Are you using the correct accounting method?
Accounting methods are prescribed ways of reporting an organization's income and expenses, using tax methods that clearly and consistently reflect income. Once an organization adopts a particular accounting method, it must normally continue to use that method unless a request to change methods is filed with the IRS, or the change is eligible for automatic IRS consent.
Organizations that have experienced dramatic changes (mergers, acquisitions, restructuring etc.)
Organizations that have experienced dramatic growth
Organizations that are subject to a switch in regulatory requirements
May improve cash flow through reduction of income tax obligations
Enhanced benefit likely as organization grows
May present a more accurate and consistent view of an organization's taxable income
May adapt to an existing or new IRS regulatory requirement
Accounting method changes are most commonly related to how (and when) an organization reports its revenue and expenses (i.e., cash vs. accrual), how inventory is valued (i.e., LIFO vs. FIFO or other hybrid methods), or how depreciation is calculated. Accounting method changes in which tax code clarifications have delivered the opportunity for significant benefit include prepaid expenses, recurring-item exception for expenses, and advance payments regarding income inclusion or exclusion.
An AGH tax professional can evaluate your organization and the types of accounting methods currently in use, as well as your environment, goals and applicable regulatory requirements. The professional will then outline any proposed accounting method changes and the pros and cons of each, as well as help you file for IRS consent to an accounting method change (if necessary) and provide support in implementing the change within your organization.
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Executive Vice President Tax Services
Shawn leads the firm’s tax group and serves on AGH’s board of directors. In addition to enhancing business performance to minimize tax consequences, he has extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, international tax and business structuring. Shawn has public and private experience in the fields of tax and accounting and works frequently with clients in the manufacturing, automotive, wholesale distribution, real estate development and construction industries.
A certified public accountant, Shawn is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Kansas Society of Certified Public Accountants (KSCPA) and chairs the KSCPA Committee on Taxation.
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