Utilize accounting information resources for technical issues

If you need help with information on accounting principles and standards, take advantage of nonauthoritative resources that aim to provide accounting references to tax professionals.

I recommend: The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) offers members an accounting and auditing technical hotline. You can call an 800 number or use an online form to get free nonauthoritative advice on accounting principles, auditing, attestation and SSARS standards. The Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) also employs a technical inquiry system to encourage uniform application of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Call, e-mail or submit an online form if you have technical questions regarding governmental accounting and financial reporting.

Get authoritative accountancy information from the government sources

Go straight to a government source when you need official guidance on procedures, regulations, rulings and more. Utilize online government resources to access forms, publications and other tools for tax professionals.

I recommend: Read interpretations of federal securities laws or seek guidance from the Office of the Chief Accountant (OCA) through the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website. Questions regarding accounting, financial reporting, auditing as well as auditor independence are encouraged. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website offers tax accounting information for tax professionals. Visit the website for guidance on code and regulations as well as other resources that include Tax Hints, e-News, bulletins and more.

Subscribe to accounting research and reference sources and journals to enhance industry knowledge

Request research on accounting journals as well as news feeds, commentaries and other sources to stay abreast of changes in the field.

I recommend: The Center for Audit Quality (CAQ) provides alerts, comment letters, news feeds, research and more. Sign up to receive notifications from the SEC Regulations Committee and International Practices Task Force. The American Accounting Association (AAA) offers links to accounting research resources that include the AAA Monographs as well as access to databases with indexed accounting research.