Xero, which makes web-based accounting applications for small businesses, has gotten a lot of buzz in the American market but isn't yet a force here. However, the New Zealand company says it is ramping up infrastructure to support 1 million end users. That came as it narrowed its loss while more than doubling revenue for the six months ended September 30.

The Internal Revenue Service has launched the Registered Tax Return Preparer competency test. The test is part of the IRS' effort to regulate paid tax preparers. Those required to take the test have until Dec. 31, 2013 to pass it. Test scheduling begins next week.

The Leading Edge Alliance, an international professional association of accounting and consulting firms, has selected CCH's David Bergstein as the 2011 recipient of its "On the Edge" Innovation Award. The award recognizes industry leaders for their vision and significant contributions to the accounting profession. Bergstein, CCH's director of strategic relations, is a 25-year veteran of the accounting field.