Despite uncertainties, accountants have an opportunity to lead clients with confidence, expertise, and a forward-looking strategy.
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Quick Tax Tip
With Art Werner
CPE Today
In the latest episode of Quick Tax Tip, seasoned tax expert Art Werner brings a refreshing perspective: optimism.
Even amid constant regulatory changes, economic fluctuations, and the looming possibility of new tax legislation, Werner argues that tax professionals have never been better positioned to help clients navigate complexity—and thrive.
“I’m inherently an optimist, so I hope it’s contagious,” Werner says. His optimism is grounded not in wishful thinking but in the growing role accountants, CPAs, enrolled agents, and attorneys play in guiding clients through an increasingly complicated financial landscape. “Clients are looking toward their professionals to guide them down a path,” Werner explains, emphasizing that individuals and business owners need experts more than ever to make informed decisions.
Reflecting on his early days in the tax department of one of the then-Big Eight accounting firms, Werner notes the dramatic evolution of the profession. Once seen primarily as historians who recorded the past, today’s CPAs are strategic advisors who help clients plan for their future. “The accountant has grown to be more than a historian,” he says. “Now, the knowledge used for compliance is also driving planning—whether that’s tax planning, financial planning, estate planning, or asset protection.”
Werner likens the modern CPA to a grandmaster chess player. While most people may only plan a few moves ahead, today’s tax professionals must anticipate dozens of possibilities—factoring in client goals, legislative changes, and shifting economic conditions to devise a sound, forward-thinking plan.
“We add in what’s happening with Congress, any new legislation, and the specifics of our client,” Werner explains. “The next thing we have is a really well-devised plan. So I think there’s tremendous opportunity.”
Werner reminds accountants that optimism in practice isn’t naïve—it’s strategic. In a profession where anticipating change is a competitive advantage, Werner’s message is clear: the future belongs to those willing to see opportunity in complexity.