It’s the last week to wear white – at least if you’re not in the healthcare industry, a bride or you just don’t care about old fashion rules. As summer winds down, we’ll soon be packing up our shorts, tank tops and bathing suits and pulling out our jeans and sweaters! Sigh. On to what’s happening in the accounting world: Alicia Katz Pollock kicks off her series of QuickBooks tips and tricks articles in The Woodard Report, opportunities to use your voice to influence IRS and professional oversight, updates on AI security, and more in this edition of In the News.
What’s Happening at Woodard
In Episode 135 of The Woodard Report Podcast, Joe Woodard welcomes Ed Kless, co-founder of Threshold, to explore the emerging Transformation Economy. Together, they unpack why accountants and advisors must push beyond services and experiences to create true, lasting change. Ed shares how transformation—defined as the “from A to B” shift—offers a higher form of value and relevance for both firms and clients.
The latest article from The Woodard Report delivers quick, actionable tips for navigating QuickBooks Online like a pro. From customizing dashboards to filtering reports with precision, these hacks help practitioners get more done in less time.
Regulatory & Oversight Updates
The IRS is calling for public feedback on expanding free tax filing tools. Responses will inform a congressional report, especially following the IRS Direct File pilot and increasing calls for accessible filing options.
The Treasury Department and IRS have released FAQs clarifying the early sunset of certain energy tax credits impacted by new legislation. The guidance addresses timing, eligibility, and filing nuances for practitioners.
The PCAOB is recruiting members for its Investor Advisory Group and Standards & Emerging Issues Advisory Group. Nominees will help shape oversight policy and ensure diverse input on audit quality and future-focused standards.
Technology & Innovation
Intuit and Sovos have announced a strategic partnership to bring globally compliant e-invoicing features to QuickBooks users. This integration aims to simplify regulatory compliance as mandates ramp up worldwide.
ISACA has introduced a new credential focused on AI security, enabling professionals to assess and mitigate risks in machine learning systems. The certification supports firms adopting AI in sensitive, regulated environments.
As accounting firms lean into artificial intelligence, a new CPA Journal piece explores what’s next—emphasizing the need for governance, collaboration, and upskilling to ensure safe, productive adoption across firms.
Industry Trends & Firm Strategy
While many firms tout productivity and collaboration as reasons to return to the office, insiders reveal deeper motives: cultural preservation, junior staff development, and fear of long-term erosion of firm identity.
This HBR article offers a simple four-question framework for deciding when to delegate. It’s a practical tool for firm leaders and managers striving to build accountability while reducing decision fatigue.
Planning ahead for the 2026 ProAdvisor Awards? Insightful Accountant outlines the eligibility criteria, including certifications, innovation, and professional impact.
Stay tuned for next week’s update (on Tuesday) as we continue tracking the developments shaping the future of accounting, leadership, and client service.
The article was drafted by AI and reviewed and edited by a human.