Big data is the most pressing issue for CPAs working in forensic and valuation area, according to survey results released by the American Institute of CPAs. One in four respondents to the 2014 AICPA Survey on International Trends in Forensic and Valuation Services ranked electronic data analysis as the most important of the top five issues they will face over the next two to five years.

The American Institute of CPAs has filed suit to block a new voluntary tax preparer program being rolled out by the Internal Revenue Service. The AICPA called the new program "an end-run" around a court ruling that struck down the IRS' attempt to regulate preparers last year.

Liberty Tax Service plans to sell all company-owned stores to franchisees before next season, one of several major moves planned by the tax store chain that were discussed recently as the company's parent, JTH Holding, reported results for the year ended April 30. JTH executives also said the parent will be renamed Liberty Tax and that a public offering is planned.