luis Aguilar of the Securities and Exchange Commission made a speech that called for more accountability, transparency and general engagement from senior officials of businesses throughout the country. - [Understanding Louisiana's unclaimed property laws](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/understanding-louisianas-unclaimed-property-laws) - Louisiana residents should familiarize themselves with the state's unclaimed property laws, which can have different parameters depending on the property type. - [Louisiana's public entities must be aware of Act 706](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/louisianas-public-entities-must-be-aware-of-act-706) - If you are involved in financial reporting for a public or quasi-public entity in the state of Louisiana, you may not be aware of important revisions to the Louisiana Revised Statutes that went into effect last year. - [What your nonprofit needs to know about Form 990](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/what-your-nonprofit-needs-to-know-about-form-990) - Tax season can be stressful for any organization, and nonprofits who want to maintain their status need to ensure they file all of the required documents correctly. - [Introducing New Legislative Auditor Statewide Agreed-Upon Procedures](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/introducing-new-legislative-auditor-statewide-agreed-upon-procedures) - The LA Legislative Auditor has initiated statewide agreed-upon procedures affecting local governments and quasi-public organizations, including nonprofits. - [Rebuilding Resources for Individuals and Businesses Affected by Hurricane Harvey](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/resources-for-people-affected-by-hurricane-harvey) - LaPorte has compiled links that will direct you to resources to answer questions you may have related to your business, your taxes, etc. during rebuilding. - [Timely Deposits of Participant 401(k) Plan Contributions More Important Than Ever](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/timely-deposits-of-participant-401k-plan-contributions-more-important-than-ever) - LaPorte highlights ERISA guidelines for employer deposits to 401k plan contributions and the consequences of late deposits. - [Timely Deposits of Participant 401(k) Plan Contributions More Important Than Ever](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/timely-deposits-of-participant-401k-plan-contributions-more-important-than-ever) - LaPorte highlights ERISA guidelines for employer deposits to 401k plan contributions and the consequences of late deposits. - [Helpful Resources for Nonprofits During the COVID-19 Crisis](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/helpful-resources-for-nonprofits-during-the-covid-19-crisis) - LaPorte has curated a list of resources to help nonprofits navigate the current coronavirus crisis. - [How the CARES Act Will Impact You: A First Look](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/how-the-cares-act-will-impact-you-a-first-look) - LaPorte outlines the impacts of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to businesses, nonprofits, and individual tax payers. - [Changes in Ownership May Change Reporting Requirements for Paycheck Protection Loans](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/coronavirus/changes-in-ownership-may-change-reporting-requirements-for-paycheck-protection-loans) - The SBA's Notice 5000-20057 outlines specific reporting procedures required for entities that received PPP funds and also have certain changes in ownership. - [GNOF Launches Louisiana Service and Hospitality Family Assistance Program](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/gnof-launches-louisiana-service-and-hospitality-family-assistance-program) - GNOF has announced an initiative designed to offer support to those people in Louisiana's service and hospitality industry impacted by the coronavirus. - [Getting Ready for Social Security Part 1: Retirement Age Considerations](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/getting-ready-for-social-security-part-1-retirement-age-considerations) - LaPorte outlines the many helpful guidelines provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to narrow the scope of your retirement considerations. - [Permanent Zero Day: The Armageddon for Windows XP and Microsoft Office 2003](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/permanent-zero-day-the-armageddon-for-windows-xp-and-microsoft-office-2003) - Sometimes technology evolves in such a way that to continue using outdated versions of a software or program not only puts companies or individuals at a disadvantage - it can actually increase exposure. - [Louisiana Tax Amnesty program open through Nov. 14](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/louisiana-tax-amnesty-program-open-through-nov-14) - The 2014 Louisiana Tax Amnesty program remains in effect through Nov. 14, 2014, allowing individual and business taxpayers to bring delinquent accounts up to date, either by filing overdue state returns or clearing unpaid bills. - [PATH Act of 2015 solidifies key tax breaks for individuals and businesses](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/path-act-of-2015-solidifies-key-tax-breaks-for-individuals-and-businesses) - The PATH Act extended or made permanent several key tax breaks for Louisiana residents and businesses. - [COVID-19 Impact on Asset Impairment in the Energy Sector](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/covid-19-impact-on-asset-impairment-in-the-energy-sector) - Energy companies hit with adverse effects from COVID-19 need to identify the consequences on their asset base and reflect outcomes in their financial statements. - [Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/historic-preservation-tax-credit-program) - The historic preservation tax credit program is designed to encourage developers to restore historic buildings of cultural and aesthetic significance for commercial and residential use. - [Clarifying 2016 Louisiana Sales Tax Legislation](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/clarifying-2016-louisiana-sales-tax-legislation) - Effective April 1, 2016, the LA state sales and use tax rate on sales and leases of tangible personal property and sales of certain services will increase by 1%. - [IRS expected to crack down on worker misclassification in construction industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-expected-to-crack-down-on-worker-misclassification-in-construction-industry) - The IRS has significantly increased its employment tax enforcement efforts, and employers who are misclassifying their workers as independent contractors could face significant penalties. - [HHS Updates Guidance on Provider Relief Fund Repayment Data Requirements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/hhs-updates-guidance-on-provider-relief-fund-repayment-data-requirements) - On Sept. 19, 2020, HHS updated their guidance on timing of future reporting requirements for recipients of Provider Relief Funds. - [LaPorte Named to List of ‘Best Places to Work’ for 2020](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-list-of-best-places-to-work-for-2020) - New Orleans CityBusiness, a regional business publication, has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors(LaPorte) to the list of 2020 ‘Best Places to Work.’ - [LaPorte Listed Among "Firms to Watch" for 2020](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-listed-among-firms-to-watch-for-2020) - Accounting Today recently included LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors among 44 national firms in its ‘Beyond the Top 100: Firms to Watch’ list. - [Accounting Solutions for CARES Act Program Proceeds](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/accounting-solutions-for-cares-act-program-proceeds) - LaPorte offers guidance around the lingering questions of how institutions should treat program payments received through the CARES Act. - [LaPorte Tax Director-in-Charge Named A MoneyMakers Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-tax-director-in-charge-named-a-moneymakers-honoree) - Chav Pierce, CPA/ABV, Tax Director-in-Charge of LaPorte, has been selected as one of the recipients of the 2020 MoneyMakers award from New Orleans CityBusiness. - [LaPorte Named to List of Top 50 Construction Accounting Firms for 2020](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-list-of-top-50-construction-accounting-firms-for-2020) - For the second year in a row, Construction Executive magazine has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors to the list of Top 50 Construction Accounting Firms™. - [Preparing for PPP Loan Forgiveness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/preparing-for-ppp-loan-forgiveness) - The AICPA offers five reasons why borrowers shouldn't rush into the PPP loan forgiveness process. - [New Accounting Standard Affects Governments that Use Subscription-Based Cloud Technologies](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/new-accounting-standard-affects-governments-that-use-subscription-based-cloud-technologies) - On 6/5/2020, GASB released Statement No. 96, with new reporting guidance for state and local governments that have subscription-based IT arrangements. - [IRS Releases New Draft of Form 941 for 2020](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/irs-releases-new-draft-of-form-941-for-2020) - The IRS released a refurbished draft of Form 941 and instructed employers to start using the draft form with reports for second quarter payroll taxes. - [LaPorte Honored as a Winner in Reader Rankings Poll](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-honored-as-a-winner-in-reader-rankings-poll) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors was recently honored as a winner in New Orleans CityBusiness Reader Rankings poll in the Accounting Firm category. - [States Offer Tax Relief During the COVID-19 Crisis](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/coronavirus/states-offer-tax-relief-during-the-covid-19-crisis) - Many states are offering extensions on various taxes during the COVID-19 crisis. LaPorte provides an overview of TX and LA guidance. - [Government Lessees Beware – How Leases are Accounted for is About to Change](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/government-lessees-beware-how-leases-are-accounted-for-is-about-to-change) - GASB issued new guidance (GASB Statement No. 87, Leases) on how state and local governments must account for and report leases on their financial statements. - [LaPorte Merger with Lanaux Felger Finalized](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-merger-with-lanaux-felger-finalized) - Houma-based Lanaux & Felger CPAs has joined forces with LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors, effective Dec. 1, 2017. - [Rebuilding Houston - With What Labor?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/rebuilding-houston-with-what-labor) - With one of the largest storm-related rebuilding efforts in American history underway in Houston, finding qualified workers may be a serious issue. - [LaPorte Raises Almost $13,000 for Feeding America](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-raises-almost-13000-for-feeding-america) - LaPorte created a fundraising event to get our employees moving, while raising money for Feeding America, an organization helping fight food insecurity. - [Senate Passes H.R. 7010 that Amends PPP](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/senate-passes-h-r-7010-that-amends-ppp) - On 6/3/20, the Senate passed the House legislation (H.R. 7010 - Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020) that amends the PPP portion of the CARES Act. - [SBA Releases Additional Guidance on PPP Loan Forgiveness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/coronavirus/sba-releases-additional-guidance-on-ppp-loan-forgiveness) - On May 13, 2020, the SBA released additional guidance on PPP loan forgiveness. In this update, we will provide information on the newly issued FAQ-46. - [Highlights of the CARES Act's Impacts on Employee Benefit Plans](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/employee-benefit-plan-audit-services/highlights-of-the-cares-acts-impacts-on-employee-benefit-plans) - LaPorte provides an overview of the complex provisions of the CARES Act impacting Employee Benefit Plans (EBPs). - [CARES Act Required Healthcare Provider Reporting: Are You Ready?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/cares-act-required-healthcare-provider-reporting-are-you-ready) - The CARES Act provides $50 billion to help healthcare providers facing falling revenue due to COVID-19, but it comes with mandatory reporting requirements. - [IRS Notice 2020-32 Offers Guidance on PPP-Related Deductions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-notice-2020-32-offers-guidance-on-ppp-related-deductions) - IRS Notice 2020-32 provides guidance regarding the deductibility for Federal income tax purposes of certain otherwise deductible expenses under PPP. - [Ted Mason, President and CEO, Named as a CityBusiness Driving Forces Award Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/ted-mason-president-and-ceo-named-as-a-citybusiness-driving-forces-award-honoree) - Ted Mason, President and CEO of LaPorte, has been selected as a recipient of the 2020 Driving Forces award from New Orleans CityBusiness. - [LaPorte Provides Guidance on CARES Act](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-provides-guidance-on-cares-act) - Given the complexity of the CARES Act, LaPorte professionals have been proactive in providing guidance through webinars and media appearances. - [CARES Act Webinar: The Latest Guidance](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/cares-act-webinar-the-latest-guidance) - This video reviews all types of relief the CARES Act provides and also offers the viewpoint of Steve Crispino, Executive Vice President of South Louisiana Bank. - [Updates Related to COVID-19 for Businesses, Individuals, and Nonprofits](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/updates-related-to-covid-19-for-businesses-individuals-and-nonprofits) - LaPorte highlights updated COVID-19 guidance from the IRS and SBA for businesses, individuals, and nonprofits. - [Lessons from Hurricane Katrina Provide Guidance During the COVID-19 Pandemic](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/lessons-from-hurricane-katrina-provide-guidance-during-the-covid-19-pandemic) - LaPorte provide accounting guidance for healthcare organizations as they tackle challenges from COVID-19. - [FASB Proposes Postponing Effective Dates for ASC 606 and ASC 842](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/fasb-proposes-postponing-effective-dates-for-asc-606-and-asc-842) - FASB has decided to recommend delaying implementation of ASC 606 and ASC 842 based on disruptions due to the coronavirus pandemic. - [Remaining LLA 2020 Millage Workshops Cancelled](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/remaining-lla-2020-millage-workshops-cancelled) - The Louisiana Legislative Auditor's Office is offering their 2020 Millage Workshops online since they cannot present the remaining workshops in person. - [The Paycheck Protection Program: What You Need to Know](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/the-paycheck-protection-program-what-you-need-to-know) - You can access important information about the Paycheck Protection Progam or fill out an application form on the Treasury Department website at the links below. - [Important COVID-19 Updates](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/important-covid-19-updates) - LaPorte outlines two areas of important information: an update as of 3.24.2020 on our LaPorte Offices and Client Care as well as COVID-19 and Tax Alerts. - [SBA Houston District Office Hosting COVID-19 Webinars](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/sba-houston-district-office-hosting-covid-19-webinars) - The SBA Houston District Office is hosting a series of webinars on COVID-19 throughout the month of April, 2020. - [Louisiana Local Governments May Get Relief in FEMA Declaration](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/louisiana-local-governments-may-get-relief-in-fema-declaration) - FEMA funds administered by GOHSEP may reimburse certain expenditures of Louisiana local governments responding to COVID-19. - [GASB Considers Postponing Upcoming Effective Dates of Pronouncements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/gasb-considers-postponing-upcoming-effective-dates-of-pronouncements) - GASB is considering postponing the upcoming effective dates of pronouncements since government officials don't have access to important information. currently. - [Should Public Employees Unable to Work Due to Office Closure Still be Compensated?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/should-public-employees-unable-to-work-due-to-office-closure-still-be-compensated) - LA Attorney General offers an opinion letter as to whether public employees should be compensated while following stay at home orders. - [Senate Passes $2.2 Trillion Economic Stimulus Bill](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/senate-passes-2-2-trillion-economic-stimulus-bill) - On March 25th, the Senate passed a bill designed to stimulate the economy during the coronavirus pandemic. It goes to the House for a vote on March 27th. - [A Message From Our CEO Regarding COVID-19](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/a-message-from-our-ceo) - LaPorte's CEO provides an update on the precautions we are taking to protect our employees, clients, and communities from the spread of the coronavirus. - [Important Updates from Our CEO Regarding the Coronavirus](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/important-updates-from-our-ceo-regarding-the-coronavirus) - LaPorte provides an overview of the firm's response and guidance from the IRS during the Coronavirus pandemic. - [Important Updates from Our CEO Regarding the Coronavirus](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/important-updates-from-our-ceo-regarding-the-coronavirus) - LaPorte provides an overview of the firm's response and guidance from the IRS during the Coronavirus pandemic. - [Overtime Changes Coming January 1st: Is Your Business Ready?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/overtime-changes-coming-january-1st-is-your-business-ready) - On January 1, 2020, over one million more U.S. workers will become eligible for overtime pay. LaPorte outlines what you need to do to get your business ready. - [LaPorte Makes America's Top Recommended Tax and Accounting Firms List](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-makes-americas-top-recommended-tax-and-accounting-firms-list) - Forbes has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors to the list of "America's Top Recommended Tax and Accounting Firms" for 2020. - [LaPorte Tax Directors Offer Estate Planning Advice](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-tax-directors-offer-estate-planning-advice) - LaPorte tax directors teamed up with the Houston Business Journal to offer important estate planning tips to help ensure your family is protected in the future. - [No More Church Parking Tax: Elimination of the Tax on Nonprofit Transportation Fringe Benefits](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/no-more-church-parking-tax-elimination-of-the-tax-on-nonprofit-transportation-fringe-benefits) - A recent change to the tax code has erased the transportation fringe benefits tax. Organizations that have already paid it could be eligible for a refund. - [LaPorte Tax Director Authors Article for CityBusiness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-tax-director-authors-article-for-citybusiness) - LaPorte Tax Director Bruce Prendergast partnered with New Orleans CityBusiness to outline the effect of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on nonprofit organizations. - [How Robotic Process Automation is Affecting the Construction Industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/how-robotic-process-automation-is-affecting-the-construction-industry) - Robotics software takes tedious and monotonous tasks away from the human workforce, and contractors should consider how it can play a part in their company. - [Ensuring effective controls over credit card use](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/ensuring-effective-controls-over-credit-card-use) - Credit cards serve as useful tools for governmental entities in procuring good and services. - [LaPorte is a Proud Sponsor of Baton Rouge Entrepreneurship Week](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-is-a-proud-sponsor-of-baton-rouge-entrepreneurship-week) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors is proud to be a major sponsor of BREW 2019, the annual Baton Rouge area entrepreneurship conference. - [LaPorte is a Proud Sponsor of Baton Rouge Entrepreneurship Week](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-is-a-proud-sponsor-of-baton-rouge-entrepreneurship-week) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors is proud to be a major sponsor of BREW 2019, the annual Baton Rouge area entrepreneurship conference. - [Why Governmental Organizations Should Care About GASB 89](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/why-governmental-organizations-should-care-about-gasb-89) - GASB Statement No. 89 made accounting for interest costs much simpler. LaPorte provides an overview of this new issuance. - [LaPorte Names New Equity Directors](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-names-new-equity-directors) - Wendi Berthelot, CPA, MBA, and Micah Stewart, LL.M, have been promoted to equity directors with LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors. - [LaPorte Announces Promotions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-announces-promotions) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors is proud to announce several management-level promotions for employees in our New Orleans area offices. - [Overtime Changes Coming January 1st: Are Your Labor Budgets Ready?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/overtime-changes-coming-january-1st-are-your-labor-budgets-ready) - On Jan. 1, 2020, over one million more U.S. workers will become eligible for overtime pay. LaPorte outlines how these changes affect the construction industry. - [Charitable Deductions for Appreciated Real Estate Property](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/charitable-deductions-for-appreciated-real-estate-property) - Gifting real estate to a charitable organization may allow you to qualify for a tax deduction and avoid realizing a capital gain on the property. - [IRS Offers Extension to Some Victims of Tropical Storm Imelda](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/irs-offers-extension-to-some-victims-of-tropical-storm-imelda) - The IRS is postponing certain deadlines for some, but not all, victims of Tropical Storm Imelda. - [Could the Affordable Care Act Cost You Millions?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/could-the-affordable-care-act-cost-you-millions) - More employers are facing ACA penalties for failing to meet the employer mandate. LaPorte shows how an informed response can help avoid or minimize these fines. - [LaPorte Proud to be an HBJ Gold-Level Sponsor](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-proud-to-be-a-gold-level-sponsor) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors is proud to be a 2019 gold-level sponsor of the Houston Business Journal’s Fast 100 and Innovation Awards. - [Jodie Arceneaux Named One of the Honorees of 2019 Women of the Year](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/jodie-arceneaux-named-one-of-the-honorees-of-2019-women-of-the-year) - LaPorte’s Jodie B. Arcenaux, CPA, Director of Tax Services, has been named as one of the honorees of the class of Women of the Year by New Orleans CityBusiness. - [Ted Mason Named CityBusiness ICON Award Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/ted-mason-named-citybusiness-icon-award-honoree) - Ted Mason, LaPorte's President and CEO, has been named as an honoree of New Orleans CityBusiness ICON award for 2019. - [LaPorte Named a 2019 Top 200 Accounting Firm](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-a-2019-top-200-accounting-firm) - For the tenth year in a row, LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named one of the Top 200 Accounting Firms in the country by INSIDE Public Accounting. - [Audit Director Selected as a CityBusiness' Money Makers Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/audit-director-selected-as-a-citybusiness-money-maker-honoree) - Greg Romig, CPA, Director of Audit and Assurance Services at LaPorte, has been named one of New Orleans CityBusiness’ Money Makers honorees. - [Hackers: What You Need to Know](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/hackers-what-you-need-to-know) - Hackers have singled out the construction industry as ideal targets. LaPorte outlines your risks and ways you can help protect your company. - [Industrial Tax Exemption and Its Effect on the Construction Industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/industrial-tax-exemption-and-its-effect-on-the-construction-industry) - By providing tax incentives for in-state growth, ITEP hopes to beat out neighboring states and make Louisiana the most attractive option for new construction. - [Industrial Tax Exemption and Its Effect on the Construction Industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/industrial-tax-exemption-and-its-effect-on-the-construction-industry) - By providing tax incentives for in-state growth, ITEP hopes to beat out neighboring states and make Louisiana the most attractive option for new construction. - [Sharing a Healthy Vision for Houston's Future](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/sharing-a-healthy-vision-for-houstons-future) - LaPorte hosted business, nonprofit, and government leaders in a meeting to hear Dr. Stephen J. Spann speak about the University of Houston College of Medicine. - [Construction Executive Magazine Names LaPorte one of ‘Top 50 Construction Accounting Firms’ for 2019](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/construction-executive-magazine-names-laporte-one-of-top-50-construction-accounting-firms-for-2019) - (Metairie, LA) In its first ranking of this kind, Construction Executive magazine has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors to the list of ‘Top 50 Construction Accounting Firms’. Hundreds of accounting firms nationwide completed the survey to be considered for the list. Rankings were decided from a complex algorithm which considered the following: revenues from - [Organizations Should See Louisiana's Open Meetings Law as Opportunity, Not a Hindrance](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/organizations-should-see-louisianas-open-meetings-law-as-opportunity-not-a-hindrance) - Louisiana's Open Meeting Law was created to improve transparency between public bodies and the members of the public they were entrusted to serve. - [LaPorte Director Joins Board of CICPAC](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-joins-board-of-cicpac) - Christina Chifici, CPA, CCIFP, LaPorte's Director-in-Charge of Audit and Assurance Services, has joined the Board of Directors of CICPAC as Member-at-Large. - [Donor Acknowledgment Letters: The Fundamentals](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/donor-acknowledgment-letters-the-fundamentals) - The IRS now requires individuals to substantiate all donations they make and nonprofits are the ones who must administer the acknowledgment letter to donors. - [LaPorte Tax Manager Named Outstanding Young CPA by Houston CPA Society](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-tax-manager-named-outstanding-young-cpa-by-houston-cpa-society) - Laura Mardis, a manager in LaPorte's Houston office, has been named this year's Outstanding Young CPA by the Houston CPA Society, a chapter of the Texas Society of CPAs. Laura is very involved with the Houston CPA Society, serving on the CPAs Helping Schools committee. This committee has dual functions. It gives grants to teachers of K-12 - [What Should I Do About GDPR?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/what-should-i-do-about-gdpr) - GDPR is a buzzword that has been in the news frequently these past few months. GDPR, which stands for General Data Protection Regulation, affects more EU businesses than any other data security legislation in the last 20 years. However, EU citizens are not the only ones who should be concerned; the legislation will impact many - [Basics of the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) Required Supplementary Information for Government Entities](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/basics-of-the-managements-discussion-and-analysis-mda-required-supplementary-information-for-government-entities) - LaPorte highlights how the MD&A required of government entities can offer an opportunity for reflection and to make improvements for the year to come. - [Contractors: Are You Ready to Implement the New Lease Standard?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/contractors-are-you-ready-to-implement-the-new-lease-standard) - FASB's ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) changes how businesses should account for their leases. LaPorte's blog shows how this will affect contractors. - [Accounting for Financial Instruments: New Requirements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/accounting-for-financial-instruments-new-requirements) - FASB's ASU 2016-01 made a significant change to accounting standards related to accounting for financial instruments. LaPorte walks you through the guidance. - [Some Tax-Advantaged Personal Property Exchanges No Longer Available After Tax Reform](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/some-tax-advantaged-personal-property-exchanges-no-longer-available-after-tax-reform) - The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act did not eliminate §1031, but it disallowed like-kind exchanges of personal property. LaPorte provides an overview of changes to §1031. - [Required Minimum Distributions: Savings through Charitable Contributions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/required-minimum-distributions-savings-through-charitable-contributions) - Learn how you may be able to offset taxable income from your required minimum distribution on your IRA by donating to worthy charitable causes. - [LaPorte Director Named One of CityBusiness' 2018 'Women of the Year'](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-named-one-of-citybusiness-2018-women-of-the-year) - Cheryl Haspel, a director in LaPorte's Audit and Assurance department, has been selected as one of New Orleans CityBusiness' 'Women of the Year.' - [What Are Your Financial Statements Telling You?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/what-are-your-financial-statements-telling-you) - Financial statements are an important tool for business owners. LaPorte shows you how to read financial statements to get the most out of them. - [Is the Worker You Just Hired an Independent Contractor or an Employee?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/is-the-worker-you-just-hired-an-independent-contractor-or-an-employee) - Determining a new worker’s employment status as an independent contractor or new employee is very important. We show you how to determine a worker's status. - [Interim Guidance on the Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT)](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/interim-guidance-on-the-unrelated-business-income-tax-ubit) - LaPorte outlines recent IRS interim guidance to nonprofits on unrelated business income tax (UBIT). - [Houston 2018 Fast 100 Gold Sponsor](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/houston-2018-fast-100-gold-sponsor) - LaPorte is a proud sponsor of the annual Houston Business Journal's Fast 100 event. The event, which took place on Sept 7, 2018, celebrates the fastest-growing private companies in the greater Houston area. - [What Employee Benefit Plan Sponsors Need to Know About Cybersecurity](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/what-employee-benefit-plan-sponsors-need-to-know-about-cybersecurity) - Protecting the sensitive data inherent in EBPs can be easy to overlook, possibly because the cybersecurity of EBPs is not formally regulated like other business activities are. EBPs are especially vulnerable to cyber-attacks and it’s important to have a cybersecurity risk management plan. - [Volatile Insurance Rates in the Energy Sector](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/volatile-insurance-rates-in-the-energy-sector) - Rising insurance costs have the potential to impact all energy companies, and smaller upstream businesses will feel the brunt of these changes the most. LaPorte outlines somes ways to mitigate high insurance premiums. - [Meals and Entertainment Expenses After Tax Reform](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/meals-and-entertainment-expenses-after-tax-reform) - The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made changes to the tax deductibility of meal and entertainment (M&E) expenses. To avoid lost tax savings, businesses should properly classify their M&E expenses according to the percent deductible. LaPorte's chart shows the three levels of deductible expenses and a description of the items subject to each limitation. - [How Local Governments Can Minimize Audit Findings on Federal Disaster Aid](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/how-local-governments-can-minimize-audit-findings-on-federal-disaster-aid) - Local governments often provide immediate disaster relief efforts which come with expenses difficult to absorb. Governments who utilize federal grants to help rebuild after a natural disaster must follow certain steps before, during, and after the event to comply with FEMA guidelines. - [GASB Increases Debt Disclosure Requirements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/gasb-increases-debt-disclosure-requirements) - Newly issued GASB Statement No. 88, Certain Disclosures Related to Debt, including Direct Borrowings and Direct Placements mandates that state and local governments disclose new information about their debts in the footnotes to their financial statements. This overview provides information you’ll need to comply with these changes. - [Sales Tax Changes to Affect Louisiana Retailers and Purchasers Alike](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/sales-tax-changes-to-affect-louisiana-retailers-and-purchasers-alike) - The Louisiana state-wide sales tax rate recently dropped from 5% to 4.45%, and 2% tax was approved on business utilities. While purchasers may take notice of the slight rate decrease the next time they make a purchase, retailers will be the ones who have to take action. - [Donor-Advised Funds: Are They the Right Tool for Making Your Charitable Donations?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/are-donor-advised-funds-the-right-tool-for-your-charitable-donations) - The new Tax Act includes major changes that affect the way individuals make charitable deductions, and makes it more likely that high-dollar donations will be made and less likely that small dollar donations will be made. Donor-advised funds offer opportunities to donors in both situations. - [Supreme Court Overturns Physical Presence Test: Internet Retailers May Now be Required to Collect Sales Tax](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/internet-retailers-may-now-be-required-to-collect-sales-tax) - The Supreme Court recently overturned the physical presence test. It ruled that internet retailers may now be required to collect sales tax. - [How Does the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Affect Nonprofits?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/how-recent-tax-reform-affects-nonprofits) - On December 22, 2017, the most substantial tax reform act1 (the “Act”) in over 4 decades was enacted. While a lot has been made about how these changes affect individual and corporate tax liabilities, the Act contained a number of provisions that affect non-profits both directly and indirectly. The following is an overview of changes - [How To Avoid Late Remittances](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/how-to-avoid-late-remittances) - Employers who withhold employee salaries as contributions to benefits plans must act as timely and efficient stewards of these funds or risk fines from the U.S. Department of Labor. - [Congratulations to the LaPorte Interns!](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/congratulations-to-the-laporte-interns) - LaPorte interns Heba Judeh, Jaime Guichard, and Chris Ikner were all recently awarded accounting scholarships from the University of New Orleans. - [New Tax Law Allows More Freedom for Contractors](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/new-tax-law-allows-more-freedom-for-contractors) - The recently-passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R.1) represents many changes for the construction industry, including how contractors will account for long-term contracts. - [Sweeping Tax Overhaul Signed Into Law](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/sweeping-tax-overhaul-signed-into-law) - Trump has now signed into law the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1), the most sweeping change to U.S. tax code in years. See how these changes may affect you. - [Getting Ready for Social Security Part 2: Other Factors Affecting Your Decision](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/getting-ready-for-social-security-part-2-other-factors-affecting-your-decision) - LaPorte outlines the important factors to consider related to taking your Social Security benefits. - [HRSA highlights 340B contract pharmacy arrangements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/hrsa-highlights-340b-contract-pharmacy-arrangements) - If your hospital participates in the 340B program and utilizes contract pharmacy arrangements, you may want to review your compliance measures. The Health Resources Services Administration, the agency responsible for oversight of the 340B program, recently published a program update highlighting the importance of adequately overseeing contract pharmacy arrangements. - [Utilizing § 199 deductions within the construction industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/utilizing-§-199-deductions-within-the-construction-industry) - construction industry, DPAD - [New changes to the Federal Audit Clearinghouse data collection form](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/new-changes-to-the-federal-audit-clearinghouse-data-collection-form) - x - [Disallowed losses: Is your organization at risk?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/disallowed-losses-is-your-organization-at-risk) - In recent years, congress and the IRS have increased scrutiny of exempt organizations, particularly regarding those organizations' unrelated business incomes - otherwise known as UBI. - [LaPorte Establishes ALTA Best Practices Service Line](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-establishes-title-agency-best-practices-service-line) - LaPorte has established the ALTA Best Practices service line to evaluate title companies’ readiness and help prepare for the assessment process. - [LaPorte Named a 2017 "Top Workplace" by The Times-Picayune](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-a-2017-top-workplace-by-the-times-picayune) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been awarded a 2017 Top Workplaces honor by The Times-Picayune for the second year in a row. - [LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors Named a Top Firm to Watch for 2012 by Accounting Today](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-cpas-business-advisors-named-a-top-firm-to-watch-for-2012-by-accounting-today) - (New Orleans, LA, May 15, 2012) LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named as one of 19 accounting companies to watch in 2012 in Accounting Today’s ‘Beyond the Top 100 Accounting Firms’ list. This list is part of the annual ‘Top 100 Accounting Firms’ report compiled by Accounting Today. The ‘Top 100 Accounting - [LaPorte President/CEO Honored as Member of 'Managing Partner Elite'](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-presidentceo-honored-as-member-of-managing-partner-elite) - LaPorte President and CEO William “Ted” Mason was named to the list of “Managing Partner Elite” by Accounting Today. He was one of only ten honorees nationwide. - [LaPorte Director Honored by LCPA for Oustanding Service](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-honored-by-lcpa-for-oustanding-service) - LaPorte Director Roy Beyer was recently honored with the Distinguished Public Service Award by the Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants (LCPA). - [The Benefits of Preparing a Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR)](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/the-benefits-of-preparing-a-comprehensive-annual-financial-report-cafr) - LaPorte outlines the benefits for governments in preparing a Comprehensive Annual Financial Report vs. a basic financial statement. - [Disaster Relief Resources for Immediate Needs of Those Affected by Hurricane Harvey](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/disaster-relief-resources-for-immediate-needs-of-those-affected-by-hurricane-harvey) - As a Gulf Coast company, we know that recovery takes a long time. We've put together this list of links to resources to help you get back on your feet. - [Understand Whether Your Cancelled Debt is Taxable Income](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/understand-whether-your-cancelled-debt-is-taxable-income) - Trying to manage your debt can be intimidating. - [Understanding Historic Preservation Tax Credit Programs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/understanding-historic-preservation-tax-credit-programs) - Here is a brief overview of how historic tax credits work and how nonprofits can take advantage of them in Louisiana and Texas. - [Oil and Gas Companies Can Benefit from the R&D Tax Credit](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/oil-and-gas-companies-can-benefit-from-the-rd-tax-credit) - Many companies overlook the Research & Development (R&D) tax credit. Here we outline some ways to know if your energy company qualifies for the R&D tax credit. - [LaPorte Named "Best Accounting Firm" by CityBusiness Readers](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-best-accounting-firm-by-citybusiness-readers) - Readers of New Orleans CityBusiness, a weekly business publication, named LaPorte the “Best Accounting Firm” in the region in the publication’s poll. - [The Tax Consequences of Reimbursed and Unreimbursed Employee Expenses: What Employers and Employees Need to Know](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/the-tax-consequences-of-reimbursed-and-unreimbursed-employee-expenses-what-employers-and-employees-need-to-know) - The tax treatment of reimbursed and unreimbursed employee business expenses depends on whether the employer uses an accountable or non-accountable plan. - [Taking Advantage of PATH Act Changes in the Oil and Gas Industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/taking-advantage-of-path-act-changes-in-the-oil-and-gas-industry) - The “Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015” has impacted businesses across the country – including oil and gas companies and investors. - [LaPorte consultant authors article in CityBusiness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-consultant-authors-article-in-citybusiness) - Thomas Horne, a senior litigation consultant in LaPorte’s Litigation and Forensic Accounting Services Group, recently authored an article that was recently published in New Orleans CityBusiness. - [Don't Forget to Give on GiveNOLA Day!](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/dont-forget-to-give-on-givenola-day) - LaPorte is a proud sponsor of GiveNOLA Day, a 24-hour, online giving event organized by the Greater New Orleans Foundation to ignite the giving community in Southeast Louisiana. The goal is to inspire the community to come together for 24 hours to contribute as many charitable dollars as possible to support the work of local - [How will the new lease accounting standard affect your business?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/how-will-the-new-lease-accounting-standard-affect-your-business) - For fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2018, businesses will have to start reporting leases differently on their balance sheets. - [Why Bad Boy Guarantees Can Be Bad for Business](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/why-bad-boy-guarantees-can-be-bad-for-business) - In real estate partnerships, lenders frequently require a managing partner to provide a "bad boy" guarantee to secure a loan. Here's why that can bad for business. - [A First Look at President Trump's Proposed Tax Plan](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/a-first-look-at-president-trumps-proposed-tax-plan) - LaPorte offers highlights of President Trump’s proposed broad goals of tax reform and his ideas on how those goals should be accomplished. - [How Will the New Revenue Recognition Standard Affect Oil and Gas Producers?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/how-will-the-new-revenue-recognition-standard-affect-oil-and-gas-producers) - Oil and gas producers should be aware of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s recently issued revenue recognition standard. - [Accounting for gas balancing](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/accounting-for-gas-balancing) - Advances in technology and efficiency of U.S. oil and natural gas has led to significant increases in production, and with that, additional accounting challenges for well owners. - [Utilizing Section 199 Deductions within the Construction Industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/utilizing-section-199-deductions-within-the-construction-industry) - One way to save money that very few companies properly and fully utilize is the domestic manufacturing deduction, also known as the Section 199 Deduction. - [High Net Worth Individuals in Oil and Gas](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/high-net-worth-individuals-in-oil-and-gas) - With increased income from royalties and leases comes additional tax and financial planning obligations, which if left unaddressed could result in substantial income and estate taxes. - [Form 990: Tax-Free Marketing](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/form-990-tax-free-marketing) - Form 990 can serve as a platform by which nonprofits share their missions, charitable efforts and accomplishments, along with other aspects of the day-to-day operations. - [Complying with Pension Plan Act of 2006 Restatements](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/real-estate/complying-with-pension-plan-act-of-2006-restatements) - Employers must routinely make adjustments to their defined contribution retirement plans in order to stay in compliance with the IRS. - [Record retention for contractors](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/record-retention-for-contractors) - Crafting a retention policy allows contractors to create a clear and comprehensive system for both archiving and destroying records. - [Louisiana's public entities must stay ahead of clarifications to Act 706](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/louisianas-public-entities-must-stay-ahead-of-clarifications-to-act-706) - Those who are involved in financial reporting for a public or quasi-public entity in the state of Louisiana must be aware of Act 462 of the 2015 Louisiana Legislative Session which further amends Louisiana Revised Statute 24:513. - [LaPorte Kicks Off Its Nonprofit Summer Series](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-kicks-off-its-nonprofit-summer-series) - LaPorte kicked off its Nonprofit Summer Series with a presentation on proposed FASB updates for nonprofit organizations. - [Factoring tax laws into global expansion](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/factoring-tax-laws-into-global-expansion) - For many businesses, global expansion is a key step for continued growth. - [Law Firms and Evolving State Tax Nexus Standards](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/law-firms-and-evolving-state-tax-nexus-standards) - Law firms doing business in more than one state may owe business taxes in a state in which they are not physically located. We outline evolving nexus standards in states around the country. - [Payroll Tax Holiday Ends](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/payroll-tax-holiday-ends) - In 2013, there are new payroll withholding rates. Contact your LaPorte Tax or Accounting Service professional for additional information. - [Estate and Gift Tax Planning in 2012](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/estate-planning/estate-and-gift-tax-planning-in-2012) - We challenge you to take a short quiz to determine if you are eligible for a “gift” from the federal government. YES NO 1. Do you own any assets? 2. Are you interested in saving tax dollars? 3. Would you like to increase the wealth that passes to your future - [IRS Program Addresses Employee Misclassifications](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/irs-program-addresses-employee-misclassifications) - Because of the large number of independent contractors working today, misclassification of employees for the purpose of payroll taxes is a significant problem for employers. Voluntary Classifications Settlement Program In an attempt to address these misclassifications for employers, the IRS has created the Voluntary Classification Settlement Program (VCSP). This program is designed to increase - [Restaurant and Retail Operators: Is the Remodel and Refresh Safe Harbor Right for You?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/restaurant-and-retail-operators-is-the-remodel-and-refresh-safe-harbor-right-for-you) - For restaurant and retail operators, IRS Rev. Procedure 2015-56 provides a safe-harbor method of accounting for remodel/refresh expenditures for some buildings. - [Tips on Recognizing Identity Theft](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/tips-on-recognizing-identity-theft) - Identity theft is a major problem in America. LaPorte offers tips to recognize identity theft and take action to stop it. - [How Social Media Can Boost Your Nonprofit Fundraising](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/how-social-media-can-boost-your-nonprofit-fundraising) - LaPorte professionals understand what matters to our nonprofit industry clients. This blog explains how social media can boost fundraising efforts. - [How will President-elect Trump's tax plan affect individuals and businesses?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/how-will-president-elect-trumps-tax-plan-affect-individuals-and-businesses) - As President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration gets closer, businesses and individuals alike wonder how the new administration's tax policies will affect them. - [Here's what you need to know about the new 1099-MISC filing date](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-1099-misc-filing-date) - As we approach the new year, a new tax filing deadline also looms for some taxpayers. - [Significant Changes in Nonprofit Financial Reporting Model](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/home-page/significant-changes-in-nonprofit-financial-reporting-model) - FASB issued ASU 2016-14 Not-for-Profit Entities (Topic 958) will have a significant effect on financial reporting for nonprofits. - [New Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Notice Impacts Offshore Operations](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/new-bureau-of-ocean-energy-management-notice-impacts-offshore-operations) - A September 2016 notice issued by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) could have serious implications for offshore energy operators and lessees. Specifically, companies may now be required to have financial statement audits to prove their net worth in order to self-insure their offshore operations. Previous notices Companies have been allowed to rely - [How FASB's new lease standard affects oil and gas companies](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/how-fasbs-new-lease-standard-affects-oil-and-gas-companies) - The Financial Accounting Standards Board has made significant changes to the way assets and liabilities arising from leases must be reported. - [Utilizing like-kind exchanges for business growth and investment](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/utilizing-like-kind-exchanges-for-business-growth-and-investment) - Like-kind exchanges provide a unique money saving and investment tool for businesses and taxpayers. - [The effect of proposed IRS regulations on estate planning](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/estate-planning/the-effect-of-proposed-irs-regulations-on-estate-planning) - Proposed regulations, under Internal Revenue Code sections 2701 and 2704, will have an effect on estate planning techniques utilized by family-controlled entities. - [What you need to know about tax relief and extension deadlines for Louisiana storm victims](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/what-you-need-to-know-about-tax-relief-and-extension-deadlines-for-louisiana-storm-victims) - X - [ITIN changes present implications for US real estate and foreign investment partners](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/itin-changes-present-implications-for-us-real-estate-and-foreign-investment-partners) - Changes to ITIN expiration will affect nonresident aliens who have invested in U.S. real estate ventures. - [Revenue recognition update presents challenges for contractors](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/revenue-recognition-update-presents-challenges-for-contractors) - Because the revenue recognition update is so broad in scope, it may mean significant changes for companies' current revenue and financial reporting processes, especially in the construction sector. - [Lease accounting update will affect balance sheets in all sectors](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/lease-accounting-update-will-affect-balance-sheets-in-all-sectors) - The update is significant for the financial reporting and compliance requirements it presents to businesses across all sectors. - [Importance of the statement of cash flows](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/importance-of-the-statement-of-cash-flows) - The statement of cash flows provides answers to the important question "Where did the money go?" - [LaPorte Advisory Director Receives AICPA Public Service Award](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-advisory-director-receives-aicpa-public-service-award) - LaPorte Advisory Director, Steve Romig, CPA, was recently awarded the AICPA's Public Service Award for Individuals. - [How to consider the potential impairment of long-lived assets during times of downturn](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/how-to-consider-the-potential-impairment-of-long-lived-assets-during-times-of-downturn) - Current economic conditions for the energy sector may indicate that the carrying amount for a long-lived asset has become unrecoverable. In these circumstances, the asset becomes impaired. - [Estate Planning - How, When and Why? Part 2](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/estate-planning/estate-planning-how-when-and-why-part-2) - Carefully executed estate planning also allows you to maximize the value of the inheritance you leave to your beneficiaries. - [Who is required to file an FBAR?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/who-is-required-to-file-an-fbar) - U.S. citizens with financial interest in or signature authority over a foreign financial account may need to file a Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts, or FBAR. - [Estate Planning - How, When and Why? Part 1](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/estate-planning/estate-planning-how-when-and-why-part-1) - While many think estate planning is only for the elderly or rich, estate planning allows everyone to protect their family's financial security and ensure their final wishes are respected. - [Understanding GASB Statement No. 77](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/understanding-gasb-statement-no-77) - A new regulation from the Governmental Accounting Standards Board will require state and local governments to disclose any tax abatements they offered. - [A refresher on asset retirement obligations](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/a-refresher-on-asset-retirement-obligations) - Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 410-20 (formerly FASB Statement No. 143) has particular implications for oil and gas companies due to the many legal obligations involved with retiring long-term assets in this sector. - [Douglas Hidalgo Elected Chairman of the Board of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/houston-hispanic-chamber-of-commerce-elects-doug-hidalgo-chairman-of-the-board) - Douglas Hidalgo, LaPorte audit and assurance director, has been elected 2016 chairman of the board of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. - [Extended issuing of 1099S](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/extended-issuing-of-1099s) - Investors eager to file their taxes this year may be feeling held up by the delayed issuance of 1099 tax statements. - [Analyzing and Managing Cash Flow](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/analyzing-and-managing-cash-flow) - Cash flow allows businesses to cover expenses or expansions, but for the construction industry, maintaining a strong cash flow can be especially critical and challenging. - [The New Generation's Impact on the Nonprofit Industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/the-new-generations-impact-on-the-nonprofit-industry) - While millennials do not currently make significant monetary donations to nonprofits, the size of their population and their personality characteristics show enormous potential as a future funding group. - [Tax consequences of charging below-market rent](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/tax-consequences-of-charging-below-market-rent) - Many property owners fail to realize offering a rental to a relative at a below-market rate could make the property ineligible for certain tax breaks. - [LaPorte Director Wendi Barnes Selected as a '40 Under 40' Honoree](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-wendi-barnes-selected-as-a-40-under-40-honoree) - Wendi Barnes, director of Audit and Assurance Services at LaPorte, has been selected as a '40 Under 40' honoree by the Baton Rouge Business Report. - [Financial Ratios are Key Performance Indicators](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/financial-ratios-are-key-performance-indicators) - Financial ratios can provide management with excellent tools and useful indicators of a construction company’s performance and financial situation. - [Are You Prepared for the Next Cybersecurity Attack?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/are-you-prepared-for-the-next-cybersecurity-attack) - Implementing the Cybersecurity Assessment Tool help financial institutions understand their cyber risk and how to create cybersecurity systems and procedures. - [Tax savings for parents](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/tax-savings-for-parents) - There are several tax deductions available to ease the financial burden of parenting and help families plan for their futures. - [Benefits of Cost Segregation Studies](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/benefits-of-cost-segregation-studies) - cost segregation, tax services, tax consultants - [Are you paying taxes in every state your business has nexus?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/are-you-paying-taxes-in-every-state-your-business-has-nexus) - Many business owners and CFOs are unaware of the many factors which can contribute to a business having nexus to a state. - [2015 Louisiana Tax Amnesty Program](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/2015-louisiana-tax-amnesty-program) - This year, business owners and private individuals in Louisiana will have a rare opportunity to avoid some of the penalties traditionally associated with unpaid taxes. - [Suspension of Business Utility Exemption Results in 1% Business Tax on Utilities](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/suspension-of-business-utility-exemption-results-in-1-business-tax-on-utilities) - The Legislature of Louisiana has voted to partially suspend the state sales tax exemption for most business utilities purchases. - [What is depletion and what is its effect on basis?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/what-is-depletion-and-what-is-its-effect-on-basis) - Oil and gas companies who want to calculate their tax burden accurately can't afford to misunderstand depletion. - [Upcoming Changes for our Review, Compilation, and Financial Statement Preparation Clients](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/upcoming-changes-for-our-review-compilation-and-financial-statement-preparation-clients) - There are changes to some of these standards set by the AICPA that go into effect for engagements on financial statements dated on or after Dec. 15, 2015. - [LaPorte Merger with Beyer Stagni Finalized](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-merger-with-beyer-stagni-finalized) - Regional firm LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors (LaPorte) has announced the finalization of its merger with Beyer, Stagni & Company (Beyer Stagni), according to William T. “Ted” Mason, president and CEO of LaPorte. The merger became official on December 1, 2015. The combined firm operates as LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors. Beyer Stagni’s Houma office - [U.S. Small Business Administration Surety Bond Guarantee Program](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/u-s-small-business-administration-surety-bond-guarantee-program) - Many contractors understand the value offered by surety bonds that ensure a project will be completed in the event of contractor default. However, it can be difficult for smaller contracting companies to receive these contract bonds through commercial channels. - [LaPorte Director Eric Bosch Honored as a CityBusiness MoneyMaker](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-director-eric-bosch-honored-as-a-citybusiness-moneymaker) - Eric Bosch, director of Audit Services at LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors, has been selected as one of New Orleans' top financial professionals by New Orleans CityBusiness. Bosch is one of 50 professionals honored for "financial achievements in their respective industries and their community impact." He was honored recently at a luncheon at the Ritz - [LaPorte Announces Intent to Merge with Beyer, Stagni](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-announces-intent-to-merge-with-beyer-stagni) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has announced its intention to merge with Beyer, Stagni & Company following completion of due diligence procedures by both firms. - [HRSA releases proposed 340B Drug Pricing Omnibus Guidance](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/healthcare/hrsa-releases-proposed-340b-drug-pricing-omnibus-guidance) - The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) released its proposed 340B Drug Pricing Program Omnibus Guidance. - [LaPorte Named One of "Best Places to Work" in New Orleans for Ninth Year](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-one-of-best-places-to-work-in-new-orleans-for-ninth-year) - CityBusiness has selected LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors as one of the 2015 “Best Places to Work” for the ninth year in a row. - [Are You Compliant with the Latest Data Security Standard?](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/are-you-compliant-with-the-latest-data-security-standard) - The new Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards require businesses to update and improve security for payments. - [LaPorte Named One of ‘Top 200 Accounting Firms’ for 2015](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-one-of-top-200-accounting-firms-for-2015) - INSIDE Public Accounting has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors as one of the 2015‘ Top 200 Accounting Firms’ in the country for the sixth year in a row. - [GAAP alternative simplified accounting for private companies: common control leasing](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/construction/gaap-alternative-simplified-accounting-for-private-companies-common-control-leasing) - New accounting guidelines mean some business owners may no longer need to consolidate the financial statements of entities related by leasing arrangements. - [Steve Romig Honored by LCPA for Outstanding Service](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/steve-romig-honored-by-lcpa-for-outstanding-service) - Steve Romig, CPA, Advisory Director at LaPorte, received the Distinguished Public Service Award from the Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants. The award is the highest honor given for public service leadership, impact, involvement and innovation of a Louisiana CPA. Romig currently volunteers as a services assistant with the Harry Thompson Center - aiding New - [U.S. Supreme Court Ruling has Broad Implications from a Tax Perspective](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/u-s-supreme-court-ruling-has-broad-implications-from-a-tax-perspective) - In a move with broad tax implications, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that it is legal for all Americans, no matter their gender or sexual orientation, to marry. - [Supreme Court: Affordable Care Act Subsidies Still Legal in All States](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/supreme-court-affordable-care-act-subsidies-still-legal-in-all-states) - On June 25, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that federal healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act are legal in all states, not just those with their own state-run insurance exchanges. - [Selected Bills Passed in 2015 Louisiana Legislative Session](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/selected-bills-passed-in-2015-louisiana-legislative-session) - During the 2015 Louisiana regular legislative session, legislation was passed that will affect many Louisiana taxpayers. Some changes require immediate attention as their effective date is July 1, 2015. - [Nonprofits may be eligible for a refund](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/nonprofits-may-be-eligible-for-a-refund) - Credit is available with or without generating unrelated business income by tax-exempt organizations. - [FASB releases update for pushdown ASU to impact oil & gas industry](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/energy/fasb-releases-update-for-pushdown-asu-to-impact-oil-gas-industry) - The Financial Accounting Standards Board recently released Update No. 2014-`17 for November 2014, known as Business Combinations Topic 805. - [Omni Circular changes in full effect by January 2015](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/nonprofit/omni-circular-changes-in-full-effect-by-january-2015) - The office of Management and Budget is attempting to make good on its vow to streamline guidance for costs principles, audits and administrative requirements associated with federal awards. - [LLWCF Announces Women of Excellence Awards Nominees: LaPorte's Crissie Head named 1 of 5 Nominees under the Business Category](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/llwcf-announces-women-of-excellence-awards-nominees-laportes-crissie-head-named-1-of-5-nominees-under-the-business-category) - The Louisiana Legislative Women's Caucus Foundation announced the nominees for its 2011 Women of Excellence Awards. The awards recognize and honor the exemplary achievements and contributions of extraordinary Louisiana women who personify excellence in their leadership, profession, academics, community service, character and integrity. The categories for the awards are: Business College Woman of Excellence (ages - [LLWCF Announces Women of Excellence Awards Nominees: LaPorte's Crissie Head named 1 of 5 Nominees under the Business Category](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/llwcf-announces-women-of-excellence-awards-nominees-laportes-crissie-head-named-1-of-5-nominees-under-the-business-category) - The Louisiana Legislative Women's Caucus Foundation announced the nominees for its 2011 Women of Excellence Awards. The awards recognize and honor the exemplary achievements and contributions of extraordinary Louisiana women who personify excellence in their leadership, profession, academics, community service, character and integrity. The categories for the awards are: Business College Woman of Excellence (ages - [LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors Named a 2011 Top 200 Accounting Firm by INSIDE Public Accounting](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/first-news-post) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named one of the Top 200 Accounting Firms in the country by INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA), an independent national industry newsletter, in its second annual combined ranking of firms. Selection of the Top 200 Accounting Firms is based on firm revenue, including companies with minimum annual revenues of - [LaPorte Vice President Named One of CityBusiness' 2012 'Women of the Year'](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-vice-president-named-one-of-citybusiness-2012-women-of-the-year) - Dawn Laborie, a Vice President with LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors, has been named one of CityBusiness' Women of the Year - [LaPorte CEO Honored as a 2012 'MoneyMaker' by CityBusiness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-ceo-honored-as-a-2012-moneymaker-by-citybusiness) - Ted Mason, CEO of LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors, has been named as a 2012 'MoneyMaker' by business publication CityBusiness. - [LaPorte Named as a Top Firm to Watch for 2013 by Accounting Today](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-top-firm-to-watch-for-2013-by-accounting-today) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named as one of 35 accounting companies to watch for 2013 in Accounting Today’s ‘Beyond the Top 100 Accounting Firms’ list. - [LaPorte Named to INSIDE Public Accounting's 2013 Top 200 List](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-inside-public-accountings-2013-top-200-list) - LaPorte has been named of the Top 200 Accounting Firms in the country for the fourth year in a row by INSIDE Public Accounting, an independent national industry newsletter. - [ACA Large Employer Mandate Postponed for Some](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/aca-large-employer-mandate-postponed-for-some) - The Treasury Department announced Monday that companies with 50 to 99 employees now have until January 1, 2016, to comply with the ACA Large Employer mandate. - [Take advantage of tax-free gifting to transfer wealth](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/take-advantage-of-tax-free-gifting-to-transfer-wealth) - Higher limits for tax-free gifts can help you lower the estate tax your heirs will pay. - [IRS starts off tax season on high note](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/irs-starts-off-tax-season-on-high-note) - The IRS has already received a third of the individual tax returns it expects to process in 2014, just three weeks after the start of the tax season. - [What you need to know about the 3.8 percent Medicare tax](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-3-8-percent-medicare-tax) - This tax season, you may have to pay an additional tax when you file your 2013 federal tax return. - [Small businesses need to prepare for the ACA](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/small-businesses-need-to-prepare-for-the-aca) - By 2016, small businesses with 50 to 100 employers will be mandated to provide health insurance for their employees. - [Bitcoin makes its mark on tax season](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/bitcoin-makes-its-mark-on-tax-season) - Not only are bitcoins being used to purchase albums on Amazon and digital cameras, but the online currency may be serving as a way to pay taxes owed to the IRS. - [Obama proposes tax reform to encourage American employment](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/obama-proposes-tax-reform-to-encourage-american-employment) - Although President Barack Obama made many promises in his State of the Union address on Jan. 28, one of the key points was the mention of tax reform. - [Dave Camp's tax proposals have potential to inform future reform](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/dave-camps-tax-proposals-have-potential-to-inform-future-reform) - February was abuzz with commentary surrounding tax proposals from House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Dave Camp. - [In post-recession world, financial stability and stress have new definitions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/home-page/in-post-recession-world-financial-stability-and-stress-have-new-definitions) - Even as the majority of Americans continue to adjust to different standards for financial stability, stress and discontent have not become disproportionately higher. - [The many benefits of donor-advised funds ](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/the-many-benefits-of-donor-advised-funds) - Donor-advised funds offer an effective means of providing contributions to charitable organizations while still allowing for the contributors to maintain most of the decision-making power. - [The essentials of the FASB's new credit impairment model ](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/the-essentials-of-the-fasbs-new-credit-impairment-model) - The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) recently proposed a revised credit impairment model that would facilitate more efficient recognition of credit losses, specifically those of assets unaccounted for at fair value through net income. - [What banks need to know about changing capital rules ](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/what-banks-need-to-know-about-changing-capital-rules) - On Jan. 1, 2015, many community banks will be subject to changing capital rules that are aimed to improve the quality, while also increasing the quantity, of their respective holdings. - [Senate Committee reports favorably on EXPIRE Act](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/senate-committee-reports-favorably-on-expire-act) - The Senate Finance Committee recently approved extensions contained in the EXPIRE Act of 2014, submitting a favorable verbal vote on April 28. - [Private companies granted exception for VIE analysis ](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/accounting-services/private-companies-granted-exception-for-vie-analysis) - Earlier this year, the Private Company Council (PCC) adjusted its criteria for private companies, simplifying the eligibility process for many seeking GAAP exceptions. - [Multistate Tax Commission gives noncompliant taxpayers chance to lessen penalties](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/multistate-tax-commission-gives-noncompliant-taxpayers-chance-to-lessen-penalties) - Taxpayers who haven't been meeting all of their state tax reporting obligations have an option if they want a chance to lessen the penalties they may incur. - [Obama's 2015 budget proposal and its tax provisions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/obamas-2015-budget-proposal-and-its-tax-provisions) - President Barack Obama recently released his proposal for the federal budget for fiscal year 2015. - [Getting your estate planning started](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/getting-your-estate-planning-started) - Whether you are the owner of a business, hold several properties or just have family that you want to see taken care of after you're gone, it's essential to plan for the future. - [The Obama budget proposal's potential impact on real estate investment ](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/the-obama-budget-proposals-potential-impact-on-real-estate-investment) - As tax rates of all types - for capital gains and otherwise - continue to climb and measures such as the Net Investment Income Tax are implemented, 1031 exchanges figure to become that much more vital to real estate investors. - [What to know about changes to Louisiana's credits for wind and solar energy systems](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tax-services/what-to-know-about-changes-to-louisianas-credits-for-wind-and-solar-energy-systems) - Major changes were recently enacted for the individual and corporate income tax qualifications for the Louisiana Solar Energy credit. - [Louisiana Act 463 officially in effect](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/audit-and-assurance-services/louisiana-act-463-officially-in-effect) - As of Aug. 1, 2014, public entities in Louisiana that issue municipal securities must be in compliance with recordkeeping procedures related to the municipal securities continuing disclosure rule. - [ISACA celebrating 45 years ](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/isaca-celebrating-45-years) - The Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) is celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2014, a milestone that puts into perspective the strides the group has made in terms of its own growth, but also in providing industry leadership. - [Fraud examiner survey reveals proper assessment and controls are essential to mitigating risk](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/risk-advisory-services/fraud-examiner-survey-reveals-proper-assessment-and-controls-are-essential-to-mitigating-risk) - Fraud risk is a real and ever-present concern for a range of industries, no matter the nature of the business or products in question. - [ASU released for government-backed mortgages](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/financial-services/asu-released-for-government-backed-mortgages) - Now that the foreclosure crisis has all but subsided, the sometimes-murky process by which creditors classify distressed government-backed mortgages can be streamlined. - [Preparing for a successful single audit](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/public-sector/preparing-for-a-successful-single-audit) - For controllers of nonprofit organizations and governmental entities, preparing for the annual financial audit is one of most time-consuming tasks of the year. - [LaPorte Named Again to List of 'Best Places to Work'](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-a-best-place-to-work) - CityBusiness, a business publication, has selected LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors as one of the 2014 ‘Best Places to Work’ for the eighth year in a row. - [LaPorte Named to List of "Best Places to Work"](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-to-list-of-best-places-to-work-for-seventh-year-in-a-row) - For the seventh consecutive year, LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors has been named to the list of "Best Places to Work" by New Orleans CityBusiness. The list comprises those local businesses who recognize that their most important asset is their employees. - [ LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors Named a 'Top 200 Accounting Firm' for 2014](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-cpas-business-advisors-named-a-top-200-accounting-firm-for-2014) - (New Orleans, LA, September 30, 2014) INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA), an independent national accounting newsletter, has named LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors as one of the 2014 ‘Top 200 Accounting Firms’ in the country for the fifth year in a row. More than 540 firms participated in this year’s survey. IPA based its selection of the - [Lorem Ipsum Title](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/uncategorized/lorem-ipsum-title) - Lorem Ipsum Extract - [LaPorte Vice President Authors Article for the LCPA](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-vice-president-authors-article-for-the-lcpa) - Michele Avery, CPA/ABV, CVA, MAFF authored an article for the LCPA's monthly magazine entitled Business Valuation, Divorce and Goodwill - A Louisiana Perspective. - [LaPorte Named to Best Places to Work List by CityBusiness for Sixth Consecutive Year!](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-named-a-best-place-to-work-by-citybusiness-for-sixth-consecutive-year) - LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors was named for the sixth consecutive year to the CityBusiness list of Best Places to Work. - [LaPorte Sehrt Romig Hand CPAs Announces Rebranded Name and Logo](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/in-the-news/laporte-sehrt-romig-hand-cpas-announces-rebranded-name-and-logo) - LaPorte Sehrt Romig Hand CPAs is officially changing its corporate identity to LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors. The name change, which is effective immediately, was announced by William ‘Ted’ Mason, CEO and president of the firm. The firm has also redesigned its corporate logo. LaPorte was established in 1946 as two-person independent accounting firm in ## Pages - [Home Page](https://laporte.com/) - Established over 75 years ago, LaPorte is the largest independent accounting and business advisory firm headquartered in Louisiana with over 190 personnel. - [Home Page](https://laporte.com/) - Established over 75 years ago, LaPorte is the largest independent accounting and business advisory firm headquartered in Louisiana with over 190 personnel. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/nonprofit/biographies-group-leaders) - Our Nonprofit Industry Group comprises professionals in traditional audit and tax services, as well as significant management consulting services relevant to our nonprofit clients. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/construction/biographies-group-leaders) - LaPorte’s multi-disciplinary Construction Industry Group comprises professionals who meet monthly to cross-train, identify best practices and review industry trends. - [Forensic and Valuation Services](https://laporte.com/service/forensic-and-valuation) - Our team of consulting professionals has decades of experience addressing complex accounting, financial and business issues in litigation matters and other disputes. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/service/forensic-and-valuation/biographies-group-leaders) - Our Construction Industry Group comprises tax, audit and accounting services professionals who meet monthly to cross-train, identify best practices and review industry trends. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchbr2) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchbr) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchbr3) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchneworleans) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchhbj2) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchbizwebsponsor) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchbizwelcomead) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchbizeblast) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchfacebook) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchlinkedin) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchhbjhomepage) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchhbjmobile) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switch) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Partners](https://laporte.com/who-we-are/directors-2) - Eric E. Bosch, CPA Louisiana Market Leader | Partner Biography Jose 'Joe' Alcorta, Jr., CPA Partner Biography Mohamad “Mo” Al-kawafha, CPA, CGMA, MBA Partner Biography Frank Auberle, CPA Partner Biography Wendi Berthelot, CPA, MBA Partner Biography Jennifer Bordes, CPA, CSEP, MS Partner Biography Randy C. Buckner, CPA Partner Biography Christina Chifici, CPA, CGMA, CIT, CCIFP - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/real-estate/biographies-group-leaders) - Our Real Estate Industry Group includes audit, tax and consulting professionals who work together to serve developers, owners, investors, managers and others involved in the real estate industry. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/professional-services/biographies-group-leaders) - The LaPorte Professional Services Industry Group has over 25 years of working with architects, engineers, physicians, lawyers, and others, to help identify problems and develop practical solutions. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/healthcare/biographies-group-leaders) - Our Healthcare Industry Group comprises tax, audit and advisory professionals who are active participants in local healthcare trade associations as speakers, trainers, and corporate sponsors. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/energy/biographies-group-leaders) - Our Construction Industry Group comprises tax, audit and accounting services professionals who meet monthly to cross-train, identify best practices and review industry trends. - [LaPorte - Houston](https://laporte.com/laporte-houston) - Contact LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [Contact](https://laporte.com/contact) - Contact LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [Newsletter | Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits](https://laporte.com/industry/nonprofit/newsletter-profitable-solutions-for-nonprofits) - This quarterly newsletter discusses a broad range of accounting, compliance, technology, governance and management issues relevant to the nonprofit industry. - [Historic Tax Credit Services Group](https://laporte.com/service/historical-tax-service) - The LaPorte Historic Tax Credit Services Group works with investors, bankers, developers, and attorneys as they address the complexities of historic tax credits on the federal and state levels. - [Newsletter | Construction Industry Advisor](https://laporte.com/industry/construction/construction-industry-advisor-newsletter) - Eight-page quarterly newsletter discusses a broad range of relevant tax, accounting, management and financial planning issues for the construction industry. - [Quality Assurance](https://laporte.com/who-we-are/quality-assurance) - LaPorte is committed to meeting and maintaining our industry’s professional standards for quality. - [proposal](https://laporte.com/proposal) - [Careers](https://laporte.com/career) - Learn about Careers at LaPorte, one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas with offices in New Orleans, Houston, Baton Rouge, Covington, and Houma. - [Current Job Openings](https://laporte.com/career/current-jobs) - Current Job Openings at LaPorte, one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas with offices in New Orleans, Houston, Baton Rouge, and Covington. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/public-sector/biographies-group-leaders) - Our Public Sector Industry Group of tax, audit and accounting professionals meets monthly to identify best practices for a broad range of governmental entity clients. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/financial-services/biographies-group-leaders) - Our Financial Services Industry Group is made up of tax, audit and accounting services professionals who meet monthly to work together to reach collective solutions for our clients. - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/industry/dealership-services/biographies-group-leaders) - LaPorte’s multi-disciplinary Construction Industry Group comprises professionals who meet monthly to cross-train, identify best practices and review industry trends. - [Melanie Garofalo, CPA](https://laporte.com/melanie-garofalo-cpa) - Melanie Muller Garafalo, CPA, Sr. Manager, Tax Services, serves clients including corporations, S corporations, partnerships, LLCs and high wealth individuals. - [Real Estate](https://laporte.com/industry/real-estate) - Our Real Estate Industry Group includes several real estate professionals who have spent their entire careers serving the real estate industry's business planning, tax, and accounting needs. - [Public Sector](https://laporte.com/industry/public-sector) - Our Public Sector Industry Group of 20 multidisciplinary professionals serves a broad range of governmental entities. - [Professional Services](https://laporte.com/industry/professional-services) - Our team of CPAs, tax professionals, accountants, and law firm practice management consultants has a record of helping meet the business planning, tax, and accounting needs of law firms and others involved in the industry. - [Nonprofit](https://laporte.com/industry/nonprofit) - Our Nonprofit Industry Group provides nonprofit clients with traditional audit and tax services, as well as significant management consulting services. - [Hospitality and Entertainment](https://laporte.com/industry/hospitality-entertainment) - A team of professionals with an in-depth knowledge of the unique audit, tax, and consulting needs of hotels, restaurants, and film and media production companies. - [Healthcare](https://laporte.com/industry/healthcare) - Our Healthcare Industry Group provides audit and assurance, advisory, and tax services to our healthcare clients. - [Financial Services](https://laporte.com/industry/financial-services) - At LaPorte, we expand beyond traditional accounting services to meet client needs. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [Energy](https://laporte.com/industry/energy) - Our Energy Industry Group serves a loyal client base in Louisiana and Texas. LaPorte professionals provide a diversity of services for exploration and production companies and oilfield service companies. - [Dealership Services](https://laporte.com/industry/dealership-services) - At LaPorte, we expand beyond traditional accounting services to meet client needs. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [Construction](https://laporte.com/industry/construction) - The LaPorte Construction Industry Group understands the special audit, tax, and consulting needs of construction-related businesses. - [Cost Segregation](https://laporte.com/service/cost-segregation) - Cost segregation allows parts of the property to be depreciated over a shorter term by reclassifying certain costs. - [Transaction Advisory Services](https://laporte.com/service/transaction-advisory) - LaPorte’s Transaction Advisory Services professionals offer an integrated approach to business transactions. - [Tax Services](https://laporte.com/service/tax-services) - Our highly credentialed professionals in the LaPorte Tax Services Group understand the complexities and unique compliance issues that our clients face. - [Sales and Use Tax Services](https://laporte.com/service/sales-and-use-tax-services) - LaPorte's Sales and Use Tax Services Group helps business owners navigate the challenges that come when they do business across state or county/parish lines. - [Risk Advisory Services](https://laporte.com/service/risk-advisory) - The LaPorte Risk Advisory Services Group assists its clients in managing risk and optimizing organizational performance. - [International Services](https://laporte.com/service/international-tax-services) - Our international tax and assurance professionals help clients understand and stay on top of tax laws and international accounting standards around the world. - [Estate Planning Services](https://laporte.com/service/estate-planning) - LaPorte's Estate Planners will review your current plan to ensure it fits your present situation and update it as your financial circumstances change. - [Employee Benefit Plan Services](https://laporte.com/service/employee-benefit-plan-audit-services) - LaPorte's Employee Benefit Plan Services Group audits approximately 100 plans annually, including plans with over 19,000 participants & assets over $700 million - [Audit and Assurance Services](https://laporte.com/service/audit-and-assurance) - Our service approach aims to provide clients, private investors, lenders, bonding companies & regulatory agencies confidence in the audited financial statements - [Client Accounting and Advisory Services](https://laporte.com/service/accounting) - The LaPorte Accounting Services Group is dedicated to providing a broad base of accounting services to our clients. LaPorte has offices in Louisiana and Texas. - [Cherish van Mullem, CPA, JD LLM](https://laporte.com/cherish-van-mullem-cpa-jd-llm-2) - DIRECTOR, TAX SERVICES ABOUT CHERISH Cherish joined LaPorte in 2018 where she provides tax planning, advisory, and compliance services to a variety of clients, with a focus on estate, gift, and succession planning, and on state and local, and family business tax planning. With her extensive experience, Cherish delivers advisory services to family offices on - [Kevin W. Hand, CPA, CHAE](https://laporte.com/kevin-w-hand-cpa-chae) - Accounting Services Director-in-Charge, Kevin Hand, leads a team serving over 300 clients ranging in size from start up to large middle market companies. - [Benjamin P. Gomez, CPA](https://laporte.com/benjamin-p-gomez-cpa) - DIRECTOR, AUDIT AND ASSURANCE SERVICES ABOUT BENJAMIN Ben is the founder of Gomez and Co., a full-service CPA firm which joined LaPorte in 2023. He has provided audit and tax services to a variety of clients including proprietary schools, mortgage companies, construction companies, and municipal water districts. He also has governmental and single audit experience - [Elisa Annelin, CPA/CFF, CFE, MPA, MA](https://laporte.com/elisa-annelin-cpa-cff-cfe-mpa-ma) - Elisa Annelin, LaPorte Director of Consulting Services, has extensive experience in advanced forensic accounting and executing complex financial investigations. - [Knowledge Center](https://laporte.com/knowledge-center) - In an effort to provide resources to our clients and community, LaPorte's Knowledge Center offers access to our many blogs, videos, and whitepapers. - [Firm Profile](https://laporte.com/who-we-are/firm-profile) - LaPorte is among the largest regional independent audit, tax, and consulting firms with 190 personnel in New Orleans, Houston, Baton Rouge, Covington and Houma. - [Industries](https://laporte.com/industry) - LaPorte serves clients in all major industries, and its qualifications are enhanced by the deep resources available through the McGladrey Alliance. - [Trish Thibodeau, CPA](https://laporte.com/trish-thibodeau-cpa) - Trish Thibodeau provides audit and consulting services to a variety of clients, including EBPs and healthcare, nonprofit, and public sector entities. - [Brandon Demarest, CPA](https://laporte.com/brandon-demarest-cpa) - Brandon Demarest, CPA, is a senior manager at LaPorte and provides audit and assurance services to clients across a variety of industries. - [Christopher A. Breaux, CPA](https://laporte.com/christopher-a-breaux-cpa) - Christopher Breaux, CPA, is a senior manager in LaPorte's Audit and Assurance Services Group. His focus is primarily in public sector and nonprofit clients. - [Download the plan to switch CPA firms](https://laporte.com/switchhouston) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Karine Makaryan, CPA](https://laporte.com/karine-makaryan-cpa) - Karine Makaryan, CPA, has performed audit and assurance services for clients in a variety of industries including nonprofit and real estate. - [Michael A. "Mike" Ramsey, CPA](https://laporte.com/michael-a-mike-ramsey-cpa) - Michael Ramsey, CPA, Sr. Manager in Accounting Services, has decades of accounting experience, including serving as a controller for 16 years. - [Matthew Nalls, CPA, CIA, MAcc](https://laporte.com/matthew-nalls-cpa-cia-macc) - Matt Nalls provides outsourced controllership/CFO services, accounting services, and business consulting services to clients in a variety of industries. - [Nikki Geesling, CPA](https://laporte.com/nikki-geesling-cpa) - Nikki Geesling, Sr. Manager, Accounting Services, helps her clients with financial statement preparation, accounting, budgeting, sales tax, and cash management. - [German Lopez, CPA, CMA, MSACCY](https://laporte.com/german-lopez-cpa-cma-msaccy) - SENIOR MANAGER, CLIENT ACCOUNTING AND ADVISORY SERVICES ABOUT GERMAN German joined LaPorte in 2025 and provides outsourced controllership/CFO services, accounting services, and business consulting services to clients in a variety of industries. He has over 16 years of public accounting experience, providing audits, reviews, compilations, and accounting services to nonprofit organizations, governmental entities, oil field - [All Services](https://laporte.com/service) - A full-service firm with five offices in LA and TX, LaPorte's services include Audit and Assurance; Tax Planning and Compliance; and Accounting Services. - [Community and Civic Involvement](https://laporte.com/who-we-are/community-involvement) - Giving back to our communities and profession is engrained in our culture. We encourage all professionals senior level and above to be active leaders in community and civic. - [Clearly Rated Client Testimonials](https://laporte.com/who-we-are/clearly-rated-client-testimonials) - LaPorte is one of the largest regional independent audit, tax, and consulting firms with 190 personnel in New Orleans, Houston, Baton Rouge, Covington and Houma. - [Videos](https://laporte.com/videos) - Nonprofit Industry Group Historic Tax Services Group Internal Controls Assessments Transaction Advisory Services Professional Services Group Accounting Services Group Tax Services Group Careers at LaPorte: Part 1 Financial Services Group Public Sector Group Audit and Assurance Group International Services Group HealthCare Industry Group Real Estate Industry Group Estate Planning Group Strategic Planning - [LaPorte - Houma](https://laporte.com/laporte-houma) - Contact LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [Laporte - Covington](https://laporte.com/laporte-covington) - Contact LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [LaPorte - Baton Rouge](https://laporte.com/laporte-baton-rouge) - Contact LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [Laporte - New Orleans](https://laporte.com/laporte-new-orleans) - Contact LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [WhitePapers](https://laporte.com/whitepapers) - [Real Estate Website Links](https://laporte.com/industry/real-estate/website-links) - These website links offer resources for those professionals involved in the real estate industry with business planning, tax, and accounting needs. - [Client Testimonials](https://laporte.com/industry/real-estate/client-testimonials) - Several of our real estate professionals have spent their entire careers, spanning decades, serving the industry. View feedback from our clients on the capabilities of our team. - [Client Testimonials](https://laporte.com/industry/public-sector/client-testimonials) - The LaPorte Construction Industry Group has worked with clients for over half a century. View feedback from our clients on the capabilities of our team. - [Nonprofit Website Links](https://laporte.com/industry/nonprofit/website-links) - These website links offer resources for those professionals in the nonprofit arena with special audit, tax, and advisory needs. - [Client Testimonials](https://laporte.com/industry/nonprofit/client-testimonials) - Our Nonprofit Industry Group provides nonprofit clients with traditional audit and tax services, as well as significant management consulting services. - [Hospitality and Entertainment Website Links](https://laporte.com/industry/hospitality-entertainment/website-links) - LaPorte has put together a list of website links that may be of interest to those professionals working in hotels, restaurants, film and media production companies. - [Mission and Values](https://laporte.com/who-we-are/mission-and-values) - At LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors, our mission is to help our clients achieve their goals through quality, timely service with honesty and integrity. - [Healthcare Website Links](https://laporte.com/industry/healthcare/website-links) - These website links offer resources for those healthcare professionals with special audit, tax, and advisory needs. - [Client Testimonials](https://laporte.com/industry/healthcare/client-testimonials) - Our Healthcare Industry Group, made up of tax, audit and advisory professionals, is committed to the healthcare industry. View feedback from our clients on the capabilities of our team. - [Client Testimonials](https://laporte.com/industry/financial-services/client-testimonials) - Serving the financial services industry has long been a focus of LaPorte CPAs & Business Advisors. View feedback from our clients on the capabilities of our team. - [Financial Services Website Links](https://laporte.com/industry/financial-services/website-links) - We offer a list of website links that may be useful to accounting services, tax and audit professionals working in the financial services industry. - [Dealership Services Website Links](https://laporte.com/industry/dealership-services/dealership-services-website-links) - These website links offer resources for those professionals working in construction-related businesses with special audit, tax, and consulting needs. - [Construction Website Links](https://laporte.com/industry/construction/construction-website-links) - These website links offer resources for those professionals working in construction-related businesses with special audit, tax, and consulting needs. - [Client Testimonials](https://laporte.com/industry/construction/client-testimonials) - The LaPorte Construction Industry Group has worked with clients for over half a century. View feedback from our clients on the capabilities of our team. - [Faces of LaPorte](https://laporte.com/faces-of-laporte) - At LaPorte, our employees are more than just part of the team—they’re the heart of everything we do. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and passions that drive our success and enrich our workplace culture. In our “Faces of LaPorte” series, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented individuals who make LaPorte an exceptional place - [Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter) - As a resource for our clients, our blogs cover a wide range of topics, including changing standards, legislative updates, and more industry-specific topics. - [Ethan Allen, CPA](https://laporte.com/ethan-allen-cpa) - Ethan Allen, Sr. Manager, Tax Services, provides tax compliance and planning services to corporations, S corporations, partnerships, & high-wealth individuals. - [Connor Brown, CPA](https://laporte.com/connor-brown-cpa) - Connor Brown, CPA, provides tax compliance and planning services to his clients and is a co-leader of LaPorte's Professional Services Industry Group. - [Economic Insights Resource Center](https://laporte.com/economic-insights-resource-center) - Through our relationship with RSM’s Professional Service+ Practice, we have access to a wide variety of articles on topics that matter to the middle market, including RSM’s The Real Economy. This monthly publication provides articles and information on a range of topics that affect the economy including political unrest, supply chain issues, labor and workforce, - [Leadership Directory](https://laporte.com/directory) - DepartmentAll DepartmentsAccounting ServicesAudit and Assurance ServicesChief Executive OfficerConsulting ServicesForensic and Valuation ServicesHealthcare Advisory ServicesHuman ResourcesInformation TechnologyMarketingOperationsTax Services OfficeAll OfficesMetairieHoustonBaton RougeCovingtonHouma Last NameAll EmployeesABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ Search Mohamed "Mo" Al-kawafha, CPA, CGMA, MBA Director Audit and Assurance Services Office: Houston VCard Jose 'Joe' Alcorta, Jr., CPA Director Audit and Assurance Services Office: Houston VCard Ethan Allen, CPA Senior Manager Tax - [Confidence](https://laporte.com/confidence) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Legal Disclosure](https://laporte.com/legal) - LaPorte is A Professional Accounting Corporation serving clients through its four Louisiana offices (New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Covington, and Houma) and one Texas office (Houston). LaPorte is a full-service accounting and business consulting firm, offering accounting, audit and assurance, tax, and consulting services. Intellectual Property Information The trademarks, service marks, trade names, domain names and logos - [Biographies | Group Leaders](https://laporte.com/service/transaction-advisory/biographies-group-leaders) - LaPorte’s Transaction Advisory Services team has deep experience providing business valuation, taxation, due diligence, transaction structuring, and financial performance analysis and modelling services, to name a few. - [Holly Sharp, CPA, CFE, CFF](https://laporte.com/holly-sharp-cpa-cfe-cff-3) - ADVISORY DIRECTOR, CONSULTING SERVICES ABOUT HOLLY Holly, a shareholder in the firm, has extensive experience performing consulting work in the areas of taxation for individuals, corporations and other entities, as well as financial planning, estate planning, and business succession planning. Her litigation experience includes testimony and forensic accounting services in accounting, financial, economic and business - [Frank J. Rabito, III, CPA](https://laporte.com/frank-j-rabito-iii-cpa) - Frank J. Rabito, III, CPA, Sr. Manager, Tax Services, serves clients including corporations, S corporations, partnerships, LLCs and high wealth individuals. - [Employee Testimonials](https://laporte.com/career/employee-testimonials) - See what new employees at LaPorte have to say about our talent integration process. - [Caitlin Springer, CPA, MS](https://laporte.com/caitlin-springer-cpa-ms) - Caitlin provides tax services to real estate entities, complex structured partnerships, and entities with multistate activities. - [Stacey L. Page, CPA, MBA](https://laporte.com/stacey-l-page-cpa-mba) - Stacey Page, a senior manager in audit and assurance, serves clients in several industries including energy, financial services, and employee benefit plans. - [LaPorte Acquires Gomez & Company](https://laporte.com/laporte-acquires-gomez-company) - Our downloadable plan for switching CPA firms provides proven guidelines for making your way through the proposal process. - [Patrick “Bryan” Huval, CPA, CGFM](https://laporte.com/patrick-bryan-huval-cpa-cgfm) - DIRECTOR, AUDIT AND ASSURANCE SERVICES ABOUT BRYAN Bryan has over 30 years of audit and business consulting experience during which he has served governmental, dealerships, nonprofit, financial services, and general business clients. He provides broad-based business advice to help clients comply with standards and regulations and address the life cycle of their needs. Bryan serves - [Laporte - Corporate Overview Video](https://laporte.com/laporte-corporate-overview-video) - Mauldin & Jenkins Expands National Reach and Service through Strategic Merger with LaPorte November 20, 2025 Mauldin & Jenkins, a Top 100 Certified Public Accounting and Advisory firm, is proud to announce a significant expansion of Read More » LaPorte Named a Top 200 Firm by INSIDE Public Accounting September 18, 2025 LaPorte CPAs & - [REAL ESTATE Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-21) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [PUBLIC SECTOR Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-20) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [Professional Services Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-19) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [HOSPITALITY AND ENTERTAINMENT Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-17) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [HEALTHCARE Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-16) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [FINANCIAL SERVICES Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-15) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [Energy Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-14) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [CONSTRUCTION Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-13) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [Transaction Advisory Services Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-12) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Business Sale Transfers: - [TAX SERVICES Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-11) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [SALES AND USE TAX Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-10) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [RISK ADVISORY Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-9) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. The Psychology of - [INTERNATIONAL Tax SERVICES Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-7) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. A First Look - [HISTORIC TAX CREDIT Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-6) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [BUSINESS VALUATION Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-22) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Louisiana: Road to - [ESTATE PLANNING Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-5) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. What would an - [EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN AUDIT Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-4) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Plan Sponsors, are - [COST SEGREGATION Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-3) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Exempt organizations matters - [AUDIT AND ASSURANCE Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-2) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. LaPorte Directors Receive - [Accounting Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Why Timely Unclaimed - [NONPROFIT Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-18) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. Feeling Charitable? Act - [Appointments](https://laporte.com/appointment) - Contact LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas. - [LaPorte Ad Campaign](https://laporte.com/laporte-ad-campaign) - LaPorte's 2013 Ad Campaign - [Thank You](https://laporte.com/thank-you-3) - Thank you! We have received your information and will be in touch soon. Back to our Knowledge Center - [Industry-specific Software Knowledge](https://laporte.com/service/industry-specific-software-knowledge) - The LaPorte Accounting Services Group is dedicated to providing a broad base of accounting services to our clients. LaPorte has offices in Louisiana and Texas. - [Available Accounting Services](https://laporte.com/service/available-accounting-services) - In addition to our bundled, customizable three-tiered structure, LaPorte also offer a variety of accounting services on a project or recurring basis. - [Coronavirus Resource Center](https://laporte.com/coronavirus) - We understand the need for guidance in this rapidly changing time of COVID-19. We’ve created this Coronavirus Resource Center as a place you can look to provide answers on relief legislation, tax and regulatory guidance and impact to the economy. Information is being updated on an ongoing basis. Please refer to the most recent updates first - [Profile](https://laporte.com/profile) - [booking](https://laporte.com/booking) - [RSS News Subscription](https://laporte.com/rss-news-subscription) - [Thank You - Contact](https://laporte.com/thank-you-contact) - Thank you! We have received your information and will be in touch soon. - [Litigation & Forensic Accounting](https://laporte.com/service/litigation-and-forensic-accounting) - The LaPorte Litigation and Forensic Accounting Services group has experience dealing with complex litigation and forensic accounting issues. - [LITIGATION & FORENSIC accounting Blogs](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter-2-8) - In LaPorte’s continuing effort to transfer knowledge proactively to our clients and community, we offer simplified access to our many blog, video, and whitepaper resources in the Knowledge Center. Here, you can also learn more about LaPorte through a selection of firm-focused videos and recent news releases. Welcome to the Knowledge Center. What Can You - [Privacy Policy](https://laporte.com/privacy-policy) - Information We Collect and How We Use ItYou may choose to provide either business or personal information (such as your name, address, business telephone number, and e-mail address) on this website. Here are the ways you may provide the information, the types of information you may submit and how we may use the information. By - [News Subscription](https://laporte.com/news-subscription) - Stay on top of regulatory changes, tax reform, and happenings in your business or industry. We make it easy for you by delivering relevant blogs straight to you. Sign up today! - [Laporte Blog](https://laporte.com/laporte-blog) - [Make a Payment](https://laporte.com/webpayment) - First Name: Last Name: Phone Number: Company: E-Mail: Invoice Number: Amount: - [EBP Lunch and Learn Presentation](https://laporte.com/ebp-lunch-and-learn-presentation) - LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors is proud to partner with CBD Wealth Management to present this presentation of use to EBP Administrators. - [Nonprofit Sales Tax Seminar](https://laporte.com/nonprofit-sales-tax-seminar) - Nonprofit Sales Tax Seminar - [Surety Roundtable](https://laporte.com/surety-roundtable) - Please join us for dinner, drinks, and a roundtable discussion on construction financial reporting issues relevant to the surety industry. Thursday, August 13, 20155:00pm - 7:00pm City Club of Baton Rouge 355 North Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA [contact-form-7 id="22161" title="Surety Roundtable"] - [Videoconference Series](https://laporte.com/videoconference-series) - Laporte's Presentation Series - [Newsworthy](https://laporte.com/in-the-news) - Latest News. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas with offices in New Orleans, Houston, Baton Rouge, and Covington. - [Thank You](https://laporte.com/thank-you-2) - Thank you for requesting our white paper. Please check your inbox for a link to the white paper. - [Blog](https://laporte.com/blog) - [Who We Are](https://laporte.com/who-we-are) - LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas, with over 190 personnel in New Orleans, Houston, Baton Rouge, and Covington. - [Newsletter Sign-Up](https://laporte.com/contact/newsletter-sign-up) - Stay informed by joining our e-mail list. LaPorte is one of the largest independent audit, tax, and consulting firms in Louisiana and Texas with offices in New Orleans, Houston, Baton Rouge, and Covington. - [Thank You](https://laporte.com/thank-you) - [contact-form-7 id="1601" title="Thank You"] - [OIX Contact Form](https://laporte.com/oix-contact-form) - Thank you for your interest in learning more from LaPorte. Please complete the form below and we will contact you within one business day. [contact-form-7 id="1448" title="OIX Contact Form"] ## Staff Templates - [Laporte Staff - List](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/cpt_staff_lst/laporte-staff-list) ## Tags - [Best Place to Work](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/best-place-to-work) - [payroll withholding rates](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/payroll-withholding-rates) - [preventing financial fraud](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/preventing-financial-fraud) - [ALTA best practices](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/alta-best-practices) - [women of the year](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/women-of-the-year) - [gilbert herrera](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/gilbert-herrera) - [consulting services](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/consulting-services) - [month-end close](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/month-end-close) - [promotions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/promotions) - [LaPorte equity directors](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/laporte-equity-directors) - [gasb 89](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/gasb-89) - [cares act](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/cares-act) - [employee benefit plans](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/employee-benefit-plans) - [PPP Loan Forgiveness](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/ppp-loan-forgiveness) - [sba guidance](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/sba-guidance) - [New Orleans CityBusiness Reader Rankings poll](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/new-orleans-citybusiness-reader-rankings-poll) - [award](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/award) - [PPP](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/ppp) - [ASU 2014-15](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/asu-2014-15) - [going concern](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/going-concern) - [PPP loan](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/ppp-loan) - [change of ownership](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/change-of-ownership) - [shareholders](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/shareholders) - [Consolidated Appropriations Act](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/consolidated-appropriations-act) - [employee retention tax credit](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/employee-retention-tax-credit) - [Consolidation Appropriations Act 2021](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/consolidation-appropriations-act-2021) - [ERTC](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/ertc) - [IRS extensions](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/irs-extensions) - [Hurricane Ida](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/hurricane-ida) - [IRS extension](https://laporte.com/knowledgecenter/tag/irs-extension)