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Best CPE Subscriptions for CPAs: Ranked and Reviewed

Updated February 2, 2026

We might earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of the links. The McClatchy Commerce Content team, which is independent from our newsroom, oversees this content.

Is your CPE more of a ‘chore’ than a ‘choice’? You know you need those credits to keep your CPA license shiny, but finding the right courses – ones that are engaging, relevant, fit your schedule, and don’t break the bank – can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

How do you choose the best CPE courses for CPAs when everyone claims to be the best?

That’s why I’ve reviewed and compared the top CPE providers – the big names and some hidden gems – to cut through the noise. I’ll break down their formats, unique features, and costs, giving you thorough insight into choosing the provider that truly fits your needs.

Let’s turn that CPE chore into a smart career choice.

Top CPE Courses for CPAs Comparison

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Best CPE Courses for CPAs at a Glance

  1. Best Overall: Becker CPE – If you want a premium, polished experience with diverse formats and a helpful compliance tracker, then Becker CPE is a straightforward option.
  2. Best for Value: Illumeo – If you’re looking for the best overall value with a huge library of on-demand courses, then Illumeo is hard to beat.
  3. Best for Live Webinars: Surgent CPE – If you prefer learning through live, interactive webinars with flexible scheduling, then Surgent is a decent option.
  4. Best for Traditional Video: Lambers CPE – If you learn best from traditional, straightforward video lectures by experienced instructors, then Lambers CPE offers an affordable, no-frills option.
  5. Best for Minimal Needs: Gleim CPE – If you need only 1-4 credits at the lowest cost/hour, then Gleim CPE’s hourly model fits.

1. Becker CPE

Becker

Becker is a huge name in the accounting world, mainly famous for its CPA exam prep. They bring that same reputation for quality and comprehensive content to their CPE offerings.

When I reviewed Becker CPE, it felt familiar—polished, professional, and packed with resources. They cover all the bases with formats, giving students the opportunity to access over 700 on-demand courses and over 1,000 annual webcasts. Want to learn on the go? Becker even provides podcasts for CPE credit, so you can reach compliant status on your daily commute or walk through the grocery store. The content across all formats is high-quality, taught by instructors who clearly have deep knowledge of their stuff (many have decades of experience).

Becker CPE courses

Becker also offers a pretty slick Compliance Tracker. Given that CPE credit is tallied in 50-minute ‘contact hours’ and requires CPAs to document their participation with certificates or other proof, this tracker takes the guesswork out of meeting your specific state CPE requirements, even letting you add credits earned elsewhere. It’s a premium experience, and honestly, it feels like it.

Becker CPE is best suited for CPAs or accounting firms who prioritize a trusted brand, comprehensive coverage across many topics (including over 50 state-specific ethics courses in higher tiers), and multiple learning formats. If your employer foots the bill, or if you value having everything integrated smoothly (like that tracker!), Becker’s Prime tier is tough to beat.

Becker CPE courses overview

Key Features

  • Course Format: On-Demand, Live Webcasts, CPE Podcasts
  • Compliance Tracker: Personalized tracking for state requirements
  • Course Count: 1,700+ total CPE credits available across formats (700+ On-Demand & 1,000+ Live Webcasts annually)
  • Expert Instructors: Average over 20 years of real-world experience
  • Mobile Access: Described as “excellent,” suggesting strong mobile usability
  • Ethics Coverage: 50+ state-approved courses covering all jurisdictions
  • Flex Pay: Interest-free installment plans available

Becker CPE Packages

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Becker CPE Discounts

Save $715 Becker often has significant discounts available on their CPE subscriptions, sometimes cutting list prices nearly in half.

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Pros

  • Wide variety of formats, including unique podcasts
  • Comprehensive library and topic coverage
  • Excellent state-specific ethics options (Prime/Select)
  • Valuable compliance tracker (Prime)
  • Strong brand reputation and trust

Cons

  • Premium pricing compared to competitors
  • Full webcast access (nights/weekends) requires Prime tier
  • Compliance tracker only in Prime tiers

Bottom Line

Becker CPE delivers a top-tier experience. The quality, diverse range of formats (especially those podcasts!), and compliance tools make it a fantastic choice if you want a comprehensive, reliable solution.

However, that quality comes at a cost. If budget is your main concern, or you don’t need the absolute maximum number of courses or the tracker, the Select package is a solid option. But if you want the best overall online course and can swing the price (or get your firm to), Becker is worth it.

Becker CPE Review

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2. Illumeo CPE

Illumeo

Illumeo might not have the same household name recognition as Becker, but they are a powerhouse when it comes to value in the CPE courses market. Their focus is squarely on providing a massive library of high-quality on-demand content at incredibly affordable prices.

Illumeo CPE review questions

They boast over 1,800 on-demand courses, adding the latest courses weekly. What really impressed me were the ability to earn permanent access to courses you complete and review (a fantastic perk!), direct Q&A with instructors even for on-demand courses (with quick responses!), and an integrated CPE Tracker is included.

Where Illumeo CPE has fewer offerings is in live webinars. They offer around 125+ per year in their top plan, typically scheduled at specific times on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is far less than Becker or Gleim.

Key Features

  • Course Format: On-Demand Video (Primary), Live Webinars (Secondary)
  • Large On-Demand Library: 1,600+ to 1,800+ courses
  • Unique Features: Permanent Course Access, Direct Instructor Q&A (On-Demand), AI Search/Recommendations
  • Affordability: Highly competitive pricing ($199-$399/year unlimited)
  • Quality Control: Rigorous vetting, course removal based on ratings (Avg 4.5-4.6 stars)
  • Compliance Tracker: Included, covers many certifications
  • Mobile-Friendly: Access courses on various devices

Illumeo Packages

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Illumeo Discount

Save 20% Illumeo’s standard pricing is already very competitive, making it a great value from the start, but keep an eye out for occasional promotions.

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Pros

  • Highly affordable unlimited CPE subscriptions
  • Very large, high-quality on-demand course library
  • Unique permanent access opportunity for completed courses
  • Rigorous quality standards and transparent reviews
  • Integrated AI features enhance usability

Cons

  • Live webinar schedule is relatively rigid (specific days/times)
  • Requires passing final exams for CPE credit on courses

Bottom Line

Illumeo is ideal for CPAs seeking the best value to enhance their professional skills. The combination of a huge, high-quality on-demand library, an included compliance tracker, and incredibly low subscription prices is hard to beat.

During my review, I kept thinking, “How do they offer all this for that price?” The main trade-off is the limited number of live webinars or online seminars compared to Becker.

Illumeo might not be the best fit if you rely heavily on live interaction. But if you’re comfortable with self-paced learning and want maximum bang for your buck without sacrificing quality, Illumeo is an outstanding choice.

Illumeo CPE Review

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3. Surgent CPE

Surgent

Surgent has long been a recognizable name in exam prep, and its CPE platform follows the same path: big, polished, and widely used. Where it really stands out is live webinars. With more than 2,100 sessions offered annually—many during evenings and weekends—Surgent is hard to beat if you thrive on real-time, interactive learning.

Outside of webinars, Surgent offers a sizable catalog with over 10,000 credits across on-demand and self-study formats. They’ve experimented with gamified courses like Max the Tax, which add some variety, though the selection is limited and not everyone will find them useful. Their Unlimited Plus plan also includes the Weekly Expert Hour, a recurring update session on current tax and finance issues.

The trade-off? Price. Surgent’s unlimited subscriptions are among the most expensive in the industry, close to Becker’s Prime tier. Their EasyRenew feature is convenient if you plan to stay year after year, but easy to overlook if you’re trying to switch or scale back.

Key Features

  • Formats: Live webinars (industry-leading), on-demand, self-study PDFs, limited gamified courses
  • Webinar Volume: 2,100+ sessions annually
  • Credit Access: 10,000+ credits with Unlimited Plus
  • Updates: Weekly Expert Hour + fast turnaround on legislative changes
  • Scheduling: Day, evening, and weekend sessions included

Surgent CPE Packages

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Pros

  • Industry-leading number and frequency of live webinars
  • Huge overall library and credit availability
  • Flexible webinar scheduling (evenings/weekends included)
  • Commitment to timely content updates
  • Innovative gamified course options

Cons

  • One of the highest price points among providers
  • Gamified course selection might be limited or niche

Bottom Line

If you learn best through live interaction and webinars, Surgent CPE is hard to beat. However, this premium focus on live content comes with a premium price tag. If you primarily prefer self-study courses or are on a tighter budget, you’ll likely find better value with a provider like Illumeo. For best CPE overall, Becker is the best bet.

Surgent CPE Review

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4. Lambers CPE

Lambers CPE is one of the older names in professional education, particularly known for their enrolled agent review course, which focuses heavily on IRS regulations. Their approach to CPE feels traditional, focusing on straightforward, instructor-led video courses. If you prefer learning by watching an expert explain things clearly, without a lot of fancy platform features, Lambers might appeal to you.

Lambers CPE courses

Their “All Access” CPE passes aim to provide affordable access to their video library, plus live webinars (which run seasonally, April-Dec, and notably don’t require a final exam) and potentially PDF materials.

However, the platform itself is probably functional but basic, maybe even feeling a bit dated compared to the slick interfaces of Becker or Gleim. Don’t expect adaptive learning or gamification here; it’s more of a “no-frills” experience.

Key Features

  • Course Format: Video (Primary), Live Webinars (Seasonal, No Exam), PDF
  • Focus: Traditional, Instructor-Led Video Content
  • Instructors: Experienced subject matter experts a strength
  • Affordability: Competitively priced, especially with special offers
  • Platform: Functional but likely basic/dated interface
  • Access: Term-Limited (1 or 2 Years for CPE Packages)

Lambers CPE Packages

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Lambers CPE Discount

Save 10% Lambers often runs special pricing, making their All Access unlimited CPE subscriptions very affordable compared to list prices.

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Pros

  • Potentially very affordable with special pricing offers
  • Features experienced and knowledgeable instructors
  • Straightforward video-led format appeals to traditional learners
  • Includes live webinars (seasonal, no exam required)

Cons

  • Platform interface is likely outdated and lacks modern features
  • Website may lack detailed info on specific CPE course library size/topics
  • Access is term-limited for CPE (not lifetime)

Bottom Line

Lambers CPE offers a solid, budget-friendly option for CPAs who prefer learning through traditional video lectures. If you appreciate clear explanations from experts and don’t need a cutting-edge platform, their All Access passes provide good value, especially when discounted.

Lambers CPE Review

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5. Gleim CPE

Gleim

Gleim is another veteran in the accounting education space, well-known for exam prep. Their approach to CPE courses, however, feels quite different. When I explored Gleim’s CPE offerings, the first thing that struck me was the pricing model: you buy blocks of hours (1, 2, 4, 20, 40, or 100) instead of an unlimited CPE subscription. This makes purchasing individual courses super affordable if you only need one or two specific CPE credits.

The catch? The course library is tiny. Based on the materials I reviewed, we’re talking about only 61 courses total. That’s dramatically smaller than pretty much every other provider on this list. They cover basics in their curriculum like Tax, Accounting & Auditing, and Ethics, but the selection is very limited.

Crucially, they don’t offer any live webinars; they’re all QAS self-study courses (think video or PDF followed by a quiz).

Gleim CPE course

My takeaway is that Gleim CPE is really only suitable for a very specific niche: the CPA who needs just a handful of credits, say 1-4 hours, and wants the absolute cheapest way to get them, without needing live interaction.

Key Features

  • Course Format: QAS Self-Study (Video/PDF) – No Live Webinars
  • Hourly Purchase Model: Buy credits in blocks (1 to 100 hours)
  • Course Count: Very Limited (approx. 61 courses total)
  • Video Lectures: Included, but potentially basic quality
  • Ethics Coverage: Extremely Limited (FL, NY mentioned); General/EA ethics available
  • Low Cost/Hour: Can be as low as $6/hour (with 100-hour package)

Gleim CPE Packages

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Pros

  • Highly affordable for CPAs needing only a few credits (1-4)
  • Flexible hourly purchase model avoids large upfront cost for small needs
  • Offers a free trial course to sample the platform
  • Leverages a well-known brand in accounting education

Cons

  • No live webinar options at all
  • Hourly model becomes less valuable for moderate-to-high credit needs

Bottom Line

My take on Gleim? It’s really only a practical fit if you need a tiny number of credits – say, 1 to 4 hours – and you aren’t picky about topics, learning format (self-study only!). The hourly pricing is attractive at that very low volume.

But honestly, once your needs go beyond just a couple of hours, the value proposition drops off quickly. For the average CPA needing to earn CPE credits regularly, many face substantial requirements, like the 120 hours over three years needed for AICPA membership. Unlimited CPE subscriptions from providers like Illumeo or even Becker offers far more flexibility and choice, often at a comparable or better overall cost than buying 40+ hours from Gleim.

Gleim CPE Review

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6. myCPE One

My CPE One

myCPE One is positioning itself as a modern option for CPE courses, boasting a massive library offering a diverse range of over 15,000 hours of accredited content covering more than 500 subjects. When I first looked into myCPE One, the variety immediately stood out: unlike many platforms, it offers everything from live webinars and on-demand video/audio courses to podcasts and full-scale online conferences. This makes myCPE uniquely attractive if you want flexibility in how and when you earn your credits.

A potential drawback? Despite the platform’s breadth, it’s unclear how consistently integrated quizzes or assessments are within standard CPE courses. This might be a downside for CPAs looking for extensive practice embedded in each course, outside of exam prep or team subscriptions.

Key Features

  • Course Formats: Live Webinars, On-Demand Video/Audio, Podcasts, E-Books, Conferences
  • Course Count: Extensive (over 15,000 hours covering 500+ subjects)
  • Mobile App: Dedicated mobile access for convenient learning
  • Exam Prep: Intensive practice materials for CPA, EA, and CMA exams to help you earn new credentials
  • Team Options: Firm-friendly plans with advanced features and LMS integration

myCPE One Subscription Pricing

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Pros

  • Multiple learning formats including modern options like podcasts
  • Competitive subscription pricing for broad access

Cons

  • Ambiguity around integrated practice assessments in standard courses
  • Subscription model might not be cost-effective for minimal credit needs
  • Limited personalization unless using team or enterprise plans
  • Platform navigation and UI may feel overwhelming due to sheer volume of content

Bottom Line

myCPE One excels if you’re seeking extensive variety, tech-driven convenience, and comprehensive compliance management. It’s particularly valuable for CPAs pursuing specialized compliance packages or exam prep, making the subscription cost worthwhile for active and diverse learners.

My-CPE: State-Specific

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7. Lorman CPE

Lorman

Lorman Education Services have built a name for themselves with a massive, multi-industry approach to continuing professional education to fields like accountancy and compliance training. What caught my attention right away was how broad their audience is: they don’t just serve CPAs, but also professionals in HR, law, healthcare, construction, engineering, real estate, finance, and more.

Lorman learning library

Their signature product is the All-Access Pass, a yearly subscription that opens the door to nearly 4,000 courses and thousands of additional resources like white papers, audio recordings, and slide decks. The learning formats are equally diverse—live webinars, on-demand videos, MP3s, and even full learning paths that build up to a certificate. It’s very much built for learners who want flexibility and structured progression without committing to a rigid course sequence.

Key Features

  • Course Formats: Live Webinars, On-Demand Videos, MP3s, Articles, Slide Decks
  • Subscription Model: All-Access Pass with unlimited yearly content access
  • Course Count: Nearly 4,000 courses, plus 12,000+ supporting materials
  • Learning Platform: Tracks progress, credits, and includes curated Learning Paths
  • Certifications & CE Credit: Wide accreditation to meet the needs of various certified professionals across CPE, CLE, SHRM, HRCI, and more
  • Multi-Industry Coverage: Ideal for HR, Accounting, Legal, Healthcare, and more

Lorman Subscription Pricing

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Pros

  • Wide credit approval including NASBA, CLE, SHRM, HRCI, EA, and more
  • Suitable for individuals or enterprise-level training

Cons

  • Higher upfront cost for low-credit users
  • Less niche depth compared to specialized providers
  • Outdated user interface compared to modern platforms

Bottom Line

Lorman casts a wide net, offering coverage across industries and certifications—but that broad approach comes with trade-offs. The platform is convenient if you need lots of credits in multiple areas, but it’s not ideal for users seeking deep, specialized content or a modern interface. For light CPE users or professionals who want a more curated, engaging experience, Lorman may feel outdated and overpriced. It works—but there may be better fits depending on how (and how often) you learn.


CPE Courses That Didn’t Make the Cut

While the providers above were our main focus, several others deserve a mention:

Top CPE Course Head-to-Head Comparisons

Becker vs Surgent CPE

This is a clash of the premium titans. Both Becker and Surgent represent two of the most premium CPE options, but they serve slightly different learning styles and priorities. Becker is the polished all-rounder—offering a rich mix of formats, including podcasts, strong compliance tools in its Prime tier. It’s ideal for CPAs who want a comprehensive platform and don’t mind paying more for those premium perks.

In contrast, Surgent is the undisputed leader in live webinars, hosting more than double the number that Becker does annually. With weekend access built into its plans, gamified learning options, and constant expert updates, Surgent is a great pick for those who thrive on live interaction and dynamic scheduling.

While both carry high price tags, the choice ultimately comes down to how you prefer to earn your credits. If you want the most versatile learning formats and a robust compliance tracker, Becker stands out. But if flexibility, frequency, and live sessions are your top priorities, Surgent offers unmatched volume and variety in real-time learning.

Illumeo vs Becker CPE

Illumeo and Becker are two standout names in the CPE space, but they cater to very different CPA preferences. Illumeo is built for flexibility and value, offering one of the largest on-demand libraries with over 1,600 courses at prices starting around $199 per year. Its permanent course access, AI-powered recommendations, and built-in compliance tools make it a practical choice for self-motivated professionals who want quality at a budget-friendly price.

Becker, in contrast, is tailored for those who want a premium, all-inclusive experience. With its Prime plans offering over 1,000 live webcasts annually, along with podcasts and Flash CPE, it’s ideal for CPAs who enjoy interactive formats and need robust compliance tracking.

While it’s pricier, the polish and brand credibility make it a solid investment for those who prioritize convenience and reputation.

Surgent vs Lambers CPE

Surgent and Lambers offer two distinctly different CPE experiences. Surgent is known for its vast library of live webinars—10,000+ credit hours—and for packing its platform with features like gamified courses, weekly expert sessions, and weekend learning options.

It’s geared toward CPAs who value variety, live interaction, and flexible scheduling. With a modern platform and year-round access to expert-led updates, Surgent is a great pick for professionals who like to stay current through real-time learning.

Lambers, by contrast, is a much more traditional choice. It focuses on video-based instruction, a functional but simpler platform, and seasonal live webinars that don’t require final exams.

While it may lack the bells and whistles of modern platforms, Lambers serves CPAs who prefer straightforward, affordable, and exam-free content. It’s especially appealing to those looking for core topics like tax and ethics in a simple, digestible format.

Illumeo vs Gleim CPE

Illumeo and Gleim both cater to CPAs, but they exist on opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to depth and value. Illumeo offers a comprehensive subscription model with over 1,800 on-demand courses, covering everything from core topics to niche specialties.

It’s one of the most cost-effective platforms for professionals who need consistent CPE credits. It also includes extras like instructor Q&A, AI-powered recommendations, a compliance tracker, and even a selection of live webinars in its higher-tier plans.

Gleim, by contrast, is a minimalist option tailored for CPAs who just need to grab a few specific credit hours. With only around 61 courses and no live webinar options, it’s ideal for those seeking 1–4 credits quickly and affordably—especially if those courses happen to be what Gleim offers.

At $6–$12 per credit hour, it’s a decent à la carte solution but lacks the depth, features, and flexibility Illumeo provides. Unless you have a very limited need, Illumeo offers significantly more value for ongoing CPE.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best CPE courses really boils down to your individual learning needs and preferences. If you’re looking for premium quality, varied learning formats, and strong compliance tools, I’d recommend Becker CPE—especially if you’re willing to invest a bit more for top-tier content and features.

For those prioritizing value and affordability, Illumeo stands out, often providing the best deal for unlimited on-demand CPE. If live, interactive sessions matter most to you, consider Surgent CPE. Its extensive schedule of webinars, flexibility, and unique gamified courses justify the higher cost.

Think about how you learn best, what topics you need (especially state ethics!), your budget, and which features matter most to you. Hopefully, this breakdown helps you cut through the noise and find the perfect partner for your professional development, helping you earn CPE credits efficiently and effectively!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in a continuing education provider?

To ensure seamless licensing, CPAs should look for accurate, up-to-date content, state ethics coverage, and flexible formats like webinars or on-demand. A provider with a compliance tracker and clear pricing makes CPE easier to manage.

Can I earn CPE credits for free?

Yes! Providers like CPA Academy offer many free webinars (often sponsored). Some large firms (like the Big 4) and providers like Becker occasionally offer free introductory courses or webcasts.

Which CPE providers offer the best compliance tracking tools?

Becker (Prime tier), Illumeo, and myCPE One all offer built-in compliance trackers that help CPAs manage state-specific requirements and deadlines efficiently.

Does Becker CPE offer discounts?

Yes, Becker frequently offers significant discounts and promotions on their CPE subscription packages, especially the Prime tiers. Always check their website for current deals.

Is Illumeo a good value for CPE?

Absolutely. Based on my review, Illumeo offers outstanding value, providing a massive library of quality on-demand courses, unique features, and a compliance tracker at one of the most affordable price points for unlimited CPE subscriptions.

Bryce Welker is a regular contributor to Forbes, Inc.com, YEC and Business Insider. After graduating from San Diego State University he went on to earn his Certified Public Accountant license and created CrushTheCPAexam.com to share his knowledge and experience to help other accountants become CPAs too. Bryce was named one of Accounting Today’s “Accountants To Watch” among other accolades.