CPE Catalog & Events
The Future of Audit: Technology, Talent & Transformation
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Online
1.00 Credits
Member Price: $55
The audit profession stands at a critical inflection point, facing unprecedented challenges from technological disruption, evolving regulatory landscapes, and workforce transformation. This comprehensive course, based on the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs' groundbreaking research report "The Future of the Audit: Building Relevance and Sustaining Quality," provides auditors with essential insights and actionable strategies to navigate these seismic shifts. Through expert perspectives from industry leaders including PCAOB board members, Big Four executives, and audit committee chairs, participants will explore how artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data analytics are fundamentally reshaping audit practices while creating new opportunities for value creation and risk assessment. Beyond technology adoption, this course addresses the pressing talent crisis facing the profession and offers practical solutions for building a future-ready workforce. Participants will learn how to leverage emerging technologies to enhance audit quality, understand the implications of regulatory modernization including the concept of "regulatory sandboxes," and develop strategies for attracting and retaining top talent in an increasingly competitive market. Whether you're a partner in a small firm, a manager in a large organization, or an audit professional seeking to future-proof your career, this course provides the roadmap for maintaining relevance, ensuring quality, and thriving in the evolving audit landscape. You'll leave with concrete action steps for immediate implementation and a clear vision for transforming your audit practice to meet the demands of tomorrow's financial ecosystem. 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.
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Taxation of the Cannabis Industry
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
This course provides a comprehensive analysis of the taxation issues affecting the cannabis industry. It covers the historical context of U.S. taxation, the distinctions between industrial hemp and marijuana, and the specific tax codes and regulations that apply to the cannabis business. Participants will gain insights into state marijuana laws, the unique challenges of a cash-intensive industry, and pertinent federal court cases. *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 Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 2Program Level: Basic
Introduction to Yellow Book
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
Performing engagements in accordance with Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS), commonly referred to as the "Yellow Book," involves additional reporting, ethics, and performance requirements that go beyond those outlined in AICPA Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS). This course provides an overview of the guidance found in the Yellow Book and explores its relationship with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. Participants will gain an understanding of the unique CPE requirements for GAGAS engagements and review the Yellow Book standards for financial statement audits, with a focus on ethical principles and independence. This course is designed to equip professionals with the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of Yellow Book engagements effectively. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 2Program Level: Basic
Internal Controls That May Have Prevented Fraud
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
This course examines actual fraud circumstances through the lens of potential prevention. We will examine how selected frauds were accomplished and consider what internal controls may have prevented fraudsters' ability to accomplish their nefarious acts. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 2Program Level: Basic
Introduction to Governmental Budgeting
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
The introduction to governmental budgeting course is an overview of the typical timeline and process a government uses when creating their annual budget. Topics covered include the basics of governmental budgeting, establishing priorities for the budget, the common steps and timeline of the budget process, what, when and how we should be monitoring the budget throughout the year, and how long-term budgets fit in with the annual budget process. 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.
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K2's Building Future-Ready Businesses
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
This practical program provides accounting professionals with actionable strategies for evaluating and implementing technology solutions that drive firm growth and efficiency. Participants will examine case studies showcasing different organizational approaches to hardware, software, cloud, and on-premises solutions while addressing the unique needs of remote workers and in-office teams. The program focuses on immediate implementation techniques rather than theoretical frameworks, ensuring attendees can apply concepts directly within their practice environments. Through examination of diverse organizational examples, participants will identify practical technology assessment methods and implementation approaches suited to various firm sizes and client service models. The program addresses common technology adoption challenges while providing concrete strategies for managing organizational change and measuring technology investment outcomes. Attendees will gain ready-to-use tools for building technology roadmaps that enhance both operational efficiency and client service delivery capabilities. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 2Program Level: Basic
Forensic Accounting: Finding Hidden Treasure in Tax Returns
Online
4.00 Credits
Member Price: $149
Almost every business and individual has to file tax returns, which can be a great treasure trove of information for forensic accountants. Whether in a divorce, partnership dispute, recreating books and records, or bankruptcy proceeding, analyzing tax return information should be an initial step in uncovering income and assets. The IRS retains a large amount of information, both from taxpayers and 3rd parties who report financial transactions. This course will be your guide in gathering, analyzing, and evaluating tax return information, so that you have a full picture of the financial investigation. Your presenter is a 20 year veteran with IRS-Criminal Investigation, who used this information as a basis for his federal criminal investigations. 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.
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Retaining Top Talent: Strategies for CPA Firms
Online
1.00 Credits
Member Price: $55
In today's challenging talent market, accounting firms face unprecedented pressure to retain their best performers. This course provides actionable, research-backed strategies to help firms keep their top talent from leaving. Based on comprehensive surveys of both current accounting professionals and those who have recently left the profession, participants will learn the real reasons employees stay or go-and what firms can do about it. The course goes beyond simple solutions like "pay more, expect less" to explore comprehensive retention strategies including whole-person compensation, work-life balance improvements, career development pathways, and necessary business model transformations. Participants will discover why 73% of surveyed professionals want to stay with their current firm, yet many still leave-and how to bridge that gap. Key topics include understanding the true cost of turnover versus retention, implementing flexible work arrangements that actually work, creating meaningful career paths for non-partner track professionals, and transforming firm operations to support both profitability and employee satisfaction. Special attention is given to retaining diverse talent and adapting to the expectations of younger professionals who will comprise 27% of the workforce by 2025. Whether you're a firm leader, HR professional, or manager responsible for team retention, this course provides the insights and tools needed to build a sustainable talent strategy in an evolving profession. 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.
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Risk Assessment of IT Systems
Online
1.00 Credits
Member Price: $39
This course provides an overview of the risk assessment requirements under SAS 145, with a focus on the evaluation of Information Technology systems in the planning of an audit. SAS 145 introduced significant changes to risk assessment procedures, including an increased emphasis on understanding and evaluating IT environments. The course addresses key areas of concern related to IT systems and their impact on audit risk. Participants will gain practical insight into identifying risks within IT systems and understanding how those risks affect the audit process. As part of his presentation style, Jeff incorporates engaging elements designed to reinforce learning and maintain focus. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 1Program Level: Basic
SECURE Act 2.0: What You Need to Know
Online
1.00 Credits
Member Price: $39
Signed by President Biden on December 29, 2022 as part of the Consolidation Appropriations Act, this program provides an explanation of the Secure Act 2.0 provisions impacting individuals and business taxpayers. Learn what you need to know for this filing season and how to plan for future years for your clients. **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. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 1Program Level: Intermediate
Adobe Acrobat Tips for Working with PDF Files
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
If you find yourself working with PDF files consistently throughout the day, this course will teach you how to review, annotate, format and organize PDF files more effectively and in less time. You will also learn how to use Adobe Acrobat for e-signatures to reduce document processing time significantly and enhance confidentiality. Adobe Acrobat has many features that you can take advantage of and this course will explain and demonstrate how to use them. 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.
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Getting SASsy - A Look at Recent Auditing Standards
Online
1.00 Credits
Member Price: $39
This session provides an overview regarding recent standards that should be top-of-mind for auditors in addition to providing insight regarding auditing standards that will soon be effective. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 1Program Level: Intermediate
Internal Controls Over Compliance vs Compliance
Online
1.00 Credits
Member Price: $55
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.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.
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Taking the Financial Executive's Leadership to the Next Level
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
Financial Leaders often achieve their position primarily with left brain analytical skills. They need to develop right brain thinking to evolve to the next level either professionally or as part of their personal growth plan. This course will help the financial executive and professional focus on where they are currently and help them bridge the gap in leadership skills that will enable them to gravitate to the next level. This course will guide the financial executive and professional to position themselves as leaders that others will trust and want to follow. The financial executive and financial professional will walk away understanding a more holistic approach to people and organizations and a transformational leadership style. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 2Program Level: Basic
Fraud and Financial Distortion: What May Be Hiding Behind the Numbers
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
Financial statements are intended to communicate the financial condition of an organization, but the numbers themselves are only a translation of underlying business operations. When financial professionals focus solely on the accounting presentation without understanding the operational realities behind those numbers, significant risks, distortions, or even fraud can go undetected. This course explores how CPAs, auditors, controllers, and financial analysts can apply operational thinking when reviewing financial information. Participants will learn how to translate financial results back into operational language and evaluate whether a business model is plausible. Through practical examples and real-world case studies, the program highlights warning signs that may indicate financial distortion or misrepresentation. The session equips participants with practical questions and analytical tools to help identify what may be hiding behind seemingly reasonable financial statements. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 2Program Level: Intermediate
K2's Productivity Life Hacks
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $89
Today's busy professional has an ever-expanding workload, but delivery timelines are decreasing. We have more meetings, more emails, and more work projects. Outside of work, we have increased family and social obligations. Simply, there aren't enough hours in the day to get everything done. We all could benefit from an extra hour of productivity throughout the day. Effectively using technology in your personal and business life is a great way to get more mileage out of your day. This course will look at 10 different tools or services that can make your life easier or take the headache out of mundane tasks. We will look at tools that simplify scheduling appointments, take the hassle out of tracking time, improve data sharing between applications, and more. Participants will leave this class with tips and tricks on shaving hours of time per week. Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 2Program Level: Basic
Surgent's Getting Ahead: The Art of Marketing for CPAs
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $99
To many clients, CPA firms all look the same. While services and specialties may vary significantly from one firm to another, it is hard for the average person to see this by simply looking at the sign outside our office door. Is there any way to make us stand out more to the outside world? Through surveys, statistics, and examples, this course looks at how CPA firms can develop a marketing plan beyond just relying on referrals. We look at the pluses and minuses of various marketing channels, regulatory constraints, and how to measure success in the competitive financial services space.Delivery Method: Individual webcastCPE Credit: 2Program Level: IntermediateThis course is being offered by a learning partner. You may access the Surgent platform through the My CPE page on vscpa.com after purchase.
Surgent's Review and Analysis of Crucial OBBBA Changes
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $119
Accounting and finance practitioners are still grappling with the many changes OBBBA has made to the tax laws, many of which will impact tax filings. This program is an introduction to and review of some of these critical changes and their impact on taxpayers. Accounting and finance practitioners will gain a better understanding of this very complex set of new tax rules. Practitioners will grasp what is new and what is a continuance of prior rules to develop deeper insights into the many changes that the OBBBA made to the law. If you still feel you need to learn more about how OBBBA works, this program is for you. We have assembled a two-hour review and analysis of what we consider the most important changes from OBBBA that impact client transactions. To the extent that Treasury has provided guidance relating to these new OBBBA changes, we will discuss that guidance. Where guidance is lacking, we will point out areas that require future attention from Treasury.Delivery Method: Individual webcastCPE Credit: 2Program Level: BasicThis course is being offered by a learning partner. You may access the Surgent platform through the My CPE page on vscpa.com after purchase.
Surgent's Section 754 Step-Up in Basis: Understanding the Tax Issues for Partnerships and LLCs
Online
2.00 Credits
Member Price: $99
When a purchaser buys an existing partner's partnership interest or the interest of a member of a limited liability corporation (LLC) taxed as a partnership, the amount paid becomes the basis for the purchaser's partnership interest (outside basis). If the partnership's assets have appreciated sufficiently, the difference between the new partner's inside and outside basis can be substantial. This disparity can deprive the new partner of depreciation deductions and inflate his or her share of the gain from subsequent property dispositions unless a Section 754 election is in effect. The Section 754 election can also apply when a partnership makes a distribution of property and the basis of the distributed property to the partnership and the basis the partner/distributee will take in the distributed property are not equal. In this case, a partnership can recover basis it would otherwise lose if the 754 election were not in effect.Delivery Method: Individual webcastCPE Credit: 2Program Level: IntermediateThis course is being offered by a learning partner. You may access the Surgent platform through the My CPE page on vscpa.com after purchase.
Inventory Observation - Cretaceous Conservatory Simulation
Online
3.00 Credits
Member Price: $109
Step into the heart of the Cretaceous Conservatory for an unforgettable inventory observation adventure! In this immersive simulation, you'll travel to a remote island where the inventory isn't just vast, it's alive. As an auditor responsible for ensuring accuracy in the company's dinosaur-development operations, you'll face wild risks, navigate complex inventory procedures, and confront the unexpected. Through hands-on scenarios, you'll learn to identify misstatements, evaluate unique inventory challenges, and apply standard observation techniques all while staying one step ahead of potential disaster. Can you survive the wilds of the Cretaceous and emerge as the ultimate inventory explorer, or will the risks prove too much to handle? Delivery Method: Individual webcast CPE Credit: 3Program Level: Basic