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.

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Member News

President's Message

 

Dear IPT Members,

I hope February has been a great month for you. This milestone year continues to move quickly, and it has been encouraging to see such strong engagement and momentum across our 2026 program planning.

This week, we are wrapping up another successful Sales Tax School I. I want to thank the participants, faculty, and members who invested their time and energy to make this School a success. Looking ahead, the early registration deadline for Sales Tax School II (April 20–24) is rapidly approaching and continues through March 6. If you are planning to attend, I encourage you to register soon to take advantage of the discounted rate. The ABA-IPT Advanced Tax Seminars are also just around the corner, taking place March 16–20 in New Orleans. This has always been an attendee favorite, so keep in mind that advance registration pricing ends on March 12. 

Thank you to everyone who submitted speaking proposals for this year’s Sales Tax Symposium. The Symposium is already shaping up to be another outstanding educational experience, and the selected speakers will be notified soon. The Credits & Incentives Symposium is still accepting speaking proposals until March 6. I encourage you to apply and share your expertise with the IPT community. Our programming is made for members by members, and your participation helps keep these programs relevant and impactful.

For those who have already registered for IPT’s 50th Annual Conference in Honolulu, please take advantage of the available events.  These outings have been researched and vetted to ensure you have an amazing experience in Hawaii. Please remember that March 9 is the deadline to register for the optional Kualoa Ranch excursion. If you would like to sign up for the activity, please use this form or email Toby Miller at tmiller@ipt.org to purchase tickets. If you have not yet registered for the Annual Conference, now is a great time to do so. There is much in store (both educationally and activity-wise) for this milestone conference, and the full conference brochure will be released with even more details in the coming weeks.

I would also like to congratulate the newest CMIs from January’s exams. IPT is proud to welcome 11 new designees—ten in property tax and one in state income tax. This is no small feat! You can find their names listed further down in this newsletter.

As always, thank you for your continued support of IPT and for the expertise you bring to our community each and every day. I look forward to connecting with you at upcoming programs as we continue to celebrate this special anniversary year together.
 
Warm regards,
Donald L. Lippert, Jr., CMI
IPT President

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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.

02 Feb 2026IPT Member News
IPT Presidents February 2026 Message
I hope February has been a great month for you. This milestone year continues to move quickly, and it has been encouraging to see such strong engagement and momentum across our 2026 program planning.
IPT Member News

IPT’s New CMIs

Congratulations to New CMIs

IPT’s Board of Governors has awarded the CMI–Property Tax designation to the following members for meeting all education, experience, and examination requirements:

• Jonathan Adam Arroyos, CMI – Ryan, LLC
• Camil Asmar, CMI – Ryan, LLC
• Monica Boyles, CMI – KPMG LLP
• Melanie Brennan, CMI – KPMG LLP
• Donavan Catron, CMI – Crowe LLP
• Richard Chandler, CMI – The Walt Disney Company
• Derrick J. Dyslin, CMI – KPMG LLP
• Alaa Elemam, CMI – Amazon.com
• Taylor H. (Haug), CMI – The Irvine Company
• Patrick Lantrip, CMI – ClearEdge Tax Group
• Caleb Smoot, CMI – KPMG LLP


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 Dec 2025IPT Member News
New CMIs
Congratulations to IPT’s Newest Property Tax CMIs
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