CPE Catalog & Events

Online: Don Farmer's 2025 Corporate/Business Income Tax Workshop

Join us for Don Farmer's 2025 Corporate/Business Income Tax Workshop — an engaging and insightful look at the latest in corporate and business income taxation. This workshop dives deep into current year developments, recurring challenges and smart planning ideas that will impact 2025 tax return preparation and tax planning. We'll cover all the major new tax legislation and other significant updates affecting individuals, corporations and non-corporate businesses, using a mix of humor and real-world examples to make it easy to digest. Whether you're tackling tax season or planning ahead, you'll leave with actionable strategies and a better understanding of the most important tax changes for 2025. Delivery Method: Group-liveCPE Credit: TaxesProgram Level: Update Virginia Society of CPAs is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State Boards of Accountancy have the final authority on the acceptance of individual course for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org

Don Farmer’s Passive Activities: Foundational Rules, Income Characterization & Strategic Grouping

Demystify the complex world of passive activity rules. Build a rock-solid foundation by learning how to distinguish passive income from nonpassive income and understand the reasoning behind Congress’s creation of these rules — a key to making smart grouping decisions. We’ll take a deep dive into how to group activities in the most tax-efficient way, plus cover clever strategies like creating passive income generators and avoiding the permanent loss of passive activity carryovers. If passive activity rules have ever felt overwhelming, this engaging, practical session will help you turn confusion into confidence.This course is part of a four-seminar series. Take it as a stand-alone seminar or sign up for the entire series for a comprehensive passive activity training.

Don Farmer’s Passive Activities: Material Participation Rules, Time Tracking & Compliance Strategies

Dive into the strategies you need to minimize the impact of the passive activity rules. You’ll learn all seven methods for meeting the “material participation” rules and get the latest insights from recent case law on how these rules are being applied today. We’ll break down which activities and time count toward material participation (and what doesn’t) — and give you practical guidance on how to properly document your clients’ hours to stay audit-ready and compliant. If you’ve ever wrestled with the nuances of material participation, this session will make it clear, manageable and immediately useful.This course is part of a four-seminar series. Take it as a stand-alone seminar or sign up for the entire series for a comprehensive passive activity training.

Don Farmer’s Passive Activities: Rental Real Estate Rules & Exceptions

Take a deep dive into the world of rental real estate and passive activity rules. You’ll learn how the “automatically passive” rule affects rental income — and, more importantly, the exceptions that can turn this to your clients’ advantage. We’ll unpack key exceptions for real estate professionals, short-term rentals, active participation for moderate-income taxpayers, and self-rentals. Plus, you’ll get a clear breakdown of what it really takes to qualify as a real estate professional, and when it makes sense for clients to aggregate rental properties for a better tax outcome. If you work with real estate investors or landlords, this session is packed with actionable strategies you won’t want to miss. This course is part of a four-seminar series. Take it as a stand-alone seminar or sign up for the entire series for a comprehensive passive activity training.

Don Farmer’s Passive Activities: Recharacterization & Disposition Rules

Tackle some of the most advanced — and opportunity-packed — passive activity strategies. Learn how to use the “recharacterization rules” to convert passive income into nonpassive income, a smart move that can help your clients sidestep the net investment income tax. We’ll also cover the critical disposition rules — your go-to strategy for freeing up suspended passive losses when a property or business interest is sold. If you’re ready to put the finishing touches on your passive activity expertise and turn tax rules into real savings for your clients, this is the session to catch. This course is part of a four-seminar series. Take it as a stand-alone seminar or sign up for the entire series for a comprehensive passive activity training.

Don Farmer's 2025 Federal Tax Update

Don Farmer's Annual Review of Tax Court Cases & the Effect on Your Practice & Clients

Put your tax knowledge to the test in this interactive, discussion-based course focused on real tax court cases. Review actual case facts, debate the outcome — will the taxpayer or the IRS prevail? — and then analyze the court’s final decision. We’ll cover key issues like audits, tax return positions, collections and more — all through the lens of actual court decisions. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of the “why” behind the rulings and how to apply those insights in your day-to-day work with clients. It's a fast-moving, eye-opening look at tax law in real life — and how staying informed can help you stay ahead.

Don Farmer's Preparing Form 1065: Navigating the Latest IRS Changes for Partnership Returns

The IRS has made big changes to Form 1065, and we’re here to help you stay ahead. We’ll guide you through a comprehensive, hands-on course for preparing Form 1065. You’ll get an in-depth look at the latest updates and new requirements, along with practical guidance on how to accurately complete partnership tax returns under these new rules. Whether you’re new to partnerships or a seasoned pro, this session will sharpen your skills and boost your confidence heading into tax season.This course is part of a two-seminar series. Take it as a stand-alone seminar or sign up for the entire series for a comprehensive passive activity training.

Don Farmer's Annual Review of IRS Updates & Changes

The IRS is on the move — are you ready? This fast-paced session brings you up to speed on the latest updates straight from the IRS and what they mean for your practice. From audit procedures and process changes to appeals and the Taxpayer Advocate Service, we’ll unpack the developments shaping how you work with the IRS right now.You’ll get practical guidance, real-world tips and plenty of insight to help you navigate shifting expectations with confidence. Whether you’re new to the profession or a seasoned pro, this course will help you better understand the IRS’s current landscape — and what it means for you.

Don Farmer's Preparing Form 1065: Advanced Strategies for Navigating the Latest IRS Changes

The IRS has made big changes to Form 1065, and we’re here to help you stay ahead. Get an in-depth look at the latest updates and new requirements, along with practical guidance on how to accurately complete partnership tax returns under these new rules. Whether you’re new to partnerships or a seasoned pro, this session will sharpen your skills and boost your confidence heading into tax season.This course is part of a two-seminar series. Take it as a stand-alone seminar or sign up for the entire series for a comprehensive passive activity training.

Don Farmer's Preparing Form 1120S: Mastering S Corporation Returns

Join us for a fast-paced, interactive seminar where tax prep meets entertainment. We’ll break down the essentials of preparing Form 1120S, share real-world examples, and sprinkle in humor and practical tips to keep things lively. Whether you're a seasoned pro or looking to sharpen your skills, this seminar will make S corporation returns feel surprisingly fun.This course is part of a two-seminar series. Take it as a stand-alone seminar or sign up for the entire series for a comprehensive passive activity training.

Don Farmer's Preparing Form 1120S: Real-World Insights & Practical Tips for S Corporation Returns

Join us for a lively walkthrough of Form 1120-S. Explore the must-know rules, find out how to apply them in real-life scenarios, and discover ways to make the prep process feel a lot less painful. You’ll walk away with sharper skills, practical insights and a few laughs along the way.This course is part of a two-seminar series. Take it as a stand-alone seminar or sign up for the entire series for a comprehensive passive activity training.

Don Farmer's 2024 Indexed Items & Other Recent Developments

This course is designed specifically for tax professionals looking to deepen their understanding of complex tax laws, strategies, and procedures. With an emphasis on the latest regulations, including the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) and Bonus Depreciation rules, this course covers essential topics such as Backdoor Roth Conversions, Qualified Improvement Property (QIP), and Nondeductible IRA Contributions. You'll gain insight into critical concepts like Capital Gains, Excess Business Losses, and Estate Tax Return (Form 706) filing, along with strategies to navigate complex IRS regulations and administrative procedures, including Chevron Doctrine and Skidmore Standard. Learn the ins and outs of tax-efficient retirement planning, such as Defined Contribution Plans, Solo 401(k), and SEP IRA Contributions. The course also explores essential tax credits like the Child Tax Credit and Phase Out provisions, as well as practical tools for managing client expectations and tax liabilities through Inflation Adjustments and Portability Elections. By the end of the course, tax professionals will be equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to provide their clients with expert advice on retirement planning, business deductions, and estate tax strategies, ensuring full compliance with the latest tax laws. Take your expertise to the next level and stay ahead in an ever-evolving tax landscape. Delivery Method: QAS Self-StudyCPE Credit: TaxationProgram Level: Update  

Don Farmer's 2024 Individual Retirement Plans

With evolving retirement regulations under Secure Act 1.0 & 2.0, tax professionals must stay ahead of complex Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) rules, IRA taxation, and penalty avoidance strategies. This 1-hour specialized course provides an in-depth look at RMD calculations, excise tax pitfalls, beneficiary classifications (EDB vs. NEDB), aggregation rules, and key distribution strategies to help you better advise clients on retirement account compliance. Through real-world scenarios, we’ll break down essential tax concepts, including the Ten-Year Rule, Roth vs. Traditional IRA withdrawals, QCDs, and excise tax waivers. Ensure your clients optimize tax benefits, avoid IRS penalties, and comply with new distribution requirements. Delivery Method: QAS Self-StudyCPE Credit: TaxationProgram Level: Update  

Don Farmer's 2024 Virtual Currency Taxation Essentials

As digital assets like cryptocurrency, NFTs, and staking rewards become more common, tax professionals must stay ahead of evolving regulations. This 1-hour intensive course equips CPAs, tax preparers, and financial professionals with the essential knowledge needed to accurately report and advise clients on crypto taxation, deductions, and compliance. Gain a clear understanding of key tax concepts such as capital gains, FIFO vs. specific identification, Form 1099-K & Form 8300 reporting requirements, look-through analysis, and theft/worthlessness deductions. You'll also explore the implications of hard forks, staking rewards, and digital asset transactions to ensure your clients stay compliant while maximizing tax benefits. Delivery Method: QAS Self-StudyCPE Credit: TaxationProgram Level: Update

Don Farmer's 2024 SECURE ACT 2.0 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023

Stay ahead of the curve with this 1-hour course designed for tax professionals who need to master the complexities of retirement plan regulations, distribution rules, and tax-saving strategies. From 403(b) hardship withdrawals and 529-to-Roth IRA transfers to Secure 2.0 updates and qualified charitable distributions, this course covers it all. Gain essential insights on critical retirement plan issues like RMDs, catch-up contributions, employer incentives, and tax credit opportunities. We’ll dive into complex provisions, including military spouse retirement credits, elective deferrals, and charitable remainder trusts to help you maximize tax efficiency for your clients. You’ll also learn how recent Secure 2.0 legislation impacts mandatory automatic enrollment, Roth 401(k) RMDs, and more. By the end of this session, you’ll be equipped to provide cutting-edge advice on plan amendments, penalties, and distribution strategies, ensuring your clients stay compliant while making the most of their retirement savings. Delivery Method: QAS Self-StudyCPE Credit: TaxationProgram Level: Update

Don Farmer's 2024 Inflation Reduction Act

Don Farmer's 2024 Tax Return Administration & Charitable Contribution Substantiation Issues

Unlock expert insights on tax compliance and charitable contributions. Stay ahead of the curve with our latest updates from the 2024 Individual Income Tax Workshop. Dive into key developments, including first-time penalty abatement, identity protection enhancements, new IRS online tools, and critical changes to Form 1099-K reporting thresholds. Gain clarity on charitable contribution regulations, explore deduction strategies, and learn from real-world cases to avoid common pitfalls. Designed for tax professionals and individuals alike, our workshop equips you with practical tools to navigate complex tax scenarios confidently. Let’s plan smarter for 2024 and beyond! Delivery Method: On-DemandCPE Credit: TaxesProgram Level: Update  

Don Farmer's 2024 Proposals, Expiring Provisions & Disaster Relief

Discover critical tax updates for 2024 and beyond. This workshop provides essential insights into the latest tax policy and relief measures. You’ll explore key tax proposals from President-elect Trump, including potential reductions in corporate tax rates, the possibility of making estate tax cuts permanent, and exemptions for Social Security benefits and tips. The session also covers expiring provisions for 2024 and 2025, highlighting the expiration of key tax credits, deductions, and income tax rate modifications, including those affecting renewable energy incentives and the Child Tax Credit. Additionally, the workshop addresses disaster relief measures for taxpayers impacted by the 2024 hurricanes in the Southeast, including filing and payment extensions, guidance on claiming casualty losses, and the extended deadlines available to those affected. Stay informed and ready for the changes ahead with expert insights into these crucial updates. Delivery Method: On-DemandCPE Credit: TaxesProgram Level: Update  

Don Farmer's 2024 Corporate/Business BOI Reporting & Return Administration

Stay ahead of the latest tax developments and safeguard your business against costly mistakes. The 2024 Corporate/Business BOI Reporting & Return Administration Issues covers critical updates, including detailed insights into IRS standards, evolving tax practices, and new reporting requirements. Learn how to navigate the latest changes to information return penalties and take advantage of new standards for data protection and tax representation. Discover the implications of Supreme Court decisions impacting IRS regulations and explore enhanced business tax accounts and IRS initiatives, including updates to the Offer in Compromise process and alerts on new credit scams. Delivery Method: On-DemandCPE Credit: TaxesProgram Level: Update