Dive Into IPT Insider

President's Message

Happy New Year, IPT members! I can’t believe we’re already in January, marking the halfway point of my term as President. The next six months promise to be an exciting time, and I’m eager to dive in and continue the work we’ve started together.

First, a reminder that applications are now being accepted for IPT Officers and the Board of Governors. To be considered, you must hold an IPT designation (CMI or CCIP) and submit your application by March 3, 2025. More details can be found below. If you’ve ever thought about contributing to IPT leadership, I strongly encourage you to apply. Serving as a Board Member and Officer has been one of the most insightful and rewarding experiences of my career, and I’m confident it would be for you as well. And feel free to reach out to me directly, or anyone else on the Board, if you want more insight on the time investment and experience and to answer any questions you may have about the process.

On a related note, the nomination period for IPT’s Annual Awards is also open. IPT thrives on the dedication and contributions of its volunteer members, and these awards provide a wonderful opportunity to recognize and celebrate those efforts. Whether you’re submitting a nomination or being nominated, your participation in highlighting deserving members is invaluable. Please see below for more information on the nomination process and the various awards. Remember, the deadline for nominations is February 21, 2025, and the winners will be honored at the Annual Conference.

Speaking of the Annual Conference, we have an incredible event planned for June 22–25 in Fort Lauderdale. I’m thrilled to announce our keynote speaker, Amelia Rose Earhart, who will share her inspiring journey of navigating expectations and overcoming challenges. You can learn more about her in this month’s Insider. The Conference will feature a dynamic agenda addressing the most pressing issues we face as tax professionals, and I’m excited to unveil the full schedule soon.

A major highlight of the Conference is always the Tuesday evening reception. This year’s theme is “Club Pro Royale,” blending the elegance of Palm Beach with the thrill of Casino Royale. It’s shaping up to be a spectacular evening. I can’t wait to experience it with all of you. We are also planning a variety of networking events to ensure a memorable and engaging experience for everyone.

Finally, I am looking forward to IPT’s first program of the year, Sales Tax School I, happening this February in Atlanta. I will be there to welcome all the attendees and look forward to meeting as many new members as possible.

As we kick off another year of professional growth and connection, I thank you for your support and engagement with IPT. Here’s to a fantastic start to 2025!

Trisha C. Fortune, CMI, CPA
IPT President

IPT Annual Dues Deadline

2025 Annual Dues – Still Available to Pay: Your continued support of IPT this year is sincerely appreciated. 2025 Dues are still available for payment either online (the preferred method at www.ipt.org) or via check.

If you will be paying with a check, we highly recommend using a trackable method such as FedEx or UPS to ensure the check arrives safely at our office. Please confirm that your Accounting department has our most recent address before sending the check payment.

Our current address is as follows:
1100 Abernathy Rd NE, Suite 750, Atlanta, GA 30328

Dues Payment Deadline: January 31, 2025

For Corporate memberships, only the Primary Member has received the annual dues notices, which will also include any applicable CMI/CCIP dues. The Primary Member is responsible for adding and/or removing members on the company’s roster, as well as paying the membership and designation dues for all active members in the company. If you are a Primary Member, you can review your current roster of active members: Sign in at the top right-hand corner of our homepage, click on your name once signed in, then proceed to the white Member Search tab where you can enter your company name and see all current active members. Please email us with any roster changes that you wish to be made for the 2025 membership year or if you need a copy of your invoice.

For Consultant memberships, invoices have been sent and billed to each individual member and will also include CMI/CCIP dues, if applicable. Please advise IPT of any changes to your membership and/or company name so our records are current and your invoice is billed correctly.

CMI/CCIP Dues: Annual CMI/CCIP Dues of $150 per designation are in addition to Membership Dues and apply to both Corporate and Consultant Memberships.

Thank you again for your membership and continued support of the Institute, as we look forward to a new year of opportunities in 2025!

Save the Dates for the 2025 Property Tax Schools!

We’re excited to announce the dates and locations for IPT’s 2025 Property Tax Schools! Whether you’re just starting out in the property tax field or looking to deepen your expertise, these schools are designed to provide you with the foundational principles and advanced knowledge you need to excel.

The 2025 Property Tax Schools will cover:
• Ad Valorem Fundamentals
• Real Property Valuation, Assessment, and Taxation
• Personal Property Assessment, Compliance, and Taxation
• Topics in Property Tax Management


These comprehensive schools offer valuable insights to enhance your professional skills and keep you ahead of industry changes. Whether you're looking to build a strong foundation or expand your understanding of complex property tax issues, you’ll gain practical, actionable knowledge that will help you become a more effective property tax professional.

2025 Property Tax School
September 8 - 11, 2025
Hilton DFW Lakes Executive Conference Center
Grapevine, TX

2025 Real Property Tax School
October 13 - 17, 2025
Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center
Atlanta, GA

2025 Personal Property Tax School
October 20 - 24, 2025
Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center
Atlanta, GA

Now Accepting Applications for IPT's Board of Governors

The application period is now open for any eligible IPT member desiring to serve on the IPT Board of Governors. Please note all applicants must be designated by the Institute, holding either a CMI or CCIP designation, to serve on the Board.

Each year, three members are nominated to serve on the Board, and one member is nominated to serve as Second Vice President. (Typically, the incumbent First Vice President and Second Vice President are nominated to President and First Vice President, respectively). The term for new Board members is three years.

As you consider this opportunity, here is some additional information that may be helpful in your decision:
• The Board has three meetings each year - once during the Annual Conference, a November meeting, and a March meeting. These meetings are typically held on a Saturday and/or Sunday and usually require at least one night’s stay but no more than two;
• IPT allows for up to $3,750 reimbursement each year for standard airfare, up to two nights lodging per meeting, meals not provided by IPT, and other travel-related expenses for attendance at Board meetings;
• Registration fees for Board members are waived for attendance at the annual conferences, symposiums, and one IPT school per year during their term. The IPT school waiver can be shared with another employee within their company; and,
• Service on the Board of Governors provides an excellent opportunity for IPT-designated members, who have actively participated in the organization, to help shape, guide, and lead IPT into the future.

Please refer to IPT’s By-Laws for a list of eligibility requirements. Any eligible member interested in being considered for an IPT Board of Governors position, either regular Board or Officer position, must obtain the 2025 Board of Governors Application Form by emailing IPT Executive Director, Chris G. Muntifering, CMI, at cmuntifering@ipt.org. This form is not available on the IPT website, nor can a prior year form be used in lieu of the current year application form as conditions have changed.

Your completed application must be returned, preferably by email, by the end of business, March 3, 2025 for consideration by the Nominating Committee. The Committee keeps all applications and discussions confidential. Applications will be immediately destroyed following the Committee’s meeting. Your 2025 membership and designation dues, including any past unpaid dues, must be paid in full to be considered for nomination by the Committee.

ABA-IPT Advanced Tax Seminars

Tailored for property tax practitioners, including attorneys, consultants, tax directors, managers, government tax and revenue officials, and property appraisers—this program encompasses a diverse array of viewpoints from experienced professionals across both the public and private sectors. The sessions are designed to deliver invaluable perspectives on emerging industries, economic influences on market valuations, trial strategies for appeals, and additional pertinent topics.

Moreover, participants will have ample opportunities to engage in networking with peers throughout the duration of the seminars.

Register Online

2025 ABA-IPT Advanced Tax Seminars Brochure

CMI/CCIP Exam Schedule & Deadlines

2025 CMI State Income Tax Exams
*The CMI State Income Tax exams are administered by appointment only, and held at the IPT office in Atlanta, Georgia.  
*After completion of the application process, candidates must notify IPT of their intention to sit with at least 90 days’ notice.  The exam date will then be scheduled through coordination with the CMI - State Income Tax Professional Designation Committee. 

*Please contact Jake Lipps, IPT’s Certification Manager, for more information. 

Applications must be received via email on or before the deadline for receipt of applications. Applications received after this deadline will NOT be reviewed in time for consideration of the subsequent exams. 

February 2025 CMI Sales Tax Exams
Atlanta, Georgia
Exam Dates: February 28 - March 1, 2025

* The date for submitting applications has passed. 
* All examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than January 15, 2025. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than January 28, 2025.

June 2025 CMI Sales & Property Tax Exams 
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Exam Dates: June 21-22, 2025

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the June Written Exam 2025 exams is March 10, 2025. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than May 15, 2025. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than May 21, 2025.

July 2025 CCIP Exam 
Atlanta, Georgia
Exam Dates: July 28-29, 2025

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the July 2025 CCIP exam is April 28, 2025. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than June 9, 2025. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than June 26, 2025.

September 2025 CMI Sales Tax Exams 
Indian Wells, California
Exam Dates: September 27-28, 2025

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the September 2025 CMI Sales Tax exams is June 30, 2025. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than August 13, 2025. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than August 27, 2025.

November 2025 CMI Property Tax Exams 
Indian Wells, California
Exam Dates: November 1 - 2, 2025

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the November 2025 CMI Property Tax exams is August 4, 2025. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than September 15, 2025. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than October 1, 2025.

November 2025 CCIP Exam 
Dallas, Texas
Exam Dates: November 15 - 16, 2025

* The deadline for receipt of applications for the November 2025 CCIP exam is August 13, 2025. 
* All Examinees will be required to complete and submit verification of any needed final requirements no later than October 1, 2025. 
* Candidates must register for the examination no later than October 15, 2025.

IPT Awards Program: Recognizing Excellence in Service and Leadership

IPT’s Awards Program honors the exceptional contributions of our members to the Institute and the tax profession. We invite IPT members to nominate individuals who exemplify dedication, innovation, and leadership in their roles. The Awards Committee carefully evaluates all nominations and provides recommendations to the IPT Board of Governors for final approval.

The Value of Volunteer Contributions
IPT thrives on the efforts of its volunteer members. Our awards program serves as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate these invaluable contributions. Your participation in identifying deserving recipients is vital and deeply appreciated.

2025 Nominations Now Open
The nomination period for the 2025 Awards is open. Nominations must be submitted by February 21, 2025 to be considered.

Award Categories

Distinguished Service Award
This prestigious award honors members who have shown extraordinary commitment to IPT over an extended period. Recipients typically demonstrate significant contributions to designation programs, educational initiatives, and program support. Nominations should include a detailed explanation of why the nominee deserves this recognition.

Special Award
This award highlights significant contributions to specific projects or initiatives that advance IPT’s mission. Nominees may have spearheaded critical projects, developed educational materials, or made other impactful contributions to IPT and its members.

Emerging Leader Award
New members are the cornerstone of IPT’s future. This award celebrates their active involvement, leadership, and service contributions, highlighting their potential as future leaders of the Institute.

Instructor of the Year Awards
These awards recognize instructors who have made outstanding contributions to IPT’s educational programs. Separate awards honor excellence in:
• Property Tax
• Sales & Use Tax
• State Income Tax
• Credits & Incentives

Recipients are selected based on nominations from school chairs, input from instructors, and attendee evaluations.

Ready to Nominate?
Follow the link below to access the nomination forms and help us celebrate those who make a difference in the IPT community.

Instructor of the Year Awards Nomination Form  

IPT Awards Nomination Form

2025 Sales Tax Schools - Save the Date

2025 Sales Tax School I: A Comprehensive Introduction to Sales & Use Taxes
February 24 – 28, 2025
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, GA

IPT's Sales Tax School I: Introduction to Sales & Use Taxes is a comprehensive program designed for individuals who are new to the sales and use tax discipline or have limited exposure to it.

The course covers essential concepts such as research, accounting, auditing, and other technical skills. Attendees will have the opportunity to work in smaller groups to develop practical applications for situations sales and use tax professionals face every day.

The school is led by a diverse faculty of sales and use tax professionals with vast experience from the corporate, consulting, and legal sectors. The instructors will lend their professional expertise and insights to assist attendees in learning the concepts of sales and use taxation. This hands-on format allows registrants to share ideas, expand their problem-solving skills, and network with colleagues.

Register

2025 Sales Tax School II: Theory and Practice for the Experienced Sales and Use Tax Professional
April 28 - May 2, 2025
Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center
Atlanta, GA

Unlock the next level of mastery in sales and use tax with Sales Tax School II: Theory and Practice for the Experienced Sales and Use Tax Professional! 

 At the School, participants will experience a deep dive into essential concepts and gain a profound understanding of crucial sales & use tax principles and their real-world applications. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to navigate the intricate nuances of specific industries.

 Led by seasoned tax professionals from the corporate, legal, and consulting spheres, participants will benefit greatly from their wealth of experience and expertise.

The School is comprised of workshop sessions where theory meets practice. Attendees will discuss materials presented, share insights, and apply concepts to typical sales & use tax scenarios. It's a hands-on approach that prepares participants to tackle real-world challenges. Sales Tax School II is not just about learning; it's about excelling. 

Register

Upcoming Local Luncheons 

IPT Atlanta Local Luncheon Group * February 26, 2025 * 11:30AM – 1:00PM 

Location: Maggiano's Little Italy Restaurant at Perimeter Mall – 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd Ste #3035, Dunwoody, GA 30346
Topic: Property Tax: Tax Assessors Panel and Major Property Tax Legislative Updates for 2025
Speakers: 
Roderick Conley - Fulton County Tax Assessor
Steve White - Cobb County Tax Assessor
Steve Swindell - Cherokee County Tax Assessor
Steve Watson - Hall County Tax Assessor
Stewart Oliver - Gwinnett County Tax Assessor
Register: https://atlantaipt.org/
Information: Samantha McBean or Marcia Shippey-Pryce