Accounting for Software (CPE Course)

CPE Credit: 1 hour

Course Type: Downloaded PDF materials with online test

Price (with PDF Textbook): $15


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Course Description
Software is one of the more unusual assets, because the accounting for it varies, depending on whether it is intended for internal use or for sale to others. In the Accounting for Software course, we cover the accounting rules for both of these scenarios, as well as the most likely revenue recognition rules for a software sale, and the software presentation and disclosure topics that should be included in a company’s financial statements.


Author: Steven Bragg

Course Number: AC1134

Learning Objectives

  • Recognize when software is considered to be for internal use or for sale.

  • Specify the circumstances under which software costs and website development costs can be capitalized.

  • Identify the steps required to recognize revenue from a software sale transaction.

  • Recognize the presentation and disclosure topics relating to software.

Level: Overview

Instructional Method: QAS Self-Study

NASBA Category: Accounting

Prerequisites: None

Advance Preparation: None

Latest Review Date: February 2023

Program Registration Requirements: Click on "Purchase Course" near the top of this page to pay for and access the course. You will then be able to download the course as a PDF file, then take an on-line examination, and then download a certificate of completion if you pass the examination.

Program Refund Policy: For more information regarding administrative policies concerning complaints, refunds, and other matters, see our policies page.


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AccountingTools, Inc. is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have the final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org.

The NASBA sponsor identification number for Accountingtools, Inc. is 115881.


AccountingTools is an IRS Approved Continuing Education Provider. We are compliant with the requirements for continuing education providers (as described in sections 10.6 and 10.9 of the Department of Treasury’s Circular No. 230 and in other IRS guidance, forms, and instructions). Our IRS Approved Continuing Education Provider number is 72821.