CPE Catalog & Events
Take Command of your Time
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major subjects that will be covered in this course include:Identify time wasters and adopt strategies for eliminating themRecognize the variety of causes of procrastination and apply techniques to overcome themUse practical techniques for prioritizing workDelegation strategiesIncorporate wellness and stress management into your day in short incrementsUnderstand their energy cycles and use it to manage your scheduleLearn techniques to decrease stress in the moment (based on neuroscience)
Operations Level Internal Control
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Virtual
4.00 Credits
The major topics covered in this course include:An overview of controls that drive proceduresConsiderations for procedural control developmentUnderstanding and controlling risk that arises when organizations change
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
Tech It to the Next Level: Slim Your Team for Max Efficiency
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Virtual
1.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:How to leverage tech and automation to fill workflow gaps, How to build a strong tech stack, and connect tools seamlessly.How one proven tech stack replaced more than half a traditional team while improving client satisfaction and reducing overhead.
Exploring the New Lease Accounting Standard
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics covered in this class include:What is a lease?Recognition and measurement of lease assets and liabilities Impact on lessors and lesseesDisclosures and transition rulesEffective dates
Surgent's Guide to Partner Capital Account Reporting
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
How a partner’s outside basis and capital account differ Reconciling Schedule M-2 Form 1065 with Partnership K-1 Schedule L IRS requirement to report partner tax basis on the transactional approach Implications if a capital account is negative Deficit restoration accounts and qualified income offsets Modified outside basis method and modified previously taxed capital method Determining a partner’s beginning capital account Beginning capital account for partnerships and partners consistently reporting on the tax basis The two types of adjustments under 754 and how 743 and 734 require different capital account presentations
Surgent's Four Tiers of Loss Limitations: A Guide to the Rules for Pass-Through Entities
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Virtual
4.00 Credits
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 Tier 1: Basis limitations for S corporation shareholders and partners Tier 2: Section 465 at-risk limitations for S corporation shareholders and partners, including the impact of debt, indemnities, guarantees, and shareholder/partner agreements Tier 3: Section 469 passive loss limitations and exceptions to the limitations Tier 4: The excess business loss limitation of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (new §461(l)), American Rescue Plan Act, and Inflation Reduction Act
Unlock the Power of AI with Copilot in Excel
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Introduction to Copilot in ExcelAutomating Tasks and Enhancing ProductivityAdvanced Data Insights with Copilot
Grading Your Auditors - Are You Getting the Most Value?
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this class include:Limitations in roles and responsibilities an auditor can accept without impairing independenceAssessing the strength of your auditor's ability to think critically, strategically, and creatively in appropriate circumstancesEvaluating your auditor's time and project management stillsGrading your auditor's communication and interpersonal skills, in exceeding your expectations on an audit
Seeing Beyond the Numbers: Analysis for CFOs & Controllers
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Virtual
4.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this class include:Purpose of Financial Statement AnalysisComparing Actuals vs. Expectations & BenchmarkingCase Studies 1 & 2Ratio AnalysisCase Study 3Analysis of Statement of Cash FlowsCase Studies 4 & 5Other Uses of Ratios
Donating Cryptocurrency and Avoiding Traps for the Unwary
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Intro to digital assetsDifferences between cryptocurrency and non-fungible tokens (NFTs)IRS Notice 2014-12Tax implications of contributing digital assetsGift tax rules for donating, gifting or bequeathing cryptocurrency and NFTs.Substantiating charitable contributions of digital assetsTraps for the unwary.
PPP Fraud and Financial Professionals
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics covered in this class include:Ethical dilemmasJudicial proceedingsMitigation strategiesCreating tools to help make better decisionsAtonement and reconciliation
Ethics and Civility in the Workplace
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:What is civility and how it is tied to the bottom line?Principles of CivilityGiving the Benefit of the DoubtInclusivityCommunication Review of ethical values and principles with an emphasis on:RespectCourageCompassionHonor Accountability
AI Lessons Learned for Accountants
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Introduction to AI R&D in Accounting: Why internal AI research is essential for modern firms.Theory to Practice: Moving quickly from speculative AI concepts to actionable strategies.Managing Exponential Change: Understanding the urgency of adapting to AI’s rapid evolution.Proactive AI Engagement: Conducting in-house AI benchmarks, research, and hackathons.The Dual Role in AI Development: Balancing innovation with data security and ethical responsibilities.Internal AI Tools Creation: Encouraging accountants to develop AI solutions tailored to their needs.Data Security and Cyber Threats: Addressing AI-enabled cybercrime and protecting against internal risks.Mitigating AI Misuse: Recognizing abuse patterns and implementing safe practices.Challenges in AI Integration: Handling resistance, management concerns, and rapid technological shifts.Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Building a resilient, R&D-focused AI culture in accounting.
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
