Course Description
Development of tax research tools and the development of an understanding of tax policy issues as they arise in social policy and professional accounting settings.
Athena Title
TAX POLICY
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in ACCT 7730
Prerequisite
ACCT 5400/7400 and permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of tax research. It is designed to: (1) provide a basic understanding of the tax law authorities and tax practice and procedure (taxpayer and tax practitioner penalties, tax practitioner professional responsibilities), (2) provide students with the ability to research basic tax problems using appropriate tax authorities and research services, and (3) enhance students' written and oral communication skills. Effective analysis, communication, and planning are stressed. Selected code sections and topics are used for illustration.
Topical Outline
1. Introduction to Tax Research 2. Tax Research Methods 3. Tax Research Tools 4. Overview - Substantial Authority/Communication of Results 5. Internet-Based Research Services 6. Statutory Authorities 7. Administrative Authorities 8. Judicial Authorities 9. Written Communications 10. Oral Communications 11. Tax Services/Tax Journals 12. Citators 13. IRS Audit Process 14. Ethics and Professional Responsibilities 15. Preparer Penalties
Syllabus