AI 101 for CPAs: Core Concepts and Practical Applications

Overview

New to AI? Start here. This beginner-friendly course explains how generative AI works, what terms like “LLM” and “agentic AI” really mean, and how CPAs can safely put these tools to use. You’ll leave with a solid understanding of AI fundamentals and how they apply to accounting, tax, and finance.

This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.

This course is being offered by a learning partner and will not be accessible on your My CPE page. Access information will be emailed directly to you by CPA Crossings.

Highlights

The major topics that will be covered in this course include:

ABCs of how generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini work
What inherent risks are associated with this powerful technology
Actionable steps you can take to mitigate the risks
Practical examples of how AI can be applied in accounting, auditing, tax, and finance services

Prerequisites

None

Designed For

Anyone working in accounting, tax or finance who wants to gain better understanding of what AI is and how it can be applied

Objectives

After attending this presentation, you will be able to...

Identify core AI concepts (generative AI, large language models, agentic AI) relevant to accounting and finance.
Differentiate common CPA/CFO use cases (e.g., research, content generation, data/document analysis).
Evaluate key risks (hallucinations, bias, confidentiality, and select mitigating controls).