CPE Catalog
Note
AICPA On-Demand & Self-Study courses take up to 24 hours to process.
ACPEN: Fundamentals of the 1040 Business Income and Reporting
-
Online
4.00 Credits
This course is designed for practitioners in their first through fifth years of practice. Through a theoretical and practical study of Form 1040 and selected accompanying schedules, the course reviews the fundamental rules governing the preparation of individual income tax returns. Participants will examine taxpayer filing requirements and filing status, dependency determinations, reporting different types of income and adjustments to income, and the distinction between business income and hobby income. The course also reviews itemized deductions and the standard deduction, common refundable and nonrefundable income tax credits, and documentation requirements for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) due diligence. In addition, the program addresses preparer responsibilities, ethical considerations in tax return preparation, and confidentiality, privacy, and disclosure requirements. *Please Note: If you need credit reported to the IRS for this IRS approved program, please download the IRS CE request form on the Course Materials Tab and submit to terri.storer@acpen.com Presented by: Mary Jane HouraniType: Live Webcast Replay
ACPEN: Cutting-Edge Estate and Financial Planning Trends
-
Online
8.00 Credits
With the new administration proposing significant tax changes, estate and financial planning strategies must adapt to stay ahead. This course equips financial professionals with the latest techniques and insights into evolving tax laws, domicile considerations, and wealth transfer strategies. Participants will explore how potential reductions in estate and gift tax exemptions, new compliance requirements, and advanced IRA distribution planning may impact client strategies. With a focus on practical application, this course provides actionable strategies for charitable giving, domicile considerations, and estate tax efficiency to help practitioners optimize outcomes while ensuring compliance with new and anticipated tax regulations. *Please Note: If you need credit reported to the IRS for this IRS approved program, please download the IRS CE request form on the Course Materials Tab and submit to kori.herrera@acpen.com Presented by: Arthur WernerType: Live Webcast Replay
Navigating IRS Collections: The Collection Process
-
Online
2.00 Credits
This course is designed for tax professionals seeking to understand and navigate the IRS collection process effectively. Participants will gain indepth knowledge of the various collection methods employed by the IRS, including liens, levies and wage garnishments. Additionall, participants will leand strategies to avoid or halt collection actions and the implications of the statute of limitations on tax collection. This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.
Behavioral Finance Biases
-
Online
1.00 Credits
If you have been a practitioner for any length of time, you know that there is often a difference between what clients should do and what they actually do. Have you ever wondered why that is? In this course, we will explore how we make decisions with less-than-perfect information. Through real-life examples and case studies, we will examine common behavioral biases and how to deal with them. This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.
ACPEN: The Hardest Ethical Dilemma! Why Revenge Will Always Backfire, featuring Bob Mims and Don Minges
-
Online
1.00 Credits
We believe in fairness. When others do wrong, and their action hurts us - the natural reaction is to fight back and seek retribution. Simple human nature and we are all human. We want fairness and want to fight back, but this is one of the toughest ethical dilemmas we all face. What should we do and what we do are not always the same. What if being nice, or specifically being a positive best version of yourself, makes you a more effective leader? Ethical leadership is effective leadership. That’s what Dr. Cohen, noted psychologist, transformational speaker, executive coach, and author of Be The Sun, Not The Salt, has been teaching organizations to do for years. Dr. Cohen’s work is based on scientific studies of human behavior broken down into simple, easily digestible pillars structured around the Heliotropic Effect. In this webcast we will discuss Dr. Cohen’s path to this work, what the Heliotropic Effect is, and how Be The Sun, Not The Salt is the perfect reminder to Do More of That every day. Presented by: Don Minges, Bob MimsType: Live Webcast Replay
ACPEN: Accounting for Software
-
Online
2.00 Credits
Software-related transactions continue to evolve, requiring careful analysis under U.S. GAAP. This two-credit course examines the accounting treatment of software costs, with a primary focus on internal-use software and emerging guidance. Participants will walk through the lifecycle of software development, including capitalization and expense recognition, amortization, and impairment considerations. The course includes a focused review of ASU 2025-06 and its impact on accounting for internal-use software. Additional topics include accounting for website development costs, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) arrangements, and other cloud computing arrangements (CCAs), including implementation and hosting considerations. The course also addresses accounting for external-use software, including technological feasibility, capitalization thresholds, and related revenue considerations. Through practical examples and case-based scenarios, participants will strengthen their ability to interpret authoritative guidance and analyze the financial reporting implications of software-related transactions. Presented by: Melisa GalassoType: Live Webcast Replay
ACPEN: What's Going on at the FASB (2026/27)
-
Online
2.00 Credits
This course provides an efficient update on recent and upcoming accounting standard-setting activity issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board. The course focuses on Accounting Standards Updates (ASUs) effective for December 31, 2026 year-ends for public companies, private entities, and not-for-profit organizations. Participants will also review issued ASUs with future effective dates, along with high-level insights into recent exposure drafts. Emphasis is placed on understanding timing, scope, and areas of change that may affect financial reporting and implementation planning. Designed as a practical update for preparers, auditors, and financial professionals, this course helps participants stay current on FASB activity and better anticipate the impact of evolving accounting standards. Presented by: Melisa GalassoType: Live Webcast Replay
Reviewing Individual Tax Returns
-
Online
2.00 Credits
Catch errors on individual returns The sheer volume of individual tax returns requiring preparation can create a work environment that invariably leads to errors or omissions. A trained eye can spot mistakes. A case-based approach to learning return review Two case studies focus on issues that individual return preparers and reviewers will frequently encounter in their practice: Section 199A (qualified business income deduction) Home office deduction Rental properties Hobby losses Organization and start-up costs In-course application Learners get access to two 2025 individual returns to review for: Errors Areas for improvement Opportunities to educate or advise the client Developed with H.R. 1, commonly referred to as OBBBA, in mind, these returns are designed to provoke planning ideas for the modern client.
Surgent's Ethical Considerations for CPAs
-
Online
2.00 Credits
As accounting firms' non-attest offerings to their attest clients become more diversified, such engagements increase firms' exposure to independence violations. In order to thread the needle of providing value-added services and upholding their independence obligations, firms need to have a strong foundational understanding of the applicable ethical and independence rules which govern these engagements. In this course, we'll review the relevant sections of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct regarding independence, objectivity, and conflicts of interest. The course will focus on the Code's Independence Rule and common threats to auditor's independence. In particular, the course will focus on those unique considerations related to non-attest services, both from the perspective of AICPA interpretations and other applicable rules and regulations. PLEASE NOTE: THIS COURSE COVERS GENERAL ETHICS AND IS APPLICABLE IN STATES IN WHICH STATE-SPECIFIC ETHICS IS NOT REQUIRED.
Surgent's New and Expanded Tax Benefits Associated with Section 1202 – Qualified Small Business Stock
-
Online
2.00 Credits
This program reviews and analyzes the important changes made by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) to qualified small business stock (QSBS) covered under Section 1202. Effective for stock issued after July 4, 2025, there are important changes that make Section 1202 much more appealing to clients willing to run the risks associated with doing business as a C corporation. These enhanced provisions could potentially lead to exclusion of capital gains if very strict compliance rules are followed. Section 1202 application is particularly attractive for start-ups and entrepreneurial endeavors. For taxpayers willing to confront the technical challenges of this provision, Section 1202 may produce impressive tax advantages.
Surgent's Understanding Partnership Taxation: PTE Elections, 754 Elections, and Selling a Partnership Interest
-
Online
2.00 Credits
Partnership tax law is always difficult. However, when certain transactions come up, not knowing how to handle them can be costly to clients and practitioners. In this course, we discuss several of these types of situations. We will explore the tax impacts of a PTE election and how a 754 election affects the inside basis of partnership assets. We will then examine those tricky look-through provisions on the sale of a partnership interest in order to properly calculate the tax implications.
The Ethics of Care in the Workplace
-
Online
2.00 Credits
Ethics involve relationship to self, others, and the world in which we live. In the busyness of our world we often act out of habit without realizing that what we do truly matters. We matter! This session explores ethical values and principles as they apply to creating an Ethic of Care in the workplace with specific emphasis on compassion, accountability and respect. This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.
ACPEN: Financial & Tax Accounting for S Corporations
-
Online
4.00 Credits
This program addresses the many complex financial and tax accounting issues that are common in S corporation transactions, with discussion of common pitfalls and the AICPA "small" GAAP accounting standards. This course does not qualify for IRS credit. Presented by: Steven DilleyType: Live Webcast Replay
ACPEN: Excel Essentials for Today’s Accountant: How To Become an Expert in One Day
-
Online
4.00 Credits
This course explores the increasingly complex features of Excel that facilitate efficient data analysis. We will introduce numerous analytical methods and techniques by using practical examples to illustrate how to unleash the power of Excel when manipulating, analyzing and reporting information and dive into the powerful, but potentially under-utilized, capabilities of Microsoft Excel. Designed for sophisticated users willing to approach spreadsheets from a unique perspective, this program encourages users to challenge the status quo by considering opportunities to take acceptable spreadsheets to a new level. Presented by: Dr. Chris HarperType: Live Webcast Replay
Fraud Case Studies: 21st Century Professional Misbehavior
-
Online
4.00 Credits
Savvy accountants pay attention to fraud trends so they can implement preventive and/or detective controls. This course examines novel frauds to explore potential mitigation measures. Participants will see how selected frauds were accomplished so they can consider internal controls that could have foiled the fraudsters' nefarious efforts. We examine broad ethical considerations and specific provisions of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. Along the way, we consider dramatic details of several fraud cases to illustrate practical applications that accountants can apply in their professional endeavors. This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.
ACPEN: K2’s Excel Tips, Tricks, And Techniques For Accountants
-
Online
8.00 Credits
Excel is the go-to tool for accountants when it comes to analyzing and reporting financial data. However, many professionals still rely on time-consuming and error-prone methods for everyday tasks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, our course is designed to help you master Excel and transform your workflows. In this course, you'll discover a trove of tips, tricks, and techniques to boost your productivity and streamline your tasks. Say goodbye to mundane formatting and hello to customized Excel solutions that enhance accuracy and efficiency. You'll also learn how to build powerful formulas, link Excel data from various sources, and simplify report generation and printing processes. Our expert K2 instructors will guide you through the program with practical, real-world examples, ensuring you grasp the key concepts and apply them effectively. With over twenty-five years of experience in delivering top-notch spreadsheet training to accounting and financial professionals, we guarantee that the insights and guidance you receive will be both relevant and invaluable. Join us and elevate your Excel skills to new levels. Don't miss out on this opportunity to work smarter, not harder! Presented by: Thomas StephensType: Live Webcast Replay
What's Behind the Data?
-
Online
2.00 Credits
We are bombarded with information continually. So how do we determine what is valid and what isn't? This course points out common pitfalls inherent in data interpretation and gives practical tips to overcome those pitfalls by using real life examples. The course incorporates information from key thought leaders including Adam Grant, Alex Edmans, and Hans Rosling. This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.
Surgent's Update on Recent AICPA Standard Setting: Staying Current in a Changing Environment
-
Online
4.00 Credits
The AICPA continues to reshape the auditing profession through an unprecedented pace of standard setting, with increased emphasis on technology, professional skepticism, risk assessment, and engagement quality. Since 2019, numerous new and revised auditing standards have significantly changed how audits are planned, performed, and evaluated. This course provides an update on recent AICPA standard setting activities, including SASs 142 through 149. It also addresses the AICPA's quality management standards, which replace traditional quality control requirements with a risk based approach to managing quality at both the firm and engagement levels. In addition, the program highlights emerging developments in fraud related auditing guidance, including the AICPA's proposed fraud standard currently in exposure draft form. Designed for accounting and auditing practitioners at all levels, this course helps participants stay current on key changes affecting audit performance, documentation, and engagement quality in a rapidly evolving professional environment.
Understanding Internal Control Constructs
-
Online
4.00 Credits
Organizations of all sizes often fail to successfully install needed foundational components of an internal control system. Whether large or small, entities must view policies, procedures, and all controls in a wholistic manner in order to develop a system of controls that will keep the entity on its intended course. Moreover, those that design policies and procedures benefit by knowing why control measures are necessary. This session sets forth internal control concepts and explains the importance of strong internal control policies. It provides an understanding of the interrelated nature of all controls created by any organization. This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.
Internal Controls Over Compliance vs Compliance
-
Online
1.00 Credits
Accurately identifying and testing controls over compliance is critical, yet it remains a common deficiency highlighted in peer reviews. This course offers a comprehensive overview of internal controls over compliance, with a focus on their application to Single Audits. Participants will learn how to effectively align internal controls with specific compliance requirements. Additionally, we will address one of the most frequent findings in audits of governmental entities receiving federal grants: the misidentification of controls and the confusion between compliance and control processes. This course will help clarify the distinction, equipping you with the tools to enhance audit quality and ensure compliance effectiveness. This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.