CPE Reporting Deadlines, Explained

One of the most confusing parts of CPE is simply knowing when your hours are due. Reporting periods vary widely, so here's how to figure out yours.

Reporting period length

States use different cycles:

• Annual — a fixed number of hours each year
• Biennial — two-year cycles, often 80 hours
• Triennial — three-year cycles, often 120 hours

When the clock starts

Some states tie your period to your birth month or license issue date; others use a fixed calendar date for everyone. That detail determines your exact deadline.

Watch the annual minimums

Even in two- or three-year cycles, many boards require a minimum number of hours each year so you can't leave it all to the end. Missing the annual minimum can create problems even if your total looks fine.

A simple system that works

• Look up your state's cycle and deadline on our requirements pages
• Set a recurring calendar reminder a month before each deadline
• Earn a few hours every quarter to stay ahead
• Keep all certificates in one folder

Find your state's exact reporting period on our CPA CPE requirements pages, then earn your hours with free live webinars.