AI 101 for CPAs: Core Concepts and Practical Applications

Overview

You could pay $0 for this course!

New to AI? Start here. This beginner-friendly course explains how generative AI works, what terms like “LLM” and “agentic AI” really mean, and how CPAs can safely put these tools to use. You’ll leave with a solid understanding of AI fundamentals and how they apply to accounting, tax, and finance.

This course qualifies for reimbursement through the state’s Workforce Training Express Fund. Firms/companies with fewer than 50 staff can be reimbursed up to 100% of the cost of training and firms/companies with 50-100 employees can be reimbursed up to 50% of the cost of training. You must register for the course and apply for reimbursement through the Workforce Training Express Fund website a minimum of three weeks prior to the start of the course. The course code for this program is C-15236. To learn more, click here or contact Julia Ekelund at jekelund@masscpas.org.

Highlights

ABC’s of how generative AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini) work • What inherent risks are associated with this powerful technology • Actionable steps you can take to mitigate the risks • Practical examples of how AI can be applied in accounting, auditing, tax and finance services

Designed For

Anyone working in accounting, tax or finance who wants to gain better understanding of what AI is and how it can be applied

Objectives

Identify core AI concepts (generative AI, large language models, agentic AI) relevant to accounting and finance. • Differentiate common CPA/CFO use cases (e.g., research, content generation, data/document analysis.) • Evaluate key risks (hallucinations, bias, confidentiality, and select mitigating controls.