ClearPath IT Blog

Compliance guides for financial professionals

Practical, regulation-specific guidance on the FTC Safeguards Rule, WISPs, IRS Publication 4557, and IT security for CPAs, bookkeepers, and tax preparers.

FTC ComplianceFeatured

FTC Safeguards Rule Checklist for CPA Firms (2024)

A practical checklist covering every FTC Safeguards Rule requirement for CPA firms, bookkeepers, and tax preparers. Understand what you need, why it matters, and how to get compliant.

8 min readNovember 12, 2024

In this guide

1. Written Information Security Plan (WISP)

2. Risk Assessment

3. Access Controls

4. Encryption

5. Secure Development & Change Management

Read the full guide

All Articles

WISP

What Is a WISP and Does My Accounting Firm Need One?

A Written Information Security Plan (WISP) is legally required for CPAs, bookkeepers, and tax preparers. Here's what it is, what it must include, and how to get one.

6 min readOctober 28, 2024

IRS Compliance

IRS Publication 4557: What Tax Preparers Must Do to Stay Compliant

IRS Publication 4557 outlines cybersecurity requirements for all tax professionals. This guide breaks down the Security Six, WISP requirements, and what happens if you're not compliant.

7 min readOctober 10, 2024

FTC Compliance

How Much Can the FTC Fine Your CPA Firm for a Data Breach?

The FTC can fine financial professionals up to $50,120 per violation per day for Safeguards Rule non-compliance. Here's how that math works — and how to protect your firm.

5 min readSeptember 24, 2024

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