The New York State Society of CPAs has introduced a new CPE discount program that provides more continuing education options to small and midsize CPA firms.

The new FAE Value Pass allows firms to choose between a 40-credit or 80-credit CPE discount pass. Firms can save up to 22 percent off of what they would have paid for the same amount of credits without the pass, according to the NYSSCPA. More savings can be realized if firms take advantage

of an early bird special that runs through Dec. 31, 2012.

“The new FAE VP offers more savings choices and is an easy and convenient way for CPAs to fulfill their CPE requirements,” FAE president John J. Kearney said in a statement. “We offer a diverse array of events featuring top-quality continuing professional education seminars, conferences, technical sessions, and special events. Programs are constantly added, amended, and updated to reflect the latest developments in the accounting world and to meet the ever-changing needs of our NYSSCPA members and associates.”

The 40-credit pass is aimed at firms that want to save on CPE but will only send a limited number of staff to specific events. With a FAE Value Pass, firms will have more than 300 FAE courses to choose from, including full- and half-day conferences, seminars and one- and two-hour webcasts.

In addition to the firm discount program, FAE is also rolling out a new CPE discount program for NYSSCPA members that can be purchased on an individual basis. The program provides up to 25 percent savings off the regular price for the same amount of CPE credits.

New York law requires licensed CPAs and public accountants to earn either 24 credits of CPE in one concentrated subject area, or 40 hours of CPE in any accepted subject area on an annual basis. With this in mind, the FAE developed a discount program that allows individuals to choose between a 24-credit pass or a 40-credit pass, enabling CPAs to stay current and meet their annual CPE requirements at a reduced price.

For more information, visit www.nysscpa.org/faevp or call (800) 537-3635.