CPE Catalog & Events

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

How to look for data in your existing systems The basics of data prep tools Tools for tracking and reporting on KPIs

The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Building a high-performing team comprised of multi-generational workers.How to effectively communicate with the millennial worker.Leveraging younger staff in business development opportunities.Measuring the productivity of a millennial workforce.

Definitions of key terms under the FMLA, including covered employer, eligible employee, and serious health condition Timing and types of leave under the FMLA Calculating leave time under the FMLA Employer and employee notice requirements The definition of a “disability” under ADA An employer’s obligation to provide employees with a reasonable accommodation under the ADA Guidance on engaging in the interactive process Dos and don’ts of medical certifications The interplay between the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act

The major topics that will be covered in this course include:The rules of IRS disclosure of tax informationUnderstanding the role of IRS transcriptsInterpreting the actions of the IRS in transcriptsFOIA requestsAnalyzing tax information and returns for financial leads

"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.

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.  

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.

The major topics that will be covered in this course include:Comparative analysis of LLCs and S CorporationsEntity formation, compliance, and operational structuresSelf-employment tax and its implications for LLCs and S CorporationsForm 2553 preparation and relief for late filingsRev. Proc. 2022-19 and Rev. Proc. 2023-3: analysis and applicationS Corporation eligibility errors and corrective measuresCorporate governance and formalities for both entity typesShareholder stock and debt basis for S CorporationsForms 1120S, 1065, and related schedules (K-1, K-2, K-3)Officer reasonable compensation and general partner guaranteed paymentsAudit strategies, estate planning, and business continuation planning

The major topics covered in this class include:AICPA Code of Conduct: Integrity and ObjectivityCase Study: Mortgage crisis of 2007-2010Case Study: World Com

The major topics that will be covered in this class include:Definition of self-rental property - both for Sections 199A and 469Self-rental income from directly owned properties and reporting on Form 1040, Schedule E, page 1Self-rental income from indirectly owned (partnerships, S corporations) and reporting on Form 1040, Schedule E, page 2Form 8582 (passive activity)The flow-through entity grouping electionIllustrative examples and consequences of failing to comply with the reporting standardsSelf-rental property and "former passive activities" rules

Why are some choices so difficult? Efficiency is not free; it has a real, large cost. The consequences of ‘pulling the trigger’ quickly How to evaluate ethical situations and remain above-board.

Internal Controls Fraud Prevention Fraud Investigation

Presence

Filing a tax return IRS audit RS Appeals Collections and litigation at courts of original jurisdiction