The Advanced Tax Preparation certificate will provide you with a broad understanding of individual, business and fiduciary taxation and tax preparer procedures and ethics. In addition to studying the concepts of the basic Tax Preparation Certificate program, you'll also work on more sophisticated individual income tax returns and learn about individual financial planning, tax preparation for corporations and other entities such as partnerships and trusts, and payroll taxation. This program is also intended to prepare you to sit for the IRS Special Enrollment Exam which will allow you to become an Enrolled Agent and represent clients before the IRS. As part of the certificate program, you'll get practical experience overseen by an instructor.
The Washington State Employment Security Department projects a 22% increase in the number of job openings in Washington State between 2004 and 2014. Graduates of the program will be prepared for tax preparer positions in national "chain" tax preparation companies as well as CPA, accounting and tax law firms and might expect to progress to such positions as Senior Tax Preparer or Manager or might own and manage their own office. The IRS is also stepping up enforcement in many tax areas leading to a need for a wide range of tax positions in government.
Earnings for tax preparers in Washington range from $9.60 to $22.74/hour with those with more advanced skills falling at the higher end of the range. This position also offers the possibility of part-time or seasonal work for those who are interested in supplementing their income. Working as a tax preparer is also a great way to gain experience and fund additional education in accounting, business, finance or other fields.
Individuals or accounting, business or tax preparation professionals who want to learn more about tax preparation or specific tax topics are welcome to take individual courses that are part of our tax preparation certificate programs.
| Course Number | Required Courses | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Total | 35 | |
| ACCT110 | Introduction to Accounting/Bookkeeping I | 5 |
| ACCT255 | Individual Income Tax | 5 |
| ACCT256 | Taxation of Corporations & Partnerships | 5 |
| ACCT257 | Business Tax Accounting | 5 |
| ACCT258 | Practical Income Tax Preparation I | 5 |
| ACCT259 | Practical Income Tax Preparation II | 5 |
| ACCT264 | Tax Research & Advanced Topics | 5 |
Total credits for certificate: 35
Throughout this program of study the importance of a responsible and professional work ethic is stressed. Factors leading to such a work ethic are identified and discussed. Instruction is also provided in effective leadership and how it enhances the work environment. Input from this program's industrial advisory committee is essential to curriculum content pertaining to the work ethic and leadership as well as the technically oriented curriculum.
Effective Spring 2010
Tax Preparation Advanced Certificate
52.0302 / 505G
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