Latest Articles

  • Court Ruling Could Open Door to COVID-Era Tax Refund Claims

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 23, 2026
    A recent federal court decision is raising new questions about how tax deadlines were managed during the COVID-19 pandemic and whether some taxpayers could get refunds on interest and penalties from that time.
  • Average Tax Refunds Rise in 2026 as Filing Activity Slows

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 20, 2026
    The average tax refund for the 2026 filing season is higher than it was last year, even though fewer people are filing early. The average refund is now $3,676, compared to $3,324 in 2025. This is a 10.6% increase from last year.  
  • IRS Extends Digital Asset Relief as Reporting Systems Catch Up

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 19, 2026
    The IRS is giving taxpayers and brokers extra time to adjust to new digital asset reporting rules. Relief for cost basis identification will now last through 2026. Notice 2026-20 expands on earlier guidance by letting taxpayers choose how to identify which digital asset units are sold, disposed of, or transferred when held with a broker.  
  • SEC Draws Clearer Lines on Crypto

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 18, 2026
    The SEC's recent interpretation of crypto assets marks an important step toward more transparent regulations. While this is a positive development, there are still bigger questions about how the market is structured. 
  • IIA Pushes to Modernize SOX with Greater Role for Internal Audit

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 18, 2026
    The Institute of Internal Auditors is urging Congress to revisit the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, suggesting that updating the law could better recognize the vital role internal audit plays in our current compliance landscape. The organization shared recommendations to enhance the broader assurance ecosystem, while also considering ways to manage the costs and complexities of SOX compliance.  
  • Tax Scams Intensify as AI Fuels More Sophisticated Fraud Attempts

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 17, 2026
    Tax season has brought a new round of scams targeting taxpayers, with federal agencies and consumer advocates saying that advances in AI are making these scams more convincing and harder to detect. The IRS and the Federal Trade Commission are urging everyone to stay alert, since impersonation scams are still a big threat.  
  • PCAOB Launches New Audit Practitioner Fellowship

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 16, 2026
    The PCAOB has started a new program that brings practicing auditors into its regulatory work. Through the Audit Practitioner Fellowship Program, experienced auditors will work with PCAOB staff on setting standards and related projects. 
  • Treasury Secretary Drops Acting IRS Commissioner Title but Retains Duties

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 16, 2026
    Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is no longer serving as acting commissioner of the IRS, but he will continue to handle the role’s responsibilities until the position is filled. This change follows federal rules for temporary appointments that require Senate confirmation. 
  • Democrats Propose Bill to Eliminate Federal Income Taxes for Some Workers

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 13, 2026
    Democrats in the Senate and House have introduced the Working Americans’ Tax Cut Act. This bill would eliminate federal income taxes for people who make less than $46,000 a year and reduce taxes for those earning up to $80,500.  
  • IRS Updates Filing Process for 501(c)(4) Organizations

    By:
    Emma Slack-Jorgensen
    |
    Mar 13, 2026
    The IRS has updated the process for applying for 501(c)(4) tax-exempt status. Beginning March 9, 2026, organizations will need to file Form 8976, “Notice of Intent to Operate Under Section 501(c)(4),” online through Pay.gov.