At a glance
What to know before choosing
- Free programs can supplement an education plan, but the participant still needs to verify eligibility and completion requirements.
- A free registration is not automatically valid credit for every CPA or jurisdiction.
- Basics & Beyond does not promise that a free program is currently available; the live schedule is the source for current offerings.
Where professionals commonly find free programs
Free education may be offered by professional associations, accounting or technology firms, public webinar platforms, and education providers introducing a topic or service.
- Professional membership organizations and state societies.
- Accounting, legal, software, and financial-services firms.
- Education providers offering a public update session.
- Conferences or product demonstrations that publish eligible credit details.
Verify the program before relying on the credit
The price does not determine whether a program qualifies. Review the sponsor, program, subject, delivery method, attendance requirements, and certificate process just as carefully as you would for a paid course.
| Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Sponsor and approval | The program must be acceptable for the credential and jurisdiction involved. |
| Course details | The hours, field of study, format, and program information should be stated clearly. |
| Attendance controls | Live credit may require polling, identity verification, or other participation evidence. |
| Certificate | Confirm when and how a qualifying participant receives the completion record. |
| Content balance | Some free sessions devote substantial time to products or services. |
Use free CPE as a supplement
Free sessions can fill a small subject or hour gap, but waiting for a free event can limit topic choice and scheduling. A practical plan often combines selected free opportunities with paid programs chosen for depth, presenter quality, timing, and support.
- Plan required subjects and deadlines first.
- Use free programs only when the published credit fits.
- Save the registration record and certificate.
- Recheck the schedule rather than assuming an annual free offer will repeat.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about this guide
Can free webinars qualify for CPA CPE?
They can, but price alone is irrelevant. The sponsor, program approval, format, participation, and jurisdiction requirements must support the claimed credit.
Should I build my entire education plan around free programs?
Usually not unless the available subjects, dates, formats, and approvals reliably match every requirement. Free programs are often most useful as a supplement.
How do I know whether Basics & Beyond currently offers a free program?
Review the live session calendar and the individual program page. If the schedule does not identify a qualifying free offering, do not assume one is available.
Current information