When External Decisions and Transactions Impact Employee Benefit Plans
Whether prompted by corporate transaction, economic downturn, natural disaster or something else- awareness of risks related to disrupted plan operations and controls is critical when planning and performing an employee benefit plan audit. Explore communication styles and techniques to remain informed outside of the audit cycle. Distinguish the relationship between events and risks of material misstatements impacting auditors and plan sponsors so that you can tackle non-routine transactions with confidence when designing your risk-based audit approach.
Tricia A. Van Vliet, CPA – Founding Member, The Wellness CPA PLLC, Grand Rapids

Bridging the Gaps Between 401(k) Plan Audits and Audits of Less Common Plans
There is no shortage of options for employee benefit plans though some are more used widespread than others. Due to the prevalence of 401(k) profit sharing plans, this is where the majority of plan auditor knowledge/experience lies, so in this session, we explore the critical differences that challenge plan auditors when they accept an engagement of a non-401(k) variety. Recognize the an audit methodology may require revisions or additions and safeguards to enhance a firm’s system of quality control for less common types of plans.  
Tricia A. Van Vliet, CPA – Founding Member, The Wellness CPA PLLC, Grand Rapids

COVID-19 Shifts in Risk Assessment and Understanding of the Entity (Qualifies for 1 A&A credit)
Business operations are forever changed as a result of the pandemic. Gain insight on how to overcome professional skepticism, track procedural changes year to year and best practices for auditing in a remote and paperless environment. 
Melissa Critcher, CPA, PC – Owner, M. Critcher, CPA, Charlotte, North Carolina

Breaking Down SAS 136(Qualifies for 1 A&A credit)
In 2019, the AICPA issued Statement on Auditing Standards (SAS) 136, prescribing new performance criteria for auditing employee benefit plans. While adoption is optional until next year, prepare yourself now to see a significantly revised audit report of your ERISA plan audits, new inquiries and procedures surrounding your evaluation and for the enhanced communication of reportable findings to management responsible for the plan’s governance.
Pam Slagh, CPA – Director, Central Region ERISA Practice Leader, Employee Benefit Plan Specialist, BDO USA, LLP, West Michigan

SECURE, CARES and Other Recent Legislation and Their Impact on the Audit
When it comes to benefit plans, staying compliant and up to date on internal control matters is always of utmost importance. During this session, our experts will discuss DOL and IRS recent benefit plan legislation and focus areas, as well as common compliance issues in defined contribution and defined benefit plans. We’ll cover internal control matters, including suggestions and best practices to consider during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond to help plan sponsors effectively and efficiently operate and monitor their defined contribution and defined benefit plans.
Laura Taylor – Principal, Employee Benefits Consulting Group, Plante Moran, Grand Rapids
Amanda Grafilo, CPA – Senior Manager, Assurance, Plante Moran, Flint
Bryan El-Ary, JD, CPA – Senior Consultant, Employee Benefits Consulting Group, Plante Moran, Detroit
 
End-of-Day Expert Panel Q&A
The nature of employee benefit plan auditing is complex and while our sessions cover a wide range of ongoing and emerging issues, our expert panel is your chance to get specific. Shape the conversation in this question and answer forum to get informed answers and guidance on your lingering challenges.
Marcus J. Aron – Acting Chief, Division of Accounting Services, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Washington, DC
Lindy J. Beldyga, CPA – Partner, Plante Moran, Flint
Tara J. Frank, CPA – Principal, Rehmann, Saginaw
Moderator: Gary Remer, CPA, Esq. – Member, Dawda, Mann, Mulcahy & Sadler, PLC, Bloomfield Hills

AGENDA

• 08:30 AM – Welcome & Opening Remarks
• 08:35 AM – Keynote Presentation - Inside EBSA
• 10:10 AM – Unpack the Audit Relationship with Mergers and Terminations
• 11:10 AM – Analyzing the Risk Inherent to Atypical and Non-401(k) Plans
• 12:00 PM – Break for Lunch
• 12:50 PM – COVID-19 Shifts in Risk Assessment and Understanding of the Entity
• 01:50 PM – Breaking Down SAS 136
• 02:50 PM – SECURE, CARES and Other Recent Legislation and Their Impact on the Audit
• 03:50 PM – End of Day Expert Panel Q&A
• 04:50 PM – Program Adjourns

PRICING DETAILS
Register early to take advantage of the best price! Please note, discounted pricing is already reflected in the online price. No promo code is needed.

• Through April 15: $160 MICPA Members / $310 Non-Members
• April 16 - April 29: $180 MICPA Members / $330 Non-Members
• April 30 - May 13: $200 MICPA Members / $350 Non-Members