Is Your Houston CPA Firm Compliant with IRS Publication 4557?
As a tax professional, your client data is your most valuable asset—and your biggest liability. The IRS now mandates that every tax preparer with a PTIN must have a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) in place.
At HTL365, we specialize in bridge the gap between complex federal regulations and your daily operations. We don’t just give you a template; we build, implement, and maintain a living security strategy that protects your firm from audits, fines, and data breaches.
Why a WISP is Non-Negotiable in 2026
Under the FTC Safeguards Rule and IRS Publication 4557, failure to maintain a documented security plan can result in:
- Loss of E-filing Privileges: The IRS can suspend your ability to file returns.
- Heavy Federal Fines: The FTC can levy penalties exceeding $50,000 per violation.
- Reputational Ruin: A single data breach during tax season can end a decades-old practice.
The HTL365 WISP Framework for CPA Firms
We provide a turnkey solution designed specifically for the accounting industry. Our process ensures your firm meets all six required safeguards:
Risk Assessment & Inventory
We identify where your PII (Personally Identifiable Information) lives—whether it’s in UltraTax, Lacerte, CCH Axcess, or local spreadsheets.
Implementation of Technical Safeguards
We deploy the “Big Three” of accounting security:
- Managed MFA: Multi-Factor Authentication across all tax software and email.
- End-to-End Encryption: Protecting client data at rest and in transit.
- Secure File Exchange: Moving your clients away from risky email attachments to secure portals.
Designated Security Coordination
HTL365 acts as your Virtual Security Officer, providing the professional oversight the IRS requires for your security program.
Designated Security Coordination
HTL365 acts as your Virtual Security Officer, providing the professional oversight the IRS requires for your security program.
Vendor Management
We vet your third-party software providers to ensure their security standards align with your firm’s compliance requirements.
Annual Plan Updates
A WISP isn’t a “one-and-done” document. We review and update your plan annually to stay ahead of evolving IRS mandates.
Specialized Support for Houston’s Accounting Community
From the Energy Corridor to Downtown, HTL365 is Houston’s trusted partner for professional service firms. We understand the specific pressure of “The Crunch” and ensure that your security never slows down your productivity during peak filing season.
We support your essential tools:
- Thomson Reuters (CS Professional Suite)
- Intuit (QuickBooks & Lacerte)
- Wolters Kluwer (CCH Axcess & ProSystem fx) – See our blog post regarding CCH ProSystem fx Engagement.
- Drake Software
Texas State Board (TSBPA) Rule 501.75 Compliance
In Texas, your professional license depends on more than just federal law. The Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA) has clear mandates regarding your digital environment:
- Mandatory Breach Notification: Under Rule 501.75, a cybersecurity breach is legally defined as a “loss of control over client records.” If this occurs, you are required to notify affected clients in writing immediately.
- Reasonable Measures: The Board requires that you take “all reasonable measures” to maintain confidentiality. In 2026, “reasonable” is defined by the TSBPA as having active encryption, MFA, and documented security protocols (a WISP).
- Back-up Systems: Texas Rule 501.75(d) explicitly states that CPAs have a responsibility to maintain a secure back-up system to identify which clients were affected in the event of a breach.
HTL365 ensures your Houston firm meets these specific Texas Administrative Code requirements so your license remains in good standing.
Get Your 2026 WISP Compliance Checklist
Don’t wait for an IRS audit to find out your firm is at risk. Download our local guide to WISP compliance or book a consultation with our Houston team today.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The IRS requires every PTIN holder, regardless of firm size, to have a written plan.
HTL365 can have your baseline WISP drafted and technical safeguards initiated in as little as 7-10 business days.
