If you’re a CPA, you already know that staying compliant with CPE requirements isn't optional—it’s mandatory. But let’s be real: in the hustle of busy seasons, client demands, and endless spreadsheets, your CPA CPE requirements can easily fall to the bottom of the to-do list.
And suddenly… the deadline hits.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. But there’s a better way. In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly how to plan your CPA CPE requirements effectively—so you’re not scrambling at the eleventh hour.
Whether you're new to continuing education or just tired of last-minute stress, this guide is here to help. Let’s dive in.
Why CPE Planning Matters More Than You Think
CPA licenses don’t renew themselves—and missing your CPE requirements deadline can lead to late fees, extra paperwork, and even license suspension. That’s not just annoying—it’s career-threatening.
But here’s the good news: planning your CPA CPE well ahead of the due date isn’t just about compliance. It’s a chance to grow professionally, expand your skills, and boost your marketability.
The Risks of Procrastination
- Late penalties from your state board
- Unreported hours due to disorganized tracking
- Limited course availability during peak season
- Increased stress trying to cram courses last minute
Instead, you can take control—starting today.
What Are CPA CPE Requirements? (And Why They're Not One-Size-Fits-All)
The first step to planning ahead is knowing what’s actually required of you.
Key Components of CPA CPE Requirements
- Total Hours: Most states require 40 hours per year or 80 hours every two years
- Ethics Courses: Usually 2-4 hours in each cycle, and must be board-approved
- Subject Area Minimums: For example, audit, tax, or accounting-specific topics
- Delivery Methods: Live webinars, self-study, on-demand videos, or in-person courses
- State-Specific Rules: Always double-check your state board's latest guidelines
Want to skip the confusion and check exactly what your state requires? Visit MYCPE ONE's CPA CPE Requirements Guide to get a breakdown by jurisdiction.
5 Simple Steps to Plan Your CPA CPE Like a Pro
1. Know Your Due Dates (And Set Reminders)
Don’t just rely on memory—put your CPE deadline in your calendar today. Add reminders 3 months, 1 month, and 2 weeks before the deadline to stay on track.
📅 Pro Tip: Some states operate on calendar years, others on birthdates or rolling periods.
2. Audit Your Current Progress
Before signing up for new courses, review your completed hours. Check:
- Total hours earned so far
- Subject areas already covered
- Any missing ethics credits
- Approved course providers (hint: not all platforms are accepted)
Need a smarter way to track this? MYCPE ONE offers a free CPE Tracker to help you stay organized with ease.
3. Choose Courses That Align With Your Career Goals
Instead of viewing CPE as a box to check, use it as an opportunity to grow your expertise.
✅ Want to move into forensic accounting? Take fraud examination CPEs.
✅ Looking to offer advisory services? Explore tax strategy or financial planning topics.
✅ Building leadership skills? Look into management and communication electives.
The right course can give you a competitive edge—and satisfy your CPE requirements at the same time.4. Mix Up Your Learning Formats
Variety makes it easier to stay engaged. Plus, with remote work becoming the norm, online learning is more accessible than ever.
Top Formats That CPAs Love:
- Live Webinars: Stay engaged and meet real-time attendance requirements
- On-Demand Videos: Learn at your own pace, anytime
- Self-Study PDFs: Ideal for deep dives on specific topics
- Conferences & In-Person Events: Great for networking and hands-on sessions
5. Don’t Wait Until Q4 to Get Started
Many CPAs wait until October-December to start earning credits—causing a mad rush and limited course availability.
🎯 Pro Strategy: Plan your CPE calendar at the start of the year. Aim for 10-12 hours per quarter, so you can cruise through the year stress-free.
Real Example: How One CPA Beat the Year-End Crunch
Meet Sarah, a CPA in Texas. Last year, she crammed 40 hours of CPE into two weeks—and promised herself never again.
This year, she signed up for 1 live webinar per month, tracked everything in her myCPE dashboard, and knocked out her ethics course in Q1.
Result? No stress, no scramble, and she even earned a bonus certificate in forensic accounting.
Moral of the story: consistency > cramming.
CPA CPE Requirements FAQs
Q: Can I carry over excess CPE hours to the next cycle?
A: It depends on your state. Some allow carryover, others don’t. Always check your board’s rules.
Q: Do free CPE courses count toward my requirements?
A: Yes—if the provider is approved. MYCPE ONE offers free and paid NASBA-compliant options.
Q: What happens if I miss the CPE deadline?
A: Late fees, license suspension, or remediation courses. Not worth the risk—start early!
Conclusion: Stay Ahead of Your CPA CPE Requirements
Planning your CPA CPE requirements isn’t just smart—it’s essential. By taking a proactive approach, you protect your license, grow your skillset, and eliminate unnecessary stress.
🎯 Whether you’re a new CPA or a seasoned pro, now is the perfect time to map out your CPE strategy.