Costs & Refunds

The average cost for CLE per credit hour in the U.S. typically ranges from about $20 to $100 or more, depending on the provider, course format, and jurisdiction. However, attorneys seeking the best value often choose unlimited memberships, which allow access to all approved courses for a flat annual fee — significantly lowering the effective cost per credit.

Factors Affecting CLE Cost

• Course format: Live programs and conferences tend to cost more than on-demand courses.
• Membership discounts: Bar members and subscribers often receive reduced rates.
• Specialty topics: Niche practice areas or advanced-level courses can carry higher prices.
• Jurisdictional variations: State accreditation and reporting fees can affect pricing.
• Bundles and memberships: Purchasing a multi-course bundle or an unlimited membership offers the best cost-per-credit efficiency.

Sprout Education Value

Sprout Education offers Unlimited Memberships, giving attorneys access to a comprehensive catalog of accredited CLE courses for one flat rate — often bringing the per-credit cost well below national averages.

Key Takeaway

While the average CLE credit costs between $20 and $100+, the most cost-effective option is an unlimited membership.

Sometimes — in many jurisdictions, bar associations or CLE providers offer discounts or special pricing for newly licensed lawyers, but there is no universal rule requiring “new lawyer discounts” in CLE rules.

Such discounts are incentives offered by providers, not mandates imposed by state CLE commissions or courts.

Details

• Newly licensed attorneys can access a 50% discount on Unlimited CLE Memberships through Sprout Education with the code

Yes – many bar associations and CLE providers offer discounts or member-rate pricing on continuing legal education programs.
These reductions are designed to make ongoing professional education more accessible for attorneys and law firms, and the same applies to certain promotions offered through SproutEd.

• Bar associations commonly reduce tuition or offer flat-rate access for active members or attorneys serving in pro bono or public interest roles.
• Some providers extend early registration or group discounts for firms enrolling multiple participants.
• SproutEd periodically offers promotional discounts to new users and members of professional legal organizations.
• Attorneys can also use the promo code “FREECLE” on SproutEducation.com to receive one complimentary CLE credit toward any qualifying course.
• Discount eligibility, course selection, and duration of offers may vary depending on provider policies and jurisdictional CLE rules.

Key Takeaway
Yes – CLE discounts are widely available, including periodic offers from SproutEd such as the FREECLE promotion, but attorneys should always verify eligibility and terms for each course or provider.

Yes — CLE costs can be tax deductible in the U.S., but only if they meet IRS rules (they must maintain or improve skills in your current profession and not qualify you for a new profession). These are considered work-related education expenses under IRS Topic 513.

CLE expenses must satisfy the “maintain or improve skills” test or be legally required for your profession; if they don’t, they won’t qualify. Under current tax law, unreimbursed employee expenses (including CLE) are not deductible for W-2 employees through 2025, but they may be deductible for self-employed attorneys as ordinary and necessary business expenses.

Details:

• Qualifies if: Maintains or improves skills, or is legally required.
• Does not qualify if: Education prepares you for a