Member News

President's Message

 

Spring is in full swing, and with it comes a busy and exciting time for IPT!

Our next in-person program is Sales Tax School II, taking place April 28 – May 2 in Atlanta. I’ll be there and look forward to meeting many of you as we continue to build on IPT’s strong foundation of education and professional development.

Immediately following is the Value Added Tax (VAT) School, May 5 – 8, also in Atlanta. This is the second year IPT is offering this unique program, established under the leadership of Immediate Past President Allan Wells. The success of last year’s inaugural class showed just how much interest and need there is for VAT-specific training, and we’re proud to offer it again this year.

We’ll also host a webinar on May 22nd focused on food and beverage taxation from the sales tax perspective. Visit ipt.org to learn more and register. It’s a great way to stay current and earn CPE from wherever you are.

Looking ahead, don’t forget to register for the 49th IPT Annual Conference, which is taking place June 22 – 25, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale. You can earn 18.2 CPE credits, including 1.6 hours of IPT Ethics credit, while enjoying top-notch programming and unbeatable networking.

This year’s Conference kicks off on Sunday with two pre-Conference networking events—pickleball and a Waterway Tour—followed by a welcome reception on the beach Sunday evening. It’s the perfect way to ease into the week and connect with colleagues from across the country.

Monday is “Exhibitor Day,” when our valued exhibitors will be with us from breakfast through the evening reception to share the innovative solutions they offer to state and local tax professionals. I hope you’ll take time to connect with them. As the day wraps up, join me for a fun round of Bingo. No need to register—just stop by and try your luck!

And don’t miss the always-popular Tuesday night reception. This year’s theme is Club PRO Casino Royale. We are extending the reception time from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM and blending the glamorous world of Palm Royale with the thrills of Casino Royale.  Expect fun, fashion, and a little friendly competition at the tables.  We’re blending the glamorous world of Palm Royale with the thrills of Casino Royale. Expect fun, fashion, and a little friendly competition at the tables. I encourage everyone to get into the spirit and dress in your best 1960s country club attire—you won’t want to miss it!

Thanks for all you do for IPT. I look forward to seeing many of you in the coming months and continuing our work together to grow, connect, and strengthen this incredible community.

Trisha C. Fortune, CMI, CPA
IPT President

Related News

Member News

President's Message

 

Spring is in full swing, and with it comes a busy and exciting time for IPT!

Our next in-person program is Sales Tax School II, taking place April 28 – May 2 in Atlanta. I’ll be there and look forward to meeting many of you as we continue to build on IPT’s strong foundation of education and professional development.

Immediately following is the Value Added Tax (VAT) School, May 5 – 8, also in Atlanta. This is the second year IPT is offering this unique program, established under the leadership of Immediate Past President Allan Wells. The success of last year’s inaugural class showed just how much interest and need there is for VAT-specific training, and we’re proud to offer it again this year.

We’ll also host a webinar on May 22nd focused on food and beverage taxation from the sales tax perspective. Visit ipt.org to learn more and register. It’s a great way to stay current and earn CPE from wherever you are.

Looking ahead, don’t forget to register for the 49th IPT Annual Conference, which is taking place June 22 – 25, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale. You can earn 18.2 CPE credits, including 1.6 hours of IPT Ethics credit, while enjoying top-notch programming and unbeatable networking.

This year’s Conference kicks off on Sunday with two pre-Conference networking events—pickleball and a Waterway Tour—followed by a welcome reception on the beach Sunday evening. It’s the perfect way to ease into the week and connect with colleagues from across the country.

Monday is “Exhibitor Day,” when our valued exhibitors will be with us from breakfast through the evening reception to share the innovative solutions they offer to state and local tax professionals. I hope you’ll take time to connect with them. As the day wraps up, join me for a fun round of Bingo. No need to register—just stop by and try your luck!

And don’t miss the always-popular Tuesday night reception. This year’s theme is Club PRO Casino Royale. We are extending the reception time from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM and blending the glamorous world of Palm Royale with the thrills of Casino Royale.  Expect fun, fashion, and a little friendly competition at the tables.  We’re blending the glamorous world of Palm Royale with the thrills of Casino Royale. Expect fun, fashion, and a little friendly competition at the tables. I encourage everyone to get into the spirit and dress in your best 1960s country club attire—you won’t want to miss it!

Thanks for all you do for IPT. I look forward to seeing many of you in the coming months and continuing our work together to grow, connect, and strengthen this incredible community.

Trisha C. Fortune, CMI, CPA
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.

16 Apr 2025IPT Member News
IPT Presidents April 2025 Message
Spring is in full swing, and with it comes a busy and exciting time for IPT!
Click for more info...
IPT Member News

Why You Should Attend IPT’s Annual Conference

The 49th IPT Annual Conference is the place to be to enhance your expertise, expand your network, and gain fresh insights into the evolving landscape of state and local taxation. Held from June 22-25, 2025, in sunny Fort Lauderdale, FL, this premier program brings together tax professionals nationwide for an unparalleled learning and networking experience.

1. A Powerhouse of Knowledge with 50+ Sessions

The IPT Annual Conference offers an impressive lineup of over 50 sessions covering all key disciplines in state and local taxation—property tax, sales & use tax, state income tax, and credits & incentives. Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of legislative updates, refine your state and local tax strategies, or explore best practices in tax planning, this Conference has you covered. Sessions are designed to cater to seasoned professionals and those new to the field, ensuring valuable takeaways for everyone.

2. Inspiring Keynote Speakers – Amelia Rose Earhart & Chuck Gallagher

Navigating challenges is a core part of any tax professional’s career, and who better to offer guidance than Amelia Rose Earhart? As a record-setting pilot and inspirational speaker, Amelia will share her powerful message on handling turbulence in life’s challenges, drawing from her personal experiences and lessons learned. Her keynote promises to be both motivating and empowering, equipping attendees with strategies to confidently navigate uncertainty.
Chuck Gallagher returns to the IPT stage with his presentation The Ethical Code: Navigating AI’s Promise and Peril. Chuck will use his unparalleled insight and dynamic presentation skills to discuss how we harness AI’s power while maintaining ethical integrity. He will dive into the complex ethical landscape of AI, exploring its potential to drive innovation—and its risks when left unchecked. This interactive session unpacks real-world case studies, regulatory concerns, and practical strategies for implementing AI responsibly.

From bias in algorithms to data privacy and accountability, this program provides professionals with the insights to navigate the intersection of ethics, technology, and decision-making. Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or policymaker, you’ll leave equipped with the tools to integrate AI ethically into your business strategy.

3. Unmatched Networking Opportunities

The IPT Annual Conference isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about making connections that matter. Engage in dynamic networking activities that go beyond simple introductions. These opportunities allow you to share best practices, discuss emerging trends, and gain fresh perspectives from professionals who understand your challenges. Whether you’re attending structured networking events, casual meetups, or the lively Club PRO Royale receptions, you’ll be part of a community dedicated to professional growth and collaboration.

4. Valuable for All Experience Levels

This Conference offers something for every stage of your career:
• For seasoned professionals, stay ahead of industry trends and enhance your strategic approach with expert-led discussions on the latest developments.
• For those newer to the field, gain crucial insights from breakout sessions designed to build foundational knowledge while also establishing valuable professional relationships to support your growth.

5. A Destination Worth Experiencing

Set against the backdrop of beautiful Fort Lauderdale, the Conference offers the perfect mix of learning and leisure. Enjoy the city’s stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and excellent dining options while connecting with industry peers in a relaxed and engaging environment.
Don’t Miss Out!

The IPT Annual Conference is a must-attend program for state and local taxation professionals. With high-impact sessions, an inspiring keynote, and unbeatable networking opportunities, this is your chance to gain the knowledge, strategies, and connections needed to thrive in today’s tax landscape. Mark your calendar for June 22-25, 2025, and join IPT in Fort Lauderdale for an unforgettable experience!

Register now and uncover a world of opportunity at Club PRO Royale! 

Brochure and Agenda

Register

Hotel Reservations   Cut-off is Thursday, May 22, 2025.

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.

24 Mar 2025IPT Member News
Why You Should Attend IPT’s Annual Conference
The 49th IPT Annual Conference is the place to be to enhance your expertise, expand your network, and gain fresh insights into the evolving landscape of state and local taxation. Held from June 22-25, 2025, in sunny Fort Lauderdale, FL, this premier
Click for more info...

Apply for IPT’s Advanced Property Tax School Scholarships in 2025

The IPT Scholarship Program offers an excellent opportunity for professionals working in state and local property tax to enhance their education and advance their careers. IPT offers two scholarships each year for its Advanced Property Tax Schools – the Real Property Tax School and the Personal Property Tax School.

The Real Property Tax School
October 13 – 17, 2025
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, Georgia

This is an advanced program designed for professionals with experience in real property tax who seek a deeper understanding of the field's complex concepts and principles. The comprehensive curriculum builds on foundational knowledge, equipping attendees with advanced skills to apply in real-world scenarios. Topics covered at school include a comprehensive study of the property tax valuation process, concentrating on the three approaches to value.

The Personal Property Tax School
October 20 – 24, 2025
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, Georgia

This school incorporates an advanced learning experience tailored for property tax professionals who already possess a basic grasp of ad valorem principles. The school's comprehensive curriculum demonstrates how proper management of tangible personal property can significantly impact a company’s financial performance. Topics covered at the school include a deep dive into the four cornerstones of personal property tax: classification, valuation of machinery & equipment, compliance, and audits & appeals.

Both schools are ideal for those who want to expand their careers in property taxation and are essential to those who aspire to earn the CMI - Property Tax professional designation.

These scholarships can support your journey toward professional growth and leadership roles within the field of property taxation. Ideal candidates include those who work in corporate property tax departments and other SALT professionals who work on state and local property tax issues on behalf of their employers. For them, having a deep knowledge of property taxation and staying current on regulations and issues is crucial.

Details of the Scholarships

To make these valuable learning opportunities more accessible, you can apply for one of two scholarships that can be used for either the Real Property Tax School or the Personal Property Tax School.

  • Each individual scholarship covers up to $2,500 of eligible travel and lodging expenses.

  • The registration fee for the selected school is waived for the scholarship winner.

  • Scholarship applications must be submitted by July 25, 2025.

  • These scholarships are available only to corporate members of IPT.

  • To take the Advanced Property Tax Schools, applicants must pass the IPT Property Tax School or the Online Property Tax School Competency Exam.

How to Apply for the Scholarships

To apply for the Advanced Property Tax Schools scholarships, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Submit a Letter of Recommendation: A letter from your supervisor is required. The letter should highlight your contributions to your organization, your potential for career growth, and why you are a strong candidate for the scholarship. Be sure to include contact details so your supervisor can verify the recommendation.

  2. Write a Personal Statement: Each applicant must submit a short personal statement that outlines their interest in ad valorem tax and their experience in the field. This statement should reflect your passion for property tax, your career goals, and what you hope to gain from attending your selected Advanced Property Tax School. Be clear and concise and focus on why you are committed to advancing your expertise in property taxation.

  3. Complete the Application Forms: Ensure you fill out the application form thoroughly. Make sure all sections are completed accurately and submitted before the deadline. All applications must be submitted by July 25, 2025.

Brochure

Application Form


Tips for Success

Here are a few tips for crafting a strong scholarship application:

  • Letter of Recommendation:

    • Ask your supervisor to focus on your potential for growth and commitment to property tax.

    • Highlight your professional achievements and how attending the school will benefit both your career and your employer.

  • Personal Statement:

    • Be specific about your career goals and interest in ad valorem tax.

    • Emphasize how attending your selected Advanced Property Tax School aligns with your current role and future aspirations.

    • Please share any previous experiences in property tax that have driven your desire to deepen your expertise.

Additional Information

  • Verify Corporate Membership: If you are applying for the Advanced Property Tax Schools Scholarship, you must confirm your corporate membership with IPT on the scholarship application form.

  • Questions and Support: If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, feel free to reach out to at iptinfo@ipt.org.

Take the Next Step

Regardless of which Advanced Property Tax School you’re looking to attend, these scholarships offer tools and resources to help you thrive in the competitive world of property taxation.

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.

18 Mar 2025Property Tax
Advance Your SALT Career: Apply for IPT’s Advanced Property Tax School Scholarships in 2025
The IPT Scholarship Program offers an excellent opportunity for professionals working in state and local property tax to enhance their education and advance their careers. IPT offers two scholarships each year for its Advanced Property Tax Schools –
Click for more info...
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.