Frequently Asked Questions

Most questions about Vern's online CPE courses and registration are answered in this area. If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact Jill Hoven. E-mail: jill@hoven.com.

Q: How often does Vern update his online CPE courses?

A: Because tax law changes on a regular and on-going basis, you can be assured that the course(s) you purchase are up-to-date and accurate. All of Vern’s Federal Tax Update online CPE courses will be revised and completely updated every year, in November, in order to prepare you and your firm for the upcoming tax season. Vern’s online CPE courses dedicated to specific topics (e.g., Year 2007 Domestic Production Deduction) will be revised as changes occur; or as these topics do not often go through rapid change, they will be updated every two years.

Q: What’s the process for taking Vern’s online CPE course(s)?

A: We at Vern Hoven Tax Seminars have worked hard to make the process easy and user-friendly. Please read our System Requirements page.

Simply click the "Add to Cart” button following the description of each or any of the online CPE courses you’d like to view; fill out the order form; then create your username and password.

When you login to your account with your username and password, all the courses you've purchased are available for viewing. Click on "View" to begin the class you'd like to take first. You will then come to a page that says "Watch Course Now!" On the sidebar of this page are the links you will need for downloading the course manual in a .PDF format (which you will want to do before beginning the course); taking the review exam and final exam; checking your exam scores; and evaluating the course after completion.

Q: It’s the middle of the night on a weekend. Can I still purchase and/or watch Vern’s online CPE course(s)?

A: Of course! The system is set-up for 24/7 access. When you purchase Vern’s course(s), you can watch Vern’s courses at your convenience – night or day!

Q: What sort of computer hardware/software requirements are there for watching Vern’s online CPE courses?

A: Please read our System Requirements page.

Q: How do Vern's streaming video courses work?

A: Self-study coursework offers you several advantages: you can purchase a course and start learning immediately, you can study when it's convenient for you, you can review different sections at your discretion, and you can take exams online and get instant results via e-mail. But now, Vern's online Federal Tax Update self-study courses make self-study even better!

With streaming video technology, you get the best of both worlds—you'll feel like you're in the classroom with a live instructor, and you'll receive all the benefits of self-study. Here's how it works...

We simulate a live teaching environment with what we call a "three-pane environment." In the first pane (window), you can see Vern Hoven, one of America's premier tax presenters, as he tells you about the most recent tax law changes. The second pane dispalys his PowerPoint slides, synchronized with his discussion of each topic, just as in a live seminar setting. And, finally, in the third pane, you can easily follow along with Vern's full text manual, topic by topic, and actually link to Web sites that contain important IRS Code sections and pertinent cases and rulings while you're learning.

With the new Federal Tax Update Streaming Video, you can:

• start and stop the video at will,
• replay a section or the entire video as often as you like,
• complete review sections at your convenience,
• experience "live-like" instruction when and where you want,
• access important Web sites as you study, and
• take exams and receive CPE credits online as you complete modules.

With this kind of built-in versatility, our interactive self-study courses might just trump a live seminar! Bring Vern Hoven and his superb annual update right into your room – on your terms and schedule.

Q: I can’t dedicate any set amount of time to Vern’s online CPE courses (15 minutes one day, maybe 2 hours the next, etc.). Is it easy for me to watch when I can, and start back in the place I left off the next day, or even the next week?

A: Absolutely. When you watch Vern’s presentation, there are topic headings located between Vern's video and Vern's PowerPoint slides. These topic titles correspond with the manual sub-headings. Simply watch until Vern changes topics, push pause or stop, and begin playing at the next chapter whenever you have time. We have heard from a few people who like to watch Vern's online courses in airports, while they're waiting for their planes!

If you need to stop in the middle of a topic, you should be able to start at the beginning of the topic, then scroll ahead with the fast-forward button the way you would with a video or DVD.

Q: What kind of internet connection do I need to watch Vern’s online CPE courses?

A: We highly recommend that you have a high-speed internet connection (282k or higher). We do not believe that you would be happy with the quality of the streaming video if you only have a dial-up connection, and so we have not provided this option. If you do not have a high-speed internet connection, and can’t make one of Vern’s presentations live, we think you might like to check out Vern’s course on DVD. These are sold online through a company Vern works with: WesternCPE. Please visit their website at www.westerncpe.com.

Q: Who should I contact if I’m having trouble watching my streaming media course?

A: If you have any trouble with the streaming video, there is a very thorough Troubleshooting page accessed via a hyperlink on the left-side of your computer screen, once you've logged in to your account. If you continue to have troubles after going through the Troubleshooting points, we are here to assist in any way we can; just fill in the Technical Support request form (also accessed via a hyperlink on the left-side of your computer, once you've logged in), or call us at 253/265-1040. We will do everything we can to ensure you have a successful and enjoyable experience with our online courses.

Q: I’ve forgotten my Username and/or Password. What should I do?

A: If you’ve forgotten your password, on the login page, hit the link for "Forgot My Password” You will be sent an email with your Password, or call us at (253) 265-1040 during regular business hours.

Q: I would like my whole office to take Vern’s online CPE course(s). Do you offer group discounts?

A: Yes! We offer a 20% discount for groups of 5 or more people who take The Complete Federal Tax Update course. Please e-mail (jill@hoven.com) or call (253/265-1040) our office during normal business hours, and we will set you up with a discount code.

Q: How long do I have to take the online CPE course(s) I purchase?

A: You will have one year to complete your course(s), from the date of purchase. In your account, your courses will be listed with the purchase date and expiration date, so that you are always aware of how much time you have left.

Q: What score do I need to earn in order to pass the online CPE exam?

A: In accordance with NASBA standards, you need to receive a 70% on your final exam in order to receive CPE credit.

Q: How many times can I take the CPE exam?

A: You will have three chances to take the final exam. After three chances or a passing grade of 70% - whichever comes first – your course will be complete.

Q: How do I receive my Certificate of Completion for my online CPE course(s)?

A: When you log in to your account, all of your courses will be listed. On the sidebar, you will see a link to "Your Transcript.” Here you will be able to Request a Certificate for each of your successfully completed courses.

When you successfully pass a course, you will be directed to your online Certificate of Completion. Please make sure that your computer is attached to a working printer. You will only have one chance to print the Certificate of Completion. (If you have any difficulties printing, you will need to contact Vern Hoven Tax Seminars during regular business hours.)

Q: How soon will I receive my Certificate of Completion for my online CPE course(s)?

A: Your Certificate of Completion will be available immediately upon successful completion of any course.

Q: I was registered for one of Vern’s live presentations, but was unable to attend. The CPA Society suggested that I take Vern’s online course. I’ve already paid the Society. How do I take Vern’s online CPE course without having to pay again?

A:The CPA Society will provide you with a discount code, supplied to them by Vern Hoven Tax Seminars.

Under "Online Self-Study Courses" click on "View Course Listings." Then, click on "Complete Bundle Details" in "The Complete Federal Tax Update Course" box. Add "The Complete Federal Tax Update Course" to your cart. Or click here to go to the The Complete Federal Tax Update description page. When you go to purchase the course, add the discount code. With the code, you will not need to pay for the course(s) a second time.

Q: I saw that Vern offers a 100% money-back guarantee. If I’m not satisfied with the online course, how do I get my money back?

A: We will do everything we can to make the online education process user-friendly and informative for you, but if you find that the online environment or Vern’s courses don’t work for you, then simply contact Jill (e-mail: jill@hoven.com), phone: 253/265-1040) and let them know you were unsatisfied and would like your money back. They will initiate a return of funds to your credit card.

Vern Hoven Tax Seminars will NOT be able to return funds for any course that has been successfully completed.

Still Have Questions? Please Contact Us.