Maintaining the Credential
CFEs must obtain a minimum of 20 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every 12-month period and pay annual membership dues to stay current in their profession. CFEs are required to certify CPE compliance by the end of their anniversary month either (1) online or (2) by calling a Member Services Representative at (800) 245-3321 (USA & Canada only) or +1 (512) 478-9000. A CFE's anniversary month is the month membership is renewed each year.
CPE Requirements
CFEs must earn 20 hours of CPE per twelve month period. At least 10 of these hours must relate directly to the detection and deterrence of fraud and 2 hours must relate directly to ethics. If a CFE has earned more than 20 hours of CPE in their previous reporting period, they may carry forward up to 10 of these extra hours to meet their current CPE requirements.
The ACFE accepts ethics training from other organizations provided the primary course topic is ethics or ethics-related. In general, courses that focus on the following topics will meet this requirement:
Ethics and Professional Conduct
Ethical Practice in Business
Personal Ethics
Ethical Decision-Making
Corporate Ethics
In addition, courses with a primary topic that falls under one of the requirements of the Certified Fraud Examiners Code of Professional Ethics will be considered to meet this requirement. These categories include, but are not limited to, the following:
Professionalism and Diligence in Performance of Duties
Conflicts of Interest
Integrity and Objectivity
Professional Competence
Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Ethical Considerations in Reporting and Testifying
Confidentiality
To review the Certified Fraud Examiners Code of Professional Ethics visit ACFE.com/CodeofEthics.
All ACFE courses are considered fraud-related. If CPE credits earned through another source fall within one of the following general categories, it is considered fraud-related under ACFE CPE guidelines.
Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes
Law Related to Fraud
Investigation Techniques
Fraud Prevention and Deterrence
For a full listing of specific fraud-related topics, visit the CPE section on CPE 101: Acceptable Fields of Study.
New Online Ethics Courses
To address this new requirement the ACFE has created a series of online courses that are accessible at the user’s convenience. Instant grading and printable certificates are available upon completion of the courses.