CSTC's 2024 SUMMER TAX SYMPOSIUM

July 21 - 24, 2024
Silver Legacy Resort Casino
Reno, Nevada

The California Society of Tax Consultants, Inc (CSTC), has been a nonprofit organization for the benefit of tax professionals throughout California since 1966 (formerly known as ISTC), and delivers quality education and unique member benefits. As a bookkeeper, accountant, CRTP, Enrolled Agent, or CPA, you can take advantage of everything CSTC has to offer. Programs cover a wide spectrum of tax topics that are approved for CTEC, EA & CPA credit. 

Did you know that you can get ALL of your CTEC credits for the year at the Symposium?  That’s right!  You can get your federal, update, Ethics, and CA hours all in one go!

Oh, and did we mention the return of the Lunch and Learn sessions?  Your registration includes breakfast AND lunch each day of the event!

With our fantastic line-up of speakers and topics there’s something for everyone, from beginner to veteran preparers.  

Can’t wait to see you in Reno! The CSTC Summer Tax Symposium is an event not to miss!

Summer-Symposium Schedule-at-a-Glance

Registration Information and Fees

Registration fees include: Educational sessions and materials, including a USB thumbdrive of electronic handouts delivered at check-in, daily breakfasts, daily lunches, Sunday evening reception, and refreshment breaks. Registrants will also receive an email with the electronic handouts after the Symposium.

Optional Printed Handouts: $175 for all session handouts (regardless of sessions selected to attend), book-style, bound and tabbed, delivered at check-in. 
The deadline to order printed handouts is June 30, 2024. See FAQ's for more details. 

Cancellation policy: Written/emailed requests for a registration fee refund will be accepted until June 14, 2024. A $150 administrative fee will be deducted from all refunds. No refund of any kind will be given if a written cancellation notice is received after June 14, 2024. There are no refunds for no-show registrants.

Book Your Room!

Silver Legacy Resort and Casino
407 North Virginia Street
Reno, Nevada 89501
1-800-687-8733
http://www.silverlegacyreno.com/

Room rate for attendees: $62 per night plus taxes and fees. 

Check-in time is 3:00 PM and check-out time is noon.

A daily resort fee of $25.00 per room, per night plus the current occupancy room tax will be charged in addition to the room rates set forth above. This fee includes:
• In-room Keurig® coffee maker with Starbucks® K-Cup® Pods
• Unlimited local and toll-free calls
• Refrigerator and in-room safe*
• Airport shuttle service and self-parking
• Access to the all-new Fitness Center inside The Spa at Silver Legacy
• Printing of boarding passes, notary services, and safety deposit box access.

Booking information will be provided to registered attendees. Please do not call the hotel to book using the group rate. They will not honor it. 

Located in the heart of the Biggest Little City, Silver Legacy Resort Casino offers everything under one roof. This modern Reno hotel has restaurants, big-name entertainment and an action-packed casino. Silver Legacy also has gorgeous mountain views and is a quick drive from Lake Tahoe.

Session Descriptions

IRS Breakfast Keynote Session:
Speaker: 
Session Description: 

IRS: 
CTEC: 
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

More information to come

ERTC: Don't Play the Audit Lottery
Speaker: Ryan Reichert, EA, CFP
Session Description: The Employee Retention Tax Credit has been one of the most abused provisions in tax for the last four years. The IRS is ready to throw the book at taxpayers who claimed this credit erroneously. This seminar will examine which taxpayers are at risk, how to withdraw a claim, and how to survive an audit.

Learning Objectives: 

#1: Review the requirements and misconceptions for claiming the Employee Retention Tax Credit.

#2: Understand the withdrawal provisions available to taxpayers who claimed this credit erroneously.

#3: Learn the key points of defending your clients in an Employee Retention Tax Credit audit.

1 Federal Law hour
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01947-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5389
Knowledge Level: Intermediate (Basic knowledge helpful)

1031 Exchange Extravaganza
Speaker: Lawrence Pon, CPA/PFS, CFP, EA, USTCP, AEP
Session Description: Our clients are selling real estate with substantial gains and the best way to defer the capital gains tax is through a 1031 exchange. We will review the qualifications of a 1031 exchange and the opportunities of a 1031 exchange. We will also learn how to take advantage of a 1031 exchange to defer the tax on the gain of the sale of a principal residence. We are calling this a 1031 Exchange Extravaganza because there will be three excellent speakers for this session: Larry Pon, CPA, EA will be covering the tax aspects. Jamie Furlong of Legacy Investments will be covering the real estate and DST considerations for 1031 exchanges. Russell Marsan of IPX 1031 Exchange will go over the 1031 exchange mechanics, issues, and timing.

Learning Objectives:

#1: Learn how to defer taxes from the sale of real estate.

#2: Ways to increase your client's income from their real estate investments.

#3: Find out how to make estate planning easier when it comes to distributing real estate to beneficiaries.

3 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01934-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5375
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

Correcting & Reconstructing Partner & S-Corp Basis
Speaker: Jane Ryder, EA, CPA
Session Description: This course reviews accurate reporting, correcting, and reconstructing for partner and S corp shareholder basis. Including two very common matters affecting S corp shareholder and partner basis related to how business ERC refunds and PPP loans were reported on the entity tax returns. These entity reporting errors cause basis to be understated, often by substantial amounts. Individual and business tax preparers should review these and other critical basis miscalculations and identify clients with these issues and how to fix them. See how incoming or exiting shareholders, partners and LLC members' accounts are handled plus basis issues when an entity closes or distributes assets.

Learning Objectives: 

#1: Review basis fundamentals for shareholders, partners, & LLC members.

#2: Identify specific partnership & S corp transactions that may cause basis problems. And Learn best practices for correcting or reconstructing basis if needed.

#3: Determine tax practitioners' exposure and responsibilities related to basis.

3 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01955-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5398
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

LLC's - To Be or Not To Be
Speaker: Veronica Marelli, EA
Session Description: How often do you hear, “I’m an LLC!” in response to your question about a client tax situation? More taxpayers are setting up random LLCs for every idea or dream business they have without really understanding the consequences of that decision. As a tax professional, you may need to unravel the tangled mess of an LLC, getting taxpayers back on the right track. We will discuss the legal side & tax ramifications of a taxpayer having an LLC in today’s business climate.

Learning Objectives:

#1: Learn the tax & legal basis for an LLC in most states of the union.

#2: Determine how to help a taxpayer determine the best tax structure for the new or existing LLC. Learn to walk a taxpayer through the pros and cons of the multiple structures to best help a client's overall tax strategy.

#3: Shine as a superior tax professional that you are in the arena of LLC management to multiple clients in the business world. A great topic for the professional wanting to bring on more higher-paying business clients.

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01935-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5376
Knowledge level: Intermediate (Basic knowledge helpful)

Lunch and Learn:
Speaker: 
Session Description: 

More information to come

California Collections from Start to Finish
Speaker: Veronica Marelli, EA
Session Description: Know what to do the moment a prospective or current client walks in the door with a California tax-due notice. During this presentation, we will discuss step-by-step the best practices & optimal way to manage a CA collections case no matter the dollar amount. Gain confidence to be the best in your office at collection representation with one of the largest collection agencies in the US.

Learning Objectives:

#1: Learn the CA Franchise Tax Board processes for collections & steps to mitigate all collection possibilities. Learn all about CSED & tolling events to better guide clients in resolving their CA debt.

#2: Determine the best practices to assist taxpayers in resolving their CA tax debt in the speediest, least costly way & get them back in compliance.

#3: Know exactly which forms to complete, which supporting documents to send, and how long to expect in the process.

2 California hours
IRS #: N/A
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5377
Knowledge level: Advanced (More experienced)

How to read a will, a trust, and other estate planning documents
Speaker: Frank Acuña, Attorney at Law
Session Description: Tax practitioners are called upon to accurately report income, expense, gains, and losses relating to trusts. But how do you do it if you can’t understand the trust or don’t know where to look?

This class focuses on finding the key information that a tax professional must glean from a will, trust, power of attorney, and other documents to fulfill their ethical and professional duties. Among the topics we will cover:

-Who are the players, and what roles do they play?
-Who “owns” any relevant privileges and the relationship with the tax professional (and other professionals)?
-Who are the beneficiaries, and to what are they entitled (and when)?
-What are principal, income, and distributable net income and how do these concepts impact a trust income tax return?

And many, many more!

This practical, hands-on seminar is taught from the perspective of legal and tax advisors who will be serving trustees of irrevocable trusts and preparing returns.

Learning Objectives:  

#1: Identify various common estate planning documents and the reasons they exist.

#2: Learn to identify the “stakeholders” in each document, and to whom disclosures may be made.

#3: Apply trust taxation principles to the documents being reviewed to insure correct reporting and compliance

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01950-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5392
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

Retirement Plans...Choose Wisely
Speaker: Mike Tullio, EA
Session Description: A course designed to give an overview of the many retirement plan options. As a tax preparer, you must have a high level of understanding of this topic. Helping to advise tax clients about retirement savings plans may be easier than you think. The biggest problem is the many retirement plans that can provide tax benefits to both employers and employees.

Learning Objectives:

#1: Traditional vs Roth, Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRA) – SIMPLE IRA Plans – Payroll Deduction IRA

#2: Simplified Employee Pension (SEP), 401(k) Plan – Simple 401(k) Plan – Starter 401(k) Plan, 403(b) Tax-Sheltered Annuity Plan

#3: Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01936-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5378
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

General Session - 2023 & 2024 Individual Tax Update
Speaker: Jane Ryder, EA, CPA
Session Description: This course reviews federal 2023 individual tax updates and includes any new 2023 tax matters as well as planning for 2024 individual taxes and any new tax guidance or legislation enacted in 2024. Receive up-to-date information on IRS's EITC focus, changes to the Child Tax Credit, Schedule A SALT limitation, and more. We’ll review the new energy credits and vehicle credits for individuals and Schedule E rentals, SECURE Act 2.0, plus the challenges of basis compliance for our partner and S corp shareholder Schedule K-1, Form 1040 clients.

Learning Objectives:

#1: Review 2023 federal tax matters for individuals including late breaking legislation affecting 2023 taxes.

#2: Learn the latest 2024 federal tax guidance or legislation for individuals.

#3: Develop up-to-date 2024 tax planning moves for your individual and rental clients.

2 Federal Update hours
IRS #: 18QC1-U-01956-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5399
Knowledge Level: Update (Information on new tax laws)

FTB Breakfast Keynote Session: CA Updates from the Franchise Tax Board
Speaker: 
Session Description: 

IRS: 
CTEC: 
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

More information to come

Disclosing Tax Return Positions
Speaker: Tom Gorczynski, EA, USTCP
Session Description: When living in a world of tax uncertainty, appropriate disclosure of tax return positions can help protect taxpayers. This course will explain when a taxpayer should consider disclosing a tax return position and how to adequately disclose it on the tax return.

Learning Objectives:

#1: The attendee will be able to explain how disclosure affects the assertion of penalties.

#2: The attendee will be able to describe how a taxpayer adequately discloses a tax return position.

#3: The attendee will demonstrate proper completion of Form 8275, Disclosure Statement.

1 Federal Law hour
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01937-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5379
Knowledge level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

Energy Credits: Packing a Powerful Punch!
Speaker: Ryan Reichert, EA, CFP
Session Description: Energy credits have experienced a massive overhaul in the last few years, leaving preparers feeling uneasy when advising their clients. In this seminar, we will restore your confidence in these credits by looking at: -New rules and regulations for electric vehicle credits -The energy-efficient home improvement credit -"Solar credit" for rental properties -A refresher on solar credits for a primary residence -Desktop reference charts to keep all of the rules straight

Learning Objectives:

#1: Learn the new rules for clean vehicle credits.

#2: Understand the grey areas surrounding the residential clean energy credit.

#3: Apply the rules for each type of energy credit and how to report them on the tax return properly.

3 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01946-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5388
Knowledge level: Intermediate (Basic knowledge helpful)

Itemized Deductions - Schedule A
Speaker: Claudia Stanley, CPA, EA
Session Description: The course takes a close look at Schedule A and itemized deductions. What qualifies for medical deductions, state and local taxes, allowable types of interest, rules for charitable donations, and miscellaneous itemized deductions? There will be an emphasis on residential mortgage interest and how to treat various types of borrowing and refinancing scenarios.

Learning Objectives: 

#1: Gain an understanding of the mortgage interest deduction rules.

#2: Learn what types of medical costs can and cannot be deducted.

#3: Understanding miscellaneous itemized deduction in a post-TCJA world.

1 Federal Law hour
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01952-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5394
Knowledge level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

Tax Planning Strategies for Individuals
Speaker: Tom Gorczynski, EA, USTCP
Session Description: It is a myth that individual taxpayers with no business or rental activities have no material tax planning opportunities. This course reviews potential tax planning strategies for individual taxpayers who do not own a business or rental activity.

Learning Objectives:

#1: The attendee will be able to explain the requirements for each tax planning strategy discussed.

#2: The attendee will be able to describe barriers to the implementation of each tax planning strategy discussed.

#3: The attendee will be able to calculate the potential tax savings for each tax planning strategy discussed.

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 118QC1-T-01938-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5380
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected) 

Oh, Those Crazy Landlords
Speaker: Mike Tullio, EA
Session Description: This course will cover some of the “Up & Down” that tax preparers must deal with customers that have rental properties. The basic focus will be on Form 1040, Schedule E, Page 1 – Supplemental Income and Loss (From rental real estate) and Form 8825 – Rental Real Estate Income and Expenses of a Partnership or an S Corporation.

Learning Objectives:

#1: What happens when the property is sold (not 1031 Exchanges)

#2: Short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO) and Rent-for-Profit

#3: Depreciation, Deductions and Expenses

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01939-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5381
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected) 

Tax Planning Strategies for Rental Property Owners
Speaker: Tom Gorczynski, EA, USTCP
Session Description: This course reviews tax planning strategies for individuals who own rental properties. Topics to be reviewed include but are not limited to, strategies for using rental losses, active participation in real estate activities, real estate professional status, the short-term rental "loophole", and cost segregation.

Learning Objectives:

#1: The attendee will be able to explain the requirements for each tax planning strategy discussed.

#2: The attendee will be able to describe barriers to the implementation of each tax planning strategy discussed.

#3: The attendee will be able to calculate the potential tax savings for each tax planning strategy discussed.

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01940-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5382
Knowledge level: Intermediate (Basic knowledge helpful)

California Update
Speaker: Claudia Stanley, EA, CPA
Session Description: The course provides the latest information on CA taxation. Topics covered included: California changes impacting 2023 and 2024 returns; new rules, cases, and guidance from the state; as well as the latest on proposed changes from pending California legislation. The course will address both personal and business-related changes.

Learning Objectives:

#1: The latest information impacting 2023 California tax returns on extension.

#2: The latest information on interacting with the Franchise Tax Board.

#3: Changes that may impact your 2024 planning for California taxes.

2 California hours
IRS #: N/A
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5395
Knowledge level: Intermediate (Basic knowledge helpful)

Preparing Form 706 With An Emphasis on Portability
Speaker: Lawrence Pon, CPA/PFS, CFP, EA, USTCP, AEP
Session Description: When our clients pass away, we may need to file Form 706 - Estate Tax Return. This is especially important if your clients were married and the first spouse passed away. We will review the importance of filing for the Portability of the Deceased Spouse Unused Exemption (DSUE). When the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) expires at the end of 2025, there will be substantial changes to the estate basic exclusion so we need to help our clients get prepared for that change. We will also review a case study with a completed Form 706.

Learning Objectives:

#1: Protect our clients from a possible decrease in the Basic Estate Exclusion.

#2: Learn about Portability of the Deceased Spouse Unused Exemption (DSUE).

#3: Learn how to complete Form 706 - Estate Tax Return.

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01941-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5383
Knowledge level: Intermediate (Basic knowledge helpful)

General Session - Business Update
Speaker: Ryan Reichert, EA, CFP
Session Description: Every year, there are new changes that impact business taxpayers. This session will cover all of the major changes tax professionals should be aware of when preparing returns and providing tax planning for their clients. The seminar will also cover new information related to the Corporate Transparency Act, its impact on your clients, and whether or not this is a service that tax professionals should offer.

Learning Objectives:

#1: Review major changes tax professionals should be aware of when preparing extended 2023 returns.

#2: Discover tax planning opportunities for the 2024 tax year.

#3: Address concerns and reporting related to the Corporate Transparency Act (Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting).

2 Federal Update hours
IRS #: 18QC1-U-01948-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5390
Knowledge level: Update (Information on new tax laws)

Breakfast Keynote Session - Stop leaving money on the table. Build A Tax Consulting Practice!
Speaker: Frank Acuña, Attorney at Law
Course Description: I hear it from tax professionals:

My tax practice is shrinking as my clients are retiring!
It’s “boom or bust”. Cash flow during tax season, then nothing!

I hear it from my clients:

-How can I pay less tax next year?
-What’s the deal with retirement accounts? In fact, will I be able to retire, and when?
-How will my sources of income affect my retirement budget and my expected tax burden?
-I have a home, rental property, etc. What is going to happen to my kids when they inherit?
-I want to start gifting to my kids. What’s the best way to do it?
-I need a loan. What are they asking for?
-My mom needs skilled nursing or Medi-Cal. Will they qualify? How can I make them eligible?

The answer for both tax professionals and clients is to think outside of the box and expand the services you provide. There is no lack of software or competitors to help our clients with doing their taxes, particularly after retirement. But clients want and need more. They need solid tax, financial, and budgeting advice and they are willing to pay for it!

Be ready to brainstorm, dream, plan, and create a tax, financial, and budgeting practice that will add to your bottom line and will make you stand out in a crowd of tax compliance alternatives!

Learning Objectives: 

#1: Identify the areas of tax planning for which clients are clamoring for help

#2: Learn the basics of each of these areas, and identify further knowledge, training, and experience needed to consult with clients in each of them

#3: Develop marketing statements and a marketing calendar for tax consulting.

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01951-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5393
Knowledge level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

Tax Planning for the Silver Tsunami 2.0
Speaker: Rod Couts, EA
Session Description: The Secure Act 2.0 has changed the retirement planning landscape. Understanding these changes and more will enhance your role as a tax advisor in helping your clients make key decisions that will greatly impact their financial future. During this session, you will learn advanced concepts for answering more of your clients' Social Security questions, tax planning for pensions and annuities, strategies for IRA to Roth conversions, IRA law updates, Health Savings accounts as retirement tools, and options for using 529 plans to fund retirement. We will also take a deeper dive into the Secure Act 2.0 and review what is on the horizon on laws affecting retirement plans. Retirement planning is essential for being an effective tax advisor. This class will elevate your skills to be the effective advisor your clients expect of you.

Learning Objectives:

#1: How to explain to clients how Social Security works and strategies for maximizing the benefit.

#2: How to advise clients on the impact, benefits, and pitfalls of IRA to Roth conversions.

#3: Develop a plan for advising your clients on retirement planning strategies centered around tax planning.

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01942-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5384
Knowledge level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

Gambling Tax Issues
Speaker: Tom Gorczynski, EA, USTCP
Session Description: The incorrect reporting of wagering gains and losses is common. This course will review the taxation of casual gambling activities as well as tax issues faced by professional gamblers. How to advise clients on proper documentation and tracking of gambling activities will be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

#1: The attendee will learn how to calculate gambling gains and losses per session based on existing law.

#2: The attendee will be able to explain how and to what extent a taxpayer can deduct gambling losses.

#3: The attendee will be able to describe the documentation needed to calculate gambling gains and losses.

2 Federal Tax Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01943-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5385
Knowledge level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

Unraveling the Mysteries of Clergy Taxes
Speaker: David Eastis, CRTP
Session Description: There are unique challenges and rules in preparing a tax return for Clergy/Pastors. We will explore Pub 157 (Guidelines for Ministers). This includes tax information for the following classes of taxpayers:
•Ministers
•Members of a religious order
•Christian Science practitioners and readers
•Religious workers (church employees), and
•Leaders of a recognized religious sect

As a result, we will gain a deeper understanding of the resources needed to address tax issues facing Clergy/Ministers.

We will explore
•sources of income and fringe benefits
•wages
•self-employed income
•tax-exempt allowances (housing)

The goal of this workshop is to help the attendees develop new resource tools for determining and understanding the tax issues for completing Clergy tax returns.

Learning Objectives: 

#1: Exploring the format of pub 157 (guidelines for ministers)

#2: Develop a resource tool for determining sources of income, fringe benefits, wages, self-employed income, and tax-exempt allowances (housing).

#3: Completing a case study federal tax return for Clergy.

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01944-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5386
Knowledge Level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

Lunch and Learn:
Speaker: 
Session Description: 

More information to come

General Session - Stump the Tax Experts
Speaker: All speakers are invited to join this panel
Session Description: This is a special question-and-answer session with our unique panel of Tax Experts that includes many of our terrific speakers who have agreed to let us test their tax knowledge! Do you have a burning question that is driving you crazy because you cannot find the answer on your own? Did you learn something in one of your classes that needs further explanation for you to understand the tax concept?  Questions will be collected during the Symposium.

2 Federal Law hours
IRS #: 18QC1-T-01949-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5391
Knowledge level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

General Session - Unethical Minds
Speaker: Shannon Hall, EA
Session Description: They’re lurking all around us, sometimes hiding in plain sight. You never know who around might be an UNSUB (Unethical Subject). Join the UBAU (Unethical Behavior Analysis Unit) as we profile some of the most egregious ethics violations and explore the pitfalls that can lead otherwise ethical preparers astray. Together we will unearth the truth about the history of tax preparer ethics and the events that led us to this classroom today. We will explore the evolution of ethical guidelines and how they are applied and enforced. We will dive deep into the most outrageous cases of unethical behavior, including the latest in predatory practices, and due diligence requirements.

Learning Objectives:

#1: Outline penalties and other punitive actions related to ethical violations.

#2: Identify ethical violations and explore ways to handle situations ethically.

#3: Gain a clear understanding of the requirements for due diligence.

2 Ethics hours
IRS #: 18QC1-E-01945-24-I
CTEC #: 1000-CE-5387
Knowledge level: Basic (No prior knowledge expected)

About the Presenters

Frank Acuña, Attorney at Law
Frank R. Acuña is a founding partner of ACUÑA ❖ REGLI. He is a California State Bar-certified estate planning, trust, and probate law specialist. His practice includes estate planning; inheritance litigation; business succession planning; special needs trusts; and farm, ranch, and vineyard succession planning. Mr. Acuña has taught tax seminars for the National Tax Practice Institute, the California Society of Enrolled Agents, the California Society of Tax Consultants, a number of state and local chapters of the National Association of Enrolled Agents, and the American Institute of Certified Public Accounts. Mr. Acuña also is a featured speaker for the Professional Fiduciary Association of California, the National Guardianship Association, and the California Public Administrators, Public Conservators, and Public Guardians. He advises tax, fiduciary, and real estate professionals throughout the State of California.

Rodney Couts, EA
Rodney J. Couts, Enrolled Agent, is the Founder and President of Seaside Resources, Inc. in Carlsbad, CA. Seaside Resources specializes in taxation and advisory services for small businesses, real estate investors, and individuals.

Rod is a graduate of Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in accounting. He received his Enrolled Agent designation in 2005 and founded Seaside Resources the same year.

With a lifelong passion for learning, Rod has been an instructor of tax and business courses to professionals for over a decade. He has served as past President of the California Society of Tax Consultants (CSTC), and has presented numerous lectures to CSTC, the California Society of Enrolled Agents, and the National Association of Tax Professionals. Additionally, Rod frequently serves as a moderator for CSTC webinars.

Rod’s specialized knowledge of vehicle and equipment leasing led to publications in Forbes, Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle, LEAR’s and Working Mother. Additionally, Rod has been recognized by former Federal Reserve Board Chairman, Alan Greenspan, for his contributions to the Federal Reserve Board’s Leasing Education Task Force. Rod has made appearances as a guest speaker on numerous television and radio programs, including CNN’s Money line, Motor Week, Fox on Consumers and KNX News Radio.

Seaside Resources Inc. has been recognized as a Firm of the Future. This recognition aligns with Rod’s belief that advanced knowledge and utilization of technology will ultimately elevate client value and satisfaction.

David A. Eastis, CRTP, BA, MA
Mr. Eastis holds various degrees. His BA is in the area of accounting from Indiana University, South Bend. Other degrees held are from the University of La Verne and Bethany Theological Seminary. David currently has a practice located in Brea, California. One of his specialties is dealing with Non-Profit Corporations. As an active member of CSTC, he has held numerous positions of leadership including state president of CSTC and positions within individual chapters. David is a frequent speaker at the annual CSTC Summer Symposium. David has been an annual speaker in our own Greater Long Beach Chapter sharing his expertise on numerous topics.

Tom Gorczynski, EA, USTCP
Thomas A. Gorczynski, EA, USTCP is a nationally recognized speaker and educator on federal tax law matters. He is the author of the Tom Talks Taxes newsletter, the co-author of the PassKey Learning Systems EA Review Series, and co-owner of Compass Tax Educators. He is an Enrolled Agent, a Certified Tax Planner, a National Tax Practice Institute Fellow, and admitted to the bar of the United States Tax Court as a non-attorney.

Shannon Hall, EA
Shannon Hall, EA, is a tax professional based in Long Beach, CA. Her diverse client base keeps her on the cutting edge of new tax developments. Shannon is a featured speaker for tax societies nationwide and a writer and presenter for Brass Tax Presentations. She holds degrees in both Accounting and Theatre Arts, which aids her in creating captivating and informative tax presentations.

She has served as the First Vice President of CSTC in charge of education for three years, as well as participating on the board of her local chapter in Orange County. Shannon was named CSTC Member of the Year for 2023.

Veronica Marelli, EA
Veronica has a formal education in Accounting and has been an Enrolled Agent for almost 20 years. She is the owner of Tax Resolution Advocates with offices in Temecula California, SLC Utah, and Southern Idaho. Tax Resolution Advocates is a full-service tax firm that specializes in tax problem resolution. She is also a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist.

She has recently added Profit First consulting to her firm. She is approximately one of only 140 tax professionals in the US to become a Profit First Professional. Profit First is an organization dedicated to eradicating entrepreneurial poverty.

Veronica served as 1st Vice President of the California Society of Tax Consultants at the State level. She also served the local North San Diego Chapter as second Vice President for many years. Both of these positions were as the Education Chair. It was her main responsibility to ensure Tax professionals Statewide were trained and up to date on all new State and federal tax laws and changes to the current tax code.

Veronica has a vast amount of experience serving and working on the Board of Directors. She has, or is currently serving on five different boards of Not-for-profit organizations. These organizations have helped our communities by providing shelter for abused women and homeless teenagers, feeding underprivileged children, and the planting of new Christian Churches.

Lawrence Pon, CPA/PFS, CFPR, EA, USTCP, AEP
Mr. Pon is a Certified Public Accountant, Personal Financial Specialist, Certified Financial Planner, Enrolled Agent, United States Tax Court Practitioner, and Accredited Estate Planner in Redwood Shores, CA.

Mr. Pon has been in practice since 1986 and enjoys helping his clients reach their financial goals. He frequently speaks on tax and financial planning topics.

Mr. Pon received his BS in Business Administration with emphases in Accounting and Finance from the University of California, Berkeley, and MS in Taxation from Golden Gate University in San Francisco. 

Ryan Reichert, EA, CFP
Ryan Reichert is an Enrolled Agent and Certified Financial Planner practicing in Coronado, California. Don’t let his young looks fool you; when it comes to tax, there are few as enthusiastic as him. Ryan spends his days reading tax law and speaking with the most brilliant tax minds across the country -- all to distill the law down into working concepts you can apply in your practice. His dynamic seminars help attendees stay engaged while he goes beyond the law to show you things you may not have thought possible.

Ryan is out on the road for most of the year teaching for his education organization, Brass Tax Presentations, but he is also a firm believer in practicing what he preaches. His niche focuses on businesses and their owners to ensure maximum tax efficiency. Ryan also provides consulting services to tax professionals all over the country on specialized issues, including the Employee Retention Credit.

Jane Ryder, EA, CPA
Jane Ryder, EA, CPA has been providing tax preparation, accounting services, and tax collection resolution services since 1980. She runs her San Diego CPA firm and writes and speaks on many income tax, business compliance, and accounting topics. Jane has a business-centric practice, preparing and consulting on tax, accounting, and compliance matters for Corporations, S-corporations, LLCs, Partnerships, and Trusts. She also specializes in IRS and state agencies' collection problems, payment plans, audit representation, audit appeals, offers in compromise, and other compliance-related issues. She earned a BS in Business Administration (Accounting) from SDSU and is currently licensed with the California State Board of Accountancy and admitted to practice before the Internal Revenue Service as an Enrolled Agent.

Claudia Stanley, CPA, EA
Claudia Stanley, CPA is a graduate of California State University, Fresno, and serves as treasurer of the California Society of Tax Consultants, as education chair of the Central California Chapter of Enrolled Agents, and as treasurer of Fresno’s local chapter of American Business Women’s Association. Claudia is a long-time member of CSTC. In 2016 she was named member of the year of the Central Valley Chapter of CSTC and in 2001 she was named one of the Top Ten Women of the Year in the nation by the American Business Women’s Association. She frequently speaks on various tax topics.

Michael Tullio, EA
Mike is an Enrolled Agent and has been in the tax preparation business for nearly 40 years.  He is the owner of Michael A. Tullio Financial Services, located on Mission Gorge Road in San Diego California. Mike up until recently was a Senior Tax Content Analyst at Intuit, makers of Turbo Tax, ProSeries, and Lacerte. He is an Enrolled Agent. He is a member of the National Society of Tax Preparers (NSTP) and a member of the California Society Tax Consultants (CSTC).

About our 2024 Sponsors and Exhibitors

 Information coming soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many CPE's are the sessions worth for a CPA? Do the Federal Law hours apply?
A: Yes! Since CPA is a national designation, any Federal tax law/federal update/ethics hours DO apply to CPA CPEs. Only the CA-designated hours won't apply as that is for CTEC only.

Q: What handouts are available? 
A: Each registrant will receive at check-in a USB thumb drive containing the electronic handouts provided by the speakers in advance. If there are any changes to the handouts, or if a speaker does not submit handouts in advance, after the conclusion of the Symposium an email will be sent containing a link to a CSTC webpage with the final handouts posted. They will not be emailed during the Symposium. Attendees may choose to print sections/pages from the USB on-site at the Symposium using the hotel business center or printer of their choice. Alternatively, you can pre-order a printed copy of all session handouts (as provided in advance by the speakers) in a bound, tabbed book format for $175. Deadline to order is June 30. 

Q: Several of the Breakout session tracks are in parts- Can I attend part 2 if I didn't attend part 1? 
A: If you want to earn continuing education hours for the session, you must attend both parts 1 and 2. If not, you are welcome to sit in on any session for informational purposes only. 

Q: What is the maximum CPE I can get from the Summer Symposium? 
A: An attendee can earn up to 24 total hours by attending the sessions each day. The type of hours will vary depending on the attendee's choice of which courses to attend.