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2025 Fast Tax Facts

Our annual, easy-to-use guide of federal and state tax information is back—and packed with updated tax rate schedules, essential facts and figures to help you breeze through tax season.

Fast Tax Facts 2025

CalCPA Weighs in on National CPE Standards Update 

CalCPA recently submitted comments on a national exposure draft proposing updates to the standards that govern Continuing Professional Education for CPAs.

Better Data, Better Audits

How leading firms are using data extraction software to fix unreliable client data—and create a more sustainable audit experience for people and clients alike.


Standing Up for the Profession

CalCPA, together with the AICPA and state CPA societies across the country, is urging the U.S. Department of Education to revise its proposed definition of “professional degree programs” to include accounting programs that lead to CPA licensure. 

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 proposing updates to the standards that govern Continuing Professional Education for CPAs. 

, issued by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy and the AICPA, aims to modernize how CPE is structured and delivered across the profession.

Overall, CalCPA expressed strong support for the direction of the proposed changes. The exposure draft introduces a more principles-based framework, streamlines delivery categories, and allows greater flexibility for emerging learning technologies. Together, these updates better reflect how CPAs learn today and help ensure that CPE remains practical, relevant, and responsive to a rapidly changing profession.

The proposed standards also reinforce the importance of lifelong learning. By encouraging learning approaches that emphasize professional development and adaptability, the framework supports CPAs as they respond to new technologies, evolving client needs, and shifting business models—while continuing to uphold high standards of quality and public trust.

In its detailed submissions, CalCPA identified areas where additional clarification could help ensure the standards are implemented smoothly by providers, licensees, and regulators. CalCPA’s comments highlighted the importance of coordination between national standards and state-level regulation. Many of the concepts included in the exposure draft align with priorities currently under consideration by the California Board of Accountancy as it evaluates potential updates to California’s CPE regulations. Once finalized, the national standards are expected to inform California’s anticipated rulemaking efforts in 2026.

While supportive of the overall approach, CalCPA encouraged continued progress in future updates. In particular, CalCPA noted the opportunity to further shift CPE toward learning outcomes and demonstrated competence, rather than relying primarily on time-based requirements. A move toward a competency-based model would represent a broader change, but one that could better reflect how professional capability is developed and maintained.

CalCPA’s engagement in this process reflects its ongoing role in national policy conversations affecting the profession. By providing thoughtful, experience-driven feedback, CalCPA continues to help shape regulatory frameworks that support CPAs, protect the public, and prepare the profession for what’s ahead. 

Anyone who has worked through an audit busy season knows the all-too-familiar scene: deadlines fixed firmly in place, client data trickling in inconsistently and teams stuck at their desks wrestling with unwieldy spreadsheets long into the night. 

At the heart of this frustrating pattern lies one fundamental challenge: uncertainty.

Uncertainty pervades every audit engagement, from unpredictable deliverable quality and timing to the vast variability in the format of client data. For decades, audit professionals have simply accepted these pain points as an inescapable part of their job. But in a profession facing a technological revolution and rising expectations from both clients and employees, the age-old model of tolerating inefficiency no longer serves. 

It is time for a new, technology-driven approach that replaces unpredictability with seamless, people-centered systems.

Many audit inefficiencies often trace back to delays or inconsistencies in client submissions. Even the largest accounting firms and the most adept practitioners can’t outmaneuver the realities of incomplete, late or mismatched client data. Attempts to solve the problem by hiring extra staff, offshoring work or tightening project management may offer brief relief, but don’t address the challenge of unreliable data flow.

This inefficiency cuts into firm margins and takes a measurable toll on the people at the heart of the audit that experience long hours, burnout and eroded job satisfaction. As accounting firms face growing labor shortages and younger professionals seek more work-life balance, clinging to outdated ways of working isn’t just suboptimal; it’s a liability.

Compounding the pressure is a dramatic shift in client expectations. In their everyday lives, business leaders and finance professionals use technology that delivers instant access, flawless accuracy and intuitive convenience. When their audit devolves into repeated document requests, endless clarifications and delays caused by manual processing, they understandably lose patience. Even the best client relationships can fray if the experience feels stuck in the past.

For audit firms, this means that efficiency isn’t just about profitability: it’s essential to sustain client trust and loyalty. The cycle of endless data requests, follow-up emails and late reformatting must end.

Temporary hires, project management overhauls and outsourcing all have their place, but if the underlying unpredictability of client data remains, these solutions will always be bandages rather than cures. Further, rotating temporary staff or offshore teams often lack context on client specifics, magnifying errors and compounding frustration for both auditors and clients.

Manual spreadsheet wizardry might clean up messy datasets at the 11th hour, but this only stretches teams thin, extends deadlines and sustains the cycle of inefficiency and overtime. Left unchecked, these practices threaten staff morale and the firm’s ability to attract and retain top talent.

Introducing Predictability Through Data Extraction Tech

The real answer is systemic change that embraces technology that transforms the way client information moves from business systems to audit teams. Enter data extraction technology. Rather than waiting for piecemeal uploads and manual handoffs, modern solutions connect directly to client accounting systems, pulling a complete and standardized dataset in one swift operation.

For clients, participating in this process is as straightforward as clicking a secure link and gaining immediate delivery with fewer interruptions—and better outcomes.

Some firm leaders worry that clients will bristle at the idea of connecting their financial systems. However, real-world indicators show the opposite is true. Adoption of data extraction and automation tools has surged across the profession over the past several years. A 

 shows that nearly half of audit professionals have already implemented such technology and another third are exploring adoption.

Clients themselves increasingly appreciate the security, speed and reduction in hassle. When new tech is presented as a solution to the endless cycle of email requests and data confusion rather than just another platform, acceptance is high.

The Real Payoff: Efficiency, Retention and Better Outcomes

Embracing automation and data extraction directly addresses the pain points that have plagued audit work for years. The result? Faster project starts, fewer late nights at the office and more capacity for professionals to do complex, rewarding work. Clients experience less frustration by getting answers faster. Most importantly, the firm’s most valuable asset—its people—can focus on insight, client collaboration and professional growth.

By driving out inefficiency, data extraction technology delivers a host of benefits: stable margins in an age of fee pressure, healthier team cultures and a modern client experience that sets firms apart.

Every audit firm deals with tight deadlines, shifting standards and rising expectations, but the solution to the most persistent problem—unpredictable client data—is now within reach. The next generation of audit success stories will be written by firms that act decisively: implementing technology not just for its own sake, but in service of their people, their clients and the future of the profession.

With data extraction, uncertainty is no longer an unavoidable cost of doing business. It’s a problem solved, unlocking time, trust and value at every stage of the audit engagement.

 announced CalCPA CEO Denise LeDuc Froemming, CPA, CAE as the recipient of the 2026 Woman of Influence Award. This prestigious honor recognizes extraordinary association leaders whose influence, integrity and leadership elevate both their organizations and the broader association community.

“Denise exemplifies the spirit of the Woman of Influence Award—a leader who not only drives mission-focused results but creates environments where others can grow, contribute, and thrive,” said Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO of Association Forum. “Her dedication to empowering talent, innovating boldly, and shaping a more inclusive future for our profession has made a lasting impact.”

Froemming’s career embodies transformational leadership—modernizing organizations, strengthening cultures and nurturing inclusive pathways for future leaders. Her executive roles at CalCPA, the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) have been marked by daring innovation, governance reform and an unwavering commitment to people-first leadership. Froemming also served as Association Forum’s Board Chair in 2022, further demonstrating her long-standing dedication to advancing the association profession.

“Denise leads with clarity, purpose and a generosity of spirit that brings out the best in everyone around her. She invites people to think bigger and approach challenges with intention, and she does it with grace. Her impact is already felt across our profession; in the leaders she’s developed, the standards she’s elevated and the community she’s strengthened. This recognition is a true reflection of who she is and the excellence she brings to our field,” said Michelle Mills Clement, FASAE, CAE, RCE.

Froemming will be honored at Association Forum’s 2026 Women’s Executive Forum on March 13 at Chicago’s Convene Willis Tower. This year’s theme, Legacy in Motion, reflects the enduring impact of her leadership. Throughout her career, she has created momentum—lifting others, opening doors and sparking positive change that will shape the next generation of professionals. Her story demonstrates that a true legacy is built not through titles or accolades, but through empowering people, driving purpose, and making a meaningful difference.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive the 2026 Woman of Influence Award,” said Froemming. “The association community has shaped my career and my heart. This recognition reflects the collective work of mentors, colleagues and the incredible professionals I’ve been privileged to serve alongside. Together, we are building a strong, inclusive, and future-ready profession, one that is built to last.”

Froemming also be recognized at Association Forum’s annual Honors Gala on June 25.

The 2026 Woman of Influence Award is powered by Choose Chicago and DelCor Technology Solutions.

Founded in 1916, Association Forum serves nearly 3,000 professionals dedicated to advancing association management. Association Forum empowers individuals whose work serves over 37 million members and generates $22 billion in global annual expenditures. 

Denise LeDuc Froemming Earns 2026 Woman of Influence Award

CalCPA's CEO is being recognized as a visionary leader whose bold innovation and people-first approach have transformed associations and inspired a more inclusive future.

CalCPA, together with the AICPA and state CPA societies across the country, is 

urging the U.S. Department of Education (DOE)

 to revise its proposed definition of “professional degree programs” to include accounting programs that lead to CPA licensure.

In its current draft, the DOE’s definition excludes accounting from the list of recognized professional fields. If left unchanged, this omission would create unnecessary barriers for students pursuing CPA licensure and weaken the profession at a time when demand for trustworthy financial expertise continues to grow. 

CPA licensure is not a general credential—it is a rigorous, state-regulated process built on advanced education, specialized training, ethics requirements and ongoing professional development. CPAs play a critical role in protecting investors, businesses, government agencies, and the public by ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial information. 

Failing to recognize accounting as a professional degree program overlooks both the rigor of the CPA pathway and the public-interest role CPAs serve.

Excluding accounting programs could also limit access to financial aid – making the pathway to licensure less accessible and further straining an already challenged talent pipeline.

We are calling on the DOE to revise its proposal and acknowledge what the profession—and the public—already knows: becoming a CPA requires the education, training, and ethical foundation expected of a true profession.

CalCPA is proud to join national partners in leading this effort, and we will continue advocating for a strong, accessible pipeline of future CPAs who can meet the growing needs of California’s economy and communities. 

Stay ahead with essential CPA resources

Golden State wisdom straight from the experts

2025 Fast Tax Facts

CalCPA Weighs in on National CPE Standards Update

Better Data, Better Audits

Standing Up for the Profession

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Rise & Stride Podcast

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CPAs: Making Sense of What Comes Next campaign