At a glance
What to know before choosing
- Online continuing education includes several different delivery methods; they should not be treated as one interchangeable product.
- CPAs should verify NASBA and state-board acceptance, while enrolled agents should verify IRS CE eligibility and reporting details.
- Basics & Beyond's on-demand self-study offering is IRS CE only and is not represented as NASBA CPE.
Start with the outcome you need
Some professionals need convenient hours for a renewal cycle. Others need practical tax guidance they can use with clients. Identify the credential, subject area, deadline, and preferred format before comparing providers.
- Confirm the credential and jurisdiction that will receive the credit.
- Choose current topics that match your work.
- Decide whether live interaction or self-paced study is the better format.
- Review certificate access, reporting, and recordkeeping.
- Compare total value based on what you will actually complete.
Online formats are not the same
A large on-demand catalog can be useful for flexibility, while instructor-led programs can provide stronger context for current tax developments. Compare the learning experience and the published credit treatment together.
| Online format | Common strength | Important check |
|---|---|---|
| Live webinar | Scheduled instruction and current discussion. | Attendance controls and session-specific approvals. |
| Live virtual seminar | Extended fall or year-end instruction. | Program agenda, breaks, presenters, and credit allocation. |
| On-demand self-study | Start and complete on your schedule. | Examinations, evaluation, program approval, and reporting. |
| Broad subscription library | Many topics and year-round access. | Whether the included content matches your actual practice needs. |
Compare depth and usability - not course count alone
A catalog can contain hundreds of courses and still provide limited value for a tax-heavy practice. Review sample topics, presenter backgrounds, course dates, support, and the steps from completion to certificate.
- Current tax content and practical examples.
- Clear course descriptions and learning objectives.
- A predictable account and certificate process.
- Pricing that reflects the formats and hours you will use.
- Support when registration, access, or credit records need attention.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about this guide
What is the best online continuing education format for a CPA?
It depends on the CPA's jurisdiction, subject needs, schedule, and learning preference. Verify state-board acceptance and the program's published approval before registering.
Are live webinars better than self-study?
Live webinars can be better for current changes, instructor context, and a scheduled learning experience. Self-study can be better when schedule flexibility is the priority.
Are Basics & Beyond on-demand courses NASBA CPE?
No. The current on-demand self-study courses are offered for IRS continuing education only and are not represented as NASBA CPE.
Current information