Online CPE vs In-Person CPE: Pros and Cons for CPAs (2026 Guide)

Online CPE vs In-Person CPE: Pros and Cons for CPAs (2026 Guide)

As CPA CPE requirements 2026 approach, Certified Public Accountants must decide how to complete their continuing professional education efficiently. The biggest decision? Choosing between online CPE and in-person CPE.

Explore ACCPE’s full catalog: https://accpe.com

Understanding CPA CPE Requirements 2026

Most states allow CPAs to complete credits through multiple formats:

- Self-study courses

- Live webinars

- In-person seminars

- On-demand video

Explore:

On-Demand CPE: https://accpe.com/on-demand-cpe

What Is Online CPE?

Online CPE includes self-study, video courses, and webinars you can complete anytime.

Explore: https://accpe.com/on-demand-cpe

Pros:

- Flexibility

- Cost-effective

- Wide selection:

  Tax: https://accpe.com/taxation-courses

  Accounting: https://accpe.com/accounting-cpe

  Auditing: https://accpe.com/auditing-cpe 

Example Course:

Corporate Tax Planning 2026:

https://accpe.com/taxation-courses/corporate-tax-planning-2026-cpe-course

Cons:

- Less networking

- Requires discipline

- Less interaction

What Is In-Person CPE?

In-person includes conferences and seminars.

Pros:

- Networking

- Structured learning

- Real-time interaction

Example Course:

Current Developments in Accounting & Financial Reporting 2026:

https://accpe.com/accounting-cpe/current-developments-accounting-financial-reporting-2026-cpe-course

Cons:

- Higher cost

- Time commitment

- Less flexibility

Best Strategy: Hybrid Approach

Use:

On-Demand: https://accpe.com/on-demand-cpe

Webinars: https://accpe.com/webinars 

Example:

Family Tax Planning 2026:

https://accpe.com/taxation-courses/family-tax-planning-2026-cpe-course

Final Thoughts

Meeting CPA CPE requirements 2026 is easier with the right mix of formats.

Explore ACCPE:

https://accpe.com