Event Highlights

CPAs Partner with Local Media to Provide Free Tax Advice

Tax practitioners know that each tax season presents new challenges, and this year was no exception. The last-minute alternative minimum tax (AMT) patch, later-than-usual availability of some forms, and delays in sending out refund checks were some of this year’s challenges. Add to that the rebate that will be mailed out in May for many taxpayers, and the media recognized that there was more than the usual uncertainty and confusion this year’s tax filing process. They turned to the PICPA to provide them with knowledgeable CPAs who are committed to community service.

Television stations featured CPAs, who hosted phone banks, Web chats, and e-mail discussions to provide taxpayers with individual tax help. Time and again, the PICPA Communications Team called on members to help out during a CPA’s busiest time of year, and members responded with a resounding, “Yes!”

Between Jan. 1 and April 15, 60 CPAs donated 119 hours to provide free tax advice. The volunteers addressed more than 1,500 questions combined, with 200 of these addressed by Ken Chin, Jim Newhard, and Dafna Meltzer on April 14 at NBC-10. PICPA members participated in tax programs on all the major networks in Philadelphia – ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX – and on Pittsburgh’s WPXI-TV (NBC affiliate). The efforts of these CPAs provide immeasurable good will among the public. Plus, members experience true satisfaction in helping individuals who could not afford the much-needed advice of knowledgeable tax professionals. As volunteer Mark Zinman said, “It’s a nice break… and some of these callers really need our help.”

PICPA hopes to keep the momentum going with advice on personal finances throughout the year. A two-hour individual commitment can truly make a big impact. If you would like to be part of the growing trend to provide online and phone advice to consumers, sign up for the Speakers Bureau today!