President's Message

It's an electrifying time for our association as we dive into another month packed with enriching programs and exciting opportunities.

Our annual program schedule is well underway, and the Credits & Incentives School is happening this month in Atlanta.  I had the honor of participating in the School’s opening session and thoroughly enjoyed meeting many dedicated credits & incentives professionals.  A special shoutout goes to Blair Burns Westmoreland, CCIP, Marty Wilson, CCIP, and the entire School Committee for orchestrating such a phenomenal event.  I also appreciate the enthusiasm of the attendees, who will undoubtedly make this an unparalleled educational experience.   

I’m excited to share IPT will host its first Value Added Tax School in May, and the response has been tremendous.  The School is nearly at capacity, and the VAT School Committee looks forward to welcoming this inaugural class to Dallas for a week of comprehensive instruction on all things VAT.  The State Income Tax School follows in July, and August kicks off the first of our three Property Tax Schools.  

I want to note that this year, IPT’s Scholarship Committee has established two new scholarship opportunities related to the advanced property tax schools.   This unique opportunity allows corporate members the chance to secure one of two scholarships, each valued at up to $3,000, to attend one of the prestigious Advanced Property Tax Schools.  The scholarships consist of one for the Real Property Tax School and another for the Personal Property Tax School.  These schools are essential components for individuals aspiring to attain the CMI-Property Tax Designation, and this opportunity can help worthy candidates achieve that goal.  Visit IPT’s Scholarship Page to learn more about this opportunity and apply.  Please spread the word about this opportunity if you know someone who may be interested.   

We are also gearing up for the fall symposiums.  The planning committees for each program are working diligently to develop agendas that provide the vital information you have come to expect.  They are thoughtfully crafting well-rounded agendas that include essential legislative updates, industry best practices, and emerging issues to help you effectively navigate the changing SALT environment.  You can also expect a new and exciting lineup of networking activities to help you expand your professional network and connect with colleagues.  I eagerly anticipate these symposiums and encourage you to make your plans to attend.  

For those who haven't yet secured their spot at this year's Annual Conference, I urge you to do so promptly, as hotel space is filling up fast.  Don't forget to grab your SALTaritaville gear for the Tuesday evening reception—it's sure to be a blast with Jimmy’s Buffet on deck to entertain us.

And speaking of excitement, there's still room available on the pre-conference excursion to tour the USS Midway Museum.  Visit the Annual Conference registration page to sign up.  Trust me, it's an experience you won't want to miss.

I'm eagerly counting down the days until we reunite in June.  Until then, thank you all for your unwavering support and dedication to IPT.  Hope to see you at an IPT event in the near future!

Allan Wells, CMI
IPT President 

IPT Property Tax  Article  

Paul E. Pennington		Melinda D. Blackwell, Esq.
President/Owner		Director of Litigation
P.E. Pennington & Co, Inc.		Blackwell & Duncan, PLLC

What is the Texas Circuit Breaker?
(Sec. 23.231. Circuit Breaker Limitation on Appraised Value of Real Property, Texas Property Tax Code)

By Paul Pennington and Melinda Blackwell

Texans don’t have an income tax, but they pay some of the highest property taxes in the country. This point is driven home by elected officials every legislative session.  Each chance they get, they attempt to pass some sort of property tax relief to taxpayers, especially homeowners. 
For example, in 2019 Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed into law Senate Bill 2. This Bill, among other things, limited the growth of tax rates for counties and cities to a maximum of 3.5% without a popular referendum. It also included $5.1 billion to buy down the school tax rates. During the subsequent 2021 session the Legislature passed various changes to the Texas Property Code including an increase to the homestead exemption for school taxes from $25,000 to $40,000. Moving into the 2023 legislative session, the Texas Comptroller told lawmakers they would have a historic budget surplus of $33 billion. Upon hearing this news, calls for property tax cuts were thrust into the forefront of priorities for the Governor and those in the legislature. 

Read More 


Contact Jennifer Newman if you have an article to submit for the Insider. 

At the School, participants will experience a deep dive into essential concepts and gain a profound understanding of crucial sales & use tax principles and their real-world applications. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to navigate the intricate nuances of specific industries.  

Led by seasoned tax professionals from corporate, legal, and consulting spheres, the faculty is a team of recognized leaders in sales & use taxation, commerce and trade, and tax administration. Participants will benefit greatly from their wealth of experience and expertise.

The School is comprised of workshop sessions where theory meets practice. Attendees will discuss materials presented, share insights, and apply concepts to typical sales & use tax scenarios. It's a hands-on approach that prepares participants to tackle real-world challenges. Sales Tax School II is not just about learning; it's about excelling.

Topics covered at the School include:
⦁ Constitutional Law
⦁ Computer Software & Services
⦁ Telecommunications
⦁ Leasing 
⦁ Audit Management
⦁ Taxpayer Remedies
⦁ Statistical and Block Sampling
⦁ Mergers & Acquisitions
⦁ Retail
⦁ Taxation of E-Commerce Manufacturing 
⦁ Construction Contracting
⦁ Managing the Sales & Use Tax Function
⦁ Oil and Gas 
⦁ Ethics in Taxation 

Sales Tax School II is available to tax professionals who have passed Sales Tax School I or successfully completed the Online Sales Tax School I Competency Exam. Completing and passing School II is a mandatory requirement for earning the CMI - Sales Tax designation; School II cannot be challenged. Attendees can earn up to 34.2 continuing education credits, including 1.2 dedicated to IPT Ethics. Sales Tax School II is not just an education; it's an investment in career growth. Enroll today for a brighter, more knowledgeable tomorrow!

Register

IPT's Newest Addition - the Value Added Tax School is Coming Soon!

IPT's Value Added Tax School 
May 6 - 9, 2024
Hilton DFW Lakes Executive Conference Center
Grapevine, Texas 

IPT's Value Added Tax (“VAT”) School is a four-day program that provides an intermediate but broad foundation in the theory and practical aspects of worldwide VAT.  During the School, participants will receive a comprehensive review and analysis of many different and essential VAT principles and concepts, including compliance, research, accounting, audit, and other technical skills.  Registrants will work through the material with Instructors leading the discussion during the session.

All of the school's sessions are led by diverse faculty from the industry and consulting sectors and are backed by real-world experience.  The instructors are available and willing to answer questions and help participants understand the concepts presented.

A final examination will be given at the conclusion of the school.  A passing score must be realized on the examination for successful school completion.  The final examination must be taken on IPT's Learning Management System.  There are no exceptions to taking the examination at or within the stated time.  In addition, participants are required to attend the mandatory ethics session for successful completion of the course.  Approximately 21 continuing education credits, including 1.4 IPT Ethics credit hours, are available for full attendance. School participants must attend the mandatory ethics session to successfully complete the course. 

Register

Registration is Open for the State Income Tax School

Are you ready to advance your career in tax? Look no further than IPT's State Income Tax School, the pinnacle of state income tax education for today's tax professionals.

The School offers a comprehensive curriculum with a balanced mix of fundamental principles and advanced topics, ensuring you're equipped to tackle any state income tax challenge.  The faculty is comprised of seasoned professionals who provide practical skills and strategies to manage complex tax issues effectively who provide a deep dive into the intricate problems state income tax professionals encounter regularly. By attending the School, you will gain invaluable insights that will set you apart in the field. 

Key Topics Covered:

• Jurisdiction to Tax: Federal Constitutional Limitations
• Nexus and P.L. 86-272
• Determination of Income Tax Base
• Income Subject to Allocation
• Unitary Business Principle
• Fundamentals of Formulary Apportionment
• Tax Return Filing Methodologies
• SALT Tax Provisions & Accruals
• Pass Through and Disregarded Entities
• Common Issues in Mergers & Acquisitions
• Handling an Income Tax Audit
• Researching & Documenting Findings
• Ethics

Successfully completing IPT's State Income Tax School is a mandatory requirement for the prestigious CMI - State Income Tax designation. Attendees can earn up to 27 continuing education credits for attending, including 1.2 hours of IPT ethics.

Don't miss out on this career-defining opportunity. Enroll today and take your expertise to new heights!

Register today! 

Upcoming IPT Local Luncheons

IPT St. Louis Local Luncheon Group Spring Luncheon
When:  April 30, 2024 @ 11am
Location:  Westport Event Center, Maryland Heights, MO
Topics:  Legislative Updates, Business Personal Property, and Audit Panel - Best Practices
Speakers: 
⦁ Ray McCarty, Associated Industries of Missouri
⦁ Jenna Kenwood, Armanino, 
⦁ Lance Warren, Anders CPA
⦁ Eric Hill, Graybar

Contact Matt Landwehr for more information.

Atlanta Local Luncheon Group  
When:  Wednesday, May 22, 2024 @ 11am
Where:  Maggiano's Perimeter, 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta GA 30346
Topic:  Georgia Department of Revenue – Indirect Tax Updates
Register:  Atlanta IPT Luncheon Group
Registration will open on April 22, 2024       
For more information, please contact Samantha McBean at sm357r@att.com or Marcia Shippey-Pryce at mshippeypryce@deloitte.com.
Please let us know in advance of the event, any special dietary needs you may have so we can make accommodations.

Make Your Plans to Attend IPT's 2024 Property Tax Schools

Scholarship Opportunities to Attend IPT's Advanced Property Tax Schools

Announcing a New Scholarship Opportunity - Advanced Property Tax School Scholarships

IPT is pleased to announce a unique opportunity for its corporate members—a chance to secure one of two scholarships, each valued at up to $3,000, to attend one of the prestigious Advanced Property Tax Schools. 

This exclusive offering includes one scholarship for the Real Property Tax School and another for the Personal Property Tax School. It is important to note that while the scholarships cover a substantial portion of the overall school expenses, some costs, such as registration fees, hotel accommodations,  and associated travel, may not be fully covered. 

This outstanding opportunity is exclusively available to corporate IPT members, and the application deadline is June 15, 2024. 

These schools are essential components for individuals aspiring to attain the CMI-Property Tax Designation and candidates are encouraged to visit the Property Tax CMI Professional Designation page for more information. 

Seize this chance to elevate your expertise and advance your career in property taxation!

To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must supply:
⦁ Completed Application form.
⦁ A short statement describing their interest in ad valorem taxation.
⦁ A letter of recommendation provided by their supervisor with contact information for verification.

Scholarship Brochure
Application Form

Join IPT in San Diego This June!




Join your tax colleagues this June for an unrivaled exploration of state and local taxation at IPT's 48th Annual Conference, set against the breathtaking backdrop of San Diego's vibrant waterfront. Immerse yourself in cutting-edge sessions covering all facets of SALT disciplines, ensuring you stay at the forefront of industry trends. Here's a look at what to expect when you attend.

Conference Highlights:
⦁ The best and brightest will be on hand to keep you informed on the most crucial SALT issues. 
⦁ In-depth sessions led by industry experts covering the latest in SALT.
⦁ A dynamic keynote speaker who has three Super Bowl titles to his name.
⦁ Multiple networking opportunities to connect with fellow professionals and expand your professional circle.
⦁ Sessions and discussions that span the full spectrum of IPT's SALT disciplines and foster a comprehensive learning experience.

San Diego Extravaganza:
But it's not just about business – take advantage of your conference location!
⦁ Unparalleled Location: The Hilton San Diego Bayfront is next to the San Diego Padres' Petco Park (the team will be in town), with easy access to the bustling Gaslamp Quarter. 
⦁ In the Heart of it All: Explore the Bayfront, local attractions, and other sights near the hotel, offering a travel destination experience like no other. 
⦁ Culinary Delights: Indulge in a culinary adventure with San Diego's diverse restaurant scene, ranging from trendy eateries to gourmet delights. 
⦁ Family-Friendly Fun: Bring your loved ones and enjoy family-friendly activities near the beautiful Bayfront. 

Amazing Weather Awaits:
San Diego welcomes you with its signature sunshine and mild temperatures in June. Enjoy perfect weather to complement your conference experience and make the most of your free time.

Mark your calendars for a dual celebration of professional growth and leisure in one of America's finest cities! Secure your spot at IPT's Annual Conference in San Diego – where SALT expertise meets coastal charm. See you in June!

Learn More!

Check Out the Topics at the Annual Conference!

As one of the year's most anticipated programs, IPT's Annual Conference is renowned for its comprehensive coverage of SALT topics, providing invaluable insights into property tax, sales and use tax, state income tax, and credits & incentives. Whether you're seeking to stay ahead of the latest regulatory changes, deepen your expertise, or connect with fellow professionals, this conference is designed to meet your needs.

Click here to see the Annual Conference sessions!

Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to expand your knowledge, connect with industry peers, and stay ahead in the dynamic world of state and local taxation. Register now to secure your spot at IPT's 48th Annual Conference in beautiful San Diego!

Help keep the lines of communication open with IPT! 

Since the February 1, 2024 changes made by Google and Yahoo for email senders, some of you may not have received email communications from IPT. If you or your colleagues are not getting communication from the Institute, please add iptinfo@ipt.ccsend.com to your "safe senders" list.

To update your contact information, go to ipt.org and log in to the website.  Click on your name, and you will be directed to the "About Me" tab, where you can enter your information.  Click on the pencil icon in each area to change the corresponding information.  Enter your updates and select "save" to update your data.

Please note that you cannot change your employer when using this process. If you have changed companies in the past year, please contact Aga Aburto, who will update that information.

Thank you for taking these steps to ensure you continue to receive important information from IPT! 

Get started today!

Become an IPT Sponsor

One of the best ways to get your business's name in front of the best and brightest tax professionals is to become a sponsor of IPT programs.  Your support at the Gold or Silver level will help IPT continue its mission of providing the best state and local tax available and will heighten your profile with industry decision makers.  See below for the 2024 Sponsorship Form and a list of benefits you will receive through your sponsorship.

IPT also has multiple opportunities to sponsor events and activities at the symposiums and Annual Conference.  These events may include crowd pleasers like a specialty coffee cart, professional portraits, or craft beer tasting.  Each program has its distinct offerings of networking activity sponsorships, and availability and pricing depend on the specific program and host location.   Click here to see the availability and pricing for these sponsorship opportunities.  Please note, these activities tend to get sponsors quickly, so acting quickly is imperative. 

Please visit IPT's Sponsorship Page for more information on Gold, Silver, Bronze and Event Sponsorships and the associated benefits of each. You can also contact Helen Johnson regarding IPT's sponsorship programs and pricing.

2024 Sponsorship Form
2024 Event Sponsorship Opportunities
Benefits of IPT Sponsorship

CMI/CCIP Exam Schedule & Deadlines

2024 CMI State Income Tax Exams
*The CMI State Income Tax exams are administered by appointment only, and held at the IPT office in Atlanta, Georgia.  
*After completion of the application process, candidates must notify IPT of their intention to sit with at least 90 days’ notice.  The exam date will then be scheduled through coordination with the CMI - State Income Tax Professional Designation Committee. 
*Please contact Jake Lipps, IPT’s Certification Manager, for more information. 

Applications must be received via email on or before the deadline for receipt of applications. Applications received after this deadline will NOT be reviewed in time for consideration of the subsequent exams. 

June 2024
CMI Sales Tax Exams, CMI Property Tax Exams & CCIP Exams
San Diego, California
Exam Dates: June 22-23, 2024

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the June 2024 exams has passed. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than May 9, 2024. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than May 22, 2024.

September 2024
CMI Sales Tax Exams
Grapevine, Texas
Exam Dates: September 21-22, 2024

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the September 2024 exams is June 21, 2024. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than August 9, 2024. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than August 22, 2024.

October 2024
CCIP Exams
Tucson, Arizona
Exam Dates: October 19-20, 2024

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the October 2024 exams is July 22, 2024. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than September 5, 2024. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than September 19, 2024.

November 2024
CMI Property Tax Exams
Tucson, Arizona
Exam Dates: November 9-10, 2024

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the November 2024 exams is August 8, 2024. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than September 25, 2024. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than October 10, 2024.


The CMI Sales Tax written exams will no longer be administered in hardcopy format.  They will now be administered via ExamSoft, a computer-based assessment software.  Please note, you are still required to take the exams in person at the designated exam site.  Instructions and details on ExamSoft will be given to examinees approximately one month prior to the testing date.

EXCLUSIVE IPT MEMBER BENEFIT
15th Edition of IPT's Drop Shipment Survey Plus the First-Ever Marketplace Facilitator/Seller Survey Available for Purchase

2023 Drop Shipment Survey - 15th Edition
IPT is pleased to announce the return of the Drop Shipment Survey. This is the first publication of the survey since the 2018 Wayfair decision, and this 15th Edition has been updated to reflect those changes.

IPT partnered with KPMG to conduct the survey, which identifies the current position on drop shipments of each state that responded and helps IPT members understand how to best document exemptions for business in states where drop shipments are made.

Marketplace Facilitator/Seller Survey
IPT is glad to introduce a new survey, also in participation with KPMG, the Marketplace Facilitator/Seller Survey. This first-of-its-kind survey provides clarity on how some jurisdictions tax transactions involving marketplace facilitators and sellers.

The survey is the perfect complement to the Drop Shipment Survey and will be of great value to members as they conduct business across the nation.

Purchase the Surveys
The surveys are sold together and available online in a password-protected document that allows easy navigation and search functionality. 
Only IPT members can buy licenses to access the surveys, and the document cannot be downloaded or printed.  By purchasing a license, members agree to the terms of the purchase, which prohibit sharing access to the survey. 

Survey Pricing: 
1 Access License for $250
3 Access Licenses for $650
5 Access Licenses for $1,000 

Buy Online 

Quick Links

2024 Calendar of Events

Local Luncheon Information

Looking for Employment or Employees?

The Institute for Professionals in Taxation has established a Code of Ethics to set forth ethical and professional guidelines for all IPT members. 

Each member of IPT agrees to subscribe to this Code of Ethics and to report to the IPT Committee on Professional Ethics any unethical practices or actions by any IPT member. Non-members of IPT may also report any alleged unethical activity of IPT members to the Ethics Committee.