Accavallo & Company, LLC

PPP & Relief Program Compliance: Key Lessons for Small Businesses

Recent news involving a Connecticut accountant sentenced for misusing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds serves as an important reminder for small business owners: government relief programs come with strict rules, and compliance matters long after the funds are received.

Keep Detailed Documentation

Relief programs like PPP require accurate applications and proper use of funds. Business owners should retain payroll reports, bank statements, invoices, and any supporting documentation showing how relief funds were used. These records may be requested years after the funds are received.

Verify Eligibility and Reporting Requirements

Before applying for any government relief, it’s critical to confirm eligibility and understand reporting obligations. Applying for programs you do not qualify for—or failing to meet usage and reporting rules—can result in penalties, repayment of funds, and potential legal issues.

Consult Your CPA Before Applying

A CPA can help determine eligibility, ensure applications are completed correctly, and provide guidance on proper fund usage and documentation. Professional oversight reduces risk and helps safeguard your business against future compliance issues.

Client Takeaway

Strong record-keeping and proactive planning are essential. Relief funds can provide meaningful support, but only when handled correctly and in compliance with all IRS and state requirements.

Call to Action

If your business has applied for, received, or is considering applying for government relief programs, our team is here to help. We can review your documentation, confirm compliance, and provide guidance to protect your business.

CHRISTINA IMPERIOLI

Supervisor, CPA

Christina Imperioli is a Supervisor at Accavallo & Company, LLC, where she specializes in the preparation and review of individual and business tax returns across a variety of industries. With a focus on accuracy, client service, and technical expertise, she plays a key role in helping clients navigate complex tax matters.

She began her career as a Staff Accountant at The Innovative CPA Group, quickly rising through the ranks to Senior Accountant and ultimately Supervisor, demonstrating a strong commitment to professional growth and leadership.

Christina is a Certified Public Accountant and an active member of both the Connecticut Society of CPAs (CTCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Financial Accounting from Western Connecticut State University.

Throughout her career, she has worked with clients in the real estate, construction, and retail sectors, bringing valuable insight and industry-specific knowledge to every engagement.

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling with her husband and son, spending time with her three dogs—two rescues named Cole and Indigo, and a Brussels Griffon named Louie—and exploring local bookstores. Christina is a passionate reader and podcast enthusiast, she often listens to new episodes during her daily commute.

Dual Heading Example

Insert a meaningful line to evaluate the headline.

Sherri Fisher is a Tax Manager at Accavallo & Company, LLC.  Sherri has longstanding expertise in Trust and Estate Taxation, Eldercare, and Estate planning. Sherri appreciates the relationships she has built with estate planning attorneys and advisors, to provide a team approach to assisting her clients. Sherri also has seasoned experience in business and individual taxation and is partial to assisting start-ups in developing overall accounting and operating plans.

Prior to joining Accavallo & Company, LLC, Sherri was a manager in a large firm, servicing high net worth trust clients, business, and personal clients. She was also a Partner in a large bookkeeping firm, which specialized in cloud accounting systems for regional and national companies. Sherri led a team in assisting clients to organize their accounting systems.  She is a graduate of Florida Atlantic University with a B.S. degree in Accounting.    

Sherri’s experience includes working with companies and organizations in a variety of industries including:

  • Investment Trusts

  • DAPT and Family Investment Partnerships

  • Estate and Probate Administration

  • E-Commerce

  • Manufacturing

  • Construction

  • Real Estate Investment

  • Marketing and Service-based industries

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Sherri is an Intuit Advanced Pro Advisor, Intuit Future Firm Advisory Board member, member of the Valley WIN Network, and proudly served as past Connecticut Public School liaison for the Yale Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer. Sherri enjoys time with her family, Cleveland sports, thrifting and gardening.