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Keeping up with the latest news and developments is crucial for staying ahead in the ever-evolving tax landscape. Here you will find the latest information about IPT and what's going on with the association.

IPT Member News

2027 IPT Sales Tax Schools

In 2025, the IPT Board of Governors approved the addition of a third Sales Tax School to complement the organization’s offering of courses in sales tax education. Based on consistent feedback from Sales Tax School I and Sales Tax School II registrants over the past several years, it became increasingly apparent that an additional and advanced sales & use tax education School was warranted.

Click here for more information.
 

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Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

01 Apr 2026IPT Member News
IPT Sales Tax Schools for 2027
IPT Sales Tax Schools for 2027 for next year, as well as revised CMI testing requirements as approved by the Board of Governors.
IPT Member News

Credits & Incentives School

IPT Credits & Incentives School

April 27 - May 1, 2026
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, Georgia

The Credits & Incentives School provides an in-depth exploration of key concepts and real-world applications in credits and incentives. Designed for professionals with foundational knowledge, the program emphasizes practical learning through participation, group discussion, and case study work. Attendees will gain insight into site selection analysis, economic development incentives, compliance requirements, monetization strategies, and ethical practices while building a strong network of industry peers. 

School Sessions Include:
Site Selection Fundamentals 
Discretionary Fundamentals
Statutory Incentives: State, Federal, & ESG 
Tax Credit Monetization & Compliance
Complex Incentives & Financing Structures
Cost Modeling 
Art of Negotiation

Key Benefits of Attending the Credits & Incentives School:
•      Gain practical, real-world knowledge you can apply immediately in your Credits & Incentives work
•      Strengthen your expertise at any career stage, whether you are building foundational knowledge or expanding existing skills
•      Learn through hands-on case studies that reinforce key concepts and mirror real C&I scenarios
•      Develop job-ready skills and greater confidence to navigate day-to-day C&I challenges
•      Earn up to 33 hours of continuing education credit for full attendance, including 1.2 IPT Ethics credits

Learn More

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Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

26 Mar 2026IPT Member News
Credits and Incentives School
Sales Tax School II April 27 - May 1, 2026 Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center Atlanta, Georgia
IPT Member News

VAT School

VAT School

June 1-4, 2026
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, Georgia

The VAT School is a four-day intensive program designed to build a strong foundation in value-added taxation. Ideal for beginner to intermediate practitioners, the School delivers a comprehensive overview of VAT fundamentals, including taxable persons and transactions, place-of-supply rules, registration and compliance requirements, rates, automation considerations, and audit concepts. Led by experienced industry and consulting professionals, the program focuses on practical application and real-world insight

Learn More

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Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

26 Mar 2026IPT Member News
VAT School
VAT School June 1 - 4, 2026 * Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center * Atlanta, Georgia
IPT Member News

IPT’s New CMIs

Congratulations to New CMIs

IPT’s Board of Governors has bestowed the CMI designation to the following members, after they successfully completed the necessary education, experience, and testing requirements.

Please join us in congratulating the following members for achieving their CMI Sales Tax designation!
 
Dylan Adams, CMI – Walmart, Inc.
Alissa Arya, CMI – Baker Tilly
Nathan Brandon, CMI – LKQ Corporation
Mpanga Chanda, CMI – Crowe LLP
David Dierken, CMI – Erie Insurance Group
Philip Glenn, CMI – Software One
William Howard, CMI – Grant Thornton Advisors LLC
Courtney Kasperski, CMI – Ernst & Young LLP (EY)
Melissa Malon, CMI – BDO USA, P.C. 
Elisa McDowell, CMI – RSM US LLP
Alma Mendoza, CMI – PwC
Emmanuel Nya, CMI – Bunge North America 
Melissa Nygren, CMI – Elevance Health
Meghan O'Hehir, CMI – Allyn International Services Inc. 
Mariza Quezada, CMI – Alvarez & Marsal Tax, LLC 
Zachary Rachels, CMI – RaceTrac
Jenna Schwartz, CMI – Emerson Electric Co. 
Drew Starr, CMI – William “Drew” Starr LLC 
Jonathon Walker, CMI – RSM US LLP
Ashleigh Watson, CMI – DMA - DuCharme, McMillen & Associates, Inc.


Related News

Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

26 Mar 2026IPT Member News
New CMIs
Congratulations to IPT’s Newest Sales Tax CMIs
IPT Member News

2026 IPT Annual Conference

IPT2026 Annual Conference

June 22-25, 2026
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Honolulu, Hawaii

IPT’s 50th Annual Conference brings together state and local tax professionals for four days of education, connection, and celebration in Honolulu, Hawaii. Your conference registration provides access to educational programming, conference materials, scheduled meals, and networking receptions (not including the Private Luau; tickets are $125 per person) designed to enhance both learning and professional engagement.

Registration Includes
• Access to all conference educational sessions and materials
• Refreshment breaks throughout the program
• Breakfast and lunch throughout the program • Admission to included evening receptions (Monday & Tuesday)
• Access to the Hawaiian Vendor Market and exhibitor engagement opportunities.

Make plans now to be part of IPT's golden anniversary conference, where state and local tax professionals gather to honor the past and shape the future. Join IPT in paradise as we celebrate five decades of excellence in state and local tax education and professional connection.  While we look forward to celebrating this milestone together, the 2026 Annual Conference is focused on offering an expansive and enriching educational program.

Learn More

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Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

26 Mar 2026IPT Member News
2026 Annual Conference
IPT’s 50th Annual Conference brings together state and local tax professionals for four days of education, connection, and celebration in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Member News

President's Message

 

Dear IPT Members,

With spring just around the corner, it is hard to believe how quickly this milestone year is moving. 

It has been a pleasure to see so many of you connecting and learning together at our recent programs. The ABA-IPT Advanced Tax Seminars are currently wrapping up in New Orleans and have been a great success. Thank you to the planning committees, speakers, and attendees who helped make this program another outstanding experience.

The 50th Annual Conference in Honolulu is approaching quickly and will be here before we know it. In addition to the robust educational programming planned for the conference week, we look forward to several special receptions celebrating IPT’s golden anniversary — and celebrating you, our members. Your dedication and commitment have shaped IPT’s success over the past five decades, and we are truly grateful for all that you contribute to this community.

As you plan your conference experience, please remember that May 1 is the registration deadline for several popular optional activities, including the IPT Golf Tournament at Kapolei Golf Club, the Pearl Harbor tours, and the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail Hike. Space is limited for these excursions, so I encourage you to secure your spot soon.

Speaking of deadlines, the early registration and hotel block cutoff deadline for Sales Tax School II has been extended to March 30. If you are planning to attend, now is the best time to finalize your registration and accommodations.

I would also like to congratulate the 20 new CMIs who earned their Sales Tax designation this month. Achieving the CMI is a significant professional accomplishment, and IPT is proud to recognize their dedication to excellence in the state and local tax profession. 

As always, thank you for being part of IPT. I look forward to seeing you at upcoming programs as we continue to celebrate this special anniversary year together.
 
Warm regards,
Donald L. Lippert, Jr., CMI
IPT President

Related News

Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

26 Mar 2026IPT Member News
IPT Presidents March 2026 Message
Dear IPT Members, With spring just around the corner, it is hard to believe how quickly this milestone year is moving.
IPT Member News

Sales Tax School II

IPT Sales Tax School II

April 20 - 24, 2026
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, Georgia

Sales Tax School II offers attendees a comprehensive analysis of essential sales & use tax concepts and how these relate to real-world situations. The school is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skill to apply these principles and understand the varying sales & use tax nuances. In addition, the school examines the impact of sales & use tax on specific industries, products, and services and how to manage the sales tax function for optimal results.

Learn More

Related News

Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

26 Mar 2026IPT Member News
Sales Tax School II
Sales Tax School II April 20 - 24, 2026 Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center Atlanta, Georgia
IPT Member News

Meet IPTs President

Don Lippert serves as Principal and National Property Tax Leader at Grant Thornton Advisors LLC, where he oversees strategy and execution for one of the firm’s most dynamic service lines. With more than three decades of experience, Don brings an enterprise perspective to property tax compliance and advisory, delivering measurable value to clients navigating complex and evolving tax landscapes. He currently leads a high-performing, cross-border team of 70 professionals, aligning tax strategies with broader business objectives.

Prior to joining Grant Thornton, Don held a senior leadership role at General Electric, where he managed the global property tax function for its Energy, Healthcare, Water, and Industrial divisions. His initiatives generated over $105 million in tax savings, underscoring his ability to drive performance through operational innovation and fiscal discipline. Don began his property tax career with a leasing company and quickly elevated his abilities by joining a Big 4 accounting firm, building the foundation for his broad expertise in strategic tax planning and execution.

He advises Fortune 500 clients and emerging enterprises alike across industries including manufacturing, retail, multi-family, senior living, hospitality, healthcare, captive finance, transportation, technology and centrally assessed – railroad, energy, airlines and telecommunication.

Credentials and Affiliations:
• Certified Member (CMI), Institute for Professionals in Taxation
• Licensed Senior Property Tax Consultant, State of Texas
• Member, International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO)
• Published author and speaker on tax strategy and organizational performance

Don lives in Glenview, IL (suburb of Chicago), with his wife Allie, kids Ava (Senior at SCAD), Sophie (Sophomore at Arizona) and Max (Senior in HS). Outside of work, he enjoys attending sporting events, concerts, travel, and spending time with the family at Disney.

Related News

Get Involved with IPT

The IPT community Is Ready for You

Join a diverse community of more than 6,600 members and achieve educational excellence, earn professional certification, and gain access to a world-class network. With IPT, you can advocate for equitable administration of state and local taxes, participate in volunteer opportunities to grow your leadership skills, and establish a stronger professional reputation by participating on our committees.

30 Jun 2025IPT Member News
Meet IPTs President
Don Lippert serves as Principal and National Property Tax Leader at Grant Thornton Advisors LLC, where he oversees strategy and execution for one of the firm’s most dynamic service lines

Why Investing in IPT Programs Is a Smart Move For Your SALT Team

You know firsthand that state and local tax (SALT) regulations evolve constantly. That’s why, for tax departments and professionals like you, it’s essential to stay ahead of these changes. Falling behind can lead to costly errors, missed opportunities, and compliance issues directly affecting your company’s bottom line.

IPT programs provide the structured, expert-led education you and your team need to stay compliant, effective, and strategically positioned. Let’s explore why IPT programs are a good fit for your team members.

The Challenge of Keeping Up with Change

The pace of change in SALT laws and regulations can feel relentless. Tax professionals face an overwhelming amount of new information each year, from complex legislative updates to shifting compliance requirements. IPT has a proven track record as a trusted partner that can keep your team informed and ready, offering training and insights that are immediately applicable.

The Unique Benefits of IPT Schools and Programs

IPT offers two distinct types of in-person learning experiences: schools and programs.

Each serves a specific purpose, and both are crucial to making a strategic investment in your team's professional growth.

IPT Schools: Building a Strong Foundation and Advanced Skills

IPT schools deliver comprehensive, hands-on training covering both fundamental principles and advanced concepts in SALT. These sessions dive deeply into essential tax topics, equipping attendees with the practical skills to address real-world challenges. Through interactive exercises, small group discussions, and mock presentations, your team members can return to work with actionable knowledge and the confidence to implement it effectively.

IPT Programs: Staying Ahead with Emerging Trends and Networking

IPT programs—like symposiums and conferences—focus on the latest developments, emerging trends, and strategic insights in SALT. These events offer a unique opportunity for your tax professionals to stay current with rapidly changing regulations, learn about cutting-edge strategies, and gain exposure to new technologies.

Programs also emphasize the importance of networking so your team can connect with industry leaders and peers, building a robust support system of professional contacts.

The Benefits of IPT Schools

IPT schools transform tax professionals into highly skilled, confident practitioners capable of navigating complex SALT challenges.

Expert-Led Curriculum

The curriculum at IPT schools isn’t off-the-shelf. Instead, it’s crafted and delivered by seasoned tax professionals facing state and local tax challenges daily. Your employees aren’t just learning theory—they’re absorbing practical knowledge from experts who understand the real-world implications of SALT issues.

Training includes mock presentations, small group exercises, and case studies mirroring problems your team may actually encounter, ensuring they leave with the ability to apply what they’ve learned immediately.

Hands-On Learning

IPT schools emphasize active participation and hands-on learning.

Attendees engage in interactive sessions that go beyond traditional lectures, offering practical exercises to prepare them to tackle complex tax issues head-on.

These experiences cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which translate directly into improved workplace performance. The result is a team that can effectively handle daily responsibilities and contribute to the overall efficiency of your tax department.

Return on Investment

Investing in IPT schools delivers a tangible return on your team’s time and budget.

Your team members can return equipped with the expertise to analyze and resolve tax challenges more effectively, minimizing risks and uncovering opportunities that directly benefit your business.

Practical skills gained through IPT’s rigorous training reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes and improve the overall strategic impact of your tax department.

The Advantages of Attending IPT Programs

IPT programs, including symposiums and conferences, are designed to keep your tax department at the forefront of the industry. These events equip your team with the connections and knowledge they need to excel in a constantly shifting tax landscape. Best of all, they are scheduled with the important dates on the SALT calendar in mind so your team members can attend because the timing works for them.

Here are just a few of the reasons why your team members can benefit from IPT’s annual programming.

Cutting-Edge Knowledge

IPT programs ensure your employees stay well-informed on the latest trends, regulations, and strategic developments in state and local taxation. Sessions are packed with insights into emerging technologies, complex SALT issues, and legislative updates. By staying current, your team is equipped to anticipate and navigate changes, maintaining a competitive edge in the field.

Industry-Specific and Regional Focus

Understanding that tax issues can vary significantly by industry and region, IPT programs offer sessions tailored to meet the specific needs of your team members. No matter the sector your teams work in, they’ll receive targeted, relevant knowledge. This focused approach allows tax professionals to more effectively address industry-specific challenges and implement strategies that can directly impact your business operations.

Valuable Networking Opportunities

One of the most significant benefits of IPT programs is the opportunity to build a network of peers and industry leaders across multiple tax disciplines. These connections can be invaluable when your team faces complex challenges, offering a go-to resource for advice and collaboration.

Establishing relationships at these events not only fosters professional growth but also creates a support system for your teams that extends well beyond the conference room.

The Strategic Value of Investing in IPT Programs

Investing in IPT programs isn’t just about professional development—it’s a strategic decision for your business that can yield substantial returns. Here’s why investing in IPT membership for your team members makes good business sense.

Efficient Access to Resources

The sheer volume and specificity of information shared at IPT events are unparalleled. Unlike piecemeal, independent research, IPT programs consolidate critical SALT updates and advanced strategies into a single, cohesive learning experience. The efficiency saves your team members time and ensures they receive insights that are both current and comprehensive.

Additionally, the perspective that your team members can gain from industry leaders will help them apply their new skills on a practical level. Your teams will benefit from nuanced interpretations of regulations and real-world case studies, giving them the tools to make well-informed decisions at work.

Impact on the Bottom Line

Well-trained tax professionals are more adept at navigating intricate regulations, meaning fewer costly errors and more opportunities to optimize tax positions.

Consider the financial implications: an error in tax compliance or a missed opportunity for tax optimization can have serious repercussions.

IPT-trained employees are equipped to minimize risks and capitalize on tax-saving strategies. The return on investment isn’t theoretical—it translates to measurable financial gains and increased operational efficiency.

Long-Term Benefits

Beyond the immediate impact, IPT programs foster long-term growth and stability. Employees with this level of specialized training develop into confident, knowledgeable professionals who can easily handle evolving tax challenges. This continuous upskilling reduces the need for constant retraining and positions your department as a strategic asset rather than a reactive cost center.
Further, investing in your employees’ education reinforces your commitment to professional development, improving retention, and helping you attract top talent.

Staying ahead in the industry isn’t just about compliance; it’s about cultivating a tax team driving value year after year.

Help Your Team Stay Prepared and Current

A well-prepared, knowledgeable tax team is a necessity. IPT schools deliver both foundational and advanced training, giving your team members practical, real-world skills they can apply immediately. IPT programs  ensure your team stays ahead of industry changes with timely updates and strategic insights so your tax department is more agile and effective.

Investing in IPT memberships for your team is a smart, strategic way to maximize your education budget. The ROI is clear: a more capable, confident, and efficient tax team that can navigate SALT complexities with precision. Learn more about specific IPT programs and take the next step toward strengthening your tax department today.

Related News

16 Dec 2024IPT Member News
Why Investing in IPT Programs Is a Smart Move For Your SALT Team
Discover how IPT programs empower your SALT team with expert-led training, cutting-edge insights, and networking to stay compliant and ahead of changes.

Publications

Unlock a treasure trove of knowledge with IPT's textbooks, surveys, and publications, available to members at discounted rates. These empower you to stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of state and local taxation.

IPT Insider

We offer a monthly newsletter with updates on current events and important notices at IPT.

Read the Latest IPT Insider

Text Books

IPT publishes tax books that cover key issues and reference federal, state, and local practices, statutes, and case law applicable to sales and use tax and property taxation.

Property Tax Book, 4th EditionSales Tax Book, 3rd Edition

IPT Policy and Procedures

Amicus Briefs

In addition to our educational mission, we are dedicated to promoting and preserving fair and nondiscriminatory taxation by state and local governments. Toward that end, we sometimes file briefs as amicus curiae in cases pending before the United States Supreme Court or state supreme courts (i.e., the state appellate court of last resort). As indicated by the rules of the U.S. Supreme Court, the purpose of an amicus brief is to “bring to the attention of the Court relevant matter not already brought to its attention by the parties.”

Learn more about the amicus procedure and its criteria.

IPT Video Gallery

View highlights from previous Annual Conferences, Keynote Speakers, and Past Presidents.