“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ― Margaret Mead

For the latest example of this ideal in action, see the MACPA’s State Taxation Committee.

In a recent meeting with representatives from Maryland’s State Department of Assessments and Taxation, the MACPA panel asked if the SDAT would consider opening online extensions for existing businesses’ personal property returns earlier than the usual Feb. 1 opening date.

The SDAT said, “Sure.”

In one of those you’ll-never-know-unless-you-ask moments, members of the SDAT decided to open the online extension system for existing businesses on Dec. 1. For newly created businesses, the system will open on the usual date of Feb. 1, 2018.

New and existing businesses can access the extension system here.

The online extension system is free of charge and offers the following benefits:

• Printed confirmation numbers and lists
• Recall and editing of last year’s confirmation number and list
• Verification of a previously submitted current-year Internet request
• Department ID number search capability
• Inactive status indicated (for instance, forfeited, merged, dissolved, etc.)

“Given the need for annual maintenance / updates to our primary database / system, all extension requests will be placed in a ‘pending’ status until that work has been completed in mid-January,” SDAT Personal Property Administrator Brian Berg told MACPA State Tax Committee Chair Jeff Lawson. “Also, the department’s Business Entity Search tool will not include a reference to a 2018 extension until that work has been completed. Nevertheless, the extension system will continue providing a confirmation number for all requests as well as verification of a previously submitted current year request. … Please thank your membership for this excellent suggestion.”

Long story short: When you get involved, you make a difference.

It’s an important lesson to take to heart as we approach the 2018 edition of CPA Day in Annapolis. Scheduled for Jan. 25, the event will match MACPA members directly with their state legislative representatives in an effort to affect real change on the legislative process.

You can’t wield that type of influence unless you become involved. Our profession’s voice grows stronger with every CPA who makes an effort to influence the hearts and minds of legislators and regulators.

Sign up now. Pledge to join us in Annapolis. The more CPAs who speak up, the more influential our voice becomes.

As the old saying goes, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” Let’s plant some trees. The digging starts on Jan. 25 in Annapolis. Register to join us here.