CPE Catalog & Events
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.
Implementing an AI-Enabled Marketing Strategy for Your Firm
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Virtual
1.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Module 1: Introduction to AI in Marketing The Basics of AI – Concepts and TerminologyModule 2: Leveraging AI Tools and Technologies Overview of AI Tools for MarketingModule 3: Practical Strategies for AI Integration Integrating AI into Your Marketing WorkflowModule 4: Measuring AI-Driven Marketing Effectiveness Key Metrics for Assessing AI-Driven CampaignsModule 5: Real-Life Case Studies and Success Stories Case Studies of Firms Successfully Using AI in MarketingModule 6: Developing Your AI-Enabled Marketing Strategy Creating a Custom AI Marketing Strategy
S Corporations: Calculating Shareholder Basis
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Discuss the calculation of basis when the entity is formed including the impact of contributed propertyExplain the importance of shareholder loans to the entityUses a comprehensive example to illustrate the mechanics of the basis determination processSchedule K-1 Basis and Form 7203Discuss how basis is impacted by distributions of corporation propertyExplain how basis is impacted by sale/or liquidation of the S corporation interestDiscuss how S corporation losses impact Form 1040 Schedule E reportingShow how to get from the Schedule K-1 information to the basis calculations
ChatGPT Bootcamp for CPAs with John Higgins
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Virtual
4.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Review the history of ChatGPTTour of the ChatGPT app and how to use itSetting up a ChatGPT account (free & premium)Variety of hands-on case study examples for accounting, finance and taxA look under the hood at how ChatGPT worksCaution - how to avoid risks in using ChatGPTA look into the future potential for AI in business
CPAxPACK: Audit Essentials: Cash, Expenses, Inventory
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Virtual
6.00 Credits
"All courses in this Pack are presented by Melissa GalassoThe major topics that will be covered in this course include:Course 1: How to Audit CashCPE: 2Description: Cash is essential to every business, and is often one of the first accounts audit staff are exposed to. This course will cover the basics of auditing cash, including the related audit assertions, risks, & threats to the cash balance. During this course, we will also highlight the various substantive auditing procedures that staff should perform, and also walk through some real-world examples. Course 2: How to Audit InventoryCPE: 2Description: Inventory observations are often a right of passage for audit staff. This course will cover the basics of auditing inventory, including the related audit assertions, risks, & threats to inventory. During this course, we will also highlight the various substantive auditing procedures that staff should perform, and also walk through how to conduct a physical inventory observation.Course 3: How to Audit Expenses & PayablesCPE: 2Description: It is imperative that audit staff understand the fundamentals of expenses & payables. This course will cover the basics of auditing expenses, accrued liabilities, and other payables, including the related audit assertions, risks, & threats to the expenses & payables balances. During this course, we will also highlight the various substantive auditing procedures that staff should perform, and also walk through some real-world examples.
Building Security and Efficiency With Internal Control
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Virtual
8.00 Credits
The major topics covered in this course include:An overview of control frameworks and conceptsStrategic considerations that can be incorporated into control developmentUnderstanding and controlling risk that arises when organizations change or choose not toThe COSO Internal Control Framework and the COSO ERM Framework
CPAxPACK: Combatting Fraud: Master Prevention and Detection
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Virtual
8.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Course 1: Fraud Busters: Controls to Prevent & Detect FraudCPE: 2Field of Study: Auditing, AccountingDiscussion Leader: Keely GohlDescription: This course investigates actual real-world fraud schemes and discusses what controls could have prevented the fraud from occurring, and what controls could detect and curtail the fraud scheme. The instructor speaks from experience, finding multiple frauds very early in her career leading to a career-long focus on fraud prevention and detection. Course 2: Steps to Stop External FraudCPE: 2Field of Study: AccountingDiscussion Leader: Karl EgnatoffDescription: Until recently, a percentage of organizations discounted the risk related to external fraud attempts. Most were only concerned with protecting physical assets such as inventory or fixed assets. However, because of the many highly publicized corporate hacking events, such as the ones that affected the Colonial Pipeline and JBS Meats, more attention is being paid to external fraud risk of all types. In this session, we look at what is included in a definition of external fraud and then delve into specific control issues that can give rise to increased risk. We then discuss measures that organizations can employ to help reduce exposure to external attacks. Course 3: Money Laundering 101 for CPAs CPE: 4Field of Study: Specialized KnowledgeDiscussion Leader: Robert NordlanderDescription: CPAs spend most of their working lives reviewing bank statements and books and records of businesses. They are experts in understanding how to prepare financial statements according to GAAP. But would a CPA know a possible money laundering transaction if they saw it? Would they know about a money laundering business? Money laundering is a subject of many action and thriller movies, but rarely understood. This presentation will educate the CPA in understanding the basics of money laundering and how to identify money laundering. This presentation will help the CPA know the truth about money laundering, how to identify it, the statutes that define it, and the court cases that interpret it.
CPAxPACK: The Ultimate IRS Guide: Forms and Collections
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Virtual
8.00 Credits
All courses in this Pack are presented by Mary Jane Hourani.The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Course 1: Navigating IRS Authorizations: Understanding Power of Attorney (Form 2848) and Tax Information Authorization (Form 8821)CPE: 2Description: Providing a practical overview of the IRS Power of Attorney, Form 2848, and IRS Tax Information Authorization, Form 8821. Participants will explore the differences between these forms, understand when each is required, and how to comply with IRS requirements for representing clients and accessing their tax information. The course will cover practical issues, ethical considerations, and best practices for managing client authorizations through the IRS Centralized Authorization File (CAF) system. Course 2: Navigating IRS Collections: Overview of Form 433 & Offer in CompromiseCPE: 2Description: This course highlights when to use Form 433-A or 433-B, along with documents needed to effectively submit an Offer in Compromise (OIC) or Installments Agreement. Settling tax debts is an important part of the IRS collection process, this course helps guide taxpayer representatives through the process so they may efficiently complete these necessary forms. Course 3: Navigating IRS Collections: The Collection ProcessCPE: 2Description: This course is designed for tax professionals seeking to understand and navigate the IRS collection process effectively. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of the various collection methods employed by the IRS, including liens, levies and wage garnishments. Addition all, participants will learn strategies to avoid or halt collection actions and the implications of the statute of limitations on tax collection. Course 4: Navigating IRS Correspondence: Effectively Responding to IRS LettersCPE: 2Description: Participants will learn how to interpret the most common IRS correspondence, adhere to response deadlines, and effectively communicate with the IRS to resolve issues and minimize risks. It provides professionals with knowledge and strategies needed to handle the most common notices including audit requests, collections & return inquiries as well as error notices. Focusing on best practices to ensure compliance and avoiding penalties or escalation.
Advanced Excel: Hidden Secrets and Gems
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics covered in this class include:Awareness of advanced functionsCreative methods for data manipulationUsing intellectual curiosity and professional skepticism to develop a problem-solving mentalityReal-life examples of innovative ways to analyze and report data with ExcelUsing Excel to perform e-mail mergesMany other functions and techniques that inspire you to continue exploring the depths of Excel and its seemingly bottomless toolboxEnhance creativity in your approach to developing Excel models
Clean, Transform & Load Data in Power BI
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this class include:Introduction to Power Query in Power BI: Understanding the interface and basic functionalities.Data Cleaning Techniques: Removing duplicates, handling null values, and data type conversions.Data Transformation: Advanced methods for manipulating data, including pivoting, merging, and appending queries.Data Loading: Efficiently loading data into the Power BI data model.Document the Process Steps: Setting up details for each step in the process so you can document what is happening and why.
Surgent's Comparing and Contrasting Retirement Plans for Small- and Medium-Sized Businesses
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
Factors business owners should take into account when choosing a retirement plan SIMPLE plans Simplified employee pension plans 401(k) plans Defined benefit plans Ensuring eligible employees are covered Employees’ impact on choice of plan Ongoing compliance requirements Establishing a plan after the tax year end Changes to safe harbor 401(k) plans Pooled employer plans Defined benefit plans and cash balance plans
Surgent's Understanding Partnership Taxation: Debt Allocations
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
Recourse debt allocations Constructive liquidation scenarios Nonrecourse debt allocations Minimum gains and nonrecourse deductions Section 704(c) gains Allocations under 704(c)
Forensic Accounting: Crafting Expert Reports
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Virtual
4.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Introduction to Forensic Accounting: Gain an understanding of the fundamentals, roles, and responsibilities of forensic accountants in uncovering financial discrepancies, fraud, and economic damages.Maintain Ethical Integrity: Learn the importance of ethics in forensic accounting and strategies for ethical decision-making.Expert Report Preparation: Learn the essential components, best practices, and common pitfalls in writing clear, concise, and objective expert reports for legal proceedings.Investigation Report Writing: Explore the methodologies for conducting investigations, gathering evidence, and crafting thorough and accurate investigation reports.Economic Damages Writing: Understand the methodologies and best practices for calculating economic damages, including lost profits, business valuation, and other financial impacts.Reviewing Investigation Reports and Economic Damages: Analyze real-world examples to review and critique investigation reports and damage calculations, highlighting key insights and lessons learned.
The Best S Corporation, Limited Liability, and Partnership Update Course by Surgent
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Virtual
8.00 Credits
Comprehensive coverage of the Inflation Reduction Act, including: The Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax, The Clean Vehicle Credit, Credit for Previously Owned Clean Vehicles, Credit for Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicles, §45L New Energy Efficient Home Credit, Elective Payment, Transferability, and Prevailing Wage and Apprenticeship Requirements Principles and considerations for nonresident withholding, composite payments, and passthrough entity taxes Comprehensive coverage of the SECURE 2.0 Act with a focus on provisions applicable to employers Thinking beyond §163(j) -- Interest Allocation Rules, Original Issue Discount, Applicable High Yield Discount Obligations, Convertible Corporate Debt Instruments, and Debt-Financed Distributions Retirements and redemptions: considerations for partnerships and S corporations Timely coverage of breaking tax legislation Selected Practice and Reporting Issues: What’s new? A review of recent cases and tax law changes and IRS guidance affecting S corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies, and limited liability partnerships Form 1099-K reporting requirements Bonus depreciation Section 174 Research & Experimental Expenditures -- new guidance under Notice 2023-63 and Notice 2024-12 FinCEN reporting requirements A review of like-kind exchange transactions under §1031
2024 PCAOB and SEC Update
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Developments at the PCAOB.Recent trends in SEC comment letters.Enforcement actions and administrative proceedings.Conclusions and predictions for the future.
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)
Criminal Tax: How CPAs Bring Value to Defense Attorneys
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Virtual
2.00 Credits
The major topics that will be covered in this course include:The common weaknesses in a criminal tax investigation.The key documents to review (In a sea of thousands of documents).Crafting questions to recommend in court proceeding.
