PCPS update.

• Position: Private Companies Practice Section

PCPS Update--Critical Information for CPA Firms

PCPS is here to help you succeed. How? We look at resources and regulations and consider how they will affect our members--CPA firms. We bring you up-to-date tools and information that shape your practice today and will affect your business in the future.

What can you do now to get ahead of the game? Here are the best resources, sites, information and events available for CPA firms today. Take advantage of them. Tell us what you need. We're here to help.

"My CPA Says Extend"

This new PCPS brochure explains the extension process for tax returns in simple terms and it answers common questions in an easy-to-read, understandable format. It's a handy way to show clients with complicated or incomplete data how extensions work, allowing you to focus your efforts on the most straightforward returns during the busy season.

You can download a copy at www.pcps.org by clicking on "Member Resources." Printed copies are also available for purchase at www.cpa2biz.com. PCPS member firms can purchase the brochures at the PCPS discounted price of $10.50 per package (50 brochures per package, product no. 017244). Be sure to enter the PCPS code when ordering and then update the cart to ensure that you receive your discount! This code can be found in the e-mail sent to PCPS members in December, or at www.pcps.org. There is also room on the brochure to include your firm name and logo, so that you can include it in mailings and other tax season marketing efforts.

Volunteer for Financial Literacy!

Financial literacy is a pressing national concern--and one that allows firms to elevate their firm brand and position themselves as financial experts. CPAs can now join the effort to help educate Americans of all ages on financial topics through a program called "360 Degrees of Financial Literacy." Launched by the AICPA, this volunteer database matches CPAs with consumers who are seeking financial advice. If CPAs wish to do proactive outreach in their community, the AICPA has developed a suite of resources to support their efforts, including a general financial literacy speech and a PowerPoint presentation. Register at http://volunteers.aicpa.org/financialliteracy by completing a brief application process. CPAs who sign on will be kept updated about the profession's Financial Literacy efforts at both the national and state levels.

For more information on the 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy effort, visit...