Accounting CPE Course Packages
Designed With Your Success in Mind
Experience the ultimate in continuing education with our accounting CPE study packages. These packages are designed for you, the professional, in mind. Fulfill your CPE requirements however and whenever you prefer.
Annual subscription
Unlock unlimited learning and stay ahead in your field with this yearly subscription of Kaplan CPE All Access! For 12 months, enjoy access to Kaplan's entire catalog of CPE self-study and webinar courses featuring state-specific ethics, industry hot topics, practical management skills, and more. With numerous new hot topic courses added each month—curated by true subject matter experts—you’ll always have fresh, relevant content at your fingertips. Choose your preferred format, from video and text-based self-study to live webinars, and download materials for flexible learning on the go.
- CPE Self-Study
- CPE Webinar
Unlock unlimited learning and stay ahead in your field with this monthly subscription of Kaplan CPE All Access! Enjoy access to Kaplan's entire catalog of CPE self-study and webinar courses featuring state-specific ethics, industry hot topics, practical management skills, and more. With numerous new hot topic courses added each month—curated by true subject matter experts—you’ll always have fresh, relevant content at your fingertips. Choose your preferred format, from video and text-based self-study to live webinars, and download materials for flexible learning on the go.
- CPE Self-Study
- CPE Webinar
Enjoy access to Kaplan's entire CPE self-study and webinar courses featuring state-specific ethics, industry hot topics, practical management skills, and more for 12 months or a monthly subscription. industry hot topics, practical management skills, and more. With numerous new hot topic courses added each month—curated by true subject matter experts—you’ll always have fresh, relevant content at your fingertips. Choose your preferred format, from video and text-based self-study to live webinars, and download materials for flexible learning on the go.
- CPE Self-Study
- CPE Webinar
Earn credits instantly upon completing self-study courses, with certificates available immediately and securely stored in your student account for future reference. Propel your career forward with Kaplan CPE All Access! Choose from affordable annual or monthly plans with automatic renewal.
Browse CPE Self-Study and Webinar Courses
How AI Uncovers Fraud and Strengthens Ethics in Forensic Accounting (May 22, 2025, 1:00-2:00 PM CDT)
Discover how AI is revolutionizing forensic accounting in this insightful interview with David Zweighaft, a leading expert in the field. Zweighaft explores how advanced AI tools enhance fraud detection, improve efficiency in analyzing vast datasets, and aid in uncovering hidden financial irregularities. He highlights the ethical considerations and challenges of integrating AI, such as mitigating biases and validating AI-generated findings. By balancing the power of AI with professional skepticism and human judgment, forensic accountants can strengthen their investigative processes and ensure ethical, reliable results. This discussion is a must-watch for those looking to future-proof their forensic accounting practices.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how AI enhances forensic investigations by automating data analysis, detecting patterns, and uncovering financial irregularities
- Recognize how to develop skills to critically evaluate AI-generated outputs and ensure the reliability of forensic findings
- Distinguish ethical challenges, such as human bias in AI models, and assess the legal admissibility of AI-generated evidence
- Identify how to utilize AI tools effectively to enhance audits, identify risks, validate findings, and trace complex financial transactions
Speaker/Author: David Zweighaft
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 12/1/2024
Mastering 401(k) Audits: Requirements, Controls and Best Practices (May 20, 2025, 1:00-2:00 PM CDT)
Plan sponsors must stay ahead of 401(k) requirements to ensure compliance, reduce audits, and maintain trust. Doug Williams and Josh Alexander of Alexander & Williams, PLLC highlight updated audit triggers, valid investment certifications, and safeguards like timely remittances, clear compensation definitions, record retention, and automated eligibility. They urge proactive oversight, early preparation, open communication, and using the DOL’s voluntary correction when necessary.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify triggers for 401(k) plan audits and recognize the key participant metrics involved.
- Recall essential documentation requirements and select appropriate recordkeeping controls to maintain compliance.
- Distinguish between audit types (ERISA Section 103(a)(3)(C) vs. full scope) and estimate the impact of obtaining an investment certification on costs.
- Indicate effective strategies for addressing common plan deficiencies, ensuring timely remediation and compliance.
Speakers/Authors: Doug Williams and Josh Alexander
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
Beyond the Numbers: The Strategic Power of Hedge Accounting (May 15, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT)
Don't miss Kaplan’s hedge accounting course! Join Tim Potter, CPA, Managing Director at HedgeStar, as he simplifies ASC-815 and IFRS-9. Learn how hedge accounting enhances transparency, stabilizes earnings, and strengthens risk management. Gain actionable insights to optimize hedging strategies, ensure compliance, and boost stakeholder confidence.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ASC-815 and IFRS-9 principles and their role in financial reporting transparency.
- Identify how hedging reduces earnings volatility, boosts stakeholder confidence, and lowers capital costs.
- Distinguish hedge qualification, effectiveness testing, and regulatory documentation requirements.
- Identify derivatives like swaps, futures, and options and understand how they enhance risk management and stability.
Speaker/Author: Tim Potter
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
Exploring the Six Pillars of the National Pipeline Advisory Group (May 13, 2025, 12:00 -1:00 PM CDT)
The accounting profession faces a talent shortage, known as the pipeline issue. In response, the National Pipeline Advisory Group (NPAG) formed in 2023 and developed six pillars in 2024 to address it. Denise Probert, CPA and educator, explores these pillars, examining root causes, education, and employee experience. She shares how universities and firms can adapt, offering actionable steps for addressing the pipeline issue.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the six pillars of the National Pipeline Advisory Group
- Recognize the root causes of the pipeline issue
- Recall the changes that universities and firms should implement in response to the pipeline issue
- Identify the alternate pathways to CPA licensure that states like Colorado have adopted
Speaker/Author: Denise Probert
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
Ethical Challenges in Mergers & Acquisitions: Competency, Conflicts, and Controls (May 8, 2025, 12:00-1:00 PM CDT)
Unlock the secrets to ethical, successful M&A deals with expert insights from Bill Haemmerle, Partner at Wiss & Company, LLP. Navigate key challenges like competency gaps, conflicts of interest, and internal controls. Discover game-changing strategies for fair negotiations, ethical due diligence, and smooth post-close transitions. Elevate your dealmaking with bold approaches that enhance transparency, mitigate risks, and set new standards in ethical M&A.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical challenges in mergers and acquisitions, including competency gaps, conflicts of interest, and post-transaction responsibilities
- Identify potential conflicts of interest among service providers, such as investment bankers and professional advisors, and their impact on transaction integrity
- Distinguish key internal controls necessary for transaction security, including financial approvals, fund transfers, and post-close oversight
- Evaluate ethical considerations in buyer and seller conduct, including fair negotiations, due diligence practices, and operating in good faith
Speaker/Author: Bill Haemmerle Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit. Last Review Date: 4/1/25
SOX Compliance Uncovered: Key Requirements, Risks, and Best Practices (May 6, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT)
The early 2000s saw major accounting scandals like Enron and WorldCom, leading to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). This law enhanced financial transparency, creating the PCAOB and strengthening accountability. Robert Conway, CPA, explores SOX’s impact, focusing on Section 302 certifications, disclosure committees, and clawback provisions under SOX and Dodd-Frank. He emphasizes that while tasks can be delegated, CEOs and CFOs remain ultimately accountable for financial reporting.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the significance of Sarbanes-Oxley Section 302 certifications and the legal responsibilities of CEOs and CFOs in ensuring accurate financial disclosures
- Identify the key components of disclosure controls and procedures, including their role in preventing financial misstatements and ensuring regulatory compliance
- Recall the penalties and legal consequences for false certifications under Sarbanes-Oxley, including fines and potential imprisonment
- Recognize the role of disclosure committees and internal control processes in enhancing corporate governance and mitigating financial reporting risks
Speaker/Author: Bob Conway
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
From Compliance to Consulting: Accounting in the Age of AI (April 30, 2025, 12:00-1:00 PM CDT)
Accountants must adapt to the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and evolving ethical standards to remain competitive and provide value to clients. Frank Castillo highlights the shift from compliance-focused practices to consulting roles, emphasizing the importance of leveraging AI tools for deeper industry insights and enhanced client services. He discusses how emerging legislation, such as data privacy laws in California, Utah, and Colorado, necessitates robust data governance and transparency. Castillo also explores strategies for fostering client trust through meaningful connections, addressing algorithmic bias in AI systems, and balancing technological advancements with a human-centered approach.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the impact of AI on the accounting profession
- Identify ethical and legal challenges of AI integration
- Recall the importance of human connection and client relationships
- Select strategies for adapting to technological advancements
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 12/1/2025
Mastering Multistate Taxation: Nexus, Withholding, and the Convenience Rule (April 29, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT)
Mastering multistate taxation is more critical than ever for accounting and tax professionals navigating the evolving landscape of nexus, withholding, and the convenience rule. Our expert-led course, featuring Mark Klein, Partner at Hodgson Russ, unpacks the latest developments in economic nexus standards, the impact of remote employees on tax obligations, and the complexities of state tax compliance. Equip yourself with the knowledge to help businesses and clients navigate the intricate world of multistate taxation confidently. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your expertise and safeguard your organization from costly tax liabilities!
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish between physical and economic nexus and identify how states establish tax obligations for each
- Recognize how remote employees influence nexus determination for businesses and legal precedents that shape taxation policies for remote workers.
- Recognize the risks of non-compliance and the benefits of voluntary disclosure programs offered by the Multistate Tax Commission (MTC).
- Identity strategies for mitigating double taxation, including establishing bona fide home offices or structuring employment arrangements in tax-favorable ways.
Speaker/Author: Mark Klein
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Mastering 401(k) Audits: Requirements, Controls and Best Practices (April 24, 2025, 1:00-2:00 PM CDT)
Plan sponsors must stay ahead of 401(k) requirements to ensure compliance, reduce audits, and maintain trust. Doug Williams and Josh Alexander of Alexander & Williams, PLLC highlight updated audit triggers, valid investment certifications, and safeguards like timely remittances, clear compensation definitions, record retention, and automated eligibility. They urge proactive oversight, early preparation, open communication, and using the DOL’s voluntary correction when necessary.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify triggers for 401(k) plan audits and recognize the key participant metrics involved.
- Recall essential documentation requirements and select appropriate recordkeeping controls to maintain compliance.
- Distinguish between audit types (ERISA Section 103(a)(3)(C) vs. full scope) and estimate the impact of obtaining an investment certification on costs.
- Indicate effective strategies for addressing common plan deficiencies, ensuring timely remediation and compliance.
Speakers/Authors: Doug Williams and Josh Alexander
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
Beyond the Numbers: The Strategic Power of Hedge Accounting (April 23, 2025, 12:00-1:00 PM CDT)
Don't miss Kaplan’s hedge accounting course! Join Tim Potter, CPA, Managing Director at HedgeStar, as he simplifies ASC-815 and IFRS-9. Learn how hedge accounting enhances transparency, stabilizes earnings, and strengthens risk management. Gain actionable insights to optimize hedging strategies, ensure compliance, and boost stakeholder confidence.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ASC-815 and IFRS-9 principles and their role in financial reporting transparency.
- Identify how hedging reduces earnings volatility, boosts stakeholder confidence, and lowers capital costs.
- Distinguish hedge qualification, effectiveness testing, and regulatory documentation requirements.
- Identify derivatives like swaps, futures, and options and understand how they enhance risk management and stability.
Speaker/Author: Tim Potter
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
Accounting Ethics in Action: Bridging Theory and Real-World Practice (April 22, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT)
It is inevitable that accountants will face ethical dilemmas during their careers. Throughout time, there have been many ethical decision-making models presented to help accountants navigate these dilemmas. Dr. Joan Lee, CPA, Professor of Accounting and Deloitte Fellow of Accounting at Fairfield University, presents a new theory, RADAR. The RADAR framework which stands for Research, Analyze, Decide, Act and Reflect provides a practical approach to ethical decision-making and emphasizes the importance of ethical sensitivity as a prerequisite to ethical decision-making. Lee also notes that moral intention itself is not sufficient on its own to guarantee that ethical decisions will translate into concrete actions in accounting practice.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the five components of the RADAR model
- Recognize the need for ethical sensitivity as prerequisite for ethical decision-making
- Recall that contextual factors, situational pressures, personal biases, and conflicting values all play a significant role in shaping ethical decisions
- Identify the ways firms and universities can support both practitioners and students in making ethical decisions
Speaker/Author: Joan Lee
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Exploring the Six Pillars of the National Pipeline Advisory Group (April 16, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT)
The accounting profession faces a talent shortage, known as the pipeline issue. In response, the National Pipeline Advisory Group (NPAG) formed in 2023 and developed six pillars in 2024 to address it. Denise Probert, CPA and educator, explores these pillars, examining root causes, education, and employee experience. She shares how universities and firms can adapt, offering actionable steps for addressing the pipeline issue.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the six pillars of the National Pipeline Advisory Group
- Recognize the root causes of the pipeline issue
- Recall the changes that universities and firms should implement in response to the pipeline issue
- Identify the alternate pathways to CPA licensure that states like Colorado have adopted
Speaker/Author: Denise Probert
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
Tax Compliance in the Crypto Era: Reporting Rules for Digital Assets (April 15, 2025, 12:00-1:00 PM CDT)
Tax reporting for digital assets has evolved with new rules and forms to address digital currencies, stablecoins, NFTs, and tokenized securities. Seth Poloner, Managing Director at E&Y, joins this segment to discuss new IRS reporting requirements for digital assets and key regulations in the crypto era. This includes discussion of broker responsibilities, reporting rules for transactions like stablecoins, NFTs, and tokenized securities, as well as new Form 1099-DA reporting. He also discusses the importance of staying up to date with changes in digital asset reporting and ensuring good faith efforts in compliance.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the responsibilities of brokers in digital asset transactions
- Identify key IRS reporting requirements for digital assets
- Recognize the importance of staying updated on changes in digital asset tax reporting
- Identify reporting rules for digital currencies, stablecoins, NFTs, and tokenized assets
Speaker/Author: Seth Poloner
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Ethical Challenges in Mergers & Acquisitions: Competency, Conflicts, and Controls (April 10, 2025, 1:00-2:00 PM CDT)
Unlock the secrets to ethical, successful M&A deals with expert insights from Bill Haemmerle, Partner at Wiss & Company, LLP. Navigate key challenges like competency gaps, conflicts of interest, and internal controls. Discover game-changing strategies for fair negotiations, ethical due diligence, and smooth post-close transitions. Elevate your dealmaking with bold approaches that enhance transparency, mitigate risks, and set new standards in ethical M&A.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical challenges in mergers and acquisitions, including competency gaps, conflicts of interest, and post-transaction responsibilities
- Identify potential conflicts of interest among service providers, such as investment bankers and professional advisors, and their impact on transaction integrity
- Distinguish key internal controls necessary for transaction security, including financial approvals, fund transfers, and post-close oversight
- Evaluate ethical considerations in buyer and seller conduct, including fair negotiations, due diligence practices, and operating in good faith
Speaker/Author: Bill Haemmerle
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
Governmental Accounting: Common Errors & Best Practices (April 8, 2025, 12:00-1:00 PM CDT)
State and local governments must navigate unique GASB reporting requirements to ensure accurate financial statements, maintain compliance, and uphold public trust. In this segment, Phil Marciano, Partner at Citrin Cooperman, explains how to address the complexities of net investment in capital assets—including the treatment of unspent bond proceeds, premiums, and refunds—and emphasizes the proper presentation of lease and subscription-based assets. He also highlights the importance of correctly classifying OPEB liabilities, integrating new guidance under GASB 100 for accounting changes and error corrections, and maintaining relevant disclosures in management's discussion and analysis.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify common errors in calculating net investment in capital assets, and indicate appropriate methods to correct them in governmental financial statements
- Distinguish between total and net OPEB liabilities, and estimate their respective impacts on current versus noncurrent classifications
- Recognize the key requirements of GASB 100 regarding accounting changes and error corrections, and recall best practices for presenting restatements transparently
- Select strategies for enhancing Management's Discussion and Analysis disclosures, and recognize how to properly incorporate restricted assets and year-over-year comparative insights
Work experience in auditing, or an introductory course in auditing.
Speaker/Author: Phil Marciano
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
SOX Compliance Uncovered: Key Requirements, Risks, and Best Practices (April 2, 2025, 12:00-1:00 PM CDT)
The early 2000s saw major accounting scandals like Enron and WorldCom, leading to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). This law enhanced financial transparency, creating the PCAOB and strengthening accountability. Robert Conway, CPA, explores SOX’s impact, focusing on Section 302 certifications, disclosure committees, and clawback provisions under SOX and Dodd-Frank. He emphasizes that while tasks can be delegated, CEOs and CFOs remain ultimately accountable for financial reporting.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the significance of Sarbanes-Oxley Section 302 certifications and the legal responsibilities of CEOs and CFOs in ensuring accurate financial disclosures
- Identify the key components of disclosure controls and procedures, including their role in preventing financial misstatements and ensuring regulatory compliance
- Recall the penalties and legal consequences for false certifications under Sarbanes-Oxley, including fines and potential imprisonment
- Recognize the role of disclosure committees and internal control processes in enhancing corporate governance and mitigating financial reporting risks
Speaker/Author: Bob Conway
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 4/1/25
Future-Proofing Finance: Building Skills, Embracing Technology, and Leading Through Change (April 1, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT)
In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, staying ahead of industry shifts is more critical than ever. In this must-watch segment, Bill Sheridan of the Maryland Association of CPAs, explores how accounting and finance professionals can thrive amid AI, automation, and digital transformation. Learn how to adapt to hybrid work models, cybersecurity risks, and evolving regulations, turning disruption into opportunity. Packed with expert insights and actionable strategies, this session is key for staying competitive, upskilling, and leveraging technology to drive success in the future of finance.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how advancements in technology are transforming traditional accounting roles into strategic advisory, data analytics, and AI specialist positions
- Distinguish key non-technical skills required for accounting professionals to remain competitive, including leadership, communication, strategic thinking, collaboration, and anticipation
- Identify how AI, automation, and advanced analytics can enhance productivity, improve decision-making, and create new opportunities within the accounting and finance profession
- Identify strategies for addressing talent shortages, workforce expectations (such as remote work and work-life balance), and evolving business models to remain relevant in the profession
Speaker/Author: Bill Sheridan
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Mastering Multistate Taxation: Nexus, Withholding, and the Convenience Rule (March 26, 2025, 12:00-1:00 PM CDT)
Mastering multistate taxation is more critical than ever for accounting and tax professionals navigating the evolving landscape of nexus, withholding, and the convenience rule. Our expert-led course, featuring Mark Klein, Partner at Hodgson Russ, unpacks the latest developments in economic nexus standards, the impact of remote employees on tax obligations, and the complexities of state tax compliance. Equip yourself with the knowledge to help businesses and clients navigate the intricate world of multistate taxation confidently. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your expertise and safeguard your organization from costly tax liabilities!
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish between physical and economic nexus and identify how states establish tax obligations for each
- Recognize how remote employees influence nexus determination for businesses and legal precedents that shape taxation policies for remote workers.
- Recognize the risks of non-compliance and the benefits of voluntary disclosure programs offered by the Multistate Tax Commission (MTC).
- Identity strategies for mitigating double taxation, including establishing bona fide home offices or structuring employment arrangements in tax-favorable ways.
Speaker/Author: Mark Klein
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Transforming Audits with Technology and AI (March 25, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT)
Understanding the evolving role of AI and emerging technologies in audit processes is essential for firms aiming to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and client service. Jonathan Kraftchick, Partner & Innovation Leader, and Tara Edwards, Chief Transformation Officer at Cherry Bekaert, discuss how AI and emerging technologies are transforming audit planning, execution, and reporting. They highlight AI's role in anomaly detection, risk assessment, sampling precision, and continuous auditing, while emphasizing the importance of proper training, data security, and firm readiness. The conversation emphasizes professional skepticism, compliance, and strategic oversight for effective AI adoption.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how AI and emerging technologies are transforming key areas of audit planning, execution, and reporting
- Recognize the importance of proper training, data security, and organizational readiness for effective AI adoption in audit processes
- Determine the role of professional skepticism and compliance measures in managing AI-driven audit insights
- Recognize the potential benefits and risks of AI implementation, including anomaly detection, risk assessment, sampling precision, and continuous auditing
Speaker/Author: Jonathan Kraftchick and Tara Edwards
Polling questions are used to monitor attendance. Four questions will be presented each hour, and participants must respond to at least three to receive credit.
Last Review Date: 02/01/25
Risk, Reward, and Resilience: A Modern Approach to Risk Management
Economic Value Added, EVA, is a powerful yet often overlooked tool for risk management. Many accountants focus on EVA for performance measurement but miss its potential for identifying and mitigating risks. Alan Gorlick, CEO of Gorlick Financial Strategies, explains how EVA can optimize resource allocation, align investments with value creation, and reduce operational risks. With practical insights on dynamic metrics, bonus plans, and tools like Monte Carlo simulations, this segment equips financial leaders to turn uncertainty into opportunity and drive long-term profitability.
Learning Objectives:
- Indicate how Economic Value Added (EVA) integrates with cost of capital analyses and advanced valuation models for risk-adjusted decision-making
- Explain how EVA serves as a measure of true economic profit and improves resource allocation decisions
- Recognize how EVA can identify and mitigate risks by aligning investment decisions with value creation
- Identify how to address risk challenges, such as suboptimal outcomes and agency problems, through objective and measurable EVA-based metrics
Speaker/Author: Alan Gorlick Last Review Date: 03/01/25
Strategies for Mobile Workforce Management: Policies, Payroll, and Withholding for Inpats & Expats
Managing a mobile workforce presents significant challenges for accounting and finance professionals, from navigating complex tax regulations to ensuring compliance with multi-jurisdictional payroll and reporting requirements. This expert-led course, featuring global mobility specialist David Livitt, provides a comprehensive guide to handling inpats and expats, tax equalization strategies, withholding obligations, and corporate risk mitigation. Gain practical insights into structuring payroll, leveraging tax credits, and optimizing compliance while supporting a globally mobile workforce. Stay ahead in the evolving landscape of international workforce management with expert strategies and best practices.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how to design and implement mobility policies that balance cost efficiency, compliance, and employee satisfaction
- Identify the key phases of the mobile workforce lifecycle, including pre-assignment planning, payroll management, compliance, and repatriation
- Distinguish withholding obligations and foreign tax requirements and exemptions to minimize compliance risks and avoid double taxation
- Explore tax protection policies that shield employees from paying excessive taxes in high-tax jurisdictions while benefiting from tax planning strategies
Speaker/Author: David Livitt
Last Review Date: 3/01/2025
Your Guide to High-Quality Assurance and Exceptional Audits
Auditing can seem complex and overwhelming at first, with its intricate standards, regulations, and risk assessments. Industry veteran Marty Van Wagoner simplifies the process and equips accountants and finance professionals with the knowledge they need to navigate audit evidence with confidence. Covering essential standards, PCAOB and AICPA guidance, and recent regulatory changes, this course provides practical insights into risk assessment, audit procedures, and the evolving role of technology in audits. With real-world examples and expert strategies, you'll gain the skills to conduct high-quality audits and enhance financial integrity. Stay ahead of industry changes and refine your auditing approach today!
Learning Objectives:
- Identify principles of sufficient and appropriate audit evidence in line with professional standards.
- Recognize the need for professional skepticism in critically evaluating evidence and identifying potential misstatements.
- Identify data analytics and automated tools to enhance audit quality and efficiency.
- Recognize ethical considerations, fraud risks, and emerging auditing standards effectively
Speaker/Author: Marty Von Wagoner
Last Review Date: 03/01/25
Accounting Ethics in Action: Bridging Theory and Real-World Practice
It is inevitable that accountants will face ethical dilemmas during their careers. Throughout time, there have been many ethical decision-making models presented to help accountants navigate these dilemmas. Dr. Joan Lee, CPA, Professor of Accounting and Deloitte Fellow of Accounting at Fairfield University, presents a new theory, RADAR. The RADAR framework which stands for Research, Analyze, Decide, Act and Reflect provides a practical approach to ethical decision-making and emphasizes the importance of ethical sensitivity as a prerequisite to ethical decision-making. Lee also notes that moral intention itself is not sufficient on its own to guarantee that ethical decisions will translate into concrete actions in accounting practice.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the five components of the RADAR model
- Recognize the need for ethical sensitivity as prerequisite for ethical decision-making
- Recall that contextual factors, situational pressures, personal biases, and conflicting values all play a significant role in shaping ethical decisions
- Identify the ways firms and universities can support both practitioners and students in making ethical decisions
Speaker/Author: Joan Lee
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Future-Proofing Finance: Building Skills, Embracing Technology, and Leading Through Change
In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, staying ahead of industry shifts is more critical than ever. In this must-watch segment, Bill Sheridan of the Maryland Association of CPAs, explores how accounting and finance professionals can thrive amid AI, automation, and digital transformation. Learn how to adapt to hybrid work models, cybersecurity risks, and evolving regulations, turning disruption into opportunity. Packed with expert insights and actionable strategies, this session is key for staying competitive, upskilling, and leveraging technology to drive success in the future of finance.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how advancements in technology are transforming traditional accounting roles into strategic advisory, data analytics, and AI specialist positions
- Distinguish key non-technical skills required for accounting professionals to remain competitive, including leadership, communication, strategic thinking, collaboration, and anticipation
- Identify how AI, automation, and advanced analytics can enhance productivity, improve decision-making, and create new opportunities within the accounting and finance profession
- Identify strategies for addressing talent shortages, workforce expectations (such as remote work and work-life balance), and evolving business models to remain relevant in the profession
Speaker/Author: Bill Sheridan
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Governmental Accounting: Common Errors & Best Practices
State and local governments must navigate unique GASB reporting requirements to ensure accurate financial statements, maintain compliance, and uphold public trust. In this segment, Phil Marciano, Partner at Citrin Cooperman, explains how to address the complexities of net investment in capital assets—including the treatment of unspent bond proceeds, premiums, and refunds—and emphasizes the proper presentation of lease and subscription-based assets. He also highlights the importance of correctly classifying OPEB liabilities, integrating new guidance under GASB 100 for accounting changes and error corrections, and maintaining relevant disclosures in management’s discussion and analysis.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify common errors in calculating net investment in capital assets, and indicate appropriate methods to correct them in governmental financial statements
- Distinguish between total and net OPEB liabilities, and estimate their respective impacts on current versus noncurrent classifications
- Recognize the key requirements of GASB 100 regarding accounting changes and error corrections, and recall best practices for presenting restatements transparently
- Select strategies for enhancing Management’s Discussion and Analysis disclosures, and recognize how to properly incorporate restricted assets and year-over-year comparative insights
Work experience in auditing, or an introductory course in auditing.
Speaker/Author: Phil Marciano
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Mastering Multistate Taxation: Nexus, Withholding, and the Convenience Rule
Mastering multistate taxation is more critical than ever for accounting and tax professionals navigating the evolving landscape of nexus, withholding, and the convenience rule. Our expert-led course, featuring Mark Klein, Partner at Hodgson Russ, unpacks the latest developments in economic nexus standards, the impact of remote employees on tax obligations, and the complexities of state tax compliance. Equip yourself with the knowledge to help businesses and clients navigate the intricate world of multistate taxation confidently. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your expertise and safeguard your organization from costly tax liabilities!
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish between physical and economic nexus and identify how states establish tax obligations for each
- Recognize how remote employees influence nexus determination for businesses and legal precedents that shape taxation policies for remote workers.
- Recognize the risks of non-compliance and the benefits of voluntary disclosure programs offered by the Multistate Tax Commission (MTC).
- Identity strategies for mitigating double taxation, including establishing bona fide home offices or structuring employment arrangements in tax-favorable ways.
Speaker/Author: Mark Klein
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Tax Compliance in the Crypto Era: Reporting Rules for Digital Assets
Tax reporting for digital assets has evolved with new rules and forms to address digital currencies, stablecoins, NFTs, and tokenized securities. Seth Poloner, Managing Director at E&Y, joins this segment to discuss new IRS reporting requirements for digital assets and key regulations in the crypto era. This includes discussion of broker responsibilities, reporting rules for transactions like stablecoins, NFTs, and tokenized securities, as well as new Form 1099-DA reporting. He also discusses the importance of staying up to date with changes in digital asset reporting and ensuring good faith efforts in compliance.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the responsibilities of brokers in digital asset transactions
- Identify key IRS reporting requirements for digital assets
- Recognize the importance of staying updated on changes in digital asset tax reporting
- Identify reporting rules for digital currencies, stablecoins, NFTs, and tokenized assets
Speaker/Author: Seth Poloner
Last Review Date: 3/1/2025
Virginia-Approved - The Remote Office: Regulatory and Ethical Considerations for CPAs in 2025
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we’ll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We’ll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
- Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
- Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
- Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall select rules pronounced by the Virginia Board of Accountancy of which licensed practitioners should be mindful.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo Last reviewed: 1/26/25
Virginia-Approved Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview for 2025
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public and our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their “most trusted advisor”. However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including:
- A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends,
- An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by,
- Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and
- Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall select rules pronounced by the Virginia Board of Accountancy of which licensed practitioners should be mindful.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 1/26/2025
AI for Accountants: Recognizing Potential and Navigating Limitations
Finance professionals are ready to embrace the AI revolution, and this course is key to success in this endeavor. Join experts Dr. Mfon Akpan and Dr. Scott Dell as they reveal how cutting-edge AI tools like ChatGPT and multimodal models can automate workflows, boost decision-making, and unlock unmatched efficiencies in accounting. Learn to master the art of effective prompting, seamlessly integrate AI into your processes, and navigate critical ethical considerations like data biases and privacy. Stay ahead of the competition, harness the power of AI, and transform your role with innovation-driven strategies for the future!
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how AI tools, like ChatGPT-4 Omni, can automate tasks, analyze data, and generate outputs such as financial reports, visualizations, and forecasts
- Recognize how AI can be integrated into accounting workflows to streamline tax research, audit preparation, and financial analysis
- Recognize the importance of human oversight in ensuring AI-generated outputs are accurate, compliant, and free of harmful biases
- Identify the art of prompting, including zero-shot, one-shot, and few-shot techniques, to maximize AI accuracy and efficiency
Last Review Date: 2/1/2025
Mastering Crypto Accounting: Insights on Navigating the Digital Asset Revolution
Mastering Crypto Accounting: Navigating the Digital Asset Revolution is your essential guide to understanding the intersection of accounting, digital assets, and blockchain technology. Led by industry expert Aaron Jacob of Taxbit, this course explores the rapid adoption of cryptocurrencies, regulatory developments, and real-world use cases that are transforming finance. You’ll gain practical insights into the latest FASB fair value standards, strategies for overcoming operational challenges, and how to implement a digital asset strategy that drives business efficiency.
Learning Objectives:
- Identity features of digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, tokens, and NFTs
- Recognize key trends driving digital adoption, such as ETFs, regulatory advancements, and major company investments.
- Distinguish U.S. GAAP's fair value approach from IFRS guidance on intangible assets
- Identify audit-ready practices with strong internal controls and compliance measures for digital assets
Speaker/Author: Aaron Jacob
Last Review Date: 2/1/2025
Financial Forensics: Techniques for Fraud Detection and Prevention
Understanding the complexities of financial statement analysis, fraud detection, and corporate governance is essential for accountants aiming to ensure accuracy and integrity in financial reporting. Tom Robinson, Chief Investment Officer at Robinson Global Investment Management, discusses key strategies for identifying financial irregularities, including analyzing inter-relationships among financial statements, distinguishing legitimate cash flows from reclassified transactions, and scrutinizing aggressive revenue recognition practices. He highlights critical metrics and red flags, such as accounts receivable growth relative to revenue, and emphasizes the importance of applying the fraud triangle framework to detect early signs of financial fraud.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key inter-relationships among financial statements to detect unusual variances and potential fraud
- Recognize critical red flags in revenue recognition, accounts receivable growth, and non-operating gains that may indicate financial irregularities
- Determine how the fraud triangle framework can be applied to identify early signs of financial fraud
- Identify corporate governance benchmarks and lessons from historical fraud scandals to enhance audit practices and prevent financial statement manipulation
Speaker/Author: Tom Robinson
Last Review Date: 02/01/25
Foundations of TBM: Aligning Finance, Tech, and Business
Technology Business Management (TBM) aligns technology investments with business goals, optimizing costs and driving value creation. Jack Bischof, GM of the TBM Council, explains how TBM provides a standardized framework and taxonomy to improve cost transparency, streamline financial processes, and support informed decision-making across finance, technology, and operations. He highlights TBM's evolution beyond traditional IT Financial Management (ITFM) to address resource allocation, consumption trends, and unit economics, while also tackling emerging challenges from cloud computing, AI, and other technologies. TBM empowers organizations to achieve agility, predictability, and strategic alignment in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize TBM from traditional ITFM in strategic decision
- making and cost transparency.
- Identify how the TBM taxonomy enhances cost allocation and resource utilization.
- Determine TBM's role in managing cloud and AI investments effectively.
- Identify key factors for successful TBM implementation, including executive support and data management.
Speaker/Author: Jack Bischof
Last Review Date: 02/01/25
How to Succeed as a Finance Business Partner by Actually Trying
What is a Finance Business Partner? Andi Lonnen, Chief Energizing Officer, at FBP Academy shares what differentiates a Finance Business Partner from a "traditional accountant." Lonnen details strategies, like the 9Cs, that Finance Business Partners can employ to create successful relationships with their clients and colleagues. She also delves into the challenges that Finance Business Partners face, including an unsupportive organizational culture that perpetuates negative stereotypes about finance professionals. Andi also reminds finance and accounting professionals to celebrate even the "small" wins they achieve for their partners.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the difference between a Finance Business Partner and a traditional accountant
- Identify the "9 Cs" for Finance Business Partners
- Recall the importance of commercial acumen for Finance Business Partners
- Recognize the challenges Finance Business Partners face when working with clients and colleagues Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in business management.
Speaker/Author: Andi Lonnen
Last Review Date: 02/01/25
Mastering Retirement Plan Audits: Compliance
Understanding the complexities of employee benefit plan (EBP) audits is crucial for plan sponsors to ensure compliance, safeguard plan assets, and meet Department of Labor (DOL) and IRS requirements. Amanda Goar, Principal at Baker Tilly and National Leader of the Employee Benefit Plan Practice, discusses the key factors in preparing for a successful EBP audit, including changes in participant threshold rules, the importance of accurate plan documentation, and the role of SOC reports in evaluating service providers. She emphasizes the significance of timely contribution remittances, proper reconciliation of plan data, and understanding plan provisions related to vesting, distributions, and participant loans.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key regulatory requirements and thresholds that determine when an employee benefit plan (EBP) audit is required under DOL and IRS guidelines
- Recognize the critical role of SOC reports in assessing service provider controls and ensuring compliance with user entity control considerations
- Recognize common audit deficiencies, including contribution timeliness, inaccurate participant data, and vesting errors, and how to address them proactively
- Determine best practices for selecting a qualified EBP auditor, emphasizing expertise, audit quality, and alignment with plan-specific needs over cost considerations
Speaker/Author: Amanda Goar
Last Review Date: 02/01/25
Minimizing Estate and Gift Tax Penalties: Key Compliance Strategies
Minimizing estate and gift tax penalties is important for preserving wealth and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Beth Kaufman and Melissa Wiley, Partners with Lowenstein Sandler in Washington DC, join this segment to discuss best practices and compliance strategies with respect to estate and gift taxes. This includes discussion of reasonable cause and willful neglect, building a persuasive case for reliance on tax professionals, and understanding penalties for appraisers under IRC Section 6695A. They also discuss strategies to manage late filing and payment penalties, how to leverage the Internal Revenue Manual for penalty abatement/reasonable cause statements, and considerations when applying first-time abatement (FTA).
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the common reasons for penalties related to estate and gift tax filings
- Recognize the criteria for reasonable cause and willful neglect in tax penalties
- Recognize types of penalties for appraisers under IRC Section 6695A
- Determine strategies to manage and avoid late filing and payment penalties
Speaker/Author: Beth Kaufman and Melissa Wiley
Last Review Date: 02/01/25
Tax Reform and Expiring Provisions: Navigating the 2025 Deadline
It's no secret that elections are consequential for a variety of reasons. One key area that experts are watching in light of the 2024 election is tax policy. Kasey Pittman, Director of Tax Policy, at Baker Tilly, walks viewers through the provisions which are set to expire at the end of 2025. She provides her insights regarding potential avenues for tax reform, highlighting the reconciliation process and its limitations. Pittman delves into the impact of a Republican unified government and what that could mean for tax reform, such as in the state and local tax arena. She also explores the challenges that tax advisors and businesses may face in 2025 and how those advisors can best support their clients.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the provisions which are set to expire at the end of 2025
- Recognize the consequences of the 2024 election for potential tax reform
- Recall the challenges of implementing tax reform
- Identify the limitations of the reconciliation process
Speaker/Author: Kasey Pittman
Last Review Date: 02/01/25
Transforming Audits with Technology and AI
Understanding the evolving role of AI and emerging technologies in audit processes is essential for firms aiming to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and client service. Jonathan Kraftchick, Partner & Innovation Leader, and Tara Edwards, Chief Transformation Officer at Cherry Bekaert, discuss how AI and emerging technologies are transforming audit planning, execution, and reporting. They highlight AI's role in anomaly detection, risk assessment, sampling precision, and continuous auditing, while emphasizing the importance of proper training, data security, and firm readiness. The conversation emphasizes professional skepticism, compliance, and strategic oversight for effective AI adoption.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how AI and emerging technologies are transforming key areas of audit planning, execution, and reporting
- Recognize the importance of proper training, data security, and organizational readiness for effective AI adoption in audit processes
- Determine the role of professional skepticism and compliance measures in managing AI-driven audit insights
- Recognize the potential benefits and risks of AI implementation, including anomaly detection, risk assessment, sampling precision, and continuous auditing
Speaker/Author: Jonathan Kraftchick and Tara Edwards
Last Review Date: 02/01/25
AICPA Ethics v4.0
This course is designed to satisfy the 4-hour ethics CPE requirement in most state jurisdictions. This ethics program will satisfy jurisdiction CPE requirements that are not state specific for a 4-hour regulatory ethics program based on the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct generally effective for periods after December 15, 2014. It addresses Ethics Code requirements for all members, members in public practice, members in business, and other members.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the major points of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
- Identify ethical threats and safeguards associated with members practicing in public practice, in business, or applicable to other members.
- Define the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct rules applicable to all members as well as rules applicable to members in public practice and members in business.
- Identify the AICPA's Code of Professional Conduct rules applicable to integrity and objectivity, independence, general standards, acts discreditable, commissions and referral fees, advertising, confidential information, and form of organization and name.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None.
Last reviewed: 01/10/2024
From Compliance to Consulting: Accounting in the Age of AI
Accountants must adapt to the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and evolving ethical standards to remain competitive and provide value to clients. Frank Castillo highlights the shift from compliance-focused practices to consulting roles, emphasizing the importance of leveraging AI tools for deeper industry insights and enhanced client services. He discusses how emerging legislation, such as data privacy laws in California, Utah, and Colorado, necessitates robust data governance and transparency. Castillo also explores strategies for fostering client trust through meaningful connections, addressing algorithmic bias in AI systems, and balancing technological advancements with a human-centered approach.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the impact of AI on the accounting profession
- Identify ethical and legal challenges of AI integration
- Recall the importance of human connection and client relationships
- Select strategies for adapting to technological advancements
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo
Last Review Date: 1/1/2025
How AI Uncovers Fraud and Strengthens Ethics in Forensic Accounting
Discover how AI is revolutionizing forensic accounting in this insightful interview with David Zweighaft, a leading expert in the field. Zweighaft explores how advanced AI tools enhance fraud detection, improve efficiency in analyzing vast datasets, and aid in uncovering hidden financial irregularities. He highlights the ethical considerations and challenges of integrating AI, such as mitigating biases and validating AI-generated findings. By balancing the power of AI with professional skepticism and human judgment, forensic accountants can strengthen their investigative processes and ensure ethical, reliable results. This discussion is a must-watch for those looking to future-proof their forensic accounting practices.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how AI enhances forensic investigations by automating data analysis, detecting patterns, and uncovering financial irregularities
- Recognize how to develop skills to critically evaluate AI-generated outputs and ensure the reliability of forensic findings
- Distinguish ethical challenges, such as human bias in AI models, and assess the legal admissibility of AI-generated evidence
- Identify how to utilize AI tools effectively to enhance audits, identify risks, validate findings, and trace complex financial transactions
Speaker/Author: David Zweighaft
Last Review Date: 1/1/2025
Leading the Way: Empowering Women to Excel in Finance Leadership
Gain invaluable insights from Jessica McClain, a trailblazing financial leader and CFO at Girl Scouts Nation's Capital, as she explores how women can overcome barriers and excel in accounting and finance leadership. In this empowering discussion, McClain highlights actionable strategies, including the power of mentorship, leadership development programs, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Drawing on her extensive experience, she delves into breaking stereotypes, achieving work-life harmony, and building equitable opportunities in male-dominated industries. This conversation offers valuable insights for anyone dedicated to promoting gender equity and empowering women to thrive and lead in the field of finance.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify common barriers to gender diversity in finance and accounting - including unconscious bias, lack of female role models, and unsupportive work cultures
- Recognize the role of mentorship programs and leadership development in supporting career growth for women in finance
- Recognize the benefits of gender diversity for organizational performance - including improvements in decision-making, innovation, and productivity
- Identify strategies for continuous learning that support career advancement, especially for women in the evolving landscape of finance and accounting
Speaker/Author: Jessica McClain
Last Review Date: 1/1/2025
Navigating Art Assets: Investment, Valuation, and Estate Planning
Accountants advising clients with valuable art collections must navigate the complexities of the evolving art market to optimize financial outcomes, ensure proper estate planning, and mitigate risks. Wendy Battleson, Private Banker at Bank of America, explains key strategies for managing art assets, focusing on the importance of provenance and clear title, effective use of auction guarantees, and leveraging art collections to minimize capital gains taxes through mechanisms like step-up in basis. She also emphasizes the critical role of open communication between accountants and clients about art assets, addressing the unregulated nature of the art market, and the necessity of proper documentation and appraisal to safeguard investments.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key strategies for managing art assets to optimize financial outcomes and mitigate risks in estate planning
- Recognize the importance of provenance and clear title in verifying the authenticity and value of art collections
- Distinguish between the roles of private banks and boutique lenders in art finance and their impact on clients' financial strategies
- Indicate how leveraging art collections through mechanisms like step-up in basis can minimize capital gains taxes for clients with low cost basis
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in finance.
Speaker/Author: Wendy Battleson
Last Review Date: 1/1/2025
Navigating PTET, NIIT, and SECA for Pass-Through Entities
Understanding Pass-Through Entity Tax (PTET), Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT), and Self-Employment Contributions Act (SECA) tax is important for identifying strategies to minimize tax liabilities for owners and partners of pass-through entities. David Kirk, Tax Partner and leader of the Private Tax Group of Ernst & Young LLP's National Tax Department, joins this segment to discuss key tax issues for PTEs and explains the differences between credit and corporate taxation models for PTET, state-specific rules, and the impact of default elections. This includes discussion of how pro rata allocation affects deductions and credits, potential S Corporation status issues, and the role of grantor trusts.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the differences between credit and corporate taxation models for PTET
- Determine how pro rata allocation impacts deductions and credits for PTEs
- Distinguish the self-employment tax treatment for general and limited partners
- Identify strategies to minimize tax liabilities related to NIIT and business-related investment income
Speaker/Author: David Kirk
Last Review Date: 1/1/2025
Private Equity in Accounting: A New Era
The growing interest in private equity in accounting reflects a shift towards new growth opportunities, strategic investments, and competitive positioning within the industry. Allan Kotlin, CEO of Kotlin Consulting Group, addresses the growing role of private equity in the accounting industry and explores challenges in mergers and acquisitions, including the importance of cultural fit and leadership decisions. This includes discussion of how private equity affects profitability as well as strategies for staying competitive, such as mergers, private equity rollups, and partnering with big firms. He also covers how generational conflicts and changes in compensation impact younger partners.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key challenges in mergers and acquisitions within the accounting industry
- Recognize the impact of cultural fit on private equity transactions in accounting
- Recognize how generational conflicts affect valuation and compensation in firms
- Identify factors influencing the growing interest in accounting firm acquisitions
Speaker/Author: Allan Koltin
Last Review Date: 1/1/2025
Spice Up Your Life: A Crash Course on SALT
The field of state and local taxes is a dynamic and exciting field full of complexities. Jordan Goodman, Partner at Kilpatrick, Townsend & Stockton LLP explores fundamental SALT topics such as the development of Public Law 86-272 and its applicability today. Goodman also discusses how differences in state sourcing rules have led to litigation. He details other relevant state and local tax concepts such as alternative apportionment, separate vs. unitary filing positions and sales and use tax in a service economy. Through Goodman's extensive knowledge of state and local tax cases, he shares real world examples which help these often abstract ideas to come to life.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the limitations of P.L. 86-272 in today's service economy
- Identify the two main sourcing methodologies
- Recall the importance of how a service is defined in a state statute for sales and use tax purposes
- Identify some of the pivotal state and local tax court cases that have influenced state and local tax statutes and how they are applied
Speaker/Author: Jordan Goodman
Last Review Date: 1/1/2025
Ethics for Washington CPAs - 2025
This is an ethics and regulations course for Washington CPAs covering standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession. It covers Washington State Board of Accountancy Statutes, Rules and Regulations, Policies, the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct , and the differences between Washington State law and the AICPA Code. After completing this course, participants will have an understanding of the laws and regulations in Washington State governing accountancy, where to access those laws and regulations, and an understanding of the scope and nature of those laws and requirements.
This course is approved for 2025.
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants
- Recognize rules as presented in the Washington Public Accountancy Act (RCW 18.04)
- Identify requirements of the Chapter Washington Administrative Code (WAC 4-30)
- Recognize any differences between Washington State Board rules and AICPA rules
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Recognize independence and ethical standards
Last reviewed: 12/15/2024
Top Trends Impacting the Accounts Payable Function
Change, and radical change at that, is coming to accounting and finance space. It is coming faster than anyone thought just a few short years ago. The accounts payable function is likely to be the first casualty ̶ or success, depending on your reaction. By identifying the trends that are apt to make the biggest impact and addressing them quickly, you can position both yourself and your department to emerge as a true winner.
But what are those trends, you ask? We asked an industry thought leader to identify these trends and share insights on how you can prepare for what's shaping up to be a very interesting, but different, future for those who work in, manage or have responsibility for the accounts payable function.
Author/Speaker: Mary Schaeffer
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the trends most likely to impact your position and department
- Recognize how to take full advantage of those tactics most likely to have a positive impact
- Identify the trends most probable to appeal to management and prepare
- Indicate how to acquire new skills that will make you desirable to both your current and future employers
- Determine how to develop strategies to adjust to the expected changes
Last reviewed: 10/1/2024
FMN Plus-2024/Dec, Seg 1 - Financial Markets Update: Navigating Today's Trends & Insights
Kyle Tushaus, General Partner at New West Capital, provides an in-depth analysis of the recent Federal Reserve interest rate cut and its implications for both public and private markets. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the Fed's dual mandate of maintaining 2% inflation and keeping unemployment in check, explaining how the current economic environment may signal increased risks. Tushaus discusses key factors such as the inverted yield curve, high yield spread compression, and volatility trends, offering insights into potential capital misallocations. He also highlights the importance of monitoring market signals and stresses prudent capital planning as businesses navigate this shifting financial landscape.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the key components of the Federal Reserve's dual mandate and their impact on monetary policy decisions
- Recognize how changes in interest rates affect businesses' Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) and influence investment choices
- Distinguish between the significance of the yield curve and the inverted yield curve as indicators of future economic conditions
- Indicate how public and private markets respond differently to Federal Reserve rate cuts and the implications for businesses and investors
Speaker/Author: Kyle Tushaus
Last Review Date: 12/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Dec, Seg 2 - Leadership and Psychological Safety in a VUCA World
In today's fast-paced, ever-changing landscape, finance leaders face unprecedented challenges. Thriving in a VUCA world—one that's Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous—demands agility, strategic foresight, and the ability to pivot quickly. Sophia Toh, an accomplished finance leader with experience as CFO and VP at industry giants like The Kraft Heinz Company, understands what it takes to lead through uncertainty, and she'll reveal why psychological safety and trust are the cornerstones of building high-performing teams. In this powerful session, discover how these essential values drive business success and prepare your teams to adapt and excel in the most unpredictable environments.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how the key elements of VUCA in today's financial and business environment impact decision-making and leadership in times of crisis
- Distinguish strategies to foster agility and resilience in finance teams, enabling them to adapt quickly to financial disruptions and technological advancements such as AI
- Recognize how finance leaders can balance automation with human expertise to maintain strategic oversight and lead effectively
- Identify how to empower and support employees through change by leveraging effective communication, change management, and support strategies
Speaker/Author: Sophia Toh
Last Review Date: 12/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Dec, Seg 3 - AI for the Accountant
Blake Oliver, CPA, Founder and CEO of Earmark, discusses how AI is transforming the accounting profession. He highlights that AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude are streamlining tasks such as drafting communications and documentation. Oliver urges accountants to adopt these technologies now to stay ahead of the technological tipping point, drawing parallels to past innovations like personal computers and smartphones. Additionally, he predicts that AI integration will enhance efficiency in accounting software and emphasizes the importance of documenting processes to enable AI-driven workflows.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools which are available today for accountants
- Recognize the limitations of AI
- Recall examples of how accountants can use AI in their day-to-day lives
- Identify the challenges large firms face when implementing AI
Speaker/Author: Blake Oliver
Last Review Date: 12/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Dec, Seg 4 - Exploring the Corporate Transparency Act: Beneficial Ownership Reporting
Jess LeDonne, Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs at The Bonadio Group, discusses the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its impact on businesses. Effective January 1, 2024, the CTA requires many companies, especially smaller ones, to report beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to enhance transparency and combat illicit activities. LeDonne emphasizes that while larger corporations may be exempt, smaller entities must comply to avoid severe penalties. She outlines key aspects of the reporting requirements and advises that straightforward filings can often be managed using FinCEN's resources, but complex situations may require legal counsel.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize why the Corporate Transparency Act was created
- Identify certain entities which are exempt from filing Beneficial Ownership Interest (BOI) reports
- Recall how to determine whether someone is a beneficial owner
- Identify potential risks accountants face when assisting clients with filing BOI reports
Speaker/Author: Jess LeDonne
Last Review Date: 12/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Dec, Seg 5 - The Ethical Landscape of AI in Tax Planning
Dominique Molina, President of the American Institute of Certified Tax Planners, discusses AI's role in tax planning, emphasizing that while it can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace the human judgment essential for interpreting complex tax laws. She warns that over-reliance on AI and generic software risks commoditizing expertise and eroding client trust, particularly due to AI's limitations in understanding nuanced terms like "reasonable" in the tax code. Molina advises professionals to use AI as a supportive tool, maintain transparency with clients, and focus on deepening tax knowledge and building empathetic relationships.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify ethical challenges associated with using AI in tax planning
- Recognize the importance of AI transparency and human oversight in IRS interactions
- Identify the risks of repetitive AI-generated recommendations in tax decision-making
- Identify strategies for balancing AI efficiency with maintaining trust in client relationships
Speaker/Author: Dominique Molina
Last Review Date: 12/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Dec, Seg 6 - IRC 280E Explained: Managing Taxation & Compliance in the Cannabis Sector
Section 280E is a federal tax code provision that prohibits businesses involved in trafficking Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substances from deducting ordinary business expenses. Jennifer Benda, a Partner with Holland & Hart, covers tax strategies for state-licensed cannabis companies, including structuring considerations, inventory costing, and expense apportionment to minimize tax liabilities. She also addresses documentation best practices, strategies for IRS audit defense, recent tax court rulings, and the potential repeal of Section 280E.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify Section 280E limitations on deductible expenses for cannabis businesses
- Recognize tax strategies to reduce cannabis business tax liabilities
- Identify documentation practices for compliance and IRS audit defense
- Recognize recent Section 280E tax rulings and their compliance impacts
Speaker/Author: Jennifer Benda
Last Review Date: 12/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Dec, Seg 7 - Private Company Council: Simplicity for Private Company Financials
Simplifying financial reporting without compromising quality is the mission of the Private Company Council (PCC). By advocating for the needs of private companies, the PCC reduces unnecessary complexity, making financial reporting more efficient and accessible for stakeholders like lenders, creditors, and owners. In this must-watch segment, we're joined by two industry leaders, Jere Shawver - Chair of the PCC and CEO at Baker Tilly, LLP, and Phil Marciano - Partner at Citrin Cooperman. Jere and Phil offer valuable insights into how the PCC is reshaping financial standards and streamlining processes to benefit businesses and financial users alike.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the primary purpose and function of the Private Company Council (PCC) in addressing the unique needs of private companies within U.S. GAAP
- Identify the specific challenges private companies face with GAAP standards, including complexity, cost, and relevance to financial statement users
- Distinguish how the PCC gathers input from stakeholders through meetings, trade organizations, and conferences & advises FASB on this input
- Identify key agenda items for the PCC related to debt extinguishment, conditional retainage, CECL & leases for private companies
Speaker/Author: Phil Marciano & Jere Shawver
Last Review Date: 12/01/24
Georgia Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data. This course contains the 1-hour Georgia-specific content needed to fulfill the 4-credit ethics requirement for Georgia CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last reviewed: 12/1/2024
Nebraska Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Nebraska CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Nevada Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
New Hampshire Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for New Hampshire CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
New Mexico Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for New Mexico CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
New York Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for New York CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
North Dakota Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills 4 credits of the ethics requirement for North Dakota CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
North Dakota Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Oklahoma Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Oklahoma CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Pennsylvania Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Pennsylvania CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Rhode Island Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills 4 credits of the ethics requirement for Rhode Island CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Rhode Island Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
The Remote Office: Kansas Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
1. Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
2. Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
3. Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
The Remote Office: Kentucky Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
1. Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
2. Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
3. Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
The Remote Office: Michigan Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
1. Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
2. Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
3. Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
The Remote Office: Missouri Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
1. Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
2. Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
3. Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
The Remote Office: Montana Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
1. Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
2. Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
3. Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
The Remote Office: Nevada Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
1. Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
2. Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
3. Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
The Remote Office: North Dakota Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
1. Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
2. Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
3. Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
The Remote Office: Rhode Island Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
1. Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
2. Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
3. Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Vermont Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Vermont CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Alaska Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Alaska CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Arkansas Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast-paced world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a review of standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 3-hour general ethics requirement for Arkansas CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
California Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course does not contain the Regulatory Review 2-hour requirement.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Hawaii Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Hawaii CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Idaho Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Idaho CPAs. It does not fulfill the requirements for new licensees or those seeking reinstatement.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Illinois Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Illinois CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Indiana Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Indiana CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Iowa Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Iowa CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Kansas Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Kentucky Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Maine Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Maine CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Maryland Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Maryland CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Massachusetts Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit ethics requirement for Massachusetts CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Michigan Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Minnesota Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills 4 credits of the ethics requirement for Minnesota CPAs.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Missouri Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Montana Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Last reviewed: 9/30/2024
Accounts Payable Best Practices for Finance and Accounting Professionals
In the complex world of finance and accounting, the significance of mastering accounts payable best practices cannot be overstated. As the financial backbone of any organization, the efficient management of accounts payable plays a pivotal role in safeguarding its fiscal health. Sadly, many companies ignore these best practices and the impact is felt on your bottom line.
The accounts payable function is changing at a dizzying pace. Unfortunately, keeping up to speed these days can be like herding cats. While some best practices remain steadfast, others simply no longer work and are being replaced by new practices just now appearing.
The talk will include a discussion of the newest best practice every organization should implement to ensure crooks don't get their hands-on money or sensitive information.
Author/Speaker: Mary Schaeffer
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how to improve your invoice processing
- Identify how to implement effective payment technologies
- Determine how to create effective accounts payable policies
- Specify how to avoid costly master vendor file practices
- Recognize how to deter fraud (both internal and external)
Last reviewed: 10/1/2024
FMN Plus-2024/Nov, Seg 1 - Mastering M&A: How Entity Structure & Tax Strategies Shape Success
In a merger or acquisition, both the buyer and seller must consider numerous factors beyond just the purchase structure. These include tax implications, legal considerations, and regulatory approvals. Mark Gallegos, Tax Partner at PorteBrown, has over 20 years of experience in international tax and mergers & acquisitions. He shares his M&A and tax expertise, discussing strategies to help companies make crucial decisions about deal structure as well as both tax and non-tax issues to consider to maximize business combinations.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify tax planning strategies and the role of the tax professional in optimizing M&A transactions
- Recognize the importance of entity structure in M&A deal structure
- Distinguish the tax implications of asset acquisitions from those of stock purchases
- Recognize the effect of different tax jurisdictions and compliance regulations on M&A activities
Speaker/Author: Mark Gallegos
Last Review Date: 11/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Nov, Seg 2 - Building Trust: SOC 2 Compliance and Managing Third-Party Risks
Managing the risks of cyberattacks has become more difficult as companies rely on a growing number of third-party vendors for services like cloud computing and software development. SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2), a compliance standard developed by the AICPA, helps ensure that companies protect their clients' data securely. Audrey Katcher is a partner in RubinBrown's Business Advisory Group, overseeing the group's Information Technology Risk Services (ITRS). She offers her expertise in third-party assurance and SOC reports, helping companies understand and manage technology risks for the benefit of their clients and their businesses.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the current environmental changes and threats in the third-party trust arena, including increased cyber-attacks, outages, and the growing use of AI by threat actors
- Identify ways to leverage SOC reports to improve internal control over financial reporting
- Recognize differences between SOC 1, SOC 2 & SOC for cybersecurity reports and how they complement each other
- Identify how to develop and enforce strong governance over third-party risk management
Speaker/Author: Audrey Katcher
Last Review Date: 11/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Nov, Seg 3 - The Accountant’s Guide to AI & Cyber Threats
Accountants seeking to serve their clients in a more effective and efficient way have begun to use Artificial Intelligence, or AI, to automate more manual and time-consuming tasks. Paul Perry, Risk Advisory and Assurance Practice Leader at Warren Averett, discusses AI's role in the accounting profession as well as how accountants can work to ensure the security of their clients' data. He highlights both the short-term and long-term costs of a cyber-attack and identifies certain tools which allow accountants to collaborate with federal law enforcement when data is compromised.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how Artificial Intelligence can benefit accountants
- Indicate the pros and cons of implementing emerging technologies
- Recognize potential threats to data, such as ransomware and business email compromise
- Identify the role of accountants in protecting their clients' data and responding to cyber-attacks
Speaker/Author: Paul Perry
Last Review Date: 11/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Nov, Seg 4 - Leading with Impact: Integrating Vulnerability & Strategic Expertise
Vulnerability allows leaders to connect with their teams on a deeper level, encouraging open communication, creativity, and collaboration. Kris Russell, Leadership and Executive Coach with Conscious Public Accountants, emphasizes the importance of leaders in accounting and finance being open and vulnerable, as it creates a culture of trust and allows for both growth and learning opportunities. This includes a discussion of the significance of setting boundaries and how it contributes to workplace happiness and well-being, as well as the opportunity for the accounting profession to evolve and shift towards a more positive and inclusive culture.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the key benefits of embracing vulnerability as a leader in accounting and finance
- Recognize the impact of open communication, creativity, and collaboration on team dynamics
- Recognize the role of setting boundaries in enhancing workplace happiness and well-being
- Select appropriate strategies for seeking help and support as a leader when faced with challenges
Speaker/Author: Kris Russell
Last Review Date: 11/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Nov, Seg 5 - Balance Sheet Strategy and Positioning
Financial institutions must maintain a healthy balance sheet to ensure liquidity, support regulatory compliance, and enhance their ability to absorb financial shocks. Scott Hildenbrand, Managing Director and Head of Depositories for Fixed Income at Piper Sandler, explains key strategies that financial institutions use to optimize their balance sheets, focusing on loss trades and restructuring, as well as how interest rate fluctuations impact balance sheet health. He also addresses considerations for assessing restructurings, the strategic use of proceeds and optimal timing for transactions.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key strategies financial institutions use to optimize their balance sheets
- Recognize the impact of interest rate fluctuations on balance sheet health
- Differentiate between loss trades and balance sheet restructuring and recognize common strategic uses of proceeds
- Determine the optimal timing for executing loss trades and restructurings and the importance of communicating balance sheet decisions to stakeholders
Speaker/Author: Scott Hildenbrand
Last Review Date: 11/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Nov, Seg 6 - Data Protection and IRS Compliance: Crafting an Effective WISP
Protecting financial client data is crucial to maintaining trust and integrity in the financial industry. A Written Information Security Program (WISP), required by the IRS, is designed to help tax pros effectively plan data security. Andrew Lassise, of Tech 4 Accountants/Rightworks, shares his expertise in helping tax and other financial professionals with IRS compliance and data protection measures. He explains how to maximize the IRS requirement to complete a WISP, offering a helpful road map for tax pros to protect their clients and themselves with a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish the specific IRS requirements that must be addressed within a WISP to ensure compliance
- Recognize the risks mitigated by having a WISP in place and how it impacts overall risk management strategy
- Recognize how to train employees for effective WISP compliance and encourage ongoing compliance
- Identify how implementing and maintaining a WISP affects internal controls and procedures and prevents costs of non-compliance
Speaker/Author: Andrew Lassise
Last Review Date: 11/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Nov, Seg 7 - Key Updates: Navigating the 2024 Single Audit Compliance Supplement
Entities participating in federal programs must understand significant changes in the 2024 Single Audit Compliance Supplement to ensure compliance, optimize funding utilization, and maintain eligibility for future awards. Phil Marciano, Partner at Citrin Cooperman, explains key strategies for adapting to these updates, focusing on increased thresholds for audits, enhancements to internal controls-including cybersecurity measures-and adjustments to program income usage. He also addresses the adjusted de minimis indirect cost rate and the importance of timely audit submissions to maintain low-risk auditee status.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key updates in the 2024 Single Audit Compliance Supplement, including changes to internal controls and equipment thresholds
- Determine which parts of the 2024 supplement have been updated and what requirements have remained unchanged
- Recognize the differences between federal single audits and financial statement audits
- Recall the reporting due dates and the criteria for low-risk auditee status
Speaker/Author: Phil Marciano
Last Review Date: 11/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Oct, Seg 1 - Navigating and Leveraging the New Quality Management Standards
The new quality management (QM) standards are vital for organizations seeking to enhance their operational efficiency and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction. These updated standards provide a framework for improving operational efficiency, reducing risks, and meeting regulatory requirements. David Duckwitz, a Partner in RubinBrown's Assurance Services Group, shares his expertise to help firms effectively implement these standards, positioning them to better respond to emerging challenges and opportunities in the global market, maintain competitiveness, and ensure consistent product/service excellence.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key changes reflected in the new quality management (QM) standards, including identification of quality risks and updating quality management systems
- Distinguish crucial components & objectives of QM standards such as governance and leadership, relevant ethical requirements, engagement performance, and resources
- Recognize requirements and timeline for monitoring and remediation in the new standards
- Identify how SAS 146 drives quality management concepts at the audit engagement level
Speaker/Author: David Duckwitz
Last Review Date: 10/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Oct, Seg 2 - Mastering Time Management, Conflict Resolution, and Resilience
In today's fast-paced business world, time management, conflict resolution, and resilience are essential for success. Efficient time management ensures that tasks are completed on schedule, resilience enables individuals and teams to adapt and thrive amid challenges, and effective conflict resolution promotes a positive and cooperative work environment. Orna Drawas, author of "Perform Like a Rock Star and Still Have Time for Lunch", teaches us how to master and leverage these skills to drive sustained personal and professional growth.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the progress principle and its impact on motivation and job satisfaction
- Distinguish the positive aspects of conflict and its role in improvement and relationship building
- Recognize how to leverage CPR (Clarify, Process, Respond) to effectively communicate during meetings and presentations
- Identify the six stages of adjusting to change, how change impacts productivity and how to make a team change resilient
Speaker/Author: Orna Drawas
Last Review Date: 10/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Oct, Seg 3 - Mastering Working Capital and Cash Management
Working capital management is vital for ensuring a company's liquidity, operational efficiency, and long-term financial stability, enabling the company to meet short-term obligations and optimize cash flow. Aidan Dunleavy, Director of Finance at Wichita State University, joins this segment to discuss working capital management. This includes discussion of strategies for improvement of managing cash and cash equivalents, handling excess cash, and making informed credit decisions.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify strategies for improving working capital management and effective methods for managing cash and cash equivalents
- Determine approaches for handling excess cash and making informed credit decisions
- Identify key measures for effective billing and collections policies
- Recognize various inventory management and procurement optimization techniques
Speaker/Author: Aidan Dunleavy
Last Review Date: 10/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Oct, Seg 4 - Nonprofit Revenue Recognition
Revenue recognition for non-profits involves careful consideration of conditions, restrictions, and timing to ensure accurate and transparent financial reporting. Gregg Indictor, Director with Your Part Time Controller, joins this segment to discuss revenue recognition for non-profits. This includes discussion of the types of revenue received by non-profits, conditions vs. restrictions, timing of revenue recognition, specific revenue recognition issues for non-profits, as well as financial statement disclosure requirements.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify different types of revenue received by non-profit organizations
- Differentiate between conditions and restrictions placed on non-profit revenue
- Recognize the appropriate timing for recognizing revenue in non-profit financial statements
- Identify the financial statement disclosure requirements related to revenue recognition for non-profits
Speaker/Author: Gregg Indictor
Last Review Date: 10/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Oct, Seg 5 - Strategic Insights: ESG Compliance and Alternative Investments
ESG and alternative investments, such as solar, are crucial for promoting sustainable growth, enhancing long-term financial performance, and meeting regulatory and societal demands for environmental responsibility. Martin Karamon, Partner with Cherry Bekaert Advisory, and Jason Hodell, a Partner also with Cherry Bekaert, join this segment to discuss ESG opportunities for companies. This includes discussion of ESG tax credits, eligibility, interaction with other credits, reporting requirements, limitations, compliance risks, and audit implications.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the key ESG tax credits and their eligibility criteria
- Recognize the interaction between ESG tax credits and other available credits
- Identify reporting requirements and documentation needed to claim ESG tax credits
- Distinguish between the limitations and caps on ESG tax credits as well as determine the financial benefits of investing in alternative energy sources
Speaker/Author: Jason Hodell
Marty Karamon
Last Review Date: 10/01/24
A Controller's Guide to Assessing the Risk of Your Organization – Managing Risk & Basic Policies
Gone are the days where the CFO simply manages the preparation of financial statements for the organization. Now, more than ever, CFOs are responsible for other operational parts of the organization, including risk management. This course is a how to guide for CFOs that are being asked to take control of managing internal risks through risk controls and risk financing. We also explore common insurance terms and commercial insurance policies.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish between risk control and risk financing
- Describe the key terms of your insurance policy
- Name the types of insurance policies that may be applicable to your organization
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 4/05/2024
A Controller's Guide to Assessing the Risk of Your Organization: Coverages and Exclusions for Basic Business Policies v1.1
Part of being a CFO or Controller is protecting the assets of the organization and managing risk. While many financial leaders feel comfortable with the strategic aspect of this task, finding the right insurance coverages can leave one feeling out of their element. This course will focus on three common business policies - the package policy, the business & property policy, and the cyber policy. Through case studies and illustrative examples, we will explore what these policies cover, as well as what they don't cover. We will also discuss how to have more productive conversations with outside insurance brokers.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the basic parts of a P&C insurance policy
- Recognize the basic approach to building an insurance program for a company
- State the coverages and exclusions for commercial package, building & property, and cyber insurance policies
- Identify techniques to building a better partnership with outside insurance brokers
Author/Speaker: David R. Peters, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "A Controller's Guide to Assessing the Risk of Your Organization: Coverages and Exclusions for Basic Business Policies" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
A Framework for Effective Business Presentations
The goal of this program is to help you better understand how to make effective presentations and conduct effective question-and-answer (Q&A) sessions.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify various ways to manage speaking anxiety while planning and preparing presentations, while delivering presentations, and while conducting Q&A sessions.
- Recognize the basic elements of effective business presentations ranging from matching the subject matter with the audience and choosing the right visual aids to communicating confidently and persuasively.
- Identify the presentation process steps ranging from planning and preparing presentations to evaluating presentations and Q&A sessions.
Author/Speaker: Robert G.Insley
Last Review Date: 1/04/2022
A History of Investing and a Look Ahead
You hear it all the time. Financial products are becoming more complex. Diversification has changed. Our approach to investing has changed. What does all this mean? In this course, we will explore how investment theory has changed over time from Markowitz to Factor Investing. Using examples and practical applications, we will talk about how our modern notions of portfolio building have developed throughout history.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the contributions of Harry Markowitz to Modern Portfolio Theory
- Recognize how the concept of diversification has changed over time
- Distinguish between the major factor investing models
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 10/09/2022
Accountant's Guide to Accounting and Financial Management v4.0
This program is designed for accountants who must have financial knowledge but have not had formal training in finance. Topics include The Sarbanes-Oxley Act financial reporting requirements, use and analysis of financial statements, financial forecasting, and cash budgeting. The goals of the course are fourfold: 1. It provides an understanding and working knowledge of the fundamentals of financial decision-making and strategy that can be put to practical application in the day-to-day jobs of accountants and managers. 2. It also concentrates on providing a working vocabulary for communication. 3. It uses examples and illustrations emphasizing the practical application of financial concepts, tools, and methodology. 4. It also includes checklists, guidelines, rules of thumb, diagrams, graphs, and tables to aid your comprehension of the subjects discussed.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the objectives of managerial finance.
- Distinguish between profit maximization and stockholder wealth maximization.
- Recognize factors that affect the value of a firm.
- Recognize the role of financial managers.
- Recognize the various legal forms of business organization.
- Identify the basic financial statements used by a firm.
- Recognize how the balance sheet portrays a company's financial position.
- Identify the components of a statement of cash flows.
- Recognize how footnote disclosures are used and requirements for segment reporting.
- Recognize reporting requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley 404.
- Identify which factors are used in evaluating a firm’s stock.
- Recognize a comprehensive set of financial ratios and how to interpret them.
- Recognize how ROI can be enhanced by management.
- Identify the basic components of the Du Pont formula and how it can be used for profit improvement.
- Recognize steps in projecting financial needs by using the percent-of-sales method.
- Identify major steps in preparing the master budget.
- Recognize how the cash budget can be used to more effectively conduct financial management.
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 5/24/2023
Accountant's Guide to Capital Budgeting v3.1
This course is designed for accountants who must have financial knowledge but has not had formal training in finance. Topics include: valuation of stocks and bonds, time value of money, measurement of risks and rates of return, the cost of capital and capital budgeting techniques. The course concentrates on providing a working vocabulary for communicating on the above topics. The course uses examples and illustrations, with an emphasis on the practical application of financial concepts, tools, and methodology.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the concept and use of the time value of money.
- Calculate the present value of a future payment.
- Recognize the components required to compute the return of an investment.
- Identify the risk-return trade-off used in understanding diversification.
- Identify the types of risks reported by beta in its use in designing a portfolio.
- Recognize the various methods of common stock valuation.
- Recognize factors used in computing the overall cost of capital.
- Define the capital budget.
- Recognize the types of depreciation methods.
- Identify how operating leverage affects a firm and compute total leverage.
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Accountant's Guide to Capital Budgeting v3.0" has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 11/03/2023
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections v1.1
This course provides an overview of the accounting requirements with respect to accounting changes and error corrections and the reporting implications within an entity’s financial statements. The scope of accounting changes includes a discussion of changes in accounting principles, changes in accounting estimates, as well as changes of a reporting entity. The course also provides an overview of the accounting requirements of correcting errors in previously issued financial statements as well as restatement considerations. A majority of the information included within this course is sourced from the requirements found within FASB ASC Topic No 250, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections.
Learning Objectives:
- List the different types of accounting changes and how they affect an entity’s financial statements
- Differentiate between the requirements for the different types of accounting changes
- Identify the steps involved in the required assessment for a correction of an error
- Differentiate between the iron curtain and rollover methods for quantifying a correction of an error
- Recognize the different types of restatements required as a result of accounting changes.
Author/Speaker: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Accounting Changes and Error Corrections," has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 7/27/2023
Accounting Principle Changes
This course provides an overview of the accounting requirements with respect to accounting principle changes. The scope of accounting changes includes a discussion of changes in accounting principles, changes in accounting estimates, as well as changes of a reporting entity. A majority of the information included within this course is sourced from the requirements found within FASB ASC Topic No 250, Accounting Changes and Error Corrections.
Learning Objectives:
- List the different types of accounting changes and how they affect an entity's financial statements
- Differentiate between the requirements for the different types of accounting changes
- Identify disclosure requirements related to changes in accounting principles
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl
Last Review Date: 9/29/2023
Accounting Principle Changes
This course provides an overview of the key considerations and potential disclosure requirements related to changes in accounting principles.
Learning Objective:
- Recognize the key considerations and potential disclosure requirements for accounting principle changes
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/24/2023
Accounting for Error Corrections
This course provides an overview of the accounting and reporting impacts with respect to accounting error corrections.
Learning Objective:
- Recognize the key steps involved in the correction of an accounting error
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/24/2023
Accounting for Foreign Currency v2.1
In today's modern economy, the growth of foreign operations is continuing upward and the number of companies with foreign operations has expanded. For example, a company often operates in different economic and currency environments to stay competitive in the global marketplace. Thus, it must have a process for reporting foreign currency balances to address several financial reporting issues, such as determining functional currencies, accounting for foreign currency transactions, and translating its foreign entity's financial statements. ASC 830 Foreign Currency Matters provides guidance for transactions denominated in a foreign currency, and for operations undertaken in a foreign currency environment. This course covers key aspects of the guidance and includes specific examples to illustrate its application. Relevant references to and excerpts from ASC 830 are discussed throughout the course.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize key areas of guidance in ASC 830 Foreign Currency Matters
- Identify steps to remeasure foreign currency transactions to the functional currency
- Identify steps to translate foreign currency financial statements to the reporting currency
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic Knowledge of Accounting
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled Accounting for Foreign Currency v2.0" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 7/17/2023
Accounting for Guarantees v1.1
Guarantees are often included within certain purchase agreements, sales agreements, commercial agreements, and many other types of agreements. This course provides an overview of the accounting, reporting, and disclosure requirements related to guarantees. The U.S. GAAP guidance related to guarantees is prescribed by ASC Topic 460.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the primary types of guarantees
- Recognize the guarantees that are within the scope of ASC Topic 460
- Identify the recognition, measurement, and subsequent measurement requirements of guarantees
- Recognize key disclosure requirements for guarantees
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled " Accounting for Guarantees", has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/02/2024
Accounting for Internal-Use Software
This course provides an overview of the key accounting and reporting requirements with respect to internal-use software.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the different stages of software development
- Identify when to start capitalization and amortization of qualifying costs
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/25/2023
Accounting for the Lean Enterprise v1.1
This course provides an overview of accounting for the lean enterprise. This includes a discussion of lean thinking, how to implement lean, and kaizen. This course also addresses topics such as the various types of costing methods, dysfunctional behavior, value stream costing, and value stream performance measures. Finally, this course outlines implementing lean accounting for accounts payable, accounts receivable, and financial statement preparation.
Learning Objectives:
- List and understand the five key steps in implementing lean.
- Recognize key principles surrounding the 5S method for supporting lean.
- Differentiate between various inventory costing methods.
- Recognize key principles concerning productivity measurement and reporting.
- Recognize types of lean processes that can be implemented for office operations.
Speaker/Author: Bonnie Kennedy, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Accounting for the Lean Enterprise" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. You cannot receive credit for this course again if you have already received credit for this course.
Last Review Date: 4/17/2023
Alabama Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
This course fulfills the 2-credit annual general ethics requirement for Alabama CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 8/1/24
Are you B.O.L.D. Enough? Brains: Becoming A Thinker
This course is part one in a four-part series which explores the concept of being B.O.L.D. (Brains, Outcome, Leadership, Dynamism). This course provides an overview of how the brain works and differentiates between convergent and divergent thinking. This course also differentiates between the five different types of thinking as well as identifies effective strategies to manage stress.
Learning Objectives:
- Define the term thinking
- Differentiate between convergent and divergent thinking
- Recognize the five types of thinking
- Identify four strategies to effectively manage stress
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
Last Review Date: 11/17/2023
Are you B.O.L.D. Enough? Dynamism: Communicating Enthusiasm
This course is part four in a four-part series which explores the concept of being B.O.L.D. (Brains, Outcome, Leadership, Dynamism). This course provides an overview of the characteristics of high-potential employees as well as the reasons to dress well. This course also provides a four-step formula for a killer presentation along with the six signs of social intelligence.
Learning Objectives:
- Define dynamism
- Identify the characteristics of high-potential employees
- Recognize powerful reasons to dress well
- Identify the four step formula for a killer presentation
- Recognize the signs of social intelligence
Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
Last Review Date: 11/30/2023
Are you B.O.L.D. Enough? Leadership: Being Likeable
This course is part three in a four-part series which explores the concept of being B.O.L.D. (Brains, Outcome, Leadership, Dynamism). This course provides an overview of qualities of bold leadership and ways to establish yourself as a leader. This course also identifies the various styles of team members as well as the quadrants of emotional intelligence.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify five qualities of bold leadership
- Identify nine ways to establish yourself as a leader
- Differentiate leaders and followers
- Identify five styles of team members
- Define four quadrants of emotional intelligence
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
Last Review Date: 11/26/2023
Are you B.O.L.D. Enough? Outcomes: Creating Currency
This course is part two in a four-part series which explores the concept of being B.O.L.D. (Brains, Outcome, Leadership, Dynamism). This course provides an overview of outcomes vs. outputs and identifying the five outcomes expected of emerging leaders. This course also address strategies for getting work done and recognizing the importance of asking for help.
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate between outcomes and outputs
- Identify five outcomes expected of emerging leaders
- Define what is meant by SMART Goals
- Identify strategies for getting work done
- Recognize the importance of asking for help
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
Last Review Date: 11/27/2023
Asset-Backed Securities v1.1
Last Review Date: 4/06/2023
Audit Evidence: Requirements, Types, and Limitations v1.1
This course provides an overview of audit evidence including the requirements, types, and limitations. This includes a discussion of the procedures for collecting audit evidence as well as the top audit evidence issues that often result in problem audits.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key characteristics of audit evidence as well as related authoritative standards.
- Differentiate between various procedures used to obtain audit evidence.
- Recognize key characteristics of common audit failures.
Speaker/Author: Michael Chris Knapp
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled Audit Evidence: Requirements, Types, and Limitations" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 8/01/2023
Audit Report Writing v2.2
This course provides an overview of audit reporting writing. This includes a discussion of drafting workpapers thoroughly based on objective observations, creating a company-specific template to facilitate the writing process, and developing a clear, concise vocabulary for documenting audit reporting. This course also includes extensive syntax and diction tips, which can help to improve your writing style.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize methods used for drafting audit reports completely and objectively.
- Identify ways to create a company-specific template to facilitate the writing process.
- Recognize ways of drafting workpapers thoroughly based on objective observations.
- Identify ways of developing clear, concise vocabulary for do
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Philip Vassallo
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Audit Report Writing v2.1," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 12/19/2023
Auditing Standards' Boards v3.0
This course identifies and describes the primary auditing standard setters that exist in the United States as well as the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB). The course will also identify the primary auditing standards that serve as the basis for auditing standards used for external auditors, internal auditors, government auditors and international auditors.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the key principles related to an audit and the primary sources of auditing standards.
- Differentiate between the key organizations involved in the development of auditing standards.
- Recognize the key topic areas and circumstances within each of the five sources of auditing standards.
Author/Speaker: John Fleming, CPA
Last Review Date: 1/25/2024
Auditors and Financial Statement Fraud: Lessons Learned from Real-World Cases v1.1
This course provides an overview of an auditors' obligation to consider the impact that fraud may have on a client's financial statements. This includes an overview of fraud-related concepts, their relevance to auditors, and their fraud-related responsibilities. This course also includes information on several recent high-profile cases involving financial statement fraud and the fraud risk factors relevant to those cases.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify overall characteristics of fraud, fraud risk factors, and the impact on potential financial misstatements.
- Recognize authoritative guidance with respect to fraud consideration.
- Identify appropriate responses to fraud risk assessments.
- Recognize real-world examples involving financial statement misrepresentations.
Speaker/Author: Michael Chris Knapp
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Auditors and Financial Statement Fraud: Lessons Learned from Real-World Cases" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 5/15/2023
Beneficiary Options for Inherited IRA and 401(k) Accounts
This course is intended for practitioners and advisors who provide advice to both owners and beneficiaries of IRA and 401(k) accounts. Recent law changes in the SECURE Act 2.0, the SECURE Act, the CARES Act, and the issuance of proposed regulations in February 2022 (87 FR 10504), have created much confusion about required distributions and the various exceptions and special rules contained in them. This course provides an overview of the distribution options available for beneficiaries, concentrating on provisions that allow for more spread out and tax advantageous distributions from inherited accounts. It also guides the accommodation of special beneficiaries such as surviving spouses, the disabled, minor children, and the use of trusts.
Learning Objectives:
- Specify in general the types of retirement accounts.
- Define the differences between qualified and nonqualified retirement plans.
- Recognize the terms IRA, 401(k), and Roth IRA.
- Determine the similarities and differences among IRA, 401(k), and Roth IRA accounts.
- Recognize the term RMD and its ramifications relative to IRA and 401(k) accounts.
- Determine the correct RMD amount for an IRA or 401(k) account holder.
- Indicate the issues that arise upon the death of the 401(k)/IRA account holder.
- Advise the beneficiary(ies) of the options available for an inherited retirement account interest.
- Determine the special provisions that apply to interests passing to the decedent’s spouse.
- Recognize the special rules applicable to Roth accounts.
- Advise the beneficiary(ies) of the distribution options available for an inherited Roth account.
- Identify the conduit and accumulation trust provisions.
Author/Speaker: Tim Dreyer, Esq.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 10/30/2023
Bottom Line: Does Your Enterprise Have an Ethical Culture? v1.1
All groups (and just about every leader) want to be regarded as ethical. But having a strong integrity program will not, by itself, ensure ethical behavior in organizations. Dr. Patricia Harned, CEO of the Ethics & Compliance Initiative (ECI), explains how it is possible, even in a geographically and ethnically diverse workplace, to establish and sustain an ethical organizational culture. She focuses on specific challenges to the accounting profession and those posed by the #MeToo movement.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the ethical challenges the accounting profession faces.
- Identify the factors that employees consider when drawing conclusions about leaders' character.
- Recognize the role of culture in an organization.
- Identify the major findings from a recent Ethics and Compliance Initiative survey.
Speaker/Author: Dr. Patricia Harned
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment or an introductory course in ethics.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Bottom Line: Does Your Enterprise Have an Ethical Culture?" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. You cannot receive credit for this course again if you have already received credit for this course.
Last Review Date: 5/18/2023
Building High Performance Teams
This course provides an overview of building high-performance teams. This includes a discussion of the key components of high-performance teams, the components of the SMART goal-setting framework, and the common roles of effective team members. This course also addresses common communication styles of effective team members, dysfunctions of a team, and various electronic tools and software platforms that can facilitate team building.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the three key components of a high-performing team
- Recognize the components of the smart goal-setting framework
- List five five common roles of effective team members
- Recognize the five key factors of high-performing team dynamics
- Recognize six common communication styles of effective team members
- List five dysfunctions of a team
- Identify various electronic tools and software platforms that can facilitate team building
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
Last Review Date: 11/10/2023
Building a Better Budget in a Time of Uncertainty v1.1
Most financial leaders would agree that budgeting is easy when business and the economy are stable. When revenues and expenses are expected to remain the same, the process becomes merely an exercise in carrying over what was done before to the current year. However, what happens when we are not sure about how the market will react to our product? What happens when the competitive landscape changes? In this course, we will discuss budgeting techniques and considerations when business lacks stability. Through a combination of theory and real-world examples, we will explore how to build flexibility into our budget - so that it can inform and drive decision-making when we don't quite know what is ahead.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the difference between a forecast and a budget
- Identify the difference between top-down and bottom-up budgeting
- State the key elements of a flexible budgeting approach
- Define key cost drivers
- State how behavioral biases may affect the budgeting process
- Identify how headcount efficiency may be measured
- Define scenario planning
- Recognize best practices and controls for managing budget changes
Author/Speaker: David R. Peters, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Building a Better Budget in a Time of Uncertainty" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Building a Better Team: Being a Better Manager
When stepping into a leadership role in the accounting profession, many practitioners are surprised to see how their job shifts from being less about analysis and more about people. In many ways, accounting skills take a backseat to the ability to build a positive culture and increase engagement. In this course, we will utilize research and survey results to help identify the qualities of a top manager. We will use case studies to identify how leadership skills may be used in real life situations to build a better company culture.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the attributes of a good manager according to research and surveys.
- Identify ways to increase employee engagement in the workplace.
- Apply techniques to build relationships and increase engagement to a case study scenario.
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 10/12/2022
Building a Better Team: Being a Better Teammate
While accountants deal with many complicated code sections and analytical issues, perhaps the most difficult thing that every financial professional deals with is how to create a good office environment. Utilizing discussions and case studies, this course will explore how to become a better teammate. We will learn strategies for how to form better relationships with colleagues and others. We will learn the importance of good culture – and how negative culture can work against the overall goals of the company.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the current state and problems within our workplace culture.
- Apply SHRM’s Four building blocks of ethical culture to workplace case studies.
- Identify the eight ways to build workplace trust.
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 10/12/2022
Business Combinations - Overview
This course provides a high-level overview of the accounting for business combinations.
Learning Objective:
- Identify the US GAAP guidance applicable to business combinations
- List the steps involved in the acquisition method
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/23/2023
Business Combinations – Identifying a Business
This course provides an overview of identifying a business for purposes of a business combination transaction.
Learning Objective:
- Identify what a business is in accordance with ASC Topic 805
- Differentiate between business combinations and asset acquisitions
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/23/2023
Business Combinations – Recognizing Assets & Liabilities Acquired (Part 1)
This course provides an overview of the recognition of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination transaction.
Learning Objective:
- Recognize principles and exceptions in the measurement of assets and liabilities of a business combination
- Recognize various categories of intangible assets acquired in a business combination
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/23/2023
Business Combinations – Recognizing Assets & Liabilities Acquired (Part 2)
This course provides an overview of the recognition of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination transaction.
Learning Objective:
- Recognize recognition/measurement requirements related to key accounting areas
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/23/2023
Business Combinations – Recording Goodwill or a Bargain Purchase
This course provides an overview of the recognition of goodwill or a bargain purchase in a business combination transaction.
Learning Objective:
- Identify the requirements related to recognizing and measuring goodwill from a business combination
- Recognize impacts from a bargain purchase
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/23/2023
Business English: Part 1 v1.1
One’s ability to communicate effectively in the professional workplace requires mastery of a number of different communication skill sets, and it is very important that those who work in such settings achieve such mastery. In organizations where effective communication is not the norm, otherwise avoidable problems typically ensue. Many of these problems, in turn, negatively impact employees’ ability to perform their jobs and interact effectively with fellow employees, clients, customers, and other stakeholders effectively. The main goals of this course are to address the following topics: reading, writing mechanics, and business writing principles.
Learning Objectives:
- Determine the role of reading; identify reading strategies and tips to improve your reading skills and how to read faster.
- Determine the importance of writing mechanics in the workplace.
- Recognize grammar, punctuation, capitalization, number usage, and abbreviations rules and common grammar mistakes.
- Identify grammar-related electronic tools.
- Distinguish between the eight c's of business writing principles.
- Identify other business writing suggestions included in the course.
Speaker/Author: Robert G. Insley
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Business English: Part 1" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/12/2023
Business Plans That Get Results v2.2
This course breaks down business plan writing into core elements and provides a framework for business plan writing, along with processes to assist in creating business plans. Extensive examples are used to highlight and illustrate analytical strategies and expressive techniques for use in plan development.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize efficient ways for drafting business plans.
- Identify ways to focus the business plan on key ideas.
- Recognize and differentiate between the SWOT and 5C analysis.
- Recognize ways to format business plans to capture attention.
- Identify ways to draft content to maximizes the readers' benefit.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Business Plans That Get Results v2.0," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 2/27/2024
COSO Framework – Part 1 v1.1
This course provides an overview of the provisions of the COSO Framework. This includes defining what is internal control, understanding what is meant by an effective internal control system, and providing examples of key controls. This course also address the importance of entity level controls as well as the COSO Framework's objectives and components.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key provisions of the COSO Framework
- Define internal control and what is meant by an effective internal control system
- Identify and distinguish between the different components of internal control
- Recognize the importance of entity level controls
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "COSO Framework - Part 1", has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/30/2024
COSO Framework – Part 2 v1.1
This course provides an overview of internal control and addresses what is meant by an effective internal control system. This includes a discussion of the three primary COSO Framework objectives along with the components and principles of internal control. This course also addresses certain points of focus and how they interrelate to demonstrate an effective system of internal control.
Learning Objectives:
- Define internal control and identify characteristics of an effective internal control system
- Recognize the three primary COSO framework objectives
- Identify the COSO Framework's components, relevant principles, and points of focus and how they interrelate to demonstrate an effective system of internal control
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "COSO Framework - Part 2", has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/30/2024
CPA Ethics - General Standards and Acts Discreditable - 2023
This ethics course for Arizona covers standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice, and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession. It reviews and includes a minimum of one hour each on the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and on the Arizona Statutes and Rules.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Identify independence and objectivity issues
- Recognize ethical standards and violations
- Identify the requirements of accountants as highlighted in the Arizona statutes and administrative rules
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 5/02/2023
California Regulatory Review for CPAs
This course is designed for California CPAs to meet the 2-hour Regulatory Review requirement. It includes a review of current the California Accountancy Act and the current California Board of Accountancy Regulations. Also included are historic and recent disciplinary actions taken by the Board to help illustrate how the acts and regulations are enforced.
The course must be passed with a grade exceeding 90 percent.
This course is updated as of 2023.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize key sections within the California Accountancy Act and Board Regulations
- Identify standards of professional conduct
- Recognize disciplinary proceedings taken by the Board and the associated misconduct
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Last Review Date: 10/19/2023
Coach Like a Rock Star and Still Have Time for Lunch
Coaching is the process of equipping people with the tools, knowledge and opportunities they need to develop themselves. Using proven techniques, professionals can help their colleagues and employees solve problems and achieve professional growth.
Learning Objectives:
- Define individual goals and provide feedback that encourages personal development.
- Recognize realistic options that will help an individual manage their expectations.
- Determine the behavior required to build trust with others in difficult situations.
Speaker/Author: Orna Drawas
Last Review Date: 5/01/2024
Cognitive Biases and Decision Heuristics: Shortcuts Causing Poor Audit Decisions v1.1
This course provides an introduction to cognitive biases and problem solving (decision heuristics) and the impact they have on decision makers' judgments. This includes cognitive biases that are particularly relevant to the wide range of decision contexts in independent auditing. This course also describes several methods that have been used to mitigate the impact of cognitive biases on decision makers' judgments.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify overall characteristics of cognitive bias.
- Differentiate between types of cognitive bias and their impact on auditing.
- Recognize techniques used to reduce bias in the auditing process.
Speaker/Author: Michael Chris Knapp
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled Cognitive Biases and Problem Solving (Decision Heuristics): Shortcuts Causing Poor Audit Decisions" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 7/24/2023
Communicate Your Brand v1.1
This course focuses on identifying the principles underlying branding and stating a unique selling proposition that offers unique solutions. This includes a discussion of establishing personal brand objectives, setting your perception profile to heighten your presence, and creating effective introductions to heighten visibility. This course also focuses on showcasing yourself with an executive presence that builds trust and creditability.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify and differentiate between the key steps involved in the branding process.
- Recognize certain myths as it relates to branding.
- Recognize key considerations with respect to developing a mission statement checklist.
- Identify what is meant by a unique value proposition.
- Differentiate between internal and external sources of content marketing.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Communicate Your Brand" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. You cannot receive credit for this course again if you have already received credit for this course.
Last Review Date: 4/03/2023
Communicating with Executives v1.1
This course provides an overview of best practices with respect to executive communication. This includes identifying executive-level concerns and objectives to ensure focused communication as well as recognizing strategies for achieving the high points in communication. Finally, this course also includes a discussion of adapting styles and identifying those that are best suited for effective conversations.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify executive-level concerns and objectives to ensure focused communication.
- Recognize strategies for hitting the high points in executive communication.
- Identify communication styles best suited for effective conversations.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Communicating with Executives," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 2/25/2024
Communication as a Team v3.0
This course aims to show the user how successful employee teams can communicate in modern organizations. This course will discuss the importance of communicating in a team-oriented environment, the phases of team development, the role of conflict within teams, the characteristics of successful teams, techniques for organizing team-based presentations, the importance of listening in groups, and non-verbal communication techniques.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the four phases of team development.
- Identify key characteristics of successful teams.
- Recall techniques to bridge the “generation gap” and communicate effectively.
- Recall ways to hold a productive meeting and connect creatively.
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 4/05/2023
Communication at Work v3.0
This program introduces the user to the process and the products of effective communication. The program walks the user through the fundamentals of both interpersonal and organizational communications as well as provides the user with a solid grounding in business ethics.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify changes in the workplace and the importance of communication skills.
- Recall barriers to interpersonal communication and methods to overcome these barriers.
- Recall challenges that impact our ability to communicate via video.
- Determine the flow of communication in organizations, including barriers and the methods of overcoming those barriers.
- Identify various ways that ethical communication can be achieved in the workplace.
- Recall the role that trust has in communicating effectively.
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 4/04/2023
Connect Globally v1.1
This course provides an overview of the principles concerning connecting globally. This includes a discussion of thinking globally but acting locally and getting grounded but keeping flying. The course presents some of the key advantages to connecting globally and provides many points and suggestions for effective communication.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the objectives of "think global, act local".
- Identify the objectives of "get grounded, keep flying".
- Recognize key advantages of connecting globally.
- Differentiate between BRIC countries.
- Recognize various points prescribed by the author for connecting globally.
- Identify various best practices and social conventions with respect to the communication.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Connect Globally" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. You cannot receive credit for this course again if you have already received credit for this course.
Last Review Date: 3/28/2023
Consolidation Accounting v2.0
This course begins by looking at the general topic of a consolidation framework. The FASB has proposed revising existing consolidation guidance under Topic 810 as the proposed Topic 812. This course examines the three main sections of proposed Topic 812. It continues by examining the two models used to consolidate a reporting entity's financial statements, and by distinguishing between consolidation based on control and consolidation based on majority ownership.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify and describe the two consolidation models used to consolidate a reporting entity’s financial statements.
- Distinguish between consolidation based on control (VIE accounting) and based on majority ownership.
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None.
Last Review Date: 12/06/2023
Critical Skills for CFOs & Controllers: Budgeting & Forecasting Strategies for Today’s World v1.1
The budget and the forecast are two common tools used by controllers and CFOs across almost every industry. However, are we really getting the most out of these tools? Or are we merely replicating whatever was done last year? In this course, we will use examples and illustrations to demonstrate various budgeting and forecasting techniques. We will discuss traditional approaches, as well as newer approaches such as flexible budgeting, in an effort to show how companies can gain more value.
Learning Objectives:
- State the difference between a forecast and a budget
- Identify the difference between top-down and bottom-up budgeting
- Recognize the key elements of a flexible budgeting approach
- Define a key forecast driver
- State when it may be appropriate to make a forecast adjustment
Author/Speaker: David R. Peters, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Critical Skills for CFOs & Controllers: Budgeting & Forecasting Strategies for Today's World" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Cyber and Expense Payment Frauds v2.1
Technology is making a huge impact on every facet of the business world. The expense reporting function is no exception. It is making it easier for employees to play games, but at the same time it provides companies the tools they need to identify that game playing without spending a fortune. This course takes a deep dive into the developing expense reporting issues and reveals the way savvy companies can effectively deal with them. The issues evaluated in this course are critical to those who want to run a cost-effective, efficient, and fraud-resistant expense reimbursement function.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify common tricks used by some employees to pad their expense reports.
- Determine appropriate processes to prevent employees from submitting the cost of gift cards for personal use on their expense reports.
- Identify common cyber-payment frauds that target organizations of all sizes.
- Determine procedures to prevent your organization from being hurt by electronic payment fraud.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Mary Schaeffer / Crystallus, Inc.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Cyber and Expense Payment Frauds," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 3/16/2023
Data-Driven Social Media: Using Analytics to Drive Strategy
This course empowers you to move beyond vanity metrics and delve into the true story your social media data tells. By understanding and interpreting key metrics, you can make data-driven decisions that fuel your marketing success.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the importance of data analytics in social media marketing.
- Learn how to set and track relevant social media metrics.
- Discover methods for interpreting data to derive actionable insights.
- Develop strategies for optimizing social media performance based on analytics.
Speaker/Author: Diamond Nurse
Last Review Date: 4/01/2024
Debt and Equity Investments v2.0
This course provides an overview of debt and equity investments – Topics 320 and 321, with emphasis on the classification for accounting purposes. This course also addresses the initial and subsequent measurement requirements for these investments as well as considerations related to fair value. This course also provides information relating to required disclosures for these types of investments.
Learning Objectives:
- Specify the classification of debt and equity investments for accounting purposes
- Identify the accounting required for initially measuring and subsequently measuring investments in debt and equity securities based on Topic 320 and Topic 321
- Recognize Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement’s application to investments in debt and equity securities
- Identify impairment issues and their impact on the valuation of investments in debt and equity securities
- Identify the required disclosures found in topics 320 and 321
Author/Speaker: Dan Johnson and John Fleming
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 5/26/2023
Deceptive Accounting Practices - Revenue Recognition v2.0
More than half of financial fraud during the last 30 years have been in the area of improper revenue recognition. In this course, you will learn to recognize examples of improper revenue recognition, including fictitious revenue and fictitious journal entries. Revenue recognition guidance and the risk of improper revenue recognition in the presentation of financial statements will be discussed to help mitigate audit risk. Guidance from various organizations including the SEC, COSO, the AICPA's Accounting Standards Board, and FASB will be examined to help better identify and perhaps prevent the occurrence of improper revenue recognition in financial statements.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify and describe examples of improper revenue recognition.
- Anticipate revenue recognition challenges associated with Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Deceptive Accounting Techniques - Revenue Recognition" has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 11/22/2023
Deceptive Accounting Techniques – Costs and Expenses v1.1
A significant number of fraudulent accounting practices have taken place in the last 30 years, many of these in the area of costs and expenses. This course will discuss Several case studies of companies or organizations manipulating costs and expenses by understating or overstating receivables or inventory, or perhaps participating in “cookie jar accounting schemes.” This will help you identify deceptive accounting techniques in order to recognize and prevent these types of practices.
This course provides an overview of stress and how stress can affect an individual's everyday life. The course also defines and provides examples of stress, describes the effect of stress on one's body, and list internal and external symptoms of stress. The course also provides techniques for reducing and releasing stress as well as how to cope with workplace stress.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify and describe deceptive accounting techniques in the area of costs and expenses.
- Recognize deceptive accounting techniques used by selected companies in the past.
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Deceptive Accounting Techniques – Costs and Expenses " has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 8/29/2023
Delegation Skills for Managers and Supervisors v3.0
The goal of this course is to familiarize the user with the process of effective delegation. The course will discuss the strategies required for a manager to delegate effectively, including defining the task, delegating the task, and assuring results. The course will also discuss typical pitfalls a manager can encounter in the process of delegating.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the three steps in the delegation process.
- Recall key elements to help supervisors “define the task”.
- Recall how outlines and communication facilitate task delegation.
- Identify ways to monitor progress in order to assure results.
- Recognize delegation pitfalls and ways to avoid them.
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 4/13/2023
Delegation, Coaching and Mentoring: Tools of Engagement and Empowerment v1.1
This course explains what good delegating, coaching and mentoring skills consist of, why they are important and how you can improve them. Due to the challenges and change inherent in 21st century organizations, the role of the manager becomes increasing complex. Too much work and too little time is now the norm for managers. Effective managers learn how to use the power of delegation, coaching and mentoring to efficiently achieve organizational outcomes. The goal of this course is to help you identify appropriate delegating tasks and help you empower your employees, so they are ready to complete the tasks on time and on budget.
Learning Objectives:
Delegation:
- Define delegation and why it's important
- Identify reasons managers avoid delegating
- Identify benefits of delegation
- Summarize a 4-step delegation model
- Define and differentiate coaching and mentoring Identify skills required for coaching and mentoring
- Identify benefits to coaching and mentoring
- Summarize a 4-step model for effective coaching
- Differentiate the 2 domains of mentoring
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Delegation, Coaching and Mentoring: Tools of Engagement and Empowerment", has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 12/21/2023
Designing and Presenting a Business Case v1.1
This course provides an overview of the key parts of a business case. This includes a discussion of how to develop a well-structured and articulate business case based on the business's concern. This course also provides best practices for how to present salient points of the case with credibility and purposefulness.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the key parts and contents of a business case
- Recognize the key points when writing the issue, analysis, and strategy of a business case
- Identify best practices with respect to writing executive summaries
- Recognize tips for presenting business cases
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo, Ed.D
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Designing and Presenting a Business Case" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 2/21/2024
Disclosures of Risks and Uncertainties v1.1
This course provides an overview of the disclosure requirements regarding risks and uncertainties. The disclosure requirements related to risks and uncertainties are prescribed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in ASC Topic 275. For public business entities that file their annual and interim reports with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC), there are also additional disclosure requirements required by Regulation S-K. This course focuses on general disclosure requirements outlined in U.S. GAAP. This course also provides illustrative examples from both the GAAP implementation guidance as well as actual SEC filings from public business entities.
Learning Objectives:
- List the key steps in the acquisition method for business combinations
- Recognize the applicable U.S. GAAP and IFRS standard with respect to business combinations
- Identify some of the key differences between ASC Topic 805 and IFRS 3
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Disclosures of Risks and Uncertainties", has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/02/2024
District of Columbia Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 4-credit biennial general ethics requirement for District of Columbia CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 8/1/24
Dodd-Frank Act – Overview of the Law v1.1
This course explains why Congress passed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act as a response to the global financial crisis of 2008. It summarizes the debate over financial institutions that are “too big to fail” and how the federal government plans to monitor and regulate these institutions to avoid financial failures and their broader impacts on the U.S. financial system. The program also addresses increased capital requirements for banks and bank holding companies, changes designed to strengthen the FDIC, the regulations of derivatives and swaps, changes for the investment industry, changes in consumer protection and mortgages, and other provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the two key individuals which sponsored the Dodd-Frank Act.
- Define what is meant by orderly liquidation authority.
- Identify the types of bonds that drove the strengthening of credit rating agencies.
- Determine the debt-to-income cap for qualified mortgages.
- Specify the remittance transfer provisions of Dodd-Frank for money sent to recipients outside the United States.
Speaker/Author: Rich White
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic knowledge of finance principles and practices.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Dodd-Frank Act – Overview of the Law" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/14/2023
EQ vs. IQ: The Secret to a CPA’s Success v2.0
Many people still believe that Intelligence Quotient (IQ) outweighs Emotional Quotient (EQ) in the workplace and that success is dependent on our IQ level. Modern research, however, shows over and over that a high IQ might get you in the door, but a high EQ will get you ahead. In this course we will learn to understand IQ and EQ and why they both have their place in career success. In particular, we will review the components of EQ and learn how it is measured and tested.
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate between Emotional Quotient (EQ) and Intelligence Quotient (IQ).
- Identify the general measurement tools used to test both IQ and EQ.
- Recognize why studies conclude that EQ may have such a great impact on a person’s work performance.
- Specify what to look for and what may be needed to maximize your own EQ.
Speaker/Author: Colleen Neuharth McClain
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 5/11/2023
Effective Communication in the Workplace v2.1
Achieving effective communication in the workplace should be a major goal of any organization. As can be imagined, in organizations where effective communication is not the norm, avoidable problems often ensue. Many of these problems negatively impact employees' ability to perform their jobs effectively and this, in turn, has negative effects on organizations. The main goal of this course is to address a number of topics pertaining to communicating at work. With this in mind, the course is broken into the following topics: Benefits of Effective Workplace Communication, Positive and Negative Workplace Communication, The Impact of Communication Technologies on Workplace Communication, Millennials' Communication Preferences in the Workplace, Communicating with Supervisors, Accepting Constructive Feedback Graciously, Asking for Help from a Co-worker, Barriers to Effective Communication in the Workplace, Improving Communication Organization-Wide in the Workplace, Improving Employee Communication in the Workplace, Communicating Nonverbally, Communicating in Writing, Communicating on Social Media, Giving Presentations, Listening Effectively, Communicating in Meetings, Communicating in Teams, Communicating with Customers and Clients.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish between positive and negative workplace communication behaviors/actions.
- Identify Millennials' workplace communication preferences.
- Recognize barriers to effective communication in the workplace.
- Determine ways to improve communication organization-wide in the workplace.
- Distinguish how to communicate effectively non-verbally, in writing, and on social media.
- Define ways of communicating effectively in meetings and in teams.
Author/Speaker: Robert Insley
Last Review Date: 12/29/2023
Ethics Training for Texas CPAs
This is an ethics course for Texas CPAs covering standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients, and other members of their profession. It provides a background on ethical principles and values, ethical codes and requirements included in the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, and a focus on the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy Rules of Professional Conduct. The rules will be supplemented with case studies. The intention is to provide you with precise text from the Board, along with supplemental information to help understand real-life situations or nuances.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants.
- Identify the different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
- Identify independence and objectivity issues.
- Recognize ethics standards and violations.
- Recognize the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy Rules of Professional Conduct.
- Identify licensing and disciplinary mechanisms for Texas CPAs.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Deanna Sullivan
Ethics and the Independent Auditor: Principles, Threats, and Consequences v1.1
This course provides an overview of ethics and independence. This includes a discussion of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct as well as the key ethical principles that members are required to follow. This course also includes examples of real-world ethical challenges that are faced by auditors.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the various ethical principles relevant to the accounting profession.
- Recognize key characteristics of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
- Identify key ethical challenges faced by auditors and independent accountants.
Speaker/Author: Michael Chris Knapp
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled Ethics and the Independent Auditor: Principles, Threats, and Consequences" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again."
Last Review Date: 7/11/2023
Ethics for Accountants - 2023
This is an ethics course covering standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice, and fairness when dealing with the public, clients, and other members of their profession. It also presents an approach - the conceptual framework approach - to coping with ethical dilemmas. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act and its impact on business ethics, internal control requirements, and the CPA’s responsibilities are summarized. Moreover, a brief discussion of the AICPA’s Standards for Tax Service and the IMA’s Statement of Ethical Professional Practice are included. Finally, it identifies different disciplinary systems within the profession and provides guidance on how to respond to an ethics inquiry from the AICPA. It includes examples to illustrate the application of various ethical standards.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Identify independence and objectivity issues
- Recognize ethical standards and violations
- Identify the key provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act that influence auditor independence
- Recognize licensing and disciplinary mechanisms within the profession
- Identify the ethical standards by the Institute of Management Accountants
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 10/09/2023
Ethics for Arizona - 2023
This is an ethics course covering the general standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by CPAs to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession. It presents general standards and acts discreditable found within the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct along with ethical dilemmas.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
- Recognize ethical standards and violations.
This course fulfills a general ethics 1-hour requirement. It is suitable to fulfill the North Carolina ethics requirement. In Michigan, it is suitable as a 1-credit general ethics course to accompany the 1-credit state-specific course.
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 5/29/2023
Ethics for Colorado - 2023
Individuals in the accounting and auditing profession have a considerable responsibility to the general public. To gain public trust and maintain professionalism, professional conduct and ethical behavior are necessary. This course is designed to meet the ethics requirements for active Colorado CPAs renewing their licenses. It covers standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession.
The course begins with a presentation of ethics and ethical behavior, discussing the relationship between morals and ethics and identifying the causes of unethical behavior. It explains the process of ethical reasoning and how to apply it when dilemmas occur. It addresses the most recent version of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, along with the conceptual framework approach to coping with ethical dilemmas. Case studies that demonstrate the application of ethical principles and values are utilized. It discusses the Colorado Statutes and Rules that pertain to CPAs licensed to practice in the State of Colorado. Students will become familiar with the Colorado Revised Statutes, the Rules of the State Board of Accountancy, and the Policies adopted by the Board currently in effect and how the statutes, rules, and policies pertain to them.
This course DOES NOT fulfill the Colorado Rules and Regulations (CR&R) course requirements for new or reactivating CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the reasoning process of CPAs in resolving ethical dilemmas
- Recognize different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Identify independence and objectivity issues
- Recognize ethical standards and violations
- Identify the Colorado statutes that pertain to Colorado CPAs
- Recognize the Rules of the State Board of Accountancy
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Last Review Date: 11/03/2023
Ethics for Connecticut - 2023
Individuals in the accounting and auditing profession have a considerable responsibility to the general public. To gain public trust and maintain professionalism, professional conduct and ethical behavior are necessary. This is an ethics course for Connecticut CPAs covering standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession.
The course begins with a presentation of ethics and ethical behavior, discussing the relationship between morals and ethics and identifying the causes of unethical behavior. It explains the process of ethical reasoning and how to apply it when dilemmas occur. It addresses the most recent version of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, along with the conceptual framework approach to coping with ethical dilemmas. Case studies that demonstrate the application of ethical principles and values are utilized. Finally, it discusses the Connecticut Licensing Regulations and Codes that pertain to CPAs licensed to practice in Connecticut.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the reasoning process of CPAs in resolving ethical dilemmas
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Identify independence and objectivity issues
- Recognize ethical standards and violations
- Identify Connecticut statutes that pertain to CPAs
- Recognize the Rules of the State Board of Accountancy
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Last Review Date: 11/04/2023
Ethics for Delaware - 2023
This is a Delaware ethics course covering standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession. It also presents an approach - the threats and safeguards approach - to coping with ethical dilemmas. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act and its impact on business ethics, new internal control requirements, and the CPA's responsibilities are summarized.
Section 8 discusses specific rules and regulations for Delaware CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants.
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
- Identify independence and objectivity issues.
- Recognize ethical standards and violations.
- Identify Delaware statutes and regulations governing the practice of public accountancy.
- Recognize professional ethics and conduct for Delaware CPAs.
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 7/26/2023
Ethics for Florida - 2023
This is an ethics course designed for Florida CPAs covering standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession. It also presents an ethical overview, the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the threats and safeguards approach to coping with ethical dilemmas.
Section 9 covers Florida Ethics, including a review of key sections within:
- Chapter 61H1: Administrative Code
- Chapter 473: Regulation of Professions and Occupations – Public Accountancy
- Chapter 455: Business and Professional Regulation: General Provisions.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants.
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
- Identify independence and objectivity issues.
- Recognize ethical standards and violations.
- Recognize Florida Administrative Codes for the Public Accounting profession, including key sections from within Chapter 61H1-19 thru 39 Board of Accountancy Rules.
- Identify key sections of the Florida Statutes, including:
- Chapter 455: Business and Professional Regulation - General Provisions
- Chapter 473: Regulation of Professions and Occupations - Public Accountancy
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 8/23/2023
Ethics for Mississippi - 2022-2025
This is an ethics course for Mississippi CPAs covering standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession. The final sections of the course cover Mississippi Licensing Rules and Regulations.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants.
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
- Identify independence and objectivity issues.
- Recognize ethical standards and violations.
- Recognize Mississippi Rules and Regulations of the Accountancy Board, including accounting standards and rules of conduct, requirements for certificates, continuing education and compliance assurance program.
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Last Review Date: 7/18/2022
Ethics for New York - Tax Concentration - 2023
Individuals in the accounting profession have a considerable responsibility to the general public. To gain public trust and maintain professionalism, professional conduct and ethical behavior are necessary. This is an ethics course for New York CPAs with a taxation concentration.
The course begins with a presentation of ethics and ethical behavior, discussing the relationship between morals and ethics and identifying the causes of unethical behavior. It explains the process of ethical reasoning and how to apply it when dilemmas occur. It covers the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the conceptual framework approach, which helps CPAs identify threats to compliance with the rules and evaluate the significance of those threats. It also includes the AICPA’s standards for tax services and Internal Revenue Service requirements for tax professionals’ obligations under Treasury Circular No. 230. Finally, it addresses New York State rules on ethics as found in the New York State Law, Rules and Regulations. Examples and case studies illustrate the appropriate application of the rules and AICPA ethics violations.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants
- Recognize different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Identify independence and objectivity issues
- Recognize ethical standards and violations
- Identify elements of AICPA’s standards for tax services
- Recognize rules from Circular 230 as they apply to tax services
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 7/31/2023
Ethics for Utah - 2023
This is a 4-hour course for Utah covering standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession. It also presents the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and an approach --the threats and safeguards approach –to coping with ethical dilemmas. The course includes 1 CPE hour of education on the Utah Certified Public Accountant Licensing Act and Certified Public Accountant Licensing Act Rules and 3 CPE hours of ethics.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ethical reasoning used by accountants
- Identify different principles and rules of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Identify independence and objectivity issues
- Recognize ethical standards and violations
- Identify the requirements of accountants as highlighted in the Utah CPA Licensing Act and Rules
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 7/07/2023
Ethics – Handbook for CPAs
This course provides a comprehensive overview of ethics for CPAs. This includes a discussion of how to apply the Conceptual Framework Process prescribed by the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. Other topics included in this course include how to identify and manage conflicts of interest as well as how to best protect confidential information. This course also addresses best practices for how CPAs can avoid committing acts that are discreditable to the profession.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of ethics for CPAs
- Identify ethical standards CPAs should follow
- Recognize the three steps in the Conceptual Framework Process prescribed by the AICPA
- Recognize the importance of identifying and managing conflicts of interest
- Identify examples of conflicts of interest for both CPAs in public practice and in business
- Recognize how to approach conflicts of interest
- Identify best practices for how to prevent or mitigate negative impacts from conflicts of interest
- Recognize the importance of protecting confidential client information
- Distinguish between information that is confidential and non-confidential
- Identify confidentiality requirements based on the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Recognize best practices for protecting confidential information
- Recognize examples of discreditable acts and how to avoid them
- Identify situations where disclosure of CPA exam material would be a discreditable act
- Recognize ethical requirements for tax returns for yourself and others
- Identify ethical requirements related to confidential information
- Recognize best practices for preventing discreditable acts
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/20/2024
Ethics – Identifying & Managing Conflicts of Interest
This course provides an overview of identifying and managing conflicts of interest. This includes a discussion of the types and severity of conflicts of interests for both CPAs in public practice and in business. This course also addresses how to best approach conflicts of interests and presents several case studies and examples for how to prevent these situations. This course also offers best practices that CPAs can apply to prevent or mitigate any negative impacts from conflicts of interest.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of identifying and managing conflicts of interest
- Identify examples of conflicts of interest for both CPAs in public practice and in business
- Recognize how to approach conflicts of interest
- Identify best practices for how to prevent or mitigate negative impacts from conflicts of interest
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/18/2024
Ethics – Identifying & Preventing Discreditable Acts
This course provides an overview of identifying and preventing discreditable acts in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. This includes a discussion of the significance of ethics in the CPA profession as well as examples of discreditable acts that CPAs may commit. This course also includes certain discussions and best practices for how these discreditable acts can be avoided.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the significance of ethics in the CPA profession
- Recognize examples of discreditable acts and how to avoid them
- Identify situations where disclosure of CPA exam material would be a discreditable act
- Recognize ethical requirements for tax returns for yourself and others
- Identify ethical requirements related to confidential information
- Recognize best practices for preventing discreditable acts
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/17/2024
Ethics – Mastering the Conceptual Framework Process
This course explores some of the fundamental concepts related to ethics and their overall importance to CPAs in both public practice and in business. This course primarily focuses on an understanding and application of the Conceptual Framework Process outlined by the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. This course also provides examples of threats to a CPA's compliance with the Code.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of ethics for CPAs
- Identify ethical standards CPAs should follow
- Recognize various types of threats both CPAs in public practice and business may face
- List the three steps in the Conceptual Framework Process prescribed by the AICPA
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/19/2024
Ethics – Protecting Confidential Client Information
This course provides an overview of protecting confidential client information. This includes a discussion of the importance of protecting this type of information and what types of information may or may not be confidential in nature. This course specifically focuses on the confidential client information rule prescribed by the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and provides several examples which illustrate violations of this rule. This course concludes with a listing of best practices you can apply to protect confidential client information.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of protecting confidential client information
- Distinguish between information that is confidential and non-confidential
- Identify confidentiality requirements based on the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Recognize best practices for protecting confidential information
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/19/2024
Ethics: The Regulatory Environment
Accounting practitioners, both near and far, would be quick to agree that regulatory ethics is the bedrock of our profession. But where to begin? Countless regulatory agencies exist, each with their own set of rules and standards. During this session, will examine each of the regulatory bodies that practitioners should be mindful of, along with overarching standards pronounced by each agency. Additionally, we’ll address changes to the current CPA licensure model along with global trends in business ethics.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule making bodies.
Executive Summary Writing for Financial Professionals v2.1
This course provides an overview of executive summary writing for financial professionals. This course provides a useful strategy approach to executive summary writing and addresses topics such as focusing on presenting the most important point first, organizing with a top-down approach, and expressing information in a clear and concise manner to move the reader to action.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key best practices when writing executive summaries.
- Recognize elements and characteristics to avoid when writing executive summaries.
- Differentiate between 4S plan components and various types of reports.
- Identify ways to develop paragraphs to reinforce the intent of executive summaries.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Executive Summary Writing for Financial Professionals" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 8/24/2023
FMN Plus-2023/Dec, Seg 1 - From Idea to IPO Part I: Bridging the Gap Between Accounting & Operations
Many believe that successfully managing the growth of a business is directly related to strategic alignment of accounting or finance teams with operational functions. Graham Stanton, Co-Founder and CEO of Avise, joins this segment to discuss accounting software considerations, bridging the gap between accounting and operations, as well as the review of a company lifecycle. Graham, who also co-founded the company Peloton, shares how his story and experience with Peloton ties into the accounting field as a whole.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of accounting software to both track and manage financial data
- Describe the stages of a company lifecycle from idea to initial public offering
- Describe the importance of using financial and operational metrics to drive action and decision making
- Recognize that the most successful organizations are those that are able to bridge the gap between accounting and operational data
Speaker/Author: Graham Stanton
Last Review Date: 7/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Dec, Seg 2 - From Idea to IPO Part II: The Well-Rounded Finance Professional
In today's world, finance professionals must be more agile than ever. Though technical skills are an absolute necessity, the ability to be a true strategic partner for the business is a differentiating quality of the well-rounded finance professional. Graham Stanton, Co-Founder and CEO of Avise, joins this segment to discuss ERP software as an all encompassing solution, the importance of financial and operational metrics, as well as the idea of a well-rounded finance professional.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of understanding an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software's full capability before implementation
- Recognize the variance between GAAP requirements and managerial metrics
- Describe the characteristics of a well-rounded accountant or finance professional
- Describe the various traits of a successful entrepreneur
Speaker/Author: Graham Stanton
Last Review Date: 7/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Dec, Seg 3 - ESG Investment Hierarchy: What it Means for Your Clients
ESG investing considers environmental, social and governance factors to judge an investment's financial returns and impact. With sustainable investing and ESG issues being a relatively new phenomenon in the investing world, it's no surprise that there are many myths and a good deal of misinformation associated with it. Jennifer Coombs, professor at the College for Financial Planning, uses years of experience helping financial advisors build out competencies in ESG investing to guide us through this new investment landscape.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish different strategies within sustainable investing, such as best-in-class, exclusionary, ESG integration, and sustainable thematic investing
- Recognize the pyramid framework for sustainable investing strategies and how they align with different investor values
- Identify common misconceptions and criticisms of ESG investing, such as the belief that it doesn't generate financial returns
- Recognize the challenges and opportunities in measuring and reporting meaningful impact in sustainable investing
Speaker/Author: Jenny Coombs
Last Review Date: 7/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Dec, Seg 4 - The Business Cycle Part II: Is an Economic Downturn on the Horizon?
Although there are no clear formulas to identify a recession as soon as one begins, a downturn must be deep, pervasive, and lasting to qualify as a recession. Currently, economists determine if a recession is occuring by looking at a variety of complex indicators, the most common being two consecutive quarters of negative gross domestic product. Alan Gorlick of Gorlick Financial Strategies, joins this segment to discuss the various recession indicators and cures in addition to providing his thoughts on the current economic client.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the differences between the Keynes and Hayek economic theories and methodologies
- Describe the four phases of the business cycle in detail; expansion, peak, contraction and trough
- Recognize the monetary policies the Fed uses to encourage economic recovery
- Recognize the impact and importance of quantitative easing as a form of monetary policy
Speaker/Author: Alan Gorlick
Last Review Date: 7/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Dec, Seg 5 - Financial Advisor's Role in Divorce & Wealth Protection
Divorce can produce significant financial and emotional challenges for all parties involved. In this segment, Lili Vasileff, of Wealth Protection Management, discusses the key financial issues in divorce, including child support, alimony, and property division. She shares some stories from her experiences working with clients, highlighting the emotional and financial challenges they face, and emphasizes the skills and training required to be a successful divorce financial planner.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the role of a divorce financial planner, including tasks such as discovery and organization of financial information, financial projections, and asset tracing
- Recognize post-divorce tasks and responsibilities, such as implementing asset transfers & creating new budgets
- Distinguish the financial issues to be resolved in divorce, such as child support, alimony, and property division
- Recognize the possibility of hidden assets and the need for forensic analysis
Speaker/Author: Lili Vasileff
Last Review Date: 7/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Dec, Seg 6 - Year-End Tax Planning and Preparing for 2024
The end of the year is quickly approaching and there are many and various tax planning considerations and changes for the upcoming tax season. Tax expert Barbara Weltman discusses year-end tax strategies and upcoming tax considerations for 2024. Topics covered include tax credits and deductions for green energy initiatives, retirement plans, charitable contributions and R&D, as well as IRS plans to increase audit activity and leverage AI and digitalization.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the concept of bargain sales and the potential challenges associated with claiming a charitable deduction
- Recognize changes in the R&D credit, including the requirements for capitalization and amortization and proposed changes to Form 6765
- Identify tax credits available for qualified retirement plans and possible plan options
- Identify IRS audit initiatives to ensure tax compliance among large corporate taxpayers, partnerships, and high-income individuals
Speaker/Author: Barbara Weltman
Last Review Date: 7/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Nov, Seg 1 -ESG Readiness: Legislation & Implementation
Environmental social and governance, or ESG, initiatives have become a strategic imperative for nearly all organizations. In this segment, Evan Harvey and Cynthia Cummis of Deloitte & Touche LLP discuss the regulatory outlook and implementation of ESG reporting. They assess the regulatory landscape in Europe and the US, as well as the internal and external benefits of implementing ESG reporting such as operational efficiencies, improved reputation, and attracting and retaining employees and investors.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the value of using ESG data internally to drive decision-making and improve efficiency and culture within a company
- Identify the benefits of implementing ESG reporting, such as better understanding of climate impact, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and potential for innovation
- Recognize the shift from voluntary to mandatory reporting driven by global regulatory bodies and agreements
- Indicate the steps and considerations for preparing for ESG reporting, including materiality assessment, stakeholder engagement, data gathering, and oversight
Speaker/Author: Evan Harvey & Cynthia Cummis
Last Review Date: 6/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Nov, Seg 2 - ESG Investment and Financial Performance
The demand for enhanced environmental, social and governance, or ESG, reporting is intense and has a direct impact on financial statements. Companies are going to need to ensure that they produce high-quality ESG information for investors and other stakeholders. Tu Nguyen is an economist and director of environmental, social and governance (ESG) for RSM Canada LLP. She shares with us her expert insights on the importance of ESG data for organizations to stay competitive, attract investors and customers, and retain talent.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the necessity of ESG reporting for firms, including eligibility for grants, credits, and investments, compliance with regulations, and staying competitive
- Identify the role of ESG ratings and reporting standards, such as MSCI and Bloomberg, in guiding investor decisions
- Distinguish the incentives and benefits of ESG reporting, such as subsidies, tax incentives, talent retention, and improved financial performance
- Indicate how ESG data and reporting can help investors design portfolios and make informed investment decisions
Speaker/Author: Tu Nguyen
Last Review Date: 6/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Nov, Seg 3 - The Business Cycle Part I: Cyclical Nature of Recessions
The business cycle represents the alternating phases of economic growth and decline that occur in a country over a period of time. There are four phases of the business cycle: expansion, peak, contraction and trough. Alan Gorlick, CEO of Gorlick Financial Strategies, discusses the business cycle as well as three commonly known cycles that can ultimately lead to a recession: the wage cost cycle, the national debt cycle, and the lending cycle. Alan also shares with us his expertise in using economic data to predict recessions.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the four phases of the business cycle in detail; expansion, peak, contraction and trough
- Describe the impacts of the wage cost cycle, national debt cycle, and the lending cycle
- Recognize the key resources for reliable economic data
- Recognize the various indicators of a recession as depicted through economic data
Speaker/Author: Alan Gorlick
Last Review Date: 6/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Nov, Seg 4 - Nonprofit Best Practices and Pitfalls for Associations and Affiliates
Associations are distinct from charitable organizations. They are a group of persons that are banded together for a specific purpose. Teresa Henderson, Association Specialization Leader with Your Part-Time Controller, LLC, provides an overview of everything you need to know about nonprofit organizations. Topics include the characteristics of a nonprofit, association management software systems, considerations for managing chapters and affiliates, mitigating financial risk, and association best practices and the pitfalls to avoid.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the key differences between a nonprofit and for-profit organization
- Describe the information captured by association management software
- Recognize why training of nonprofit board members is so important
- Describe what nonprofit organizations can do to mitigate financial risk
Speaker/Author: Teresa Henderson
Last Review Date: 6/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Nov, Seg 5 - How AI is Driving Change in Finance
With data and computer power growing exponentially, financial service providers increasingly turn to AI for cost-effective solutions.Alex Jimenez, the Managing Principal of Financial Services Consulting at EPAM Systems, discusses the intersection of finance and technology, specifically focusing on the application of AI in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of data infrastructure and governance in implementing AI solutions, as well as the need for cultural change within organizations to embrace new technologies.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of data governance and its impact on the use of AI in highly regulated industries.
- Identify the need for organizations to be able to defend and explain the decisions made by AI systems.
- Distinguish the role of data infrastructure in enabling AI implementation.
- Recognize the importance of aligning AI strategies with the overall goals and vision of the organization.
Speaker/Author: Alex Jimenez
Last Review Date: 6/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Nov, Seg 6 - The New QI Agreement Part II: Reporting & Compliance
In December of 2022, the IRS released the final Qualified Intermediary Agreement with an effective date of January 1st 2023. Updates were made surrounding the certification of internal controls, the periodic review process, and the impact of the new agreement on compliance programs. As part of the New QI Agreement Panel at the Kaplan International Tax Withholding and Information Reporting Conference, tax practitioners Chip Collins, Ari Cohen, Patricia Lopez, and Jillian Nicolson discuss the various operational challenges of implementing required electronic filings as well as the importance of understanding and complying with the new QI requirements.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the operational challenges presented by the new QI Agreement
- Describe the many compliance changes made to the certification of internal controls
- Describe the many compliance changes made to the certification of periodic review requirements
- Recognize additional compliance updates made related to previous IRS QI FAQs
Speaker/Author: Chip Collins, Ari Cohen, Patricia Lopez & Jillian Nicolson
Last Review Date: 6/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Oct, Seg 1 - Crypto Part II: How Did We Get Here?
Although volatility is a natural part of market activity, the cryptocurrency markets are notorious for steep ups and downs. Though these periods of fluctuation may be intimidating to some, large price swings are often what bring crypto investors substantial profits. On the other hand, deep rooted market swings can cause investors to lose fortunes. Rusty Planert, a Senior Manager at Wipfli LLP in the firm's financial services group, joins this segment to discuss the evolution of the cryptocurrency space beginning with the COVID-19 pandemic through today.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the timeline of events related to Terra, Three Arrows Capital, Celsius Network and FTX
- Recognize the factors that contributed to the 2022 cryptocurrency landscape: fraud, failure of controls and risky lending with no transparency
- Recognize the need for cryptocurrency regulation
- Describe the 2023 cryptocurrency landscape
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in financial reporting or accounting, or an introductory course in accounting.
Speaker/Author: Rusty Planert
Last Review Date: 5/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Oct, Seg 2 - Business Interruption: Exploring the Loss Calculation
A business interruption claim is a crucial aspect of risk management and financial recovery that accountants need to be familiar with. The process involves analysis and a number of important calculations. Kerrie Merrifield is the Owner of Axiom Forensics and has been working in this field for over 30 years.Topics covered include what's involved in preparing the business interruption insurance claim, the key aspects of these policies, business income calculation approaches, and the steps accountants should take when working on a claim with a company.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize what's included as part of a business interruption loss claim
- Describe what the accountant should do when assisting a company in preparing a business interruption insurance claim
- Recognize the key distinctions in business interruption insurance policies
- Describe the two approaches to calculating business income as part of the business interruption insurance claim
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in financial reporting or accounting, or an introductory course in accounting.
Speaker/Author: Kerrie Merrifield
Last Review Date: 5/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Oct, Seg 3 - Yellow Book: What It Is and the 2023 Exposure Draft
The Yellow Book is guidance issued by the GAO that is used by auditors as a guideline of requirements for audit reports, professional qualifications and audit organization management. On January 30, 2023, the GAO issued an Exposure Draft with proposed updates to the Yellow Book. Philip Marciano, a Managing Director with CBIZ and Shareholder with Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C., provides an overview of the changes contained within that document.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize what the Yellow Book is
- Describe the key revisions proposed in the 2023 Yellow Book Exposure Draft
- Recognize the questions to consider when performing an engagement quality review
- Describe the threats to independence brought on by performing nonaudit services
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in auditing, or an introductory course in auditing.
Speaker/Author: Philip Marciano
Last Review Date: 5/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Oct, Seg 4 - Exit Strategies: Maximizing Business Adaptability & Resilience
All business owners should have a thoughtfully designed exit plan, a strategy to sell their company that incorporates supporting a cerrtain lifestyle after the business is sold. Anna Halaburda, of BeReady Exits, Inc., is on the forefront of training, technology and collaboration in serving exit planning and implementation. She guides us through the process of designing an exit strategy and keeping the business adaptable and resilient in the face of the various challenges life may present.
Learning Objectives
- Distinguish evolving business needs in light of exit strategy
- Identify financial readiness of both business and owner to exit the business
- Recognize the importance of non-financial & personal factors in formulating exit plans
- Identify tools used to involve the business owner in exit plan strategy
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in management
Speaker/Author: Anna Halaburda
Last Review Date: 5/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Oct, Seg 5 - Tactics for the Accounting War - Fighting the Decline
The declining number of people entering and staying in the accounting field is creating significant challenges for today’s public and private organizations. Jonathan Schiff is a Professor of Accounting at Fairleigh Dickinson University and an expert on the factors and trends related to education, hiring and retention, and professional development in accounting and finance. He leads us through strategies to attract and retain accounting professionals to tackle the accounting war.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish the reasons that the accounting profession is experiencing a decline
- Identify how experiences of working at larger versus smaller accounting firms affect hiring and retention
- Recognize the barriers of the CPA designation to potential accountants and finance professionals
- Identify methods used to attract people to the accounting field at the university and corporate level
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in management
Speaker/Author: Jonathan Schiff"
Last Review Date: 5/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Oct, Seg 6 - New Tax Bills, the Research Credit, and Other Tax Issues
There are a number of tax bills currently under consideration in Congress. Tax expert Barbara Weltman provides an update on some of the measures that could very well be enacted. Other tax issues discussed include the research credit, the employee retention credit, new financial disclosure requirements from the International Sustainability Standards Board, and recommendations made by the National Taxpayer Advocate.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the current tax bills under consideration by Congress
- Describe the four-part test that activities must meet in order to be deemed qualified research
- Recognize the financial disclosures that the International Sustainability Standards Board has been working on
- Describe the observations and recommendations contained within the National Taxpayer Advocate report
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in tax planning or tax compliance, or an introductory course in taxation.
Speaker/Author: Barbara Weltman
Last Review Date: 5/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Sept, Seg 1 - Crypto Part I: What is Happening Today?
In the past year, the cryptocurrency landscape has been quite unstable to say the least. The bankruptcy of major crypto firms such as FTX, BlockFi, Celsius Network, and Voyager Digital caused further decline in the industry and brought about many important questions. The most important one being, should digital assets be classified as securities or not. Rusty Planert, a Senior Manager at Wipfli LLP in the firm's financial services group, joins this segment to discuss what qualifies an investment to be subject to U.S. securities laws, as well as additional court cases, the role of the SEC, and cryptocurrency-related accounting standards.
Learning Objectives:
• Recognize the roles of both Congress and the SEC related to cryptocurrency regulations.
• Describe the four criteria of The Howey Test, used to determine if an investment should be subject to U.S. securities laws.
• Recognize the importance of current events surrounding the cryptocurrency space.
• Describe the scope of the current proposed ASU 350-60 related to Accounting for and Disclosure of Crypto Assets.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in financial reporting or accounting, or an introductory course in accounting.
Speaker/Author: Rusty Planert
Last Review Date: 4/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Sept, Seg 2 - Interest Rates, Silicon Valley Bank & the Economic Outlook
Over the past couple of years we have been on an economic rollercoaster. There was the pandemic, the transition to a remote workplace, a variety of supply chain issues, and the government pumping in huge dollars to keep the economy afloat. Alan Gorlick, CEO of Gorlick Financial Strategies, provides an update on all aspects of the economy including inflation, interest rate trends, what goes into bond valuations, and the Silicon Valley Bank collapse.
Learning Objectives:
• Recognize the implications of the Covid recovery on actions taken by the Federal Reserve
• Describe the different components that go into determining interest rates
• Recognize the impact of inflation on bond valuation
• Describe the conditions that led to the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in economics
Speaker/Author: Alan Gorlick
Last Review Date: 4/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Sept, Seg 3 - CECL Model Validation: What You Need to Know
The FASB issued ASU 2016-13, which introduced the current expected credit loss (CECL) methodology for estimating allowances for credit losses. Companies are responsible for selecting their own models and as a result they are performing model validations in order to confirm that a model achieves its intended purpose. Baker Tilly US Partner Ivan Cilik and Director Sean Statz describe what's involved in a model validation - outlining the procedures applied, the challenges involved, and why this process is important.
Learning Objectives:
• Recognize what is involved in a CECL model validation
• Identify what makes model assumptions reasonable and supportable
• Recognize the key elements of model validation backtesting
• Describe the challenges an organization faces when doing a model validation
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in financial reporting or accounting, or an introductory course in accounting.
Speaker/Author: Ivan Cilik & Sean Statz
Last Review Date: 4/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Sept, Seg 4 - Successful Exit Planning Strategies for the Finance Professional
All business owners, at some point, exit their business. Without planning an exit strategy that informs business direction, entrepreneurs risk limiting their future options. Anna Halaburda, of BeReady Exits, Inc., has built exit strategies into her clients’ strategic plans for over two decades and now offers this service to the entire business community. She offers her expert insights on designing an effective and impactful exit strategy.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the need and approach for increasing business value before an exit strategy can be implemented
• Recognize the mental and emotional components of exit strategies
• Recognize the way cash flow & leadership styles in a business impact exit strategy
• Identify the steps and available options for successful exit planning
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in management
Speaker/Author: Anna Halaburda
Last Review Date: 4/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Sept, Seg 5 - Maximizing the CPA’s Role in Mediation or Litigation
In litigation, there is a winner and a loser. In mediation, that is not the case. Skilled attorneys and mediators can work towards solutions that are satisfactory – or at least, acceptable – to both plaintiffs and defendants. Loreine Smith, of LionsEdge Advisory is an expert in guiding involved parties through the terrain of conflict and litigation. She leverages her years of experience as an expert witness, forensic accountant and financial mediator to shepherd us through the pre and post conflict and litigation cycle.
Learning Objectives:
• Recognize how to leverage effective communication in litigation and mediation
• Identify best-practice protocols for the CPA or finance professional in the role of expert witness
• Indicate the benefits of mediation and collaboration alternatives to court trials
• Recognize the value of objectivity in both litigation and mediation
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in business law.
Speaker/Author: Loreine Smith
Last Review Date: 4/13/2025
FMN Plus-2023/Sept, Seg 6 - The New QI Agreement Part I: Scope, Documentation, Withholding & Reporting
In December of 2022, the IRS released the final Qualified Intermediary Agreement with an effective date of January 1st 2023. The new agreement brought significant changes for financial institutions acting as qualified intermediaries. As part of the New QI Agreement Panel at the Kaplan International Tax Withholding and Information Reporting Conference, tax practitioners Chip Collins, Ari Cohen, Patricia Lopez, Petrit Ismajli and Jillian Nicolson discuss the scope of these major changes, as well as the documentation, withholding, and reporting requirements associated with the new agreement.
Learning Objectives:
• Recognize the implications of the new QI agreement on publicly traded partnerships (PTPs) and qualified derivatives dealers (QDDs)
• Describe the difference between QI designation vs. NQI designation
• Recognize the operational challenges of implementing the new QI agreement
• Describe the PTP landscape in the U.S. and across the globe
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in tax planning or tax compliance, or an introductory course in taxation.
Speaker/Author: Chip Collins, Ari Cohen, Patricia Lopez, Petrit Ismajli & Jillian Nicolson
Last Review Date: 4/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Apr, Seg 1 - U.S. Economic Outlook – Labor, Inflation, Geopolitics, and AI Impacts
Over the past few years, the U.S. has navigated through a complex economic landscape with challenges driven by supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical uncertainties. However, there is cautious optimism regarding the economy's resilience, supported by robust consumer spending, technological advancements, and ongoing policy responses. Dana Peterson, Chief Economist, with The Conference Board, joins this segment to discuss the labor market, business and consumer confidence, inflationary concerns, downside risks regarding deglobalization and geopolitical tensions involving the U.S. and China, as well as impacts from AI.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize examples of consumer economic headwinds
- Identify industries specifically impacted from recent economic challenges
- Recognize changes in both business and consumer confidence
- Recall solutions to address labor shortages
- Identify both downside and upside risks with respect to the U.S. economic outlook
Speaker/Author: Dana Peterson
Last Review Date: 11/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Apr, Seg 2 - Embracing Technology and Digital Transformation in the Finance Function
The cutting-edge accountant continually strives for a forward-thinking mindset and a willingness to learn. This is especially crucial in driving successful digital transformation initiatives in the finance function. Nigel Franklyn, Senior Director of Finance and IT at Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, shares examples of leveraging technology to improve processes, enhance user experiences, and create value for the business. He offers guidance for the finance executive in aligning technology initiatives with the strategic priorities of the organization.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how to encourage a forward-thinking and positive mindset when approaching technology and change
- Recognize how to create value with cross-functional collaboration and being a collaborative business partner
- Indicate how to align technology initiatives with the overall business strategy
- Recognize the importance of understanding and managing biases and preferences when adapting to change
Speaker/Author: Nigel Franklyn
Last Review Date: 11/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Apr, Seg 3 - Common Control Arrangements: Understanding the Impacts from ASU 2023-01
In March 2023, the FASB issued an ASU that improved the guidance for leasing arrangements between entities under common control. This ASU, "Leases (Topic 842) Common Control Arrangements", provides private companies with a practical expedient to use the written terms and conditions of a common control arrangement to determine whether a lease exists and, if so, the classification of and accounting for that lease. Jeremy Dillard, Technical Standards Partner, with SingerLewak, joins this segment to discuss the changes related to the terms and conditions that must be considered, as well as how all entities, including public companies, are to amortize leasehold improvements associated with common control leases.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the key amendments prescribed by ASU 2023-01
- Identify the effective date of ASU 2023-01
- Recall the methods of adoption for the amendments related to leasehold improvements
- Identify considerations and challenges with respect to adoption of the amendments
Speaker/Author: Jeremy Dillard
Last Review Date: 11/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Apr, Seg 4 - Powerful Marketing Strategies for Today's Accountant
Accounting firms are continuing to evolve their delivery of services, thus expanding into new markets. A key approach to maximizing this expansion is for the accounting professional or firm to utilize the power of networking, community outreach, public relations, and media to build their market presence. Herschel Frierson, Chairman of the Board at NABA Inc. and a Principal at Crowe, LLP, shares his keen insights on building successful marketing strategy through networking and relationships for the accounting professional who wants to be a true business and community leader.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the significance of knowing client needs and understanding the opportunities and trends in a particular market
- Identify the value of networking and building relationships in the business community
- Indicate approaches to pricing strategy and increasing brand awareness
- Recognize the benefits of volunteering and association memberships to gain different perspectives to enhance value-add to the client
Speaker/Author: Herschel Frierson
Last Review Date: 11/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Apr, Seg 5 - NFP Accounting Practices: Ensuring Financial Accountability & Compliance
In a nonprofit organization, accounting and bookkeeping functions require additional recordkeeping and reporting based on unique nonprofit rules. Recording transactions from funding sources, such as donations, memberships and grants, requires reporting with a high level of transparency. Kimi Ellen, Managing Partner at Benford Brown & Associates LLC, joins this segment to provide additional background on the true purpose of formal nonprofit accounting processes, how to record donations, accounting for grants, as well as the preparation of financial reports. Kimi also discusses the benefits of fiscal agent services, management letter comments, and implementation of effective internal controls.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the benefits fiscal agent services can provide to nonprofit organizations
- Recognize the unique challenges posed by nonprofit accounting for grants and donations
- Recognize the importance of proper accounting processes and accurate financial reporting
- Identify nonprofit tax implications, proper board of director procedures, and importance of effective internal controls
Speaker/Author: Kimi Ellen
Last Review Date: 11/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Feb, Seg 1 - Yellow Book Overview: Engagement Types, Independence Requirements & 2023 Proposed Revisions
The Yellow Book is the book of standards and guidance for auditors and audit organizations, outlining the characteristics of good audit reports, professional qualifications for auditors, and audit quality guidelines through the use of Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS) or Government Auditing Standards (GAS). Philip Marciano, Managing Director at CBIZ and Shareholder at Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C., joins this segment to provide details regarding when the Yellow Book is used or required, the difference between attestation engagements and financial or performance audits, a deep dive into the requirements surrounding Yellow Book independence and CPE, as well as a 2023 Yellow Book update.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify when the Yellow Book is used and required
- Distinguish between the three types of engagements under the Yellow Book: financial audits, attestation agreements, performance audits
- Recognize the importance and requirements of auditor independence and CPE under the Yellow Book
- Identify major updates in the Yellow Book 2023 Exposure Draft
Speaker/Author: Phil Marciano
Last Review Date: 9/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Feb, Seg 2 - The DCF Model: Leveraging Assumptions to Inform Business Valuation
Discounted cash flow, or DCF, is an analysis method used to value an investment by discounting the estimated future cash flows. DCF analysis can be applied to value a business for an exit, acquisition, recapitalization, capital raise, and many other assets or activities, and thus is widely used in both the investment industry and corporate finance management. Jason Tuzinkewich, COO of Blue Sky Business Resources, joins this segment to provide additional background on DCF analysis, discuss the three categories of business valuation, detail how to arrive at a discount rate or risk profile, as well as walkthrough a comprehensive case study.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of the discounted cash flow model when determining the intrinsic value of a business
- Identify the three methods of business valuation and under which circumstances to select the correct methodology
- Describe how to ascribe value to a business through determination of the discount rate
- Recognize the impact of the discount rate/risk profile on strategic planning
Speaker/Author: Jason Tuzinkewich
Last Review Date: 9/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Feb, Seg 3 - Protecting Profits through Supply Chain Cost Excellence
Cost and pricing excellence incorporates streamlining processes and improving operations to maximize profit. Organizations employing cost excellence strategies can reduce supply chain challenges by eliminating waste and improving quality - all while delivering high-quality products and services to their customers. Casey Chapman, principal and management consulting leader in the Operations and Supply Chain practice at RSM, guides us through best practices in managing costs to inform strategic decisions and leveraging supply chain planning tools to optimize inventory and synchronize supply and demand.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify strategic approaches to understanding and managing costs
- Indicate the role of product costing in making pricing decisions
- Recognize the impact of variances on product costing and the need for regular evaluation
- Identify the use of supply chain planning tools to optimize demand and supply
Speaker/Author: Casey Chapman
Last Review Date: 9/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Feb, Seg 4 - Capitalizing on Opportunities in Financial Services for Women
According to the Abacus Wealth Partners, $14 trillion of American personal wealth is controlled by women. However, evidence shows that financial advisors often default toward men's needs and preferences, undeserving women's finance needs. Lara Lamb, a financial advisor with Abacus Wealth Partners, focuses her expertise on purpose-driven and values-centric financial services for women and holds a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) designation. She offers her insights on tapping into the vast opportunity in the women's financial services market.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish the differences between men and women when it comes to their approaches and attitudes towards money
- Recognize the challenges inherent in earnings and investment opportunities for women
- Recognize the importance of considering individual client preferences and motivations when choosing investment and debt management strategies
- Identify the unique challenges faced by women in terms of retirement planning
Speaker/Author: Lara Lamb
Last Review Date: 9/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Feb, Seg 5 - Successfully Navigating Increased IRS Scrutiny of Compensation
Closely held corporations and tax-exempt charitable nonprofits, like all other employers, are required to comply with IRS regulations requiring compensation to be "reasonable" and not "excessive," thus, financial advisors would be well served to advise their clients to expect IRS scrutiny of compensation. Stephen Kirkland, an expert on reasonable compensation amounts for business owners, executives, professionals, trustees, and directors, navigates us through tax considerations and best practices in this area for compensation consultants and closely held or non-profit organizations.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how the IRS determines if an employee has been overpaid or underpaid
- Recognize how to address the burden of proof in compensation disputes
- Distinguish the role of intent in IRS compensation decisions
- Recognize the importance of understanding fiduciary duties to clients in relation to compensation issues
Speaker/Author: Stephen Kirkland
Last Review Date: 9/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Jan, Seg 1 - Section 1446(f) PTP Withholding Tax: Proficiency & Purpose
Before passing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2017, taxation on the sale of a partnership interest by a foreign person was not clearly defined. Section 1446(f) of the Internal Revenue Code, imposed a 10% withholding tax on the amount realized from a foreign person’s sale, exchange, or other disposition of a partnership interest to the extent the foreign person would have effectively connected income (ECI) under Section 864(c)(8). Seth Poloner, Executive Director at Morgan Stanley, joins this segment to discuss the importance of Section 1446(f), custodial broker requirements, exceptions to Section 1446(f), and an update on Notice 2023-8.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the impact of Notice 2023-8 on PTPs, short sales, and retroactive forms
- dentify the various IRC Section 1446(f) exceptions related to Form W-9, QIs, non-withholding foreign partnerships, and qualified notices
- Distinguish between both custodial and executing brokers involved PTP transactions
- Describe both the history and significance of IRC Section 1446(f)
Speaker/Author: Seth Poloner
Last Review Date: 8/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Jan, Seg 2 - Benefitting Society Through Long-Termism
Ethical investing is a growing force in capital markets, and ESG funds posted increased inflows of nearly $659B in 2021. Long-term sustainable investing has become increasingly popular as investors seek to make socially responsible investments that align with personal values and long-term viability. Jennifer Coombs, a professor for the College for Financial Planning, has years of experience helping financial advisors and wealth managers build competencies in sustainable investing. She clarifies the path for finance professionals to leverage ESG investments to achieve financial, socially responsible success for all stakeholders.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how sustainable indices outperform broad-based indices over the long-run
- Identify the long-termism mindset that financial advisors should adopt for financial success for all stakeholders
- Distinguish the myths and barriers related to ESG investing, including attitudes and perceptions, actual ROI, regulatory and geographic factors, and cultural considerations
- Recognize the need for enhanced risk analysis and continuous education for long-term sustainable investment strategies
Speaker/Author: Jennifer Coombs
Last Review Date: 8/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Jan, Seg 3 - The Strategic Accountant: From Transactional to Advisory Services
More and more accounting firms have created, or are interested in creating, a more diversified selection of services, looking beyond the tax season to offer a variety of advisory services such as forecasting, budgeting, and strategy for their clients. Anna Halaburda, founder of Be Ready Exits, has 35 years of accounting, tax, audit, and consulting experience in the public and private sectors. In this segment, Anna discusses the importance of communication and collaboration skills in transitioning from a traditional CPA role to a business advisory role.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the professional and financial opportunity for the traditional accountant to evolve into advisory services
- Recognize the value of soft skills for career progression and encouraging long-term client relationships
- Identify the role of communication and collaboration in advisory engagements to enhance client satisfaction & retention
- Distinguish the importance of aligning with clients' goals and engaging all stakeholders
Speaker/Author: Anna Halaburda
Last Review Date: 8/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Jan, Seg 4 - PPP: Best Practices, General Enforcement Actions & Fraud
The Paycheck Protection Program provides small businesses with funds to pay up to eight weeks of payroll costs including benefits. Funds can also be used to pay interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. Erica Price, Manager at Paradigm Forensics, LLC, joins this segment to discuss the importance of understanding PPP eligibility requirements, properly calculating loan and forgiveness amounts, the statute of limitations for PPP fraud, and enforcement actions being taken by various government agencies. Erica also provides proactive and reactive best practices for companies, including maintaining a comprehensive PPP file, ensuring good communication with lenders, and seeking expert assistance if needed.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish between the borrower eligibility requirements for first and second draw loans
- Recognize the importance of borrower eligibility, loan amount, use of proceeds, and forgiveness amount
- Describe the statute of limitations related to the Paycheck Protection Program
- Identify best practices for maintaining Paycheck Protection Program materials
Speaker/Author: Erica Price
Last Review Date: 8/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Jan, Seg 5 - Successful Arbitration: Challenges and Guidance
Over the past 25 years, it has become increasingly commonplace for corporations to avail themselves of arbitration in the case of conflict, opting for less complicated and costly private dispute resolution instead of spending time and resources in court. Ketan Soni, Partner at Soni Brendle, PLLC, has years of experience in arbitration and mediation and has created training programs for mediators across North Carolina, where he practices law. Ketan shares his expert insights on the arbitration process and regulatory framework, as well as the benefits of arbitration in providing fair and efficient solutions for involved parties.
Learning Objectives:
- Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of arbitration vs. pursuing a case in court
- Recognize the different types of arbitration and how to determine the best approach
- Understand how an arbitration process can be tailored to fit the needs of involved parties
- Identify how to prepare and what skillsets are needed for success in the field of arbitration
Speaker/Author: Ketan Soni
Last Review Date: 8/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Mar, Seg 1 - How to Create an Efficient and Accurate Month-End Close Process
The month-end close process involves recording, reconciling, reviewing all business transactions, and finalizing account data for the month. An efficient month-end close process is essential to producing accurate and timely financial statements that can be used for both analysis and decision-making. Edgar Thomas, Co-Founder and COO of Avise, joins this segment to provide additional background on the true purpose of month-end close, how to optimize the length of time required to close, as well as the process of navigating reclasses and adjustments. Edgar also discusses the role software, flux analysis, prioritization, and relationship building play in the close cycle.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the purpose and benefits of the month-end close process
- Recognize how double-entry accounting, timeliness, and accuracy creates for higher quality close process
- Identify the importance of month-end close tools or software, flux analysis, and the idea of a well-rounded accountant
- Recognize the steps to take in order to increase month-end close efficiency
Speaker/Author: Edgar Thomas
Last Review Date: 10/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Mar, Seg 2 - Audit Best Practices: COSO Internal Control Framework & Importance of Analytical Procedures
In 1992 the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) issued the Internal Control-Integrated Framework. Effective internal controls can help an organization articulate its purpose, set its objectives and strategy, and grow on a sustained basis with confidence and integrity in all types of information. Lynford Graham joins this segment to provide background on the establishment of COSO, details regarding the five components and 17 guiding principles of the framework, discuss the components of the audit risk model, and emphasize the importance of analytical procedures as part of an audit.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the five components of the COSO Internal Control Framework: control environment, risk assessment and management, information and communications, control activities, and monitoring
- Recognize how the COSO Internal Control Framework has evolved overtime
- Identify the audit risk equation and importance of the audit risk model: Audit risk (AR) = Inherent risk (IR) x Control risk (CR) x Detection risk (DR)
- Recognize the importance and benefits of substantive analytical procedures
Speaker/Author: Lynford Graham
Last Review Date: 10/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Mar, Seg 3 - NOCLAR: Ethical Approaches for the Accounting Professional
In February 2022, PEEC adopted two new interpretations within the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, establishing a member's responsibilities when encountering a client's or employer's noncompliance with laws and regulations (NOCLAR). For accountants in public practice and business, these interpretations are crucial to understand as they encounter potential or actual noncompliance issues. April Sherman, the Compliance and Ethics Director at CLA, Clifton Larsen Allen, with experience working at the AICPA on ethics standards, guides us through the important steps of following these new interpretations.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the AICPA's ethical interpretations related to non-compliance with laws and regulations - NOCLAR
- Identify the accountant's reporting requirements when they come across potential or actual NOCLAR at their own or a client's firm
- Distinguish the steps senior and non-senior accountants should take in addressing NOCLAR
- Identify behavior that would be considered NOCLAR and the implications for both the organization under audit and the auditing firm
Speaker/Author: April Sherman
Last Review Date: 10/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Mar, Seg 4 - The Global Workforce: Addressing Tax & Risk
The convergence of several key trends has put the mobile workforce in the spotlight like never before. One estimate says that 80% of the global workforce is now "deskless," so to speak, and mobile workers and their employers require unique tools and processes for success. David Livitt, Founder of Livitt Associates, is an experienced global mobility and international tax specialist. In this segment he offers guidance to organizations for navigating the tax landscape when it comes to building and managing successful mobility programs.
Learning Objectives:
- Indicate how tax treaties, totalization agreements and other regulatory frameworks impact remote and hybrid work
- Distinguish best practices for managing remote work policies and procedures, including data management
- Identify the potential tax risks and challenges of global compensation and remote hiring
- Recognize the actions and steps to take to effectively manage personal and corporate risks associated with remote work
Speaker/Author: David Livitt
Last Review Date: 10/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Mar, Seg 5 - The Evolving Accountant as the Full-Service Finance Professional
Today's accounting professionals are seizing on vast opportunities for growth in areas beyond the traditional audit or tax functions that require their specific expertise and experience. Upskilling and expansion into client advisory services, particularly in personal financial planning (PFP), is turning accountants into full-service financial advisors. Tom Tillery, Vice President at Paraklete Financial, discusses these changes and challenges in the accounting profession and offers recommendations for fully leveraging this new and comprehensive accounting and finance paradigm.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish how the accountant can leverage trends in remote work, technology and advisory accounting to leverage new business models & opportunities
- Identify the requirements of the AICPA's Statement on Standards in Personal Financial Planning Services, as well as those of related credentials & licenses
- Identify the trend toward commoditization of traditional audit and tax compliance roles and how accountants can upskill to overcome this trend
- Recognize the importance of tax knowledge in personal financial planning and the overlap between tax planning and other areas of financial planning
Speaker/Author: Tom Tillery
Last Review Date: 10/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/May, Seg 1 - New Guidance on Accounting for and Disclosure of Crypto Assets
Crypto assets have evolved from the inception of Bitcoin in 2009 to a diverse ecosystem encompassing thousands of digital currencies. This evolution has witnessed increased adoption, regulatory scrutiny, and innovation in blockchain technology. Aaron Jacob, Vice President of Accounting with TaxBit, joins this segment to discuss the FASB's new accounting standards update related to crypto assets, including the assets in scope, recognition, presentation, and disclosure requirements, as well as considerations for companies when adopting the new amendments.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify digital assets in scope of the new accounting guidance
- Identify how crypto assets are recognized on the balance sheet and income statement
- Recognize presentation and disclosure requirements related to crypto assets
- Identify key considerations with respect to adopting the new guidance on crypto assets
Speaker/Author: Aaron Jacob
Last Review Date: 12/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/May, Seg 2 - GASB Outlook 2024: Navigating GASB 100, 101, & 102
The Government Accounting Standards Board, GASB, issued three important pronouncements recently - to be implemented by state and local governments prior to 2025: GASB Statement 100: Accounting Changes & Error Corrections; GASB 101: Compensated Absences; and GASB 102: Certain Risk Disclosures. Phil Marciano, of Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C. and CBIZ, guides us through considerations in applying these standards, how certain circumstances will affect financials & reporting, and new disclosure requirements.
Learning Objectives:
- Indicate how to address changes in accounting principles, changes in accounting estimates, and changes to or within the financial reporting entity in accordance with GASB 100
- Recognize guidance on reporting required supplementary information (RSI) and supplementary information (SI) in the financial statements
- Identify how GASB 101 establishes the financial reporting and accounting for compensated absences
- Recognize how GASB 102 codifies the requirements for reporting risks related to concentrations or constraints within a government
Speaker/Author: Phil Marciano
Last Review Date: 12/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/May, Seg 3 - Unleashing Efficiency: Harnessing AI for Next-Level Accounting
These days, integrating AI into an organization's business and finance processes is no longer an if, but a when. AI-based tools empower accountants and financial professionals to perform financial processes and analyses with ever-increasing speed. Dr. Mfon Akpan, Methodist University, and Dr. Scott Dell, Francis Marion University, discuss the use of AI and natural language processing in the accounting profession. They show us how CPAs can utilize AI to significantly improve productivity and efficiency in tax research, compliance, client relationships, and financial data analysis.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance to CPAs of understanding and embracing AI
- Distinguish applications and benefits of using AI in both quantitative and qualitative analyses in accounting
- Recognize the need for a flexible mindset and lifelong learning to benefit from new technologies in the accounting profession
- Identify productivity and efficiency gains of using AI in accounting workflows
Speaker/Author: Mfon Akpan & Scott Dell
Last Review Date: 12/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/May, Seg 4 - Cost Segregation: Overview of Effective Tax Strategies
Cost segregation is a valuable tax planning tool for businesses owning or investing in commercial properties, offering the potential for substantial tax savings and improved cash flow. Isaac Downing, Senior Director with Omega Accounting Solutions, joins this segment to discuss the benefits of cost segregation. In addition, Isaac guides us through when to perform a cost segregation study, when not to perform a study, the types of qualifying assets involved, as well as how bonus depreciation can also be leveraged to unlock additional tax savings.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize key benefits of performing a cost segregation study
- Identify circumstances when a cost segregation study may be beneficial
- Distinguish between 5, 7, and 15-year tangible property
- Identify benefits of bonus depreciation
Speaker/Author: Isaac Downing
Last Review Date: 12/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/May, Seg 5 - The Tax Advisor: From Compliance to Planning
Transitioning from tax compliance to tax planning involves shifting from a reactive approach to a proactive strategy, all while leveraging tax-based knowledge to optimize tax liabilities and maximize financial outcomes for clients. Jim Guarino, Managing Director of Baker Newman Noyes, joins this segment to discuss the considerations when making this transition, including some of the benefits that can be achieved post transition, and the skillsets needed to be successful in the tax planning field.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify differences in tax compliance vs. tax planning
- Recognize the importance of tax planning
- Recognize constraints that tax professionals are currently facing
- Identify the skillsets needed to be successful in tax planning
Speaker/Author: Jim Guarino
Last Review Date: 12/13/2025
FMN Plus-2024/Sept, Seg 1 - Transformation of Accounting Firms: Evolving Structures & Emerging Trends
The traditional pyramid structure of accounting firms is being redefined. As technology, demographics, and competition reshape the landscape, firms must adapt or be left behind. The COVID-19 pandemic has fast-tracked the need for change, driving the adoption of innovative talent models and non-CPA roles that bring fresh expertise to the table. Dan Hood, Editor in Chief at Accounting Today, provides expert insights on the evolving landscape of accounting firms, highlighting the need for firms to rethink their traditional pyramid structures, align leadership, and embrace agility to stay competitive.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the historical context of pyramid-shaped accounting firm structures and factors leading to the need for change in traditional models
- Recognize how advances in technology, pipeline issues, and retirement planning are impacting accounting firm structure
- Distinguish among pyramid and management structures in the accounting industry
- Identify the trend in PE acquisition of accounting firms and the move towards the separation of attest and non-attest services
Speaker/Author: Daniel Hood
Last Review Date: 09/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Sept, Seg 2 - Mastering FP&A for Optimized Financial Decisions & Resource Allocation
Elevate your business with FP&A best practices. Sherry Ann Mohan, CFO at Chase Business Banking, reveals powerful strategies to elevate your planning and forecasting. She stresses the importance of a solid planning calendar, gathering insights from leaders, and understanding key performance drivers. By integrating new initiatives, considering multiple scenarios, and rigorously testing outcomes, you can stay ahead. Mohan also highlights the need for strong cash flow management, regulatory compliance, and a skilled team in accounting, business development, and data analytics.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how FP&A can help make better decisions by aligning the planning process with business goals
- Identify how monitoring key drivers of business performance makes and keeps a financial plan relevant and useful
- Recognize the utility of running various scenarios and pressure testing outcomes to maximize FP&A
- Indicate the key components of a financial plan and how to navigate the interrelationship between different parts of the business
Speaker/Author: Sherry Ann Mohan
Last Review Date: 09/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Sept, Seg 3 - Ethics in Practice: Understanding the PEEC & the AICPA Code
The Professional Ethics Executive Committee (PEEC) of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) serves as the cornerstone for ethical guidance and enforcement within the CPA profession. Jimmy Williams, CEO and President of Compass Capital Management joins this segment to discuss the PEEC and the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. This includes discussion of the PEEC’s responsibilities, interactions with regulatory bodies, as well as the investigation and disciplinary processes. Additionally, Jimmy provides an overview of the AICPA Code components, recent changes, and new focus areas such as the NOCLAR requirements.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the primary responsibilities of the PEEC
- Recognize interactions between the PEEC and other regulatory bodies
- Recognize the various steps in the PEEC's investigation and disciplinary processes
- Recall the key components of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct as well as the significance of recent changes
Speaker/Author: Jimmy Williams
Last Review Date: 09/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Sept, Seg 4 - CECL: Implications of Rising Delinquency Rates
Increasing delinquency rates elevate expected credit losses under the CECL model, requiring higher loan loss reserves and potentially diminishing bank profitability and capital. Ivan Cilik, Partner at Baker Tilly, and Sean Statz, Director at Baker Tilly, join this segment to discuss the implications of rising delinquency rates on the CECL model. This includes discussion of delinquency rates, commercial real estate considerations, assumptions included within the CECL model, as well as disclosures, communications, and monitoring.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how recent changes in commercial real estate have impacted delinquency rates
- Recognize how increasing delinquency rates impact the CECL model
- Identify the key assumptions used within the CECL model
- Recognize the importance of data quality and strong controls with respect to the CECL model
Speaker/Author: Ivan Cilik and Sean Statz
Last Review Date: 09/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Sept, Seg 5 - Blockchain Technology: Enhancing the Accountants Toolbox
Unlock the future of accounting with University of Quebec, Montreal, Melissa Fortin's expert insights. Melissa breaks down blockchain's complexities, revealing how it can revolutionize your processes with unmatched security, efficiency, and automation. Despite the challenges, Fortin highlights blockchain's transformative impact on auditing, financial reporting, and tax compliance. Stay ahead—embrace blockchain's transparency and fraud prevention, and equip your team for success.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify different types of blockchain such as public, private, consortium, hybrid, permissioned, and permissionless
- Distinguish how smart contracts in blockchain-based accounting systems facilitate supply chain visibility, invoice reconciliation, and tax compliance
- Recognize how blockchain improves traceability of financial transactions and eases supply chain accounting
- Identify privacy concerns, data security issues and regulatory considerations for blockchain transactions
Speaker/Author: Melissa Fortin
Last Review Date: 09/01/24
Factoring Receivables: Evaluating True Sale Opinions
This course provides an overview of true sale opinions with a specific focus on the factors that need to be assessed before it can be relied on as evidence.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize key considerations related to true sale opinions
- Identify specific language that should not be included within a true sale opinion
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/29/2023
Factoring Receivables: Qualification as a Sale
This course provides an overview of the specific criteria that must be met in order to derecognize accounts receivables transferred in a traditional factoring arrangement.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the criteria to be met to classify a long-lived asset as held for sale
- Recognize the accounting and reporting impacts from held for sale classification
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/29/2023
Feedback and Coaching v1.1
This course provides an overview of best practices with respect to feedback and coaching. This includes a discussion of real relationships, practical standards, effective feedback, and proactive follow up. This course also addresses the key steps and processes involved in applying the ADDIE process.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize conflict-resistant strategies to create a safe environment for feedback.
- Identify key aspects of the ADDIE process.
- Recognize methods of giving and receiving quality feedback.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Feedback and Coaching," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 2/24/2024
Financial Concepts and Tools for Managers v1.1
Finance involves obtaining, using, and managing funds to achieve the company’s financial objectives (e.g., maximization of shareholder value). The course emphasizes and develops an understanding of financial concepts, tools, strategies, and major decision areas related to the financial management of the business. This course is directed toward the businessperson who must have financial knowledge but has not recently had training in finance.
Topics include a broad overview of business types and formation, funding, capital markets, tax planning, budgeting, financial statement and analysis and many other aspects of running a business. Many subjects are discussed with the intention of providing the businessperson with a quick introduction to commonly used business terms and requirements.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the influence and concerns of financial managers.
- Identify depreciation methods and tax deductions.
- Differentiate between several financial analysis ratios.
- Calculate return on investment.
- Identify the different types of budgets an organization might need, and the steps required in projecting external financial needs.
- Recognize the different ways to improve cash management.
- Recognize different methods for measuring risk.
- Identify the relationship between bond price and interest rates.
- Recognize the concept of time value of money.
- Recognize various evaluation methods for capital budgeting.
- Recognize steps in the lease versus purchase decision.
- Identify the relative costs associated with using different types of capital.
- Distinguish between the different objectives for dividend policies.
- Recognize different financing strategies.
- Recognize a characteristic of intermediate-term bank loans.
- Identify the characteristics of different types of long-term debt, and the associated risks.
- Identify different purchase and sales processes for securities.
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Financial Concepts and Tools for Managers" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/18/2023
Financial Instruments Topics 825, 320, 321, and 326 v2.0
This course provides an overview of the accounting and reporting requirements found in FASB Codification topics 825, 320, 321, and 326. Specifically, this course reviews debt and equity investments and financial asset credit losses.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key issues associated with the accounting and disclosure of financial instruments based on recent changes to U.S. GAAP
- Specifically, identify and describe the current accounting and disclosure requirements in Topics 825, 320, 321, and 326.
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 10/31/2023
Financial Markets and Intermediaries and Interest Rates v1.1
Financial markets represent the lifeblood of our global economy. These mechanisms promote greater economic efficiency by transferring funds from individuals, businesses and governments with an excess of available funds to those with a shortage. Funds are transferred in the financial markets through the purchase and sale of financial instruments (such as stocks and bonds). Short-term financial instruments are available in money markets, while longer-term financial instruments are purchased and sold in the world's capital markets. Many financial markets have been in existence for hundreds of years; however, the modern era has brought along many new innovations such as securitization and the derivatives market.
This course begins with an overview of financial markets, continuing with a discussion of the structure of financial markets and pricing theory in financial markets, as well as a discussion of financial intermediaries. An overview of interest rates follows, then a discussion of the determination of interest rates, risk structure of interest rates, and term structure of interest rates.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the unique characteristics of financial markets.
- Recognize the types of financial instruments traded in various financial markets.
- Recognize the key aspects of the efficient market hypothesis.
- Identify the roles that financial intermediaries play in financial markets; recognize the various types of financial intermediaries.
- Calculate 'simple' and 'compound' interest.
- Identify how a bond's stated interest rate and its yield-to-maturity impacts the price at which it is traded.
- Recognize how interest rates are derived under the 'loanable funds theory'.
- Calculate a bond's yield given specific information regarding its risk structure.
- Identify how a yield curve illustrates the term structure of interest rates; recognize various yield curve shapes and the theories behind them.
Speaker/Author: Michael J. Walker, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Financial Markets Part 1: Financial Markets and Intermediaries and Interest Rates" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/05/2024
Financial Statement Analysis and Uses: Part 1 v3.0
A series of recent business failures and corporate scandals where employees, investors, and other stakeholders suffered tremendous loss have made the world aware of the importance of proper recording of transactions and transaction analysis. If a company's financial statements provide important insights into its financial health, such as financial position, growth potential, and profitability, the transactions must be analyzed and recorded in the accounts following generally accepted accounting principles.
Analysis and Uses of Financial Statements, Parts 1, 2 and 3, is designed for interested parties who must understand how to read, interpret, and analyze financial statements. This course series describes in clear, concise, and understandable language the intricacies of financial statements, and their use by investors, creditors, analysts, and other interested parties. This series can enhance your chance for success in business and investing; by enabling you to profit from the knowledge, insights, and perceptions of professionals who use financial statement analysis tools and techniques on a day-to-day basis. Realistic examples, real-life cases, and illustrations of financial statement analysis are widely used in this course series to make the subject matter crystal clear. That is the major objective of this course series.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the underlying assumptions or concepts of accounting
- Recognize the major principles of accounting
- Identify key components of the FASB Conceptual Framework
- Recognize the importance of internal control over financial reporting
- Identify the objective of financial statements
- Recognize the use of interim financial statements
- Identify the balance sheet accounts portraying a company's financial position
- Recognize the components of stockholders' equity
- Identify the elements of the income statement
- Recognize the purpose of the statement of comprehensive income
- Identify the most important items on the statement of cash flows
- Recognize the importance of notes to financial statements
- Identify the annual report components
- Recognize common techniques used to manipulate financial statements
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Financial Statement Analysis and Uses: Part 2 v3.0
A series of recent business failures and corporate scandals where employees, investors, and other stakeholders suffered tremendous loss have made the world aware of the importance of proper recording of transactions and transaction analysis. If a company's financial statements provide important insights into its financial health, such as financial position, growth potential, and profitability, the transactions must be analyzed and recorded in the accounts following generally accepted accounting principles.
Analysis and Uses of Financial Statements, Parts 1, 2 and 3, is designed for interested parties who must understand how to read, interpret, and analyze financial statements. This course series describes in clear, concise, and understandable language the intricacies of financial statements, and their use by investors, creditors, analysts, and other interested parties. This series can enhance your chance for success in business and investing; by enabling you to profit from the knowledge, insights, and perceptions of professionals who use financial statement analysis tools and techniques on a day-to-day basis. Realistic examples, real-life cases, and illustrations of financial statement analysis are widely used in this course series to make the subject matter crystal clear. That is the major objective of this course series.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify methods used in comparative analysis
- Recognize the basic components of ratio analysis
- Recognize and apply different liquidity ratios used to determine the ability to pay off current debt obligations
- Identify events that could affect a company's liquidity
- Identify and apply ratios used to analyze a company's capital structure
- Recognize key concepts of operating leverage Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic Math
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Financial Statement Analysis and Uses: Part 3 v3.0
A series of recent business failures and corporate scandals where employees, investors, and other stakeholders suffered tremendous loss have made the world aware of the importance of proper recording of transactions and transaction analysis. If a company's financial statements provide important insights into its financial health, such as financial position, growth potential, and profitability, the transactions must be analyzed and recorded in the accounts following generally accepted accounting principles.
Analysis and Uses of Financial Statements, Parts 1, 2 and 3, is designed for interested parties who must understand how to read, interpret, and analyze financial statements. This course series describes in clear, concise, and understandable language the intricacies of financial statements, and their use by investors, creditors, analysts, and other interested parties. This series can enhance your chance for success in business and investing; by enabling you to profit from the knowledge, insights, and perceptions of professionals who use financial statement analysis tools and techniques on a day-to-day basis. Realistic examples, real-life cases, and illustrations of financial statement analysis are widely used in this course series to make the subject matter crystal clear. That is the major objective of this course series.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize ways to evaluate a company's quality of earnings
- Identify and apply key ratios related to profitability
- Identify and apply the major ratios used to evaluate the cash flow of a company
- Recognize the importance of earnings per share
- Identify and apply ratios used to measure market strength of a company
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Financial Statement Frauds v2.2
In this course, the fraud triangle will serve as the backdrop for examining financial statement fraud. The three elements of the fraud triangle - pressure, opportunity, and rationalization - will be analyzed in the context of misrepresentation of financial statements. Cookie jar reserves, a creative accounting scheme used to manipulate reported earnings, will be discussed in depth. Sixteen specific financial statement fraud cases have been selected as representative of the major frauds that take place in organizations. Summaries of each case, along with the causes and motivations behind them, are discussed.
Learning Objectives:
- Define the fraud triangle.
- Recognize the characteristics of a cookie jar reserve.
- Identify red flags associated with financial statement fraud.
- Identify the fraud schemes in the context of 16 major financial statement frauds including HealthSouth, Tyco, and Rite Aid.
Speaker/Author: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Financial Statement Frauds v2.1," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/30/2024
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)
This course provides an overview of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act including historical background and anti-bribery provisions. This course also includes a discussion of the accounting provisions including recordkeeping, internal controls, reporting, and scope. This course also addresses compliance requirements as well as whistleblower provisions and protections.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the background history and environment that led to the passing of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
- Identify and describe the anti-bribery and accounting provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
- Recognize major compliance requirements of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
Speaker/Author: John M. Fleming
Last Review Date: 4/23/2022
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act v2.0
This course provides a basic understanding of the history of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and the main provisions of the FCPA, including the anti-bribery and the books and records and internal control provisions. It also discusses the penalties associated with violating the FCPA and provides leading practices to remain in compliance with the FCPA.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the purpose of the FCPA and its requirements.
- Distinguish between the anti-bribery provision and the books and records and internal control provisions.
- Recognize the penalties associated with violating the FCPA.
- Determine effective practices to remain compliant with the FCPA.
Speaker/Author: Kelly McAuliffe, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 3/21/2023
Fraud Risk in a Financial Statement Audit v2.2
This course introduces the user to the concept of fraud as it applies to financial reporting. The course will discuss the common characteristics which could cause fraud to exist within a company, the indicators of fraud and the auditors' responsibility with respect to fraud risk within the organization.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify fraud in a financial statement audit
- Identify and describe fraud risk factors
- Recognize both soft and hard indicators of fraud
- Identify the auditor's fraud risk responsibilities
Speaker/Author: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled " Fraud Risk in a Financial Statement Audit v2.1," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/31/2024
Fundamentals of Accounts Payable: Payment Fraud Prevention and Detection v1.1
Learning Objectives:
- Determine how to use positive pay.
- Identify ways to detect and deter p-card fraud.
- Identify misconceptions related to fraud protection.
- Recognize best practices to deter ACH and wire fraud.
- Identify issues in creating a policy for the increasing BYOD.
- Distinguish between different types of payment fraud.
- Determine procedures to detect and deter payment fraud.
Speaker/Author: Mary S. Schaeffer
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Fundamentals of Accounts Payable: Payment Fraud Prevention and Detection," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. You cannot receive credit for this course again if you have already received credit for this course.
Last Review Date: 3/31/2023
Fundamentals of Accounts Payable: Payments v1.1
Most companies have at least a few customers who don't pay them in a timely manner. Unfortunately, for some the problem is worse. They have many customers who don't pay them as quickly as they'd like. While it is definitely true that some of these organizations purposely drag their feet when it comes to the timing of payments, that is not always the case. In fact, many times the delay is due to something the supplier did (or didn't do) during the billing process. These are simply practices that could be easily rectified. This course contains the standard best practices every organization should use when trying to get paid in a timely manner as well as a look at the common mistakes that delay payments. The information on these inopportune slip-ups comes from interviews with accounts payable professionals who shared their frustrations over these easily-fixable oversights.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify common mistakes in your billing process that delay payments.
- Choose a clean billing process that produces error-free invoices.
- Determine an effective strategy ensuring you have all needed information on your invoices.
- Identify practices that unintentionally cause delays in payment.
- Select an effective strategy for creating a better relationship with your customers' personnel who are responsible for making payments.
Author/Speaker: Mary Schaeffer
Last Review Date: 11/17/2023
Gaining a Competitive Advantage: Critical Skills for CFOs and Controllers
The role of finance leaders within an organization has changed considerably in recent years. CFOs and controllers are constantly being asked to take on new tasks involving the organization's critical functions. This course will discuss how finance leaders can create value within their organizations in the current competitive market, how the perception of value in finance has changed, the role of the finance function in cybersecurity, and how finance leaders can help create a data-driven organization.
Learning Objectives:
- List the dimensions that may be used to measure organizational value
- Compare and contrast balance sheet value, investor value, and societal value
- Describe techniques a company may use to create a data-driven organization
- Describe why CPAs should be involved in cybersecurity functions
- Identify the most common cybersecurity threats
- Define ESG and responsible investing
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic knowledge of corporate finance
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 9/15/2022
Going Out On Your Own - Journal Entries - Cash
Cash is a fundamental part of every business. For this reason, it is important to make sure that cash is accounted for properly and reconciled regularly. In this course, we will learn about several journal entries related to cash. We will also talk about bank reconciliations - why they are important, what they do, and how to know if something is out of balance. This course is fundamental for any business owner or bookkeeper!
Learning Objectives:
- Recall what transactions do and do not touch the cash account
- Identify the journal entries necessary to void a check and stop payment on a check
- Recognize what a bank reconciliation does
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 4/17/2024
Going Out On Your Own - The Accounting Equation & Natural Account Balances
In this basics course, we will discuss the nuts and bolts of accounting. We will talk about the different types of accounts, as well as what it means to be "in-balance." We will also give an introduction to debits and credits, and why it is important to know what an account's natural balance is. If you want to do your own bookkeeping or just want to get more familiar with financial and accounting records, this is the place to start!
Learning Objectives:
- State the components of the Accounting Equation
- Recognize what it means for the books to be "in balance"
- Identify natural account balances for assets, liabilities, and equity accounts
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 4/15/2024
Goodwill Impairment Basics
This course provides a basic overview of goodwill impairment testing. The accounting and reporting requirements related to goodwill are prescribed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in ASC Topic 350-20. This course focuses on the subsequent measurement requirements including the accounting alternative allowed for certain eligible entities. This course also addresses briefly describes the disclosure requirements for goodwill and is current through the issuance of ASU 2019-06.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize overall characteristics of goodwill impairment testing
- Differentiate between the qualitative and quantitative test of goodwill impairment
- Identify key characteristics of the accounting alternative for goodwill
- Recognize the key disclosure requirements for goodwill and goodwill impairment losses
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl
Last Review Date: 9/29/2023
Goodwill Impairment Testing
This course provides an overview of goodwill impairment testing. The accounting and reporting requirements related to goodwill are prescribed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in ASC Topic 350-20. This course focuses on topics such as the initial recognition of goodwill and subsequent measurement requirements including the accounting alternative allowed for certain eligible entities. This course also addresses the disclosure requirements for goodwill and is current through the issuance of ASU 2019-06.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the recognition requirements related to goodwill.
- Recognize overall characteristics of goodwill impairment testing.
- Differentiate between the qualitative and quantitative test of goodwill impairment.
- Identify key characteristics of the accounting alternative for goodwill.
- List the key disclosure requirements for goodwill and goodwill impairment losses.
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl
Last Review Date: 9/29/2023
Held for Sale Accounting
This course provides an overview of the specific criteria that must be met in order to classify a long-lived asset as held for sale.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the criteria to be met to classify a long-lived asset as held for sale
- Recognize the accounting and reporting impacts from held for sale classification
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/25/2023
How You Can Manage Cyber Threats from Within v1.1
As we experience an unprecedented surge in the frequency and magnitude of cyber attacks, more organizations are focusing increased attention and resources on enterprise security. Yet, many businesses overlook the fact that "insiders" can do much more severe damage to their systems and data than could external sources. Ron Temske, vice president of security solutions for Logicalis U.S., explains what you can do to manage cyber threats from within your own organization.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify why insider cyber threats are so difficult to detect.
- Distinguish between "unwitting insiders" and "malicious insiders".
- Define the principle of least privilege or minimal privilege.
- Explain how business email compromise operates as fraud.
Speaker/Author: Ron Temske
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in information technology or accounting, or an introductory course in information technology or accounting.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "How You Can Manage Cyber Threats from Within" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 5/03/2023
How to Supervise People v3.0
The purpose of this course is to introduce the user to the concept of supervising people. The program will cover how to: (i) contribute to the organization's overall success; (ii) develop company culture to motivate employees; (iii) effectively listen and coach colleagues to improve retention and promote career growth.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the “real cost” of employee turnover.
- Identify key priorities to meet organization goals.
- Recall how company culture shapes the “employee experience”.
- Recall helpful tips to listen to your team actively.
- Identify ways to connect creatively with your colleagues.
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 4/05/2023
IFRS - Financial Instruments - IFRS 9 v2.0
This course includes a discussion of the classification and measurement of financial instruments, their impairment, hedging, as well as presentation and disclosure issues associated with financial instruments found in IFRS 9.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the financial instruments guidance issued by the IASB - IFRS 9
- Describe the categories of financial instruments guidance in IFRS 9:
- Recognition and derecognition
- Classification and measurement
- Impairment of financial assets
- Hedging
- Identify and describe the disclosures required for financial instruments
Speaker/Author: John Fleming, CPA, MBA
IFRS - Introduction to IFRS and IFRS Financial Statements v2.0
This course provides an overview of the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), an introduction to the International Financial Reporting Standards IFRS), and discussion of five IFRS standards concerning financial statements. These five standards include 1) IFRS 1, First Time Adoption of IFRS, 2) IAS 1, Presentation of IFRS Financial Statements, 3) IAS 27, Separate Financial Statements, 4, Consolidated Financial Statements, and 5) Business Combinations.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the form and structure of the IASB
- Identify the IFRS accounting standards issued by the IASB
- Describe the requirements associated with IFRS 1 - First Time Adoption of IFRS
- Describe the IFRS accounting guidance found in IAS 1 - Presentation of IFRS Financial Statements
- Identify and describe the related IFRS financial statement guidance found in topics IAS 27, IFRS 10 and IFRS 3
Speaker/Author: John Fleming, CPA, MBA
IFRS - Statement of Financial Position Issues v3.0
This course focuses on the statement of financial position and its significant elements. These elements include IAS 16, Property, Plant & Equipment, IAS 36, Impairment of Non-Financial Assets, IAS 38, Intangible Assets, IAS 40, Investment Property, IFRS 9, Financial Instruments, IFRS 13, Fair Value Measurement, IFRS 16, Leases (Lessees), IAS 37, Provisions, Contingent Assets, and Liabilities, IAS 12, Income Taxes, and IAS 24, Related Party Disclosures.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the IFRS accounting guidance found in IAS 1 - Presentation of IFRS Financial Statements
- Identify and describe the accounting guidance associated with significant elements of the statement of financial position
Speaker/Author: John Fleming, CPA, MBA
IFRS - Statement of Profit or Loss; Statement of Comprehensive Income
This course focuses on the statements of profit or loss and comprehensive income and their significant elements. These elements include IFRS 5, Discontinued Operations, IAS 8, Accounting Policies, Errors, and Estimates, IFRS 15, Revenue Recognition, IFRS 2, Shareholder Payments, IAS 19, Employee Benefits, and IAS 23, Borrowing Costs (Capitalized Interest).
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the IFRS accounting guidance found in IAS 1 - Presentation of IFRS Financial Statements
- Identify and describe the accounting guidance associated with significant elements of the statement of profit or loss
- Identify and describe the reporting guidance associated with the elements of the statement of comprehensive income
Speaker/Author: John Fleming, CPA, MBA
IT Security Controls and IT Audit Considerations v1.1
This course provides an overview of IT security controls and IT audit considerations. The primary focus of this course is to develop an understanding of IT security controls and identify key aspects of an information security management system. Finally, this course also addresses the key steps involved in the IT audit process.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the various types of security controls
- Identify key aspects of an information security management system
- List the key steps in an IT audit process
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 10/11/2023
Income Tax Accounting v3.0
Accounting for income taxes is one of the more challenging topics of financial accounting. Corporations must file income tax return following the guidelines developed by the IRS. Because GAAP and tax regulations differ in several ways, so frequently do pretax financial income and taxable income. Hence, the amount that a company reports as tax expense will differ from the amount of taxes payable to the IRS. Those differences produce a complex accounting standard. Tax-related restatement is one of the leading causes of financial restatements.
This course is designed to help you navigate the complexities of income taxes. It identifies ASC 740 Income Taxes accounting and financial reporting requirements for the effects of taxes based on income. It describes the basic principles such as the asset and liability method, tax positions assessment, and the effect of temporary differences. It explains how to assess whether a valuation allowance is necessary for its deferred tax assets. It also covers key concepts such as asset acquisition, intraperiod allocations, and interim reporting related to income taxes. Finally, it addresses financial statement presentation and disclosure. Specific examples are included to illustrate the application. Relevant references to and excerpts from ASC 740 are discussed throughout the course.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the basic principles of accounting for income taxes
- Identify recognition and measurement requirements for uncertain tax positions
- Recognize temporary differences and identify how these differences may arise
- Distinguish between permanent and temporary differences
- Identify method for computing deferred taxes
- Recognize basic rules for income taxes in interim reporting
- Recognize the reporting requirements for income taxes
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Understanding of GAAP
Last Review Date: 8/31/2023
Inspire Your Team to Be Rock Stars And Still Have Time for Lunch v2.0
None of us work alone. In fact, we all depend on others for support, input, data, ideas and even inspiration. Studies have shown that we are only as good as our combined team. And the most successful teams are motivated, creative and solution-oriented. This workshop focuses on the secrets behind the most successful teams. INSPIRE with excitement, MOTIVATE with recognition and ENERGIZE with progress. And when you develop a solution-oriented team that manages up, you'll find creative problem solving and continued success. Be prepared to see how small changes can make a big impact on every member of the team and your overall success.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the key to inspiring and energizing your team on a consistent basis.
- Implement the Progress Principle for improved performance by every member of your team.
- Create a solution-oriented mindset for everyone on the team
- Train your team to Manage-up so that everyone achieves better results faster
Speaker/Author: Orna Drawas
Interpersonal Skills for 21st Century Organizations v1.1
This course explains what good interpersonal skills consist of, why they are important and how you can improve them. With the rise of teamwork and collaboration in contemporary organizations, the need for every employee to work effectively with and through others is paramount. The lack of interpersonal skills may be the major reason highly technically qualified professionals are not promoted and managers are less effective. Whether working on a team or leading a team, every employee needs to be able to communicate and collaborate effectively with others whose personalities, approaches, and work styles may differ greatly.
The goal of this course is to strengthen your interpersonal skills, enabling you to help your organization remain agile and relevant in today's competitive workforce. Stronger interpersonal skills also result in the ability to initiate, build, and maintain relationships in both your professional and personal life.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of interpersonal skills in the workplace.
- Identify soft skills attributes.
- Identify the interpersonal skills business leaders should possess.
- Recognize ways interpersonal skills can be developed, strengthened, and improved in the workplace.
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Interpersonal Skills for 21st Century Organizations", has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 12/21/2023
Interpreting Cash Flow Statements v3.0
This course provides tools and techniques for interpreting the statement of cash flows. A variety of ratios and other analytical tools are used to explore the wealth of information available in this significant component of an entity's audited financial statements. The material covered in this course is applicable to independent auditors, internal auditors, entity management, investors, analysts, and lenders.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the components of the statement of cash flows.
- Recognize the presentation methods of the statement of cash flows.
- Distinguish GAAP net income from cash flows from operations.
- Determine ratio analysis techniques for evaluating cash flow.
- Identify additional analytical tools for unlocking the information available in the statement of cash flows.
Speaker/Author: Susan K. Knight, CPA, CGMA, FHFMA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Interpreting Cash Flow Statements" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 6/01/2023
Introduction to Derivatives and Hedging: Part 1 of 3 v2.1
This course provides an introduction and starting point to understanding derivative instruments and their uses, and the concept of hedging and managing risk. The course begins by examining financial risk management and includes a five-step process to managing risk. Various types of financial risk encountered in the market, including interest rate risk, credit risk, and foreign exchange risk are defined and described. The course concludes by providing a brief overview and discussion of the various types of derivative categories covering interest rate derivatives, equity derivatives, foreign exchange derivatives, credit derivatives, and commodities.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the various types of risk that impact financial markets.
- Recognize proper financial risk management practices.
- Recognize the tools used to manage financial risk.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic knowledge of accounting and finance concepts and terminology.
Speaker/Author: Michael J. Walker, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Introduction to Derivatives and Hedging: Part 1 of 3" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 3/31/2023
Introduction to Derivatives and Hedging: Part 2 of 3 v2.1
This course focuses on two specific types of derivative instruments: forward contracts and futures contracts. The course begins with an overview of forward contracts and a description of the unique characteristics of those contracts. Hedging practices through the use of forward contracts is reviewed, and the calculation of a forward contract's payoff is exhibited with examples and illustrations. Forward pricing is discussed and foreign exchange forwards and forward rate agreements are further defined and explained. The course concludes with a detailed review of futures contracts, and the subcomponents of futures markets, including futures exchanges, standardization features of futures contracts, market mechanics, the concept and use of futures margin and margin requirements, and the futures exchange clearinghouse, through which futures trades are cleared.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the unique characteristics of forward contracts.
- Recognize appropriate hedging practices using forward contracts.
- Identify the differences between futures and forwards.
- Recognize the financial and operational risks associated with using futures contracts as hedging tools.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Knowledge of accounting and finance concepts, and basic derivatives terminology and mechanics.
Speaker/Author: Michael J. Walker, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Introduction to Derivatives and Hedging: Part 2 of 3" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 3/16/2023
Introduction to Derivatives and Hedging: Part 3 of 3 v2.1
This course describes the various types of swap and option contract arrangements/instruments that are available to market participants and discusses appropriate ways to use these derivative-based instruments to hedge exposed positions. Throughout the course, the unique characteristics of these arrangements/instruments are highlighted and explained, and their mechanics are exhibited in detailed examples and illustrations. Swap arrangements such as interest rate swaps, currency swaps, and credit default swaps, and the process for calculating swap settlement amounts, is reviewed. The course concludes with a detailed discussion of options trading and options markets, further examining put and call options and their uses, option payoff calculations, and options strategies including covered calls, spreads, and combinations.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the unique characteristics of swap agreements.
- Recognize the differences between the various types of swaps.
- Recognize appropriate hedging practices using swaps.
- Identify the unique characteristics of option contracts.
- Recognize the differences between option contracts and other types of derivative products.
- Recognize appropriate hedging practices using option contracts.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Knowledge of accounting and finance concepts, and basic derivatives terminology and mechanics.
Speaker/Author: Michael J. Walker, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Introduction to Derivatives and Hedging: Part 3 of 3" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 3/20/2023
Introduction to Fraud Theory v3.0
The following course will introduce the user to fraud theory as applied to financial reporting. The course will seek to define fraud and provide examples of how fraud can occur by or against a company. Finally, the course will introduce the user to key causes of fraud and the characteristics of those causes.
Learning Objectives:
- Define fraud in the context of corporate financial fraud.
- Identify examples of fraud concealment strategies.
- Describe 2 fraud models - Fraud Triangle and Fraud Diamond.
- Summarize the 2018 report to the Nations, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
Last Review Date: 1/31/2024
Keeping Up with the Code – Schedules K-2 and K-3
Whether you are an experienced veteran or new to the industry, one of the toughest parts of being a tax practitioner is keeping up with all of the changes in tax legislation. The Keeping Up the Tax Code series takes a look at recent changes to tax law from a practitioner perspective. We don't just hurl code sections at you without explanation. Using examples, problems, and plain explanations, we explore a mix of new tax issues and areas of the code that tend to be misunderstood in a practical and straight- forward way. In this session, we will explore filing requirements, reporting, and penalties for Schedules K-2 & K-3.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify situations where a Schedule K-2 or K-3 must be filed for a partnership or S-Corporation
- State potential penalties for not filing a Schedule K-2 and K-3
- Identify potential remedies to failure to file Schedule K-2 or K-3
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 4/25/2024
Key SEC Regulations Accountants Should Know About
This course provides an overview of key SEC regulations that accountants should be familiar with. This includes a discussion of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as well as specific Regulations including Regulation S-X, Regulation S-K, and Regulation FD. This course also provides some examples of how companies may be in violation of certain of these Regulations. Finally, this course concludes with a discussion of some of the key requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act which seeks to enhance corporate transparency, accountability, and governance practices.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key requirements related to the Securities Act of 1933 and Securities Exchange Act of 1934
- Recognize specific requirements included in Regulations S-X, S-K, and FD
- Distinguish between requirements included in Regulation S-X and S-K
- Recognize key requirements of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/17/2024
Leading the Long-Range Planning Process v1.1
This course provides an overview of the long-range planning process within an organization. This course addresses the importance of goal setting and developing a plan that considers issues such as resource alignment, customer satisfaction, and sales activity.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify considerations when developing a long-range plan for an organization
- Recognize goals of long-range planning
- Identify the steps an organization should take when establishing a long-range plan
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Leading the Long-Range Planning Process", has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/25/2024
Learning from the Mistakes of Others: Common Auditor Oversights, Errors, and Misjudgments v1.1
This course provides an overview of common auditor oversights, errors, and misjudgments. This includes a discussion of the hierarchy of audit mistakes, consequences of audit deficiencies, as well as common mistakes that occur during each of the respective phases of an audit. Finally, this course also provides ways in which an auditor can avoid audit deficiencies.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize what is meant by the expectations gap.
- Identify the hierarchy of audit mistakes and consequences of audit deficiencies.
- Recognize common mistakes during key phases of an audit.
- Identify ways to avoid audit deficiencies.
Speaker/Author: Michael Chris Knapp
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled Learning from the Mistakes of Others: Common Auditor Oversights, Errors, and Misjudgments" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 7/12/2023
Lease Accounting & Reporting – What You Need to Know v1.1
This course provides an overview of the curremt lease accounting standard issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) prescribed within Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 842. This includes a discussion of the reasons for the change from the previous standard, how to correctly identify a lease within a contract, and the overall recognition, measurement, subsequent measurement, and disclosure requirements. This course also provides examples of real-world disclosures as well as challenges faced by entities post-adoption.
Learning Objectives:
- Determine whether an arrangement contains a lease.
- Identify considerations with respect to substitution rights.
- Identify the criteria for the new finance lease and short-term leases.
- Recognize the recognition and measurement requirements for both lessees and lessors.
- Identify the requirements related to lease modifications.
- Identify presentation and disclosure requirements for both lessees and lessors.
Last Review Date: 2/08/2024
Lease Accounting - Overview
This course provides an overview of the key accounting and reporting considerations with respect to lease transactions.
Learning Objective:
- Recognize the key accounting and reporting considerations for lease transactions
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/27/2023
Lease Accounting – Identifying a Lease
This course provides an overview of the key considerations for identifying a lease within a contract.
Learning Objective:
- Determine whether an arrangement is or contains a lease
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/27/2023
Lease Accounting – Lease Classification
This course provides an overview of the criteria used to classify leases, both from the lessee and lessor standpoint.
Learning Objective:
- Identify the lease classification criteria for both lessees and lessors
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/27/2023
Lease Accounting – Lease Modifications
This course provides an overview of lease modifications and how they are accounted for by both lessees and lessors.
Learning Objective:
- Recognize the impacts from lease modifications on both lessees and lessors
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/27/2023
Lease Accounting – Lessee Accounting
This course provides an overview of the accounting and reporting requirements for lessees.
Learning Objective:
- Identify recognition and measurement requirements by lessees
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/27/2023
Lease Accounting – Lessor Accounting
This course provides an overview of the accounting and reporting requirements for lessors.
Learning Objective:
- Identify recognition and measurement requirements by lessors
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/27/2023
Lease Accounting – Sale and Leasebacks
This course provides an overview of the accounting reporting considerations with respect to sale and leaseback transactions.
Learning Objective:
- Recognize the accounting/reporting requirements related to sale and leaseback transactions
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/27/2023
LinkedIn Leverage: Unlock the Power of Professional Networking
LinkedIn is a powerful platform for businesses to connect with professionals, showcase their expertise, and generate leads. In this course, you'll learn how to leverage LinkedIn's features and tools to enhance your brand presence, network with industry peers, and drive business growth.
Learning Objectives:
- Master the key features and functionalities of LinkedIn for business.
- Learn how to optimize your LinkedIn profile and company page for maximum visibility.
- Discover strategies for building and nurturing professional connections.
- Explore LinkedIn business page to build brand awareness and generate leads for your business.
Speaker/Author: Diamond Nurse
Last Review Date: 3/27/2024
Listening Skills for 21st Century Organizations v1.1
This course explains what good listening skills consist of, why they are important and how you can improve them. How we listen is often a result of habits we created as early as childhood. These habits impact every area of your life, including your personal relationships and your career. The goal of this course is to bolster your passive, poor, listening habits into effective active listening skills that will bring improved workplace relationships and personal success in all areas of your life.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize common barriers to effective listening.
- Recognize ineffective listener styles.
- Identify the most effective listener style.
- Identify effective listening techniques.
- Recognize suggestions for how to listen effectively to people from other cultures.
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Listening Skills for 21st Century Organizations", has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 12/21/2023
Manage Change Like a Rock Star and Still Have Time for Lunch
Research shows that the average business has undertaken five major organizational changes in the past three years; and 75% of those companies expect to pursue additional change initiatives in the next three years. These numbers present a significant challenge for companies as most employees are resistant to change and are the primary factor in why change fails.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the personal and business impact of change.
- Determine strategies to unravel change resistance and move forward successfully.
- Specify and explain the six emotions and stages of managing change.
- Understand how to help your colleagues, your team and others become change resilient.
Speaker/Author: Orna Drawas
Last Review Date: 4/19/2024
Management Discussion & Analysis
This course provides an overview of the key considerations related to the management discussion & analysis section included within periodic reports filed with the SEC.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the SEC Regulation applicable to MD&A
- Recognize the primary objective and focus areas related to MD&A
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/25/2023
Managing Meetings and Presentations v1.1
This course provides an overview of best practices for managing meetings and preparing presentations, specifically around the processes of planning, designing, delivering, and cultivating. This includes a discussion of the steps involved in dealing with issues, recording the message, and addressing key agenda items. Additionally, this course also provides best practices for slide presentations, certain pre-presentation tips, and key considerations with respect to meeting reviews.
Learning Objectives:
- List the steps to be performed when dealing with issues.
- Identify best practices for designing and distributing agendas.
- Differentiate between various agenda items to be discussed for different purposes.
- Recognize best practices for preparing slides for use in meetings.
- Identify important pre-presentation tips.
- Recognize both verbal and physical platform skills.
- Identify best practices for meeting reviews.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Managing Meetings and Presentations" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 5/11/2023
Managing People: Best Practices for a Better Office v1.1
You have probably heard the saying that "employees quit managers - not companies." Perhaps this has never been more true than now - when many people are working from home, and the only contact they often have with their employer is through their manager. There can be no doubt that one of the most important parts of being a leader is cultivating a good team. But how do you do that - especially if you don't have a background in human resources? In this course, we will explore how financial leaders can be better managers. Through case studies, statistics, and sharing best practices, we will explore how to get the best from employees and create an environment that employees want to come back to, day in and day out.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify which employee benefits employees care about the most according to survey data
- Recognize basic employment documents
- State the major parts of the employee handbook
- Name the major leadership styles and behavioral biases that exhibit themselves in the workplace
- Distinguish factors to consider before writing an employee recommendation letter
Author/Speaker: David R. Peters, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled " Managing People: Best Practices for a Better Office" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Managing Your Balance Sheet v2.1
The balance sheet is one of four financial statements used by management and users to manage the operations of a business and report periodically on the financial status of the organization. The goal of this course is to enable the user to understand the concepts and elements of the balance sheet. This course also discusses bases of accounting, valuation issues, and balance sheet ratio analysis.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the four basic financial statements and their elements
- Define the balance sheet
- Recognize the different bases of accounting for the preparation of financial statements
- Describe the method of classifying and valuing elements of the balance sheet
- Recognize balance sheet analysis techniques including their use in managing your business
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Manage Your Balance Sheet: What Is a Balance Sheet and Why Is It Important to My Business?" has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: ?
Managing and Improving Your Cash Flow: Part 1 v3.0
Cash is the lifeblood of a business. Sound cash management is the key to the survival of any business. You can go broke even while making a profit. Profit is measured on an accrual basis in accounting. This course, Managing and Improving Your Cash Flow: Part 1, along with Part 2 and Part 3 of the series, alerts you to the difference between profit and cash flow and teaches you the tools and techniques to increase and manage your cash flow effectively.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize cash flow and recognize factors that affect cash flow.
- Identify the difference between accounting profits and other profits.
- Recognize how to compute and analyze cash liquidity.
- Recognize the items recorded within a statement of cash flows.
- Recognize items used for internal control and audit procedures.
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 3/31/2023
Managing and Improving Your Cash Flow: Part 2 v3.0
Cash is the lifeblood of a business. Sound cash management is the key to the survival of any business. You can go broke even while making a profit. Profit is measured on an accrual basis in accounting. This course, Managing and Improving Your Cash Flow: Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 of the series, alerts you to the difference between profit and cash flow and teaches you the tools and techniques to increase and manage your cash flow effectively.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the benefits of cash forecasting and cash flow differences.
- Identify traits of a well-managed accounts payable system.
- Identify methods to delay cash payments for purchases, expenses, and payroll.
- Identify collection problems.
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 3/30/2023
Managing and Improving Your Cash Flow: Part 3 v3.0
Cash is the lifeblood of a business. Sound cash management is the key to the survival of any business. You can go broke even while making a profit. Profit is measured on an accrual basis in accounting. This course, Managing and Improving Your Cash Flow: Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 of the series alerts you to the difference between profit and cash flow and teaches you the tools and techniques to increase and manage your cash flow effectively.
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Learning Objectives
- Recognize the process for bank reconciliation and the use of float.
- Identify some methods used for transferring funds and accelerating cash inflow.
- Identify ways to help with financing cash requirements for the business.
- Recognize the five Cs of credit and the criteria used by bankers for lending.
- Identify the benefits of Zero-Balance Accounts (ZBAs).
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 3/30/2023
Master the Remote Audit v1.1
This course provides an overview of a remote audit along with some of the issues that you are going to have with this type of audit. This course also addresses the challenges/benefits of a remote audit, applying concepts in the audit standards to a virtual audit experience, and developing procedures to ensure a high level of quality despite being remote.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize challenges and benefits of remote audits.
- Identify new audit standards impacting the audit process.
- Recognize key principles related to planning the remote audit.
- Identify going concern disclosures and requirements related to government assistance loans.
Speaker/Author: Rebecca Lee
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Master the Remote Audit" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 5/31/2023
Masterful Time Management v2.1
This course provides an overview of mastering time management. This includes a discussion of countering bad habits which contribute to time erosion as well as using principles of excellent time management. This course also addresses how to engage your time management tool regularly and how to manage your time both creatively and reactively.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize causes of time management breakdowns.
- Identify best practices for budgeting time.
- Identify principles of effective time management.
- Differentiate between the three "Is" of time.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Masterful Time Management v2.0," has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 2/26/2024
Misappropriation of Assets v3.0
In this course, you will learn techniques to identify, detect and prevent asset misappropriation. Asset misappropriation schemes, while Not the largest from a dollar standpoint, are the most common type of occupational fraud. The fraud triangle will be discussed in the context of these schemes. The absence of strong internal controls often provides the opportunity element of the fraud triangle. Pressure and rationalization, the other elements of the fraud triangle, are unique to the individual. Strengthening internal controls, particularly segregation of duties, helps to prevent future asset misappropriation in the organization.
Learning Objectives:
- Define misappropriation of assets
- Summarize the 2018 Report to the Nations, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
- Describe the fraud triangle in the context of misappropriations of assets
- Identify common internal control weaknesses
- Identify and describe common misappropriation of assets frauds
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Speaker/Author: John Fleming, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 2/01/2024
Modern Portfolio Theory and Stock Market Valuation Techniques v1.1
In this course, the development and adoption of modern portfolio theory (MPT) is described including expected return, standard deviation of returns as a measure of risk, the Capital Markets Line, the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) and Arbitrage Pricing Theory (APT). The tools of MPT are widely used in today’s investment world to evaluate and select portfolio managers, mutual funds, and hedge funds. These tools have created standards for comparing performance and risk across different markets and investment styles. Most importantly, they have helped investors appreciate and implement the benefits of diversification as a risk-management tool.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the characteristics of an efficient market.
- Identify the appropriate number of securities an investor should hold in order to achieve optimal diversification.
- Differentiate between systematic and nonsystematic risk.
- Recognize the use of standard deviation and beta with respect to a security.
- Identify a portfolio that has achieved an efficient frontier.
- Recognize how the coefficient of determination is used with respect to a security.
- Calculate the P/E ratio.
Speaker/Author: Rich White
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic knowledge of finance principles and practices.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Modern Portfolio Theory and Stock Market Valuation Techniques" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/27/2023
Mutual Fund Basics v1.1
Mutual funds have become more and more popular as a way for investors to save for retirement and other long-term financial goals. This popularity is partially due to the fact that mutual funds are available to a wide range of investors at a variety of economic levels. Many mutual funds have account opening minimum requirements that are small enough to provide the opportunity for many people to purchase mutual funds. The systematic investment plans that allow regular contributions have opened mutual fund investing up to an even larger segment of the investing public.
This program will cover the basic elements of mutual fund investing for individuals wanting to include mutual funds in their financial plan. The topics that will be covered include: how mutual funds are organized and how they function; the three types of mutual funds; how mutual funds are priced; how mutual funds are purchased and sold; how they earn money for the investor; how they are regulated.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the characteristics of a mutual fund.
- Identify the key characteristics of various types of mutual funds including stock funds, bond funds, and money market funds.
- Identify the types of funds that invest in high-quality, short-term investments issued by the U.S. government.
- Recognize the types of investors that would be more inclined to invest in money market mutual funds.
- Distinguish between the types of mutual fund fees, including those that are paid out by the mutual fund assets.
Speaker/Author: Rich White
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic knowledge of finance principles and practices.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Mutual Fund Basics" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/18/2023
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
This course provides an overview of the reporting and other considerations with respect to non-GAAP financial measures.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize examples of different types of non-GAAP financial measures
- Identify SEC guidance applicable to types of non-GAAP financial measures
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/25/2023
Non-GAAP Financial Measures - What You Need to Know v1.1
This course provides an overview of non-GAAP financial measures with a particular emphasis on comments from the SEC, the FASB, as well as comment letter analysis from several of the Big 4 accounting firms. Non-GAAP financial measures continue to rank at the top of the most frequent comment letters issued by the SEC. As a result, it's important to understand the guidance with respect to these measures to ensure that an entity's financial statements remain GAAP compliant and are not misleading.
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate between a GAAP financial measure and a non-GAAP financial measure
- Recognize examples of different types of non-GAAP financial measures
- Identify which SEC guidance is applicable to different types of non-GAAP financial measures
- Recognize disclosures within the scope of Regulation G
- Identify key requirements included within both Regulation G and Regulation S-K related to these measures
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled " Non-GAAP Financial Measures - What You Need to Know", has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/02/2024
Non-Statistical Sampling for Efficient Audits
Many auditors do little sampling in their audits because of the misconception that sampling must be statistical. This course illustrates the non-statistical sampling guidance in the current AICPA Audit Sampling Guide relating to non-statistical applications designed to improve audit engagement efficiency.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify what is and is not considered a sampling procedure
- Recognize considerations for determining sample sizes for non-statistical sampling applications
- Identify key questions to be considered when performing non-statistical sampling techniques
- Differentiate between sampling techniques and the evaluation of sampling results
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA
Last Review Date: 6/07/2022
North Carolina Regulatory Ethics: Practical Guidance
Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury serve as needed guardrails designed to regulate professional behaviors for individuals working in both public accounting and in industry. During this session, we'll review two important publications issued by these rule making bodies:
- The AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Circular 230, Regulations Governing Practice before the Internal Revenue Service
Additionally, we'll examine the tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends.
This course fulfills the 1-credit annual general ethics requirement for North Carolina CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 8/1/24
Not-for-Profit Accounting: Reporting and Analysis
The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) provides guidance for communication of a not-for-profit organization’s (NFPO) financial performance and condition to stakeholders (e.g. donors, grantors, creditors). To assist management and auditors in preparing financial statements and performing engagements, this course provides an overview of the accounting and reporting framework applicable to NFPOs that apply FASB standards. It also discusses accounting by specific nonprofits - colleges and universities, voluntary health and welfare organizations, and health care entities. Finally, the course describes financial analysis and ratios that can be useful to analyze the financial fitness of NFPOs.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the objectives of financial reporting by not-for-profit organizations (NFPOs)
- Identify financial statement presentation and disclosure for NFPOs
- Recognize how net assets are affected by different types of transactions
- Recognize the method of grouping expenses according to the purpose for which costs are incurred
- Distinguish between a contribution and an exchange transaction
- Distinguishing between conditional and unconditional contributions
- Recognize net asset presentation requirements of higher education
- Identify major functional expense classes of voluntary health and welfare organizations
- Recognize accounting rules of charity care and malpractice claims for private not-for-profit hospitals
- Recognize different examples of ratio analysis
Speaker/Author: Steve Spafford, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 5/09/2023
Ohio Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Oregon Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast pace world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Speaker/Author: Frank Castillo
Last Review Date: 5/09/2024
Organizational Communication v1.1
What is organizational communication? Basically, the term refers to the process by which people within organizations communicate with others to achieve common objectives and goals. The main goal of this course is to address a number of organizational communication topics. With this in mind, the course is broken into the following major topics: Formal & Informal Communication, Internal Communication, External Communication, Organizational Communication Plans, Organizational Communication Strategies, Organizational Communication Networks, Organizational Communication Flow, Organizational Communication Channels, Communication Assessment, Managing Organizational Communication, Barriers to Organizational Communication, Effective Organizational Communication, Millennial Workers’ Communication Qualities and Workplace Preferences, and Communication Suggestions.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish between formal and informal communication in organizations.
- Distinguish between organizational communication plans, strategies, networks, and flow.
- Determine techniques for managing organizational communication.
- Identify common barriers to organizational communication and common organizational communication suggestions.
Author/Speaker: Robert Insley
Last Review Date: 12/29/2023
Perfecting Procedural Writing v1.1
This course provides an overview of procedural writing. This includes a discussion of the scope and list of elements to include in a procedure and how to create a sequence that readers can immediately understand. This course also addresses how to use visual aids that highlight the key points and how to edit instructions precisely to ensure proper task completion.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify elements to include in a procedure
- Recognize qualities of effective procedures
- List the 3 A's of audience analysis
- Identify best practices for writing instructions and safety considerations
- Recognize the goals of usability testing
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo, Ed.D
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Perfecting Procedural Writing" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 2/22/2024
Perform Like a Rock Star and Still Have Time for Lunch v2.0
This course is designed for busy professionals who juggle too many deadlines, multiple projects and conflicting demands. By revisiting the Rules of Time Management, identifying the real priorities and developing an action plan that ensures success, attendees develop the habit of peak performance to maximize their productivity on a daily basis.
This updated workshop also tackles the challenges of delegating successfully and achieving a breakthrough goal with strategies to accomplish more than you ever thought possible. Get ready to rock your world.
Learning Objectives:
- Use their Prime Time to focus on those things that will help achieve success at work and in their personal lives.
- Identify and accomplish their real priorities.
- Defeat procrastination.
- Recognize how to delegate for success
- Create a breakthrough goal to up-level every aspect of their life
Speaker/Author: Orna Drawas
Present Like a Rock Star and Still Have Time for Lunch
Strong presentation skills in any situation are core to personal and professional success. Great speakers are able to connect with their audience in ways that build trust and credibility in order to share ideas and influence thoughts. This workshop delivers innovative ideas, knowledge and tactics that will help you be a more successful communicator - in stand-up presentations, business meetings and in everyday interactions.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop and define their own unique presentation style
- Recognize how to structure an attention-grabbing presentation that will deliver the facts and impact the audience
- Determine the best way to create a powerful and memorable conclusion
- Cultivate confidence to build credibility and trust with the audience
Speaker/Author: Orna Drawas
Last Review Date: 4/19/2024
Principles of Cloud Computing: Perspectives on Business, Technology, and Cost v1.1
This course provides an overview of overall cloud and traditional concepts related to computer-based systems that impact customer and non-customer applications. The course focuses on different application architectures and discusses database components that make up a multi-tier solution. Additionally, this course also addresses concepts related to dedicated systems, the basics of cloud solutions, as well as the future of cloud-based solutions.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the basics of applications and systems architectures.
- Recognize basic networking concepts and system components.
- Identify and differentiate between on-premise and cloud computing platforms.
Author/Speaker: John Brooks
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Principles of Cloud Computing: Perspectives on Business, Technology, and Cost" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. You cannot receive credit for this course again if you have already received credit for this course.
Last Review Date: 5/05/2023
Professional Excellence: Appearance v1.1
This is the second course of a five-part series, A STAR is Born: Becoming a Professional of Excellence. Workplace excellence is defined by the expectations of employees to be appropriate-demonstrated by wise judgement and decision-making skills; believable-demonstrated through competence; and credible-demonstrated through integrity. The evidence of these skills occurs via the giving, receiving, or exchanging of information between individuals. This exchange happens continuously, and often unconsciously, in all workplace encounters through appearance. Professionals of Excellence (POE) use their appearance strategically to create positive lasting impressions and take control of how others see them. The goal of the second course is to provide tips and techniques in "impression management" in the area of appearance.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the characteristics of workplace excellence and impression management
- Recognize the four categories of business professional attire
- Differentiate between the four categories of business professional attire
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D. IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Professional Excellence: Appearance" has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again."
Last Review Date: 9/18/2023
Professional Excellence: Being Brand Awesome! v1.1
This is the fifth course of a five-part series, A STAR is Born: Becoming a Professional of Excellence. Effectively adopting and executing Dr. White's ABC Model of Professional Presence positions the individual contributor (IC) as a contender for progressive movement up the corporate ladder. The IC is now noticed by organization leadership as high potential. The IC is identified, regarded, and appreciated as an asset, with the potential to positively affect the organizations bottom-line in service to the organization, clients, and customers. This final course in the series shares insights into navigating the corporate culture landscape.
Learning Objectives:
- Define what is meant by being brand awesome.
- Recognize the stages of growth and development in professional skills.
- Differentiate between career advance frameworks and organizational positions.
- Recognize characteristics of the optimum career trajectory.
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Professional Excellence: Being Brand Awesome!", has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 12/21/2023
Professional Excellence: Body Language and Communication v1.1
This is the third course of a five-part series, A STAR is Born: Becoming a Professional of Excellence. Workplace excellence is defined by the expectations of employees to be appropriate-demonstrated by wise judgment and decision-making skills; believable-demonstrated through competence; and credible-demonstrated through integrity. The evidence of these skills occurs via the giving, receiving or exchanging of information between individuals. This exchange happens continuously and often unconsciously, in all workplace encounters through body language and communication. Professionals of Excellence (POE) use their body language and communication strategically to create positive lasting impressions and take control of how others see them. The goal of the third course is to provide tips and techniques in "impression management" in the areas of body language and communication.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the key characteristics of impression management
- List the ABCs of professional excellence
- Identify and differentiate between the five types of language
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled " Professional Excellence: Body Language and Communication" has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again."
Last Review Date: 9/18/2023
Professional Excellence: Deliverables and Etiquette v1.1
This is the fourth course of a five-part series, A STAR is Born: Becoming a Professional of Excellence. Workplace excellence is defined by the expectations of employees to be appropriate-demonstrated by wise judgement and decision-making skills; believable-demonstrated through competence; and credible-demonstrated through integrity. The evidence of these skills occurs via the giving, receiving, or exchanging of information between individuals. This exchange happens continuously and often unconsciously, in all workplace encounters through deliverables, also known as work products, as well as etiquette and social skills. Professionals of Excellence (POE) use deliverables, etiquette, and social skills strategically to create positive lasting impressions and take control of how others see them. The goal of the fourth course is to provide tips and techniques in "impression management" in the areas of deliverables (work product), etiquette and social skills.
Learning Objectives:
- List the steps in the ALERT planning process
- Identify the three big Ps of self-management issues
- Recognize what high potentials do
- Identify best practices of etiquette and social skills
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Professional Excellence: Deliverables and Etiquette", has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 12/21/2023
Professional Excellence: Overview v1.1
This is the first course of a five-part series, A STAR is Born: Becoming a Professional of Excellence. It is an introduction to Dr. White’s ABC Model of Professional Presence, defined as being appropriate, believable and credible through appearance, body language, communication, deliverables (work product), and etiquette (dining and social skills). The goal of the first course is to explain the power of White’s ABC Model of Professional Presence as the framework to becoming Professionals of Excellence (POE) via the mastery of impression management.
Learning Objectives:
- Define excellence in the workplace
- Define impression management
- Differentiate the four stages of growth and development in professional skills
- List the components of the ABCs of Professional Presence
Author/Speaker: Belinda Johnson White, Ph.D.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Professional Excellence: Overview" has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 7/12/2023
Puerto Rico Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast-paced world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a review of standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 3-hour general ethics requirement for Puerto Rico CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 8/1/24
Qualitative Test of Goodwill Impairment
This course provides an overview of the qualitative test for goodwill impairment.
Learning Objective:
- Identify the level at which goodwill impairment testing should be performed
- Recognize the events and circumstances that should be considered for purposes of the qualitative test of goodwill impairment
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/24/2023
Real World Inventory Frauds: Lessons for Auditors v1.1
The purpose of this course is to review past inventory frauds to identify risk factors commonly associated with intentional inventory misstatements. This includes identifying basic auditing concepts, issues, and procedures related to the audit of inventory. This course also includes real-world cases in which companies released financial statements that contained material misstatements of inventory.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the impacts of material inventory misstatements.
- Identify management assertions related to inventory and the steps involved in applying an assertion-based auditing strategy.
- Recognize fraud risk factors as well as past inventory misstatement examples.
- Identify strategies for reducing the risk of failing to detect inventory misstatements.
Speaker/Author: Michael Chris Knapp
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Real World Inventory Frauds: Lessons for Auditors" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 5/15/2023
Regulatory Ethics: Practical Guidance
Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury serve as needed guardrails designed to regulate professional behaviors for individuals working in both public accounting and in industry. During this session, we’ll review two important publications issued by these rule making bodies:
- The AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Circular 230, Regulations Governing Practice before the Internal Revenue Service
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- dentify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today’s fast pace world. We’ll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a practical review of regulatory bodies and standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the “remote office”. Specifically, we’ll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 11/15/2023
Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
- A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends
- An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by
- Changes to the current CPA licensure model and
- Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Resolve Conflict Like a Rock Star and Still Have Time for Lunch v2.0
Whether in the workplace or the home, conflict is inevitable. If ignored or responded to ineffectively, conflict can create hostility and disconnect with others. However, if productively managed, conflict can promote personal growth, harmony in relationships and greater success at work. This course teaches the consummate formula for approaching and resolving conflict that creates a personal win-win and quality business outcomes.
This updated workshop also introduces the student to five conflict behavior styles and encourages them to identify their own style and typical reaction to conflict. They then learn the benefits of each behavior style and are encouraged to try different styles where another behavior might lead to better results.
Learning Objectives:
- Turn conflict into a constructive tool for change.
- Identify the five common behavior styles and reactions to conflict
- Recognize their own behavior during a conflict and when a different behavior might lead to better results.
- Define and apply the 4-step process to effectively resolve most conflict situations.
Speaker/Author: Orna Drawas
Revenue Recognition - Contract Assessment v1.1
This course provides an overview of the first step in the revenue recognition process - the identification of a contract with a customer. This includes a discussion of key definitions and considerations along with the detailed accounting guidance from ASC Topic 606. This course incorporates excerpts from the FASB's basis for conclusions of the new revenue recognition standard as well as key excerpts from Big 4 revenue recognition guides in order to develop a comprehensive understanding of this step in the process.
Learning Objectives:
- List the five steps involved in the new revenue recognition model
- Recognize the overall considerations involved in identifying whether a contract exists
- Identify how collectability is assessed to determine whether a contract exists
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Revenue Recognition - Contract Assessment", has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 1/02/2024
Revenue Recognition - Part 1 v3.0
In 2014, after years of deliberations, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the FASB) and the International Accounting Standards Board (the IASB) jointly issued the Accounting Standard Update (ASU) No. 2014-09 (codified primarily in ASC 606) and IFRS 15, respectively. ASC 606 replaces virtually all (including industry-specific) U.S. GAAP revenue guidance with a single model. The standard does not just change the amounts and timing of revenue but potentially affects organizations' financial statements, business processes, and internal control over financial reporting. The standard also affects other related accounting topics such as contract modification, rights of return, licensing, principal-versus-agent considerations, and income tax. Moreover, the standard creates new and expanded disclosure requirements.
This course series, Revenue Recognition - Part 1, 2 and 3, v3.0, reorganizes the guidance contained in ASC 606, to follow the five-step revenue recognition model along with other guidance impacted by this standard. It also provides examples to illustrate the application. The course is designed to help you navigate the complexities of this standard and identify the implications of it. It provides a working knowledge of the fundamentals of the revenue standard that can be applied, regardless of the company size, in the real world.
Part 1 of this series highlights key aspects of the revenue standard that you need to know, including the significant improvements over the legacy revenue recognition literature, the key changes of revenue recognition practice, the applicability of the revenue guideline, the accounting policy elections and practical expedients, along with a summary of the five-step revenue recognition model. It also includes an overview of the differences between U.S. GAAP and IFRS.
Learning Objectives:
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Last Review Date: 11/05/2023
Revenue Recognition - Part 2 v3.0
In 2014, after years of deliberations, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the FASB) and the International Accounting Standards Board (the IASB) jointly issued the Accounting Standard Update (ASU) No. 2014-09 (codified primarily in ASC 606) and IFRS 15, respectively. ASC 606 replaces virtually all (including industry-specific) U.S. GAAP revenue guidance with a single model. The standard does not just change the amounts and timing of revenue but potentially affects organizations' financial statements, business processes, and internal control over financial reporting. The standard also affects other related accounting topics such as contract modification, rights of return, licensing, principal-versus-agent considerations, and income tax. Moreover, the standard creates new and expanded disclosure requirements.
This course series, Revenue Recognition - Part 1, 2 and 3, v3.0, reorganizes the guidance contained in ASC 606, to follow the five-step revenue recognition model along with other guidance impacted by this standard. It also provides examples to illustrate the application. The course is designed to help you navigate the complexities of this standard and identify the implications of it. It provides a working knowledge of the fundamentals of the revenue standard that can be applied, regardless of the company size, in the real world.
Part 2 of the series covers the revenue recognition model that applies to nearly all types of revenue-generating transactions. It includes a detailed discussion of each step of the model and provides examples to illustrate the application. Certain complex arrangements or specific situations, such as principal vs. agent considerations, nonrefundable upfront fees, repurchase agreements, rights with returns, consignment arrangements, and bill-and-hold arrangements, are covered as well.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the steps involved in implementing the new revenue guidelines
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Last Review Date: 11/08/2023
Revenue Recognition - Part 3 v3.0
In 2014, after years of deliberations, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the FASB) and the International Accounting Standards Board (the IASB) jointly issued the Accounting Standard Update (ASU) No. 2014-09 (codified primarily in ASC 606) and IFRS 15, respectively. ASC 606 replaces virtually all (including industry-specific) U.S. GAAP revenue guidance with a single model. The standard does not just change the amounts and timing of revenue but potentially affects organizations' financial statements, business processes, and internal control over financial reporting. The standard also affects other related accounting topics such as contract modification, rights of return, licensing, principal-versus-agent considerations, and income tax. Moreover, the standard creates new and expanded disclosure requirements.
This course series, Revenue Recognition - Part 1, 2 and 3, v3.0, reorganizes the guidance contained in ASC 606, to follow the five-step revenue recognition model along with other guidance impacted by this standard. It also provides examples to illustrate the application. The course is designed to help you navigate the complexities of this standard and identify the implications of it. It provides a working knowledge of the fundamentals of the revenue standard that can be applied, regardless of the company size, in the real world.
Part 3, the final part of this course series, covers Other Revenue Topics, Presentation and Disclosure, and the Internal Control over Financial Reporting.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the presentation and disclosure requirements
- Recognize the requirements for other revenue topics (e.g., warranties, principal-versus agent, licensing)
- Recognize the indicators for potential misstated revenue recognition
Author/Speaker: Steve Spafford, CPA
Last Review Date: 11/08/2023
SEC Top Focus Areas: Non GAAP Financial Measures
This course provides an overview of non-GAAP financial measures with a particular emphasis on comments from the SEC, the FASB, as well as comment letter analysis from several of the Big 4 accounting firms. Non-GAAP financial measures continue to rank at the top of the most frequent comment letters issued by the SEC. As a result, it’s important to understand the guidance with respect to these measures to ensure that a company’s financial statements remain GAAP compliant and are not misleading.
Learning Objectives
- Distinguish between a GAAP and a non-GAAP financial measure
- Recognize examples of different types of non-GAAP financial measures
- Identify SEC guidance applicable to types of non-GAAP financial measures
- Recognize disclosures within the scope of Regulation G and Regulation S-K
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Speaker/Author: Kelen F. Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 6/09/2022
SECURE Act 2.0 – Expanding Retirement Savings
This course reviews and analyzes the SECURE Act 2.0 provisions as they impact employers, retirement plan administrators, employees and savers, and the various government agencies that regulate qualified retirement plans. The analysis is broken down into three groupings, and seven subgroupings. Provisions Impacting Employers includes Changes That Encourage Employee Participation and Provisions That Improve or Simplify Plan Maintenance Requirements. Provisions Primarily Impacting Employees includes Changes Affecting Contributions and Changes Affecting Withdrawals. Sections Requiring Federal Agency Action and Other Provisions includes Agency Actions, Provisions Affecting Annuities, and Other Provisions.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the SECURE Act 2.0 changes that encourage employee participation.
- Identify the Secure Act 2.0 provisions intended to improve or simplify plan maintenance requirements for qualified retirement plans.
- Determine SECURE Act 2.0 provisions that affect employee contributions to qualified plans.
- Determine SECURE Act 2.0 changes that impact employee withdrawals.
- Identify the various agency actions required by SECURE Act 2.0 provisions.
- Recognize the impact of SECURE Act 2.0 on retirement annuities.
- Identify other miscellaneous provisions in the SECURE Act 2.0.
Author/Speaker: Tim Dreyer
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 10/29/2023
Seeing Beyond the Numbers: Financial Statement Analysis for CFOs & Controllers v1.1
Financial statements are a window into what is going on in the day-to-day operations of the company. They help us see what the company's strengths and weaknesses are. However, financial statements can often have different messages depending on the user.
Learning Objectives:
- Indicate how different stakeholders utilize financial statements
- Recognize how flexible budgeting may be used by CFOs and Controllers
- Recall how time series analysis and common size financial statements are used in trend analysis
- Calculate liquidity, leverage, and profitability ratios
- Identify the uses and limitations of ratio analysis
Author/Speaker: David R. Peters, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Seeing Beyond the Numbers: Financial Statement Analysis for CFOs & Controllers" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Segment Reporting Basics
This course provides a general overview of the accounting and reporting requirements with respect to segment reporting. The accounting and reporting guidance related to segment reporting is prescribed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB ) in ASC Topic 280. This course focuses on topics such as the identification of the chief operating decision maker (CODM ), the determination of operating segments, and the determination of reportable segments. This course also provides information on disclosure requirements for both reportable segment and entity-wide.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key characteristics of operating segments and the chief operating decision maker
- Identify the quantitative thresholds used for reportable segments
- Recognize disclosure requirements for reportable segments as well as entity-wide disclosures
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl
Last Review Date: 9/29/2023
Segment Reporting Requirements
This course provides an overview of the reporting requirements with respect to segment reporting.
Learning Objective:
- Identify key characteristics of operating segments and the quantitative thresholds used for reportable segments
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/24/2023
Selling for the 21st Century v2.0
This course outlines professional sales principles, including: addressing the internal and external customer; identifying effective presentation skills; eliciting customer needs and expectations; countering negative reactions; and negotiating the sale. It continues with personal selling skills, including: identifying and overcoming internal blocks; recognizing your selling potential; knowing how to motivate yourself; projecting a professional image; and establishing a win/win relationship.
Important: This course, "Selling for the 21st Century v2.0" has been republished in our new course platform. There has been a slight change to the course id; however, the content is the same, with only minor updates. Also, the course was previously titled as "Selling for the 21st Century (Updated)" Please be aware that this is the same course; if you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Learning Objectives:
After completing this course, the course participant should be able to:
- Identify four major communication styles for effective selling.
- Determine techniques for adapting to the customer's communication style.
- Recognize important elements of negotiation.
Speaker / Author: Kay Francis
Last Review Date: 2/17/2022
Sexual Harassment Prevention: What You Can Do v1.1
The floodgates are open, and an issue that, until recently, had been barely discussed is now out of the shadows and in the limelight. The subject of sexual harassment has gained unprecedented attention in the workplace, along with allegations against scores of high-profile executives. Patricia Reilly, chair of the employment and labor group at Murtha Cullina LLP, reminds financial executives of why they must be concerned with sexual harassment as well as what they can do to prevent it in their workplace.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain how sexual harassment prevention can reduce enterprise costs.
- Define "sexual harassment" under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
- Distinguish "quid-pro-quo" sexual harassment from "hostile work environment".
- Identify how workers and supervisors can protect against a hostile work environment.
Speaker/Author: Patricia Reilly
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in management.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Sexual Harassment Prevention: What You Can Do" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/28/2023
Share-Based Compensation v1.1
This course provides an overview of the accounting guidance prescribed by ASC 718 related to share-based compensation. This includes a discussion of recently issued ASUs, characteristics of awards classified as equity vs. liabilities, and issues frequently encountered by private companies. Additionally, this course also includes a discussion of disclosure requirements, SEC comments letter trends, as well as differences in U.S. GAAP vs. IFRS requirements.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize key recognition and subsequent measurement guidance for share-based compensation.
- Identify significant changes in ASC 718 based on recently issued standard updates.
- Differentiate between K421awards accounted for as equity vs. liabilities.
- Recognize key differences between U.S. GAAP and IFRS guidance with respect to share-based compensation.
Speaker/Author: Deborah Rose, CPA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Share-Based Compensation" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/11/2023
Significant Unusual Transactions
This course provides an overview of significant unusual transactions as prescribed by SAS 135 - the standard intended to more closely align Auditing Standards Board guidance with the PCAOB. This course provides an overview of both the major and minor changes to the risk assessment process as well as the related documentation requirements.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize characteristics of significant unusual transactions
- Identify changes as a result of the issuance of SAS 135
- Recognize both major and minor changes to the risk assessment process
Speaker/Author: Rebecca Lee
Last Review Date: 11/10/2021
Social Media Mastery: A Beginner's Guide to Success
This course provides a comprehensive overview of social media marketing for beginners. Whether you're new to social media or looking to enhance your existing skills, this course will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in today's digital landscape.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the fundamentals of social media marketing.
- Learn how to create engaging content across various platforms.
- Gain insights into audience targeting and engagement strategies.
- Discover tools and techniques for measuring success on social media
Speaker/Author: Diamond Nurse
Last Review Date: 3/25/2024
South Carolina Regulatory Ethics: Professional Standards Overview
Regulatory Ethics serves both the public as well as our own collective interests. Accounting practitioners are commonly referred to by our clients as their "most trusted advisor". However, that description can only be earned when our professional foundation is rooted in ethical behavior. This session providers learners with an essential overview of our regulatory ethics environment including: A discussion of the central tenets of accounting ethics including a review of recent trends, An overview of rule-making bodies that practitioners must abide by, Changes to the current CPA licensure model, and Ethical standards pronounced by the AICPA and the Department of the Treasury.
This course fulfills the 2-credit annual general ethics requirement for South Carolina CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Identify key concepts practitioners should be mindful of when practicing across different jurisdictions.
- Recall various ethical standards pronounced by select rule-making bodies.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 8/1/24
Standards for Tennessee CPAs: State Specific Ethics - 2024
- Recognize where to find the Tennessee Accountancy Act regulations within the Tennessee Code
- Identify key firm permit and license renewal requirements
- Recognize the requirements with respect to Continuing Professional Education
- Identify requirements related to peer reviews
- List the steps in conceptual framework process
Last Review Date: 4/29/2024
Strategic Performance Measurement and Management Implementation v2.1
This course presents a model for implementing strategic performance measurement and management (SPM²) systems using field-tested methods derived from organizations that have been identified as sites of ''best practice.'' Practical and effective transformation management methods from a ''systems thinking'' perspective are included to enhance the work of those who wish to implement a SPM² system. It will benefit managers, executives, and others who wish to explore or implement SPM² systems in their organizations and who wish to have a comprehensive and integrated model for building such systems. This course is directed particularly at organizations that are trouble in one or both of the following areas: reaching consensus and clarity on strategic objectives and intentions, and; achieving appropriate focus among activities and action programs competing for time and resources.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the process for implementing strategic performance measurement and management systems.
- Determine real-life examples of communicating and linking corporate strategy during implementation of strategic performance measurement and management systems.
- Recommend real-life examples of planning and target setting during implementation of strategic performance measurement and management systems.
- Choose real-life examples of feedback and strategic learning during implementation of strategic performance measurement and management systems.
- Identify information technology's (IT) critical role in strategic performance measurement and the Balanced Scorecard.
Speaker/Author: Charles Davis
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Strategic Performance Measurement and Management Implementation" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 4/18/2023
Strategic Planning Process v1.1
Company executives operate their company in a constantly evolving competitive market with certain advantages and disadvantages of their organization. These executives need to continuously monitor changing industry and competitive dynamics while building their company's sustainability and shareholder value. This course provides an overview of how to evaluate a company’s strategic position and future prospects.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of strategic planning, and the role of management in the strategic planning process.
- Identify the methods used to assess a company's present competitive position, its best strategic direction, and its best actions to achieve its objectives.
- Recognize frequently-used concepts and approaches to evaluate a company's industry and competitive environment.
- Identify internal company and external industry drivers of the company's cost structure.
Speaker/Author: Mark D. Mishler, MBA, CPA, CMA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Strategic Planning Process" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 5/04/2023
Stress Management Principles v3.0
This course provides an overview of stress and how stress can affect an individual's everyday life. The course also defines and provides examples of stress, describes the effect of stress on one's body, and list internal and external symptoms of stress. The course also provides techniques for reducing and releasing stress as well as how to cope with workplace stress.
Learning Objectives:
- Define the effects of stress.
- Recognize the warning signs of stress.
- Distinguish between the different types of stress.
- Recognize means for controlling and relieving stress.
- Specify ways to maintain life balance.
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled " Stress Management Principles v2.0" has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 10/24/2023
Sustainability (ESG) Reporting v2.0
Sustainability reporting is becoming commonplace for many companies as more companies are interested in reporting on their company’s contributions towards promoting prosperity and economic growth while protecting the planet and people across three interconnected core elements. These include environments, social, and governance. This course provides an overview sustainability reporting and the organizations involved in establishing sustainability reporting standards.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe sustainability reporting and its objectives
- Identify and describe the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive
- Describe the disclosure requirements in IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 issued by the International Sustainability Standards Board
- Describe the SEC’s guidance regarding disclosure related to climate change
- Apply the COSO report, Achieving Effective Internal Control Over Sustainability Reporting
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 11/06/2023
Tax Ethics v3.0
This course discusses ethical issues associated with the performance of tax services. It addresses Treasury Department Circular 230, the AICPA's Standards for Tax Services, tax preparer penalties, and related sections of the AICPA's Code of Professional Conduct.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify continuing education requirements for enrolled agents and other categories of tax preparers.
- Differentiate between the various subparts of the regulations governing practice with the IRS.
- Define what is considered de minimis with respect to determining if a tax preparer is preparing a substantial portion of a tax return.
- Differentiate between individuals that would or would not be considered tax return preparers and whether a PTIN is required in accordance with IRS regulations.
- Identify and differentiate between various tax preparer penalties.
- Identify the various threats to a member's independence with respect to the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and sections that specifically relate to tax practice.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Speaker/Author: Kenneth Heaslip, CPA
Last Review Date: 3/21/2023
The Impact of Cloud Computing on Business and IT v2.0
Cloud Computing has proven to be the most effective method of storage and security used by organizations today. It is not only efficient, but it is a powerful tool that will only expand its reach in the future. This course is focused on how cloud computing is changing the nature of business applications, particularly as they impact information technology. The course material explores company organization structures, the future of in-house IT groups, and the global implications of cloud computing.
The first major section delves into a major future business dynamic that is affecting corporations around the world - the cybernetic economy. The key features and ingredients of this new economy are explained, the major transition elements are presented, and the implications for corporate organization are discussed. Next, the future of in-house IT groups is explored in depth. Key topics include process versus technology, traditional IT role versus a new focus on adding value, what needs to happen within IT to make it a value-added function, and the key attributes that IT needs to foster to effectively participate in a real-time global economy. The final section covers global implications of the new world within IT. The material covers how networks of independent people now use cloud computing, major features of cloud computing, and why the expanded use of cloud computing in business is a foregone conclusion.
Speaker/Author: Troy McMillan
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the definition of a cybernetic economy.
- Identify the impact of cloud computing on organizational structures.
- Identify the new purpose of IT.
- Recall the three desirable characteristics of an organization in the cybernetic economy.
Last reviewed: 04/03/23
The Next Step: Succession Planning Fundamentals & Basic Documents
Succession planning is never at the top of the list, yet it is often among the most important things a company does. The successful passing of the torch to tomorrow’s leaders can often mean the difference between a business thriving or faltering in the next generation. Through case studies and the review of research, this course will examine what succession planning is, what makes it successful, and why we put it off!
Learning Objectives:
- List the insights into succession planning offered by academic research
- Define the differences between a cross-purchase agreement and an entity purchase agreement
- Describe how succession planning can be accomplished through entity formation documents
- List the elements of successful communication of succession plans to company stakeholders
- Describe best practices when formulating executive training programs according to research
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic corporate tax, contract law, and human resources knowledge
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 9/08/2022
The Office of Tomorrow
2020 became the year of the virtual office. The velocity of change firms and private organizations experienced was jarring. What will tomorrow bring? We'll look towards the horizon to view trends and licensure changes impacting the future of our profession during this course.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key trends concerning work from the office versus remote work.
- Recall tips employees can use to become efficient in their everyday work.
- Identify proposed changes to the CPA licensure model.
- Recall what impact remote workspaces will have on the office of tomorrow.
The Power of Storytelling v1.1
This course provides an overview of the power of storytelling. This includes a discussion of the value of story to include benefits, traditions, and elements, as well as the crafting of story, which addresses uses, sources, cautions, and tips. Finally, this course also covers the telling of story with a discussion of different types of stories as well as various examples.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize traditions of stories and the key benefits of being a good storyteller.
- Identify story structure and differentiate between characters.
- List key elements of a plot and the different types of stories.
- Recognize key storytelling tips.
- Differentiate between various storytelling case studies.
Speaker/Author: Philip Vassallo
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "The Power of Storytelling" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 2/23/2024
The Remote Office: Alabama Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
- Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
- Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
- Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
This course fulfills the 2-credit annual general ethics requirement for Alabama CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 8/1/24
The Remote Office: Regulatory & Ethical Consideration
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we’ll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We’ll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including:
- Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
- Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
- Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Last Review Date: 11/12/2023
The Remote Office: South Carolina Regulatory & Ethical Considerations
Technology has transformed the accounting profession. We are no longer bound by cubicles, office walls or state lines. Modern accounting practices avail themselves to talent without physical limitations. However, we as a professional must be ever mindful of regulatory standards and the safeguarding of confidential client information given this new environment. In this session, we'll begin with a discussion of accounting ethics and recent trends. We'll then move into a larger discussion of ethical considerations for remote employees including<:br>
- Federal and State regulatory standards for confidential information.
- Risk mitigation tips in the event of a data breach, and
- Best practices for employees when working at a remote location.
This course fulfills the 2-credit annual general ethics requirement for South Carolina CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 8/1/24
The Risk Management Process & Insurance Fundamentals
Whether you are new to the risk management process or you are a seasoned pro, it always comes back to the fundamentals. Just like any other industry, insurance professionals have their own language. Through plain language and a commonsense approach, this course explores the steps involved in the risk management process, the elements of a good risk register, as well as what sections make up a standard insurance policy. Whether you are an insurance professional trying to brush up or you are simply trying to better understand the terms in your insurance policy, this course provides a solid foundation for understanding risk management.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the three elements of a loss exposure
- Identify the elements of a client’s risk register
- Distinguish between risk control and risk financing measures
- Indicate the different sections of an insurance policy
Speaker/Author: David R. Peters, CPA
Last Review Date: 10/18/2022
Think on Your Feet Like a Rock Star and Still Have Time for Lunch
Professionals are constantly put on the spot in meetings, presentations, pitching ideas, or simply answering tough questions in impromptu conversations. This course will enable attendees to identify techniques that will help them show confidence and poise in situations that matter.
Learning Objectives:
- Determine a logical, organized and articulate response to an unexpected question.
- Recognize how "the power of the pause" can help take back control of the conversation.
- Deliver a response with poise and confidence.
Speaker/Author: Orna Drawas
Last Review Date: 5/01/2024>
Time Value of Money: Useful Applications: Part 1 v3.0
The Time Value of Money (TVM), a fundamental financial principle, explains the worth of money in relation to time; money received today is worth more than money received in the future. TVM has wide application; from personal financial decisions, and corporate finance, to real estate. For example, TVM calculations help 1) individuals decide how much to save and spend in order to reach a desired financial goal, 2) investors pick the mix of a portfolio, 3) businesses evaluate the future cash flow of capital budgeting projects, and 4) real estate investors determine what price should be paid for a property that generates an estimated series of income. Accountants should also have a working knowledge of TVM factors including compound interest, annuities, and present value because of their application to numerous types of business events and transactions. This course explains the TVM concepts and their application to different financial and investment situations. A series of examples are presented to illustrate the calculations in detail to allow you to learn the application procedure for making sound financial decisions.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the concepts of TVM, compounding, and discounting
- Calculate the present value and future value of various financial transactions
- Recognize how TVM affects the loan amortization
- Identify the application of TVM to bond valuation
- Identify different techniques used to evaluate business investments
Last Review Date: 2/12/2024
Time Value of Money: Useful Applications: Part 2 v3.0
The Time Value of Money (TVM), a fundamental financial principle, explains the worth of money in relation to time; money received today is worth more than money received in the future. TVM has wide application; from personal financial decisions, and corporate finance, to real estate. For example, TVM calculations help 1) individuals decide how much to save and spend in order to reach a desired financial goal, 2) investors pick the mix of a portfolio, 3) businesses evaluate the future cash flow of capital budgeting projects, and 4) real estate investors determine what price should be paid for a property that generates an estimated series of income. Accountants should also have a working knowledge of TVM factors including compound interest, annuities, and present value because of their application to numerous types of business events and transactions. This course explains the TVM concepts and their application to different financial and investment situations. A series of examples are presented to illustrate the calculations in detail to allow you to learn the application procedure for making sound financial decisions.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the concepts of TVM, compounding, and discounting
- Calculate the present value and future value of various financial transactions
- Recognize how TVM affects the loan amortization
- Identify the application of TVM to bond valuation
- Identify different techniques used to evaluate business investments
Last Review Date: 2/11/2024
Understanding Big Data v2.0
This course provides an overview of big data concepts. This includes a discussion of binary conversions, the evolution of big data, as well as data anomalies. This course also includes examples of how big data is being used today by certain companies, the benefits of big data, as well as specific job roles that involve the use of big data.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify common big data concepts including data anomalies.
- Recognize ways in which big data is being used today as well as new types of data.
- Differentiate between various types of job roles involving big data.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Speaker/Author: John Brooks
Last Review Date: 3/15/2023
Understanding FASB Accounting Standard Updates
This course provides an overview of the standard elements of FASB Accounting Standards Updates (ASUs) as well as how to monitor developments from the FASB.
Learning Objective:
- Identify standard elements included within each FASB ASU
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/25/2023
Understanding the SEC Form 8-K
This course provides an overview of the SEC Form 8-K. The Form 8-K is a broad form used to notify investors in U.S. publicly traded companies of certain events that may be important, generally within four business days of the respective triggering event.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the overall purpose of the Form 8-K
- Identify the events that require the filing of a Form 8-K
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None
Author/Speaker: Kelen Camehl, CPA, MBA
Last Review Date: 3/25/2023
Using Data Analytics to Give You a Competitive Advantage: Data Types, Data Inquiries, and Data Integrity (Long Version) v1.1
Through case studies and discussion, this course will explore what data analytics is and how to approach it. Participants will be given scenarios in which to think about the data available, and how it can be applied within specific company contexts. The focus of the course will be on how to approach big data, data analytics, and data integrity, so that participants can better utilize the data available to them in their current working lives.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the elements of a standard Investment Policy Statement (IPS).
Author/Speaker: David R. Peters, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Using Data Analytics to Give You a Competitive Advantage: Data Types, Data Inquiries, and Data Integrity (Long Version)" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Using Data Analytics to Give You a Competitive Advantage: Data Types, Data Inquiries, and Data Integrity (Short Version) v1.1
Through case studies and discussion, this course will explore what data analytics is and how to approach it. Participants will be given scenarios in which to think about the data available, and how it can be applied within specific company contexts. The focus of the course will be on how to approach big data, data analytics, and data integrity, so that participants can better utilize the data available to them in their current working lives.
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate between data analytics and data mining
- List the different dimensions of data
- List the different types of data inquiries that one can make
- Describe how to maintain data integrity in a corporate environment
Author/Speaker: David R. Peters, CPA
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Using Data Analytics to Give You a Competitive Advantage: Data Types, Data Inquiries, and Data Integrity (Short Version)" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Using Excel for Corporate Accounting v1.2
The course provides the foundation for financial professionals who use Excel in their day-to-day activities. This course provides opportunities for you to learn how to create a basic worksheet, identify its parts, and how to use basic functions to create accounting formulas. This course also provides best practices when creating and working with spreadsheets specifically for financial professionals.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Using Excel for Corporate Accounting v1.1," has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the design and key elements of basic financial spreadsheets.
- Identify and locate key spreadsheet components.
- Recognize how to create and use basic formatting functions in spreadsheets.
- Identify methods to secure spreadsheets.
- Differentiate between common Excel functions and formulas.
Author/Speaker: Shahara Ruth
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Basic knowledge of Microsoft Excel and its functionality. Basic knowledge of accounting principles and terminology
Last Review Date: 8/02/2023
War & Finance: How Conflict Affects Markets and Pocketbooks
In times of conflict, clients become keenly aware of how interconnected our economy is. They know that money feels tight, but they are not quite sure why. They often times will turn to you as their financial advisor for answers. In this course, we will explore how the broader economy during times of global conflict affects individuals from a personal finance, investing, and tax perspective. Using plain-language examples and discussion questions, we will explore economic theories that can be used to explain to clients why a war that is far away can affect them in very real ways here at home.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the economic effects of war on countries and individual consumers.
- Recognize the historical effects of inflation on various types of investments.
- Calculate the intrinsic value of an investment using the Gordon Growth Model
- Recall the elements of a standard Investment Policy Statement (IPS)
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: none
Last Review Date: .
Why Data Analytics Are Vital - to Your Enterprise and to You v1.1
As enterprises increasingly rely on digital technologies to conduct their operations, the position of financial executive has evolved into an even more strategic role, with an eye on utilizing new technologies to improve enterprise performance. There is little doubt, according to Withum Digital's Dale Tuttle and John Tate, that data analytics are vital to the future health of an organization as well as to the future well-being of a financial manager's career.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain why financial executives no longer must rely on IT to manage and analyze data.
- Identify the four types of analytics that are used.
- Define what "Big Data" means.
- Distinguish between "artificial intelligence" and "machine learning.
Speaker/Author: Dale Tuttle and John Tate
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in a corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in management.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Why Data Analytics Are Vital - to Your Enterprise and to You" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 5/19/2023
Wisconsin Regulatory Ethics: Professional Considerations in the Modern World
This comprehensive regulatory ethics course is designed for practitioners in today's fast-paced world. We'll begin with a discussion of ethics trends followed by a review of standards practitioners must adhere to. The second half of this course is devoted to the "remote office". Specifically, we'll cover best practices, Federal and State privacy laws, along with a detailed discussion of client information and requirements to safeguard data.
This course fulfills the 3-hour general ethics requirement for Wisconsin CPAs.
Learning Objectives:
- Recall which branch of ethics is closely aligned with regulatory guidance in organizations.
- Identify prevailing global trends in business ethics.
- Recall various threats impacting practitioner independence.
- Identify professional duties governed by Circular 230.
- Recall which regulatory standards apply to tax practitioners concerning confidential client records.
- Identify which states have adopted privacy laws for business entities.
- Recall best practices in connection with remote workers.
Author/Speaker: Frank Castillo
Last reviewed: 8/1/24
Working Capital Management v2.1
This course provides an overview of the principles of managing an organization’s working capital effectively. The goal of working capital management is to ensure that an entity is able to maintain its operations and can satisfy both maturing debt and upcoming operating expenses. The management of working capital involves managing working inventory, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and cash.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe working capital and working capital management
- Identify current assets and current liabilities
- Describe working capital analysis techniques, including their use in managing working capital
- Identify appropriate financing sources and uses.
Author/Speaker: John M. Fleming, CPA, MBA
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Working Capital Management" has been republished. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 8/29/2023
Writing Effective Business Reports and Proposals v1.1
This course contains information that will strengthen your ability to develop effective business reports and proposals. In doing so, the information addressed in this program focuses on the following major topics: Business Report Roles, Business Report Categories, Business Report Types, Report & Proposal Development Tools, Conducting Research for Business Reports & Proposals, Business Report Styles, Formal Business Reports, Business Proposals, Visual Elements, Business Report & Proposal Writing Suggestions, Writing Business Reports & Proposals Collaboratively, and Qualities of Effective Business Reports & Proposals.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize business report roles, categories and types.
- Identify business report and proposal development tools.
- Identify visual elements common in business reports and proposals.
- Recognize business report and proposal writing suggestions.
- Identify the qualities of effective business reports and proposals.
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: None.
Author/Speaker: Robert Insley
Last Review Date: 12/29/2023
Your Ethics Program: How To Make It Work v1.1
It almost goes without saying that organizations, and their financial executives, do want to act ethically. Yet, why do so many corporate ethics programs fail to have an impact on worker conduct? Here, Mary Jo Green and Susan Koski-Grafer, who serve on the board of advisors of H.S. Grace & Company, explain why your success at building and maintaining ethical behavior requires much more than simply talking about integrity or issuing guidelines for moral conduct.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the best practices for an organization's ethics code.
- Distinguish between the rewards for good behavior and the punishment for bad behavior.
- Determine how to set the "tone at the top".
- Identify how and why to encourage whistleblowers to speak up.
Speaker/Author: Mary Jo Green and Susan Koski-Grafer
Prerequisites/Advanced Preparation: Work experience in corporate staff environment, or an introductory course in ethics.
IMPORTANT: This course, previously titled "Your Ethics Program: How To Make It Work" has been republished in our current course platform. Please be aware that the content is the same, with only minor updates. If you have already received credit for this course, you cannot receive credit again.
Last Review Date: 5/09/2023
FMN Plus-2024/Aug, Seg 1 - Optimizing Financial Leverage through Golf Course Economics
Maximizing financial leverage is akin to optimizing resources and investments to enhance returns, much like managing a golf course to maximize its revenue potential. Leveraging insights using golf course financial management as an analogous model can provide valuable perspectives on financial management and investment strategies. Alan Gorlick, CEO of Gorlick Financial Strategies, has a long history of executive level and consulting experience in international business, economic development, and corporate finance. Alan shares his insights to help you discover how to utilize golf course economics to enhance financial leverage within your organization.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how to manage financial and operating leverage to boost profits
- Recognize how price and product elasticity and inelasticity contribute to appropriate pricing structure
- Recognize how to optimize dynamic and discriminatory pricing to maximize revenues
- Indicate how profit zones work to influence consumer buying decisions
Speaker/Author: Alan Gorlick
Last Review Date: 08/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Aug, Seg 2 - Addressing the Accounting Talent Pipeline: Opportunities & Path Forward
The accounting profession is facing a critical talent shortage, compounded by challenges in attracting and retaining diverse talent, which threatens the industry's ability to meet evolving business demands. Yvonne Hinson, CEO of the American Accounting Association, and Guylaine Saint Juste, President and CEO of NABA Inc., discuss the challenges and opportunities in the accounting talent pipeline, particularly in the context of DEI. Learn about programs that attract students to the accounting profession, promote exciting opportunities in the field, and leverage opportunities for tomorrow's successful accounting professionals.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish barriers to entry in academia and at corporations that potential accountants face
- Recognize how successful programs and collaborations between community colleges and four-year institutions address the accounting talent pipeline
- Identify the importance of collaboration and partnerships between educational institutions and corporations in fostering accounting talent
- Recognize the need for a profession-wide effort and collaboration to address the future of the accounting profession
Speaker/Author: Yvonne Hinson & Guylaine Saint-Juste
Last Review Date: 08/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Aug, Seg 3 - Mastering Cash Flow Statements: From Basics to Best Practices
The statement of cash flows is an important financial statement as it offers a detailed account of a company's cash inflows and outflows from operating, investing, and financing activities, helping stakeholders assess the firm's liquidity, operational efficiency, and overall financial health. Megan Schoeps, Director in CFO Advisory with Wiss & Company, joins this segment to discuss the importance of the statement of cash flows. This includes discussion of the key sections of the statement of cash flows, working capital and non-cash considerations, cash flow ratios and metrics, as well as forecasting techniques.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of the statement of cash flows
- Differentiate between the different sections of the statement of cash flows
- Identify characteristics of cash and cash equivalents
- Recognize best practices when performing cash flow forecasting
Speaker/Author: Megan Schoeps
Last Review Date: 08/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Aug, Seg 4 - Navigating IRS Tax Controversies with Confidence
Practitioners play a vital role in helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of the tax code and interact with the IRS effectively. They can assist clients in understanding their tax obligations, preparing accurate tax returns, and responding to IRS inquiries or audits. Melissa Wiley, Tax Partner with Lowenstein Sandler, joins this segment to discuss working with the IRS and helping clients reach the best possible resolution. This includes discussion of the IRS divisions and tax compliance division structure, changes at the IRS from additional funding as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act, IRS examination triggers, as well as how to effectively prepare for IRS examinations.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the various divisions within the IRS
- Identify how funding from the Inflation Reduction Act has improved operations at the IRS
- Recognize IRS examination triggers
- Identify best practices when preparing for IRS examinations
Speaker/Author: Melissa Wiley
Last Review Date: 08/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/Aug, Seg 5 - The Future of Government Accounting: Key GASB Projects & Practice Issues
The GASB's mission is to improve financial reporting by establishing and improving accounting standards that provide useful information to users of governmental financial reports. Through its unwavering commitment to transparency and consistency, the GASB empowers public trust and financial accountability, setting a gold standard in governmental accounting and finance. Learn from two experts, Jeff Previdi, Vice Chair of the GASB, and Richard Kravitz, Editor-in-Chief of the CPA Journal, about GASB's current major projects and how the GASB fulfills its commitment to facilitating informed decision-making, ultimately contributing to the betterment of public services and fiscal responsibility.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how GASB's principles interact with standards from other standard-setting bodies such as the FASB, FASAB, and IPSASB
- Identify GASB's major projects, including the financial reporting model, revenue and expense recognition, and going concern uncertainty
- Recognize the importance of financial statement analysis in municipal credit analysis and its role in evaluating government performance and predicting future outcomes
- Identify how GASB incorporates input from all stakeholders, from preparers to investors to citizen groups, to establish its frameworks
Speaker/Author: Jeff Previdi & Richard Kravitz
Last Review Date: 08/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/July, Seg 1 - Critical Role of Audit Evidence: Navigating SAS 142 & PCAOB 1105
FASB's SAS 142 and PCAOB's AS 1105 require auditors to think critically about the evidence they gather. Marty Van Wagoner, Audit Partner at Mountainside Accounting & Consulting, explains how these standards address the evolving nature of business transactions, the use of emerging technologies, and the expanding use of external information sources. He emphasizes the importance of evaluating the relevance and reliability of audit evidence, discusses the need for heightened professional skepticism, and highlights the importance of critical thinking for successful, effective audits.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how standards SAS 142 and AS 1105 facilitate assessment of audit evidence and critical thinking
- Distinguish key changes introduced by SAS 142, including expanded guidance on the use of automated tools and technologies
- Recognize the importance of evaluating the relevance and reliability of audit evidence through different lenses
- Recognize the importance of professional skepticism in assessing internal and external audit evidence
Speaker/Author: Marty Van Wagoner
Last Review Date: 07/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/July, Seg 2 - Illuminating Government Accountability: Financial Data Transparency Act
The Financial Data Transparency Act (FDTA) marks a pivotal step towards greater accountability and efficiency in government finances. For state and local governments, this means a significant shift towards clearer reporting practices and enhanced accessibility of financial information. Joel Black, Chairman of the GASB, and Phil Marciano, Partner at Citrin Cooperman, discuss the FTDA and its implications for state and local governments. They address concerns from stakeholders, including the impact on financial reporting, the role of auditors, and the potential benefits of machine-readable financial information.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the objectives of the FDTA, its impact on the work of auditors and accountants, and what technological changes may be necessary
- Recognize the GASB's interest in the FDTA and its role in development and implementation
- Distinguish the difference between a data standard and standard data as it applies to compliance with FDTA
- Identify the evolution and development of the governmental financial reporting taxonomy and similarities and differences from the FASB taxonomy
Speaker/Author: Joel Black & Phil Marciano
Last Review Date: 07/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/July, Seg 3 - Upholding Integrity: How AICPA SSTS Guide Ethical Tax Practice
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) has established the Statements on Standards for Tax Services (SSTS) to uphold ethical and professional standards in the tax practice, which include robust measures for protecting client data and privacy. Frank Sands, Founding Partner at Sands Gililland & Company, an AICPA Governing Council member and one of Accounting Today's 2003 top professionals, joins us to examine how the SSTS impact our professional responsibilities as accountants and tax consultants.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the impact of the Statements on Standards for Tax Services (SSTS) on accountants' professional responsibilities
- Distinguish the requirements and guidelines for confidentiality and due diligence in tax engagements
- Recognize how the SSTSs address the issues of conflict of interest and contingent fees in tax engagements
- Identify how the SSTS are enforced and potential consequences of non-compliance
Speaker/Author: Frank Sands
Last Review Date: 07/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/July, Seg 4 - Stablecoins: Bridging Traditional Finance & Cryptocurrencies
Stablecoins play a significant and multifaceted role within financial markets, offering benefits and functionalities that enhance the efficiency, stability, and accessibility of the cryptocurrency ecosystem and traditional financial systems. Navigating this emerging market along with its inherent risks and regulations presents myriad challenges for today's finance professional. Steve Maex, Assistant Professor of Accounting at George Mason University's Costello School of Business, and Stefan Slavov, Assistant Professor of Accounting at San Diego State University, guide us through an analysis of stablecoin and its evolving role in today's economy.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the types of stablecoin and its role in bridging traditional finance and cryptocurrency
- Recognize established criteria for how stablecoin reserves are reported and potential trends in this area
- Distinguish the approach of different global regulatory bodies in creating requirements and frameworks for stablecoin transactions
- Identify the role of the auditor in providing independent assurance for stablecoin reserves
Speaker/Author: Steve Maex & Stefan Slavov
Last Review Date: 07/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/July, Seg 5 - The Accountants Guide to Divorce & Alternative Dispute Resolution
Divorce is not only a legal process, but also a life-changing financial event. There are three forums for divorce: mediation, collaboration, and traditional litigation. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods like mediation and collaboration offer confidential and discreet ways to resolve issues without traditional litigation. A divorce financial planner can help navigate the process and provide expert advice on financial and tax decisions. Lili Vasileff, President of Wealth Protection Management, joins this segment to discuss the various forums of divorce, compare forms of alternative dispute resolution, and explore top trends.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the separate forums for divorce: mediation, collaboration, and traditional litigation
- Identify the two unique forms of alternative dispute resolution and how they compare to traditional litigation
- Recall the six phases related to financial tasks that are called upon during the divorce process
- Distinguish the benefits of having a financial expert involved in alternative dispute resolution
Speaker/Author: Lili Vasileff
Last Review Date: 07/01/24
FMN Plus-2024/June, Seg 1 - ASC 606 Revenue Recognition: Automate to Optimize Compliance
ASC 606 is a set of accounting standards established by the FASB, guiding revenue recognition practices for businesses. Compliance can be complex, but automation technologies help streamline adherence. Caitlin Steel, Product Management Leader at Leapfin, has years of experience in facilitating finance transformations, both as a CFO and technology expert. She guides us through integrating systems and leveraging modern technology to adhere to ASC 606 while providing consistency and precision in the financial statements.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize how automation facilitates compliance with ASC 606 (US GAAP) for how revenue should be recognized and reported
- Distinguish how automation streamlines repetitive tasks, reducing the time and effort required to comply with ASC 606 for revenue recognition
- Recognize that automated systems minimize the risk of human error in revenue recognition
- Identify how automated systems can maintain comprehensive audit trails, documenting the entire revenue recognition process from source data to final entries
Speaker/Author: Caitlin Steel
Last Review Date: 06/10/24
FMN Plus-2024/June, Seg 2 - The Fundamentals of WACC: Weighted Average Cost of Capital
The Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) metric is essential for evaluating investment opportunities and determining the cost of financing, serving as a benchmark to optimize capital allocation decisions and maximize shareholder value. It is a vital tool for companies to make informed decisions that drive sustainable growth and enhance shareholder value in today's competitive business environment. Jason Tuzinkewich, COO of Blue Sky Business Resources, joins this segment to discuss the concept of WACC, how it is calculated, factors used in further adjusting WACC, as well as some limitations of its use.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the importance of WACC and why both companies and investors use the metric
- Identify how to calculate WACC in addition to the importance of beta in the WACC calculation
- Recognize the benefits and drawbacks of both high and low WACC
- Identify limitations of the WACC calculation
Speaker/Author: Jason Tuzinkewich
Last Review Date: 06/10/24
FMN Plus-2024/June, Seg 3 - Navigating ESG Fraud Risk in Corporate Governance
Conducting a comprehensive ESG fraud risk assessment to identify and prioritize potential risks should be part of an organization's existing enterprise-wide risk management. This may involve developing and documenting policies and procedures, ensuring data accuracy and completeness, and establishing accountability for ESG reporting. Durran Dunn, Managing Director in Grant Thornton LLP's Risk, Compliance, and Controls practice, teaches us how to implement strategic enterprise ESG risk assessments and offers guidance on operational policies, processes and controls to help companies operate responsibly and sustainably.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify potential risks and consequences associated with misleading or inaccurate ESG reporting
- Recognize how to use the ESG fraud taxonomy as a tool to identify and assess fraud risk
- Identify how to improve data management and accountability in ESG reporting
- Distinguish the need for ESG risk assessment, control activities, monitoring, and risk governance
Speaker/Author: Durran Dunn
Last Review Date: 06/10/24
FMN Plus-2024/June, Seg 4 - Mastering E-Invoices: VAT Implications and Latest 1099-K Mandates
Tax compliance is a complex and ever-changing landscape driven by governmental policy changes. One of the most widely recognized taxes, value-added tax or VAT, is a consumption tax levied on goods and services at each stage of the supply chain where value is added. Over the past few years, e-invoicing has helped to both simplify and increase the efficiency of the VAT process. Scott Peterson, Vice President of U.S. Tax Policy and Government Relations for Avalara, Inc., joins this segment to discuss both VAT and e-invoicing. Scott also discusses the new Form 1099-K requirements, the Multistate Tax Commission, and tax nexus considerations.
Learning Objectives:
- Distinguish benefits of e-invoicing over traditional invoicing
- Recognize the goals and objectives of the Multistate Tax Commission
- Recognize how Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied to goods and services
- Identify the latest reporting obligations for Form 1099-K
Speaker/Author: Scott Peterson
Last Review Date: 06/10/24
FMN Plus-2024/June, Seg 5 - Unlocking Strategic Insights: Finance’s Role in Shaping Firm Strategy
It is crucial for the finance function to have input on strategy for the company as it ensures alignment between financial goals, resource allocation, and overarching strategic objectives, ultimately guiding sound decision-making and fostering long-term success. Ted Delgado, Finance Vice President and Controller for the McLane Company, discusses the unique aspects of finance leadership and how the finance team can create value. He emphasizes the importance of finance in connecting the dots between strategy, process, and systems, as well as understanding and managing risk.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify how to create value through the finance team
- Recognize how finance has a crucial role in forward-looking insights and priorities alignment
- Distinguish how finance facilitates risk management and decision-making
- Recognize the importance of cross-functional partnering with finance to build relationships and trust for successful collaboration
Speaker/Author: Ted Delgado
Last Review Date: 06/10/24
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