What continuing professional education (CPE) requirements must I meet to maintain my CPA license?

To maintain a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, individuals typically must meet continuing professional education (CPE) requirements, which can vary significantly depending on the state in which they are licensed. Generally, most states require CPAs to complete a specified number of CPE hours within a defined reporting period, often ranging from one to three years. A widely accepted standard is for CPAs to complete 40 hours of CPE annually, or 80 hours every two years. However, it is essential to check the specific requirements of the state board of accountancy where the CPA is licensed, as states may have differing criteria, including topics, acceptable formats, and reporting deadlines. In many states, certain courses must align with the core areas of accounting, auditing, taxation, ethics, and business management. Specific rules may govern the types of CPE credits accepted, such as whether they must come from recognized providers, including accredited universities or professional organizations. Some states may allow a limited number of credits to be obtained from non-traditional sources such as self-study or online webinars. Additionally, it is common for state boards to have unique policies regarding the carryover of excess hours from one reporting period to the next. Some jurisdictions may impose penalties for failure to comply with CPE requirements, which could lead to disciplinary actions against the CPA's license. CPAs should always stay informed about their state-specific requirements. A comprehensive guide and resources are usually available on the official state board of accountancy websites. Individuals may wish to visit the current NASBA website for further information, including relevant links to state boards.