Dive Into IPT Insider

President's Message

Spring is in full swing, and with it comes a busy and exciting time for IPT!

Our next in-person program is Sales Tax School II, taking place April 28 – May 2 in Atlanta. I’ll be there and look forward to meeting many of you as we continue to build on IPT’s strong foundation of education and professional development.

Immediately following is the Value Added Tax (VAT) School, May 5 – 8, also in Atlanta. This is the second year IPT is offering this unique program, established under the leadership of Immediate Past President Allan Wells. The success of last year’s inaugural class showed just how much interest and need there is for VAT-specific training, and we’re proud to offer it again this year.

We’ll also host a webinar on May 22nd focused on food and beverage taxation from the sales tax perspective. Visit ipt.org to learn more and register. It’s a great way to stay current and earn CPE from wherever you are.

Looking ahead, don’t forget to register for the 49th IPT Annual Conference, which is taking place June 22 – 25, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale. You can earn 18.2 CPE credits, including 1.6 hours of IPT Ethics credit, while enjoying top-notch programming and unbeatable networking.

This year’s Conference kicks off on Sunday with two pre-Conference networking events—pickleball and a Waterway Tour—followed by a welcome reception on the beach Sunday evening. It’s the perfect way to ease into the week and connect with colleagues from across the country.

Monday is “Exhibitor Day,” when our valued exhibitors will be with us from breakfast through the evening reception to share the innovative solutions they offer to state and local tax professionals. I hope you’ll take time to connect with them. As the day wraps up, join me for a fun round of Bingo. No need to register—just stop by and try your luck!

And don’t miss the always-popular Tuesday night reception. This year’s theme is Club PRO Casino Royale. We are extending the reception time from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM and blending the glamorous world of Palm Royale with the thrills of Casino Royale.  Expect fun, fashion, and a little friendly competition at the tables.  We’re blending the glamorous world of Palm Royale with the thrills of Casino Royale. Expect fun, fashion, and a little friendly competition at the tables. I encourage everyone to get into the spirit and dress in your best 1960s country club attire—you won’t want to miss it!

Thanks for all you do for IPT. I look forward to seeing many of you in the coming months and continuing our work together to grow, connect, and strengthen this incredible community.

Trisha C. Fortune, CMI, CPA
IPT President

Join Us in Fort Lauderdale at the 49th Annual Conference

Discover the Power of Professional Growth at IPT’s Annual Conference

Mark your calendar for IPT’s 49th Annual Conference, which takes place June 22–25, 2025, in beautiful Fort Lauderdale, Florida. As IPT’s flagship program, the Annual Conference brings together state and local tax professionals from across the country for an unmatched educational experience and valuable networking opportunities.

This year’s program features four specialized educational tracks—Credits & Incentives, Property Tax, Sales Tax, and State Income Tax—each offering the latest updates, emerging technologies, and fresh perspectives in their respective disciplines.  Whether you're seeking insight into legislative developments, compliance challenges, or strategic planning, there’s a track designed for your professional growth.

In addition to the focused tracks, the Conference offers dynamic general sessions, including an engaging keynote presentation, a favorite ethics speaker, and timely discussions on litigation updates, tax policy shifts, and management strategies relevant across disciplines.

Between sessions, connect with fellow tax professionals at evening receptions and networking events.  Whether you’re deepening your expertise or expanding your network, the IPT Annual Conference is the place to be.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and lead.  We’ll see you in Fort Lauderdale!

Register before May 16th and save $100. Register

Hotel Reservations   Cut-off is Thursday, May 22, 2025.

In Memoriam: Timmy Hulin, CMI

IPT is deeply saddened by the passing of Timmy Hulin, CMI on March 24, 2025.  He was a dedicated member of the IPT community. Timmy was an active volunteer, serving on the Sales Tax School II Committee, the CMI - Sales Tax Professional Designation Committee, and the 2013 Sales Tax Symposium Committee. 

His contributions and commitment to IPT were invaluable, and he will be greatly missed. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

In Memoriam: Roberta Lynne O’Brad

IPT was saddened to learn of the passing of Roberta Lynne O’Brad on March 20, 2025. A long-time member, Roberta was a familiar presence at IPT Sales Tax Symposiums and Annual Conferences. She was also the widow of IPT Past President Robert B. Atkinson, CMI.  Her warmth and dedication to the IPT community will be deeply missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.

In Memoriam: Michael J. Semes, Esq

IPT is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael J. Semes, Esq., on March 10, 2025. A respected voice in the tax community, Michael generously shared his expertise as a speaker at the 2023 and 2024 Credits & Incentives Symposiums and the ABA-IPT Advanced State Income Tax Seminar. His knowledge and insights made a lasting impact on those who had the opportunity to learn from him. IPT extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.

Join Us for IPT’s Next Sales Tax Webinar!

Food & Beverage Sales & Use Taxation Basics – A niche within a niche!
May 22, 2025 1:00 PM (50 minutes – 1 CPE Hour)

Food and beverage taxation varies greatly from state to state, and even at the local jurisdiction level. We will explore the different sales channels; what constitutes food, prepared vs. unprepared food, and other considerations you will need to know to understand the broad concepts in this specialty. Please join us as we dive into all things food and beverage!

Learning Objectives
At the end of this session, the registrant will be able to:
• Identify the types of food and beverage registrations, returns, rates, and exemptions
• Recognize different types of food and beverage sales & how tax generally applies
• Review Tax imposition and interpretation examples

Speaker:
Josh Sigmon, CMI, MBA
Sr. Director, Sales Tax
Compass Group USA
Charlotte, NC

Member registration cost is $75. The non member cost is $125.

Register

Registration is Open for the 2025 Value Added Tax School

 
IPT is excited to announce the 2025 Value Added Tax School. This four-day intensive program offers a beginner to intermediate foundation in value added taxation. Led by a diverse faculty from the industry and consulting sectors, participants will receive a comprehensive review and analysis of various essential VAT principles. The instructors are equipped to facilitate in-depth learning in VAT, backed by real-world experience. Successful completion of the course requires a passing score on the final examination and attendance at the mandatory ethics session. The course offers approximately 29 continuing education credits, including 1.2 IPT Ethics credit hours, for full attendance.

We invite tax professionals looking to expand their knowledge and expertise in VAT to register for this exciting opportunity.

2025 VAT School Brochure/Agenda

Register

Save the Date for IPT’s State Income Tax School

Are you seeking to elevate your knowledge and proficiency in state income tax?

Look no further than IPT's renowned State Income Tax School, recognized as the pinnacle of education for today's tax professionals. During the school, registrants will participate in an in-depth analysis of complex issues state income tax professionals regularly encounter. Through the duration of the program, the school's faculty provides attendees with practical skills and strategies to manage these issues. This school is geared toward all individuals desiring to learn more about state income tax regardless of their experience level.

Don't miss out on this transformative experience. Secure your spot today and embark on a journey towards unparalleled success in state income tax.

Register

Partnering for Education of the SALT Community: Support IPT Through Sponsorship

IPT’s mission is to deliver top-tier state and local tax education through a comprehensive lineup of schools, symposiums, webinars, and annual conferences. This standard of excellence is made possible, in part, by the generous support of our valued sponsors.

We’re excited to launch IPT’s first-ever Partnership Program, which is a new opportunity for companies and firms to showcase their commitment to education and professional development within the SALT community.

The program features three levels of partnership designed to align with your organization’s goals:
• Foundational Partner supports all of IPT’s educational programs across every discipline.
• Strategic Partner supports all educational programs within one discipline (Property Tax, Sales Tax, Value Added Tax, State Income Tax, or Credits & Incentives).
• Excellence in Education Partner supports IPT’s discipline-specific schools, helping develop the next generation of SALT professionals.

Each partnership level offers valuable benefits to maximize your visibility and impact.   By becoming an IPT Partner, your organization will be recognized as a leader in the SALT community while helping to ensure the continued excellence of IPT’s educational offerings.

Ready to Partner with IPT?
View the full brochure and discover how your organization can get involved through IPT’s new Partnership and Event Sponsorship Program.  

Partnership and Event Sponsorship Program

Upcoming IPT Programs in 2025

Stay ahead with IPT’s remaining 2025 programs! These premier educational programs provide in-depth education, valuable networking, and the latest updates in state and local taxation.

Each program offers expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and ample opportunities to connect with fellow professionals. Don’t miss the chance to enhance your knowledge and expand your professional network with IPT!

2025 Programs

2025 Advanced Property Tax School Scholarship Program

Are you looking to take the next step in your property tax career?  Don’t miss out on scholarship opportunities for IPT’s Advanced Property Tax Schools, taking place this October in Atlanta.  Whether you're interested in the Real Property Tax School or the Personal Property Tax School, these programs offer in-depth education designed to elevate your expertise and enhance your professional growth.

Scholarships can help cover the costs associated with attending the schools, making it easier for qualified professionals to access these valuable learning experiences.   Registration fees are waived for scholarship recipients.  The deadline to apply is July 25, 2025, so don’t wait!  Learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.


Learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply

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. 

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 has past.
* 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.

The 2025 Property Tax School is Coming in September!

IPT's Property Tax School is purposefully designed to provide attendees with the essential information needed to build and advance their careers in property tax. It offers an introductory but comprehensive study of the theory and practice of property tax management for business, including a demonstration of valuation techniques and how these apply to a tax professional's daily responsibilities.

This school is intended for those who want to learn more about property tax fundamentals or may have limited experience in the field and minimal exposure to appraisal theory.

The curriculum is delivered by corporate, consultant, and legal professionals who understand the complexities of property taxation. The faculty introduces these core concepts and breaks down the material in a clear and relatable way. The school also includes a series of workshops that allow attendees to participate in peer-to-peer discussions about the content presented during the general sessions.

There are no prerequisites for this course, and successful completion of a series of quizzes throughout the school is required. This school is a prerequisite for the Real and Personal Property Tax Schools and is eligible to be challenged by passing the Competency Exam,

Online Property Tax School Competency Exam .

Register

Upcoming Local Luncheons 

San Antonio Local Luncheon Group * May 14, 2025 * 1130am

Where: Silo @ 1604, San Antonio, TX
Topic: Property Tax Protests & Exemptions
Speaker:
William T. Sullivan
Norton Rose Fulbright

Contact

IPT San Francisco Local Luncheon Group * May 15, 2025 * 1130am-1pm

Where: Golden Gate University, San Francisco, CA
Topic: The Age of Aquarius and AI; dawn of innovation in State & Local Tax – PART II; expansion to include Agentic AI
Facilitator: Kristin Born

Contact

IPT Phoenix Local Luncheon Group * May 16, 2025 * 11:30 AM PT - 1:30 PM PT

Where: Maggiano’s Little Italy - Scottsdale, 16405 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Topic: 2025 Property Tax Update
Speaker: David Milner

 Contact

IPT Atlanta Local Luncheon Group * May 23, 2025 * 1130am-1pm 

Where: Maggiano’s Little Italy; Perimeter Mall, 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody, Georgia 30346
Topic: Indirect Tax Updates
Speaker:
Chester Cook
Deputy State Revenue Commissioner
Georgia Department of Revenue

Cody Martin
Manager, Georgia Central Assessment – Property Tax
Georgia Department of Revenue

Register

IPT DFW Local Luncheon Group * May 29, 2025 * 1130am-100pm

Where: Maggiano's, 6001 W. Park Boulevard, Plano, Texas 75093
Topic: Texas Real Estate Update and Economic Outlook
Speaker:
Dr. Lynn Krebs
Research Economist
Texas A&M University

 Contact