CPE Catalog & Events
Surgent's Artificial Intelligence for Accounting and Finance Professionals
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
What is artificial intelligence? What are the different forms of artificial intelligence? The difference between artificial intelligence and machine learning The types of problems artificial intelligence can solve The role of algorithms How artificial intelligence will affect accounting and finance careers Data governance, security, and privacy How accounting firms are using AI today The role of artificial intelligence in asset management
Measuring Audit Risks
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Online
3.00 Credits
The planning process – When it starts and when it ends Determining the audit objectives The importance of the nature, timing and extent of the audit process The importance of professional skepticism The preliminary engagement activities Documentation of audit risk Determining materiality
Master the Art of CPA Communication: Boost Your Influence!
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Virtual
4.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Techniques for simplifying complex financial information for clients and stakeholdersPersuasive communication principles aligned with CPA rolesBuilding and maintaining trust and credibility with diverse stakeholdersCase studies and Interviews with Finance, Accounting and CPA professionalsDeveloping empathy and emotional intelligence in communicationsBest practices for active listening to strengthen client relationshipsApplication of Influencer principles for impactful change in communication
Reasonable Compensation for S Corps
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Explain the payroll tax advantage of taking distributions over wagesReview key court cases that shape todays reasonable compensation landscapeHow to use court factors to stress test reasonable compensationBest practices for determining reasonable compensationReview of the IRS’s enforcement on reasonable compensation; past, present and future
It Is Legal, But Is It Really Ethical?, featuring Rob Berry and Bob Mims
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Online
1.00 Credits
Is ‘legal’ the same as ‘ethical’? Why or why not? The value of using the Code of Professional Conduct properly. Resolving situations where the two are divergent.
Ethics: How to Run Your Business Well
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:The five principles of ethical intelligenceHow to make the right decisions in a range of challenging situationsThe fundamental ethical principal, "Do No Harm"
Triple Your Memory, Prevent Dementia and Halve Your Stress - Part 2
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Online
4.00 Credits
How our emotions follow the motion of our body, and how that can be used to instill instant confidence How to tap into a completely relaxed and/or confident state of mind in 10 seconds or less using advanced hypnotic conditioning and Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques How to stay motivated to use the methods outlined in this course to advance your career and achieve a higher quality of life How to use the concept of constant learning to help you maintain a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle
Will Your Ethics Be Burned by Burnout?
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics covered in this class include:Explore the effects of crisis and burnout on ethical decision-makingDefine the stressors, pressures, and biases that can lead good people to make less than optimal choicesDiscuss ways to offset the pressures, ways to reduce stress on ourselves and on our team, and ways to support our teamsLearn how to recognize when an individual or an organization is heading in the wrong direction and how to stop sliding down the slippery slope
Making Culture A Competitive Advantage
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Online
1.00 Credits
Talent Strategy Culture Employee Engagement Employee Retention Leadership Leadership Strategy
Accommodation Requests - Substance Abuse - Contagious Infections
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Online
1.00 Credits
Accommodation requests - religious practices Accommodation requests - disabilities Substance Abuse - constructive confrontation Substance Abuse - duty to accommodate as a disability Disclosures of potentially contagious infections
Walkin', Talkin', Lookin' & Listenin' - Or Things Most of Us Don't Do Well
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Online
2.00 Credits
The importance of making yourself available How to start a conversation and what to NOT talk about The art of how to listen When you don’t understand what they just said Don’t fool by equivocations when they respond to a question Materiality and perception
Power BI - Bringing It All Together for Data Analysis
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include: Building a Comprehensive Workflow in Power BI: Streamline and enhance your end-to-end data processes for improved efficiency and clarity.Exploring What's Next After Creating Data Models and Measures: Understand advanced strategies to further enhance the value of your existing data models.Best Practices for Performance Optimization: Learn key tips to ensure smooth, fast, and reliable performance in your existing data models.Leveraging Your Data Model Through PowerBI.com/Power BI Services: Explore advanced functionalities of Power BI Services to make your data insights more accessible and impactful.
Servant Leadership 101
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Virtual
1.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Assessing your organization’s culture The benefits of great cultures The basics of what servant leadership is, and is not How to coach using a servant leadership style
CPAxPACK: Monthly Federal Tax Updates: Stay Informed on Tax!
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Virtual
24.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Current individual tax issues. Current business entity tax issues. Any current tax legislation occurring during the period. Other issues affecting the profession, including IRS procedure, current cases, payroll, and other federal tax issues.
CPAxPACK: Unlock Power BI with Comprehensive Data Analysis
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Virtual
10.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:All courses in this Pack are presented by Bryan Smith.Course 1: Get started with Power BICPE: 2Description: The course will cover Excel's Power BI tools - Power Pivot, for advanced data modeling, and Power Query, for efficient data transformation and preparation. This segment is essential for understanding how Power BI extends and enhances the data processing and analytical capabilities of Excel. The second section of the course delves into the standalone Power BI tools.Course 2: Clean, transform & load data in Power BICPE: 2Description: This intensive 2-hour course is designed specifically for those aiming to master data management skills in the modern business environment. As data becomes increasingly central to accounting and financial analysis, the ability to effectively manage, clean, and transform this data is critical. This course delves into Microsoft Power Query, a potent tool within Excel and Power BI Desktop, known for its robust data processing capabilities.Course 3: Create measures in Power BI that define your MetricsCPE: 4Description: Starting with the foundational elements of DAX, you'll rapidly progress to tackle advanced formulas and time-intelligent functions, essential for nuanced data analysis. The highlight of the course is the emphasis on the DAX calculation process, a crucial aspect for validating measures in Power BI. Additionally, the practical application of PivotTables for measure validation will equip you with the skills to confirm the accuracy and effectiveness of your data measures. These advanced techniques are not just theoretical concepts but are presented through engaging, real-world scenarios, enabling you to apply your learning immediately to your daily tasks.Course 4: Power BI - Bringing It All Together for Data AnalysisCPE: 2Description: Building on the foundational knowledge from previous courses, this session focuses on the crucial next steps after creating data models and measures, guiding participants on how to fully utilize the potential of these tools to uncover insights and create impactful, actionable visualizations. This course takes a deep dive into the critical aspects of using Power BI to its fullest potential, emphasizing a holistic approach to data analytics. You'll learn how to build a streamlined workflow, ensuring every step in your data journey contributes to actionable insights.
CPAxPACK: Unlocking AI Potential for Business Innovation
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Virtual
10.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Course 1: Implementing an AI-Enabled Marketing Strategy for Your FirmCPE: 1Field of Study: Communications and MarketingDiscussion Leader: Gaynor MeilkeDescription: Unlock the power of artificial intelligence to transform your firm's marketing strategy. This course will explore how AI can revolutionize your marketing efforts, helping you to reach your target audience more effectively and boost your firm's growth. In this session, Gaynor Meilke will guide you through the steps to implement an AI-enabled marketing strategy tailored to your firm's needs. Key Takeaways: Understand the fundamental principles of AI and its applications in marketing. Learn how to leverage AI tools and technologies to enhance your marketing campaigns. Discover practical strategies for integrating AI into your firm's marketing workflow. Gain insights into measuring the effectiveness of your AI-driven marketing efforts. Explore real-life case studies and success stories of firms that have successfully implemented AI in their marketing strategies. By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to harness the power of AI, streamline your marketing processes, and achieve remarkable results for your firm. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the competition and lead your firm to new heights with AI-enabled marketing Course 2: Generative AI in Practice-Boost Efficiency and ProfitabilityCPE: 2Field of Study: Information TechnologyDiscussion Leader: John Higgins (HAL)Description: Unlock the potential of generative AI to streamline accounting, auditing, tax , and advisory services. This course focuses on practical applications that can save you time and enhance profitability. Learn how to integrate AI tools into your workflows to automate tasks, improve accuracy, and deliver higher-value services. Course 3: Using AI to Instantly Transform Ideas into Revenue StreamsCPE: 2Field of Study: Information TechnologyDiscussion Leader: Garrett WasnyDescription: Learn practical strategies to increase revenue generation using AI-driven ideation methods. This course provides a concise overview of cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools and methodologies that enable professionals to transform innovative ideas into sustainable revenue streams. Through a practical, hands-on approach, participants will explore various AI platforms and workflows that streamline the process of creating digital assets, content, and products. The course emphasizes real-world applications and demonstrates how to leverage AI technology to diversify service offerings and generate new income sources. Course 4: AI Privacy, Security, and Compliance MasterclassCPE: 2Field of Study: Information TechnologyDiscussion Leader: Garrett WasnyDescription: In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, understanding the interplay between generative AI and data protection is not just an asset, but a necessity. This transformative course is designed to delve deep into the crucial privacy, security, and compliance aspects of working with Generative AI (GenAI) technologies. As accountants increasingly integrate AI tools into their workflows, the stakes for safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring ethical AI practices have never been higher. Our masterclass is tailored to meet the unique needs of modern accountants, providing a thorough and practical exploration of how to navigate the complexities of secure data sharing with GPT models, implement robust AI policies, and master the intricacies of AI copyright compliance. With a focus on real-world applications and emerging threats, such as deepfakes and their implications for fraud and misinformation, this course is your gateway to becoming a trusted expert in the field. Join us to future-proof your career and lead with confidence in the digital age. Course 5: Tech It to the Next Level: Slim Your Team for Max EfficiencyCPE: 1Field of Study: Computer Software & ApplicationsDiscussion Leader: Sharrin FullerDescription: Ready to slim down your team and maximize efficiency without sacrificing quality? This session breaks down how to leverage tech and automation to fill workflow gaps, build a strong tech stack, and connect tools seamlessly. Learn how one proven tech stack replaced more than half a traditional team while improving client satisfaction and reducing overhead. Walk away with practical steps to streamline operations, automate repetitive tasks, and focus your resources on what really matters. Attendees will gain practical insights into streamlining operations, automating repetitive tasks, and focusing resources on high-value activities. The session also includes an exclusive look at a proven tech stack used to replace over half a traditional team, offering actionable steps to create a leaner, tech-driven, scalable firm. Perfect for firm owners ready to rethink staffing, reduce overhead, and embrace the future of accounting efficiency. Course 6: Unlock the Power of AI with Copilot in ExcelCPE: 2Field of Study: Computer Software & ApplicationsDiscussion Leader: Bryan Smith (DSP)Description: In the ever-evolving world of data analytics and business intelligence, Microsoft Excel continues to be an indispensable tool for professionals across industries. With the introduction of Copilot, Microsoft has integrated the power of artificial intelligence directly into Excel, revolutionizing how users work with data. This 2-hour interactive course, Unlock the Power of AI with Copilot in Excel, provides a comprehensive overview of how Copilot transforms traditional Excel workflows into dynamic, AI-driven processes, enabling users to accomplish tasks faster, more accurately, and with less manual effort. During this course, you'll discover how Copilot leverages AI to enhance productivity and streamline operations. Whether you're a seasoned Excel user or just beginning your journey, this course will guide you through practical applications and best practices to make the most of Copilot's capabilities. Through hands-on demonstrations and real-world examples, you'll see how Copilot can save time, improve decision-making, and elevate your analytical skills to new heights. This course not only focuses on the technical aspects of Copilot but also highlights its potential to transform your day-to-day work, from automating repetitive tasks to uncovering trends and insights you might otherwise overlook. By the end of the session, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to integrate Copilot into your workflows and unlock its full potential in Microsoft Excel.
CPAxPACK: AI-Powered Accounting
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Virtual
12.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Course 1: Unlock the Power of AI with Copilot in ExcelField of Study: Computer Software & ApplicationsCPE: 2Discussion Leader: Bryan Smith (DSP)Description: In the ever-evolving world of data analytics and business intelligence, Microsoft Excel continues to be an indispensable tool for professionals across industries. With the introduction of Copilot, Microsoft has integrated the power of artificial intelligence directly into Excel, revolutionizing how users work with data. This 2-hour interactive course, Unlock the Power of AI with Copilot in Excel, provides a comprehensive overview of how Copilot transforms traditional Excel workflows into dynamic, AI-driven processes, enabling users to accomplish tasks faster, more accurately, and with less manual effort. During this course, you'll discover how Copilot leverages AI to enhance productivity and streamline operations. Whether you're a seasoned Excel user or just beginning your journey, this course will guide you through practical applications and best practices to make the most of Copilot's capabilities. Through hands-on demonstrations and real-world examples, you'll see how Copilot can save time, improve decision-making, and elevate your analytical skills to new heights. This course not only focuses on the technical aspects of Copilot but also highlights its potential to transform your day-to-day work, from automating repetitive tasks to uncovering trends and insights you might otherwise overlook. By the end of the session, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to integrate Copilot into your workflows and unlock its full potential in Microsoft Excel. Course 2: AI Prompt Engineering Masterclass for AccountantsField of Study: Information TechnologyCPE: 2Discussion Leader: Garrett WasnyDescription: An advanced guide to prompting techniques that maximize AI efficiency and precision in everyday business research, operational due diligence and accounting tasks. Designed for accountants with no prior AI knowledge, the session explores how simple language and strategic prompting can unlock powerful, layered responses from large language models (LLMs). Participants will learn to overcome the "lazy" defaults of AI, using specific techniques to enhance detail, accuracy, and contextual understanding in their queries. By understanding prompt engineering's role, attendees will discover how to guide AI to provide practical, relevant, and analytical insights suited to complex financial scenarios, without needing extensive technical expertise. Course 3: AI for CPAs - How it Works and How to Apply itField of Study: Information TechnologyCPE: 4Discussion Leader: John Higgins (HAL)Description: Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini and many others are transforming the digital landscape of virtually every business, including CPA firms. We will demystify the complex world of generative AI in this informative session designed specifically for CPAs. We will break down the nuts and bolts of how generative AI works, making the technical aspects accessible and relevant. Equip yourself with the foundational knowledge to leverage AI in your practice or business. You will learn multiple examples of how you can apply generative AI tools in accounting, finance and tax to boost your team's productivity and improve the quality of your work product. Course 4: 1040 Tax Prep Automation with AI ToolsField of Study: TaxesCPE: 2Discussion Leader: John Higgins (HAL)Description: There has never been a greater opportunity to leverage technology tools to automate various aspects of 1040 tax preparation. This course will provide specific examples of how you can use AI (artificial intelligence) based tools to complement your core 1040 tax prep software. You will learn how to leverage AI to automate the collection and organization of client source documents, enhance the engagement management process and add value to your 1040 service through AI enhanced 1040 advisory services. This course will separate the hype from reality about AI and how it can be used in 1040 tax preparation. Course 5: How AI Fits into the Accounting WorldField of Study: AccountingCPE: 2Discussion Leader: Karl EgnatoffDescription: This session is designed as a primer to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) and to discuss how it will impact accountants as they work. The material will briefly explain what AI is and then focus on ways that it is already serving those in the accounting realm. It will close with a look at future AI-centric developments that will have great potential to positively impact the accounting profession. Those wishing to gain an understanding of what artificial intelligence is and how it will be used by accountants should consider attending this session.
CPAxPACK: Forensic Accounting: Investigate, Analyze, Report
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Virtual
12.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:All courses in this Pack are presented by Robert Nordlander, CPA.Course 1: Forensic Accounting: Court Approved Methods of ProofCPE: 4Description: How does a forensic accountant calculate financial losses? Federal courts have approved various ways to calculate losses ranging from net worth method of proof to the expenditures method. Each method of proof depends on the available facts to the forensic accountant. This presentation will focus on the various court approved methods of proof, when to use them, and how to calculate the total loss.Course 2: Forensic Accounting: When The Office Is A Crime SceneCPE: 4Description: Embezzlement happens often to many small businesses. Unfortunately, the lack of internal controls allow the embezzlement to remain undetected for years. But when it is discovered, the small business owner will most likely contact their CPA for advice. What should you do when your client contacts you about their employee embezzling money from their business? What options should you present to your client? How can your client protect themselves, while investigating the embezzlement? What steps need to be taken about preserving any documents, emails, texts, or phone calls? This course teaches how to engage the client, properly identify the evidence needed to prove the crime, how to write the report for civil and criminal trial, and best practices in preserving electronic and paper evidence.Course 3: Forensic Accounting: Crafting Expert ReportsCPE: 4Description: When forensic accountants are hired to conduct an analysis and investigations, they are commonly expected to write a report. This report can be short or long, depending on the circumstances. This presentation is how to write an effective expert report that will withstand scrutiny of both parties of litigation and the court. The presentation will also include best practices, ethics, and components of an effective report.
CPAxPACK: Tax Pro's Guide: Essential Courses for Tax Mastery
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Virtual
12.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Course 1: Basic Individual Taxation Course CPE: 2 Description: Please join us for an introductory course on the fundamentals of preparing and filing an individual federal income tax return. We will cover topics such as what the federal income tax is and how it is computed.Discussion Leader: Allison M. McLeod, LL.M., CPACourse 2: Income Tax Analysis: Exploring In-Depth ConceptsCPE: 2Description: Financial statements prepared for stockholders and external users follow Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), while tax returns adhere to the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). These frameworks differ in recognizing profitability, influencing reported income significantly. Companies often aim to minimize taxable income within legal bounds, while maintaining compliance with both financial reporting and tax regulations. - Timing Differences: Variations in income recognition and deductible expenses between GAAP and IRC create timing differences, impacting reported profitability and tax liabilities. - Deferred Tax Assets: Companies accrue deferred tax assets from overpaid taxes or carried-forward credits, which can offset future taxable income, reducing tax liabilities. - Deferred Tax Liabilities: When taxable income is less than reported income, deferred tax liabilities arise, necessitating future tax payments when temporary differences reverse. Join us to delve into these concepts, exploring how financial reporting choices and tax strategies shape a company's financial performance and compliance obligations.Discussion Leader: Eric KnightCourse 3: Behind the Curtain: Exploring IRS Audit Technique GuidesCPE: 2Description: Have you ever considered a tax audit from the perspective of an IRS examiner? This session explains how you can use IRS Audit Technique Guides (ATGs) to enhance tax compliance. You will obtain a glimpse of the audit process from the viewpoint of an IRS agent as we explore insights that the IRS provides to its own examiners.Discussion Leader: Dr. Christopher J. Harper, CPA, MBACourse 4: Learning to Teach "Tax" as a Second LanguageCPE: 2Description: Sometimes the vernacular of accounting seems more challenging than technical aspects. This session offers suggestions for translating the foreign language of taxation into tangible terms for non-accountants. We explore techniques for simplifying the complexity of taxation terminology. This course will equip you with tools for demystifying tax technicalities so you can help clients and other non-tax professionals grasp fundamental concepts.Discussion Leader: Dr. Christopher J. Harper, CPA, MBACourse 5: 1040 Tax Prep Automation with AI ToolsCPE: 2Description: There has never been a greater opportunity to leverage technology tools to automate various aspects of 1040 tax preparation. This course will provide specific examples of how you can use AI (artificial intelligence) based tools to complement your core 1040 tax prep software. You will learn how to leverage AI to automate the collection and organization of client source documents, enhance the engagement management process and add value to your 1040 service through AI enhanced 1040 advisory services. This course will separate the hype from reality about AI and how it can be used in 1040 tax preparation.Discussion Leader: John HigginsCourse 6: Tax Implications of Retirement Plan Distributions: What You Need to KnowCPE: 2Description: This session will address the complex rules of retirement distributions, review key provisions of the SECURE Act 2.0, and provide practical strategies of maximizing tax benefits for your client.Discussion Leader: Steve DilleyCourse 7: Schedule C of Form 1040CPE: 2Description: Many self-employed or sole proprietors find themselves having to navigate Schedule C in reporting business income. While this attachment to Form 1040 seems straightforward on the surface, there are many traps for the unwary.Discussion Leader: Allison M. McLeod, LL.M., CPA
CPAxPACK: Unlimited Webinars
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Virtual
0.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this Pack include:A&ATechnologyTaxBusiness Management & OrganizationEthics& More!Find whatever you're looking for at one low cost! Courses in the CFO Series are not included in this unlimited pack.
