EA Exam Prep Part 1: Dependents & Filing Requirements (Currently Unavailable)

Author: Eva Rosenberg

This is the second class of the EA Exam Prep Part 1 series. In this course, we discuss some of the fundamental concepts of individual tax returns. First, we take a look at the personal exemption amount, and learn when the phaseout begins for both it and itemized deductions. Then, we learn when taxpayers have to file a return, seeing where the rules are different for dependents and non-dependents. We review at the different 1040 tax forms, comparing them and determining which is best for the client. Filing statuses are covered, discussing the issues relating to Head of Household and Married Filing Separately. In addition to this, we touch on resident aliens, learning the resident alien test. Finally, we revisit personal exemptions, learn the tests relating to qualifying relative and qualifying child dependents, and discuss other issues related to qualifying dependents, such as temporary absences and divorce issues.

Publication Date: June 2019

Designed For
Tax practitioners of all levels, regardless of experience, who want to learn about filing requirements for individual taxpayers and who they may claim as dependents– and more. Excellent training for tax office administrative staff who must proofread tax returns containing this information. This is more than just a basic dependency and filing requirements course. This course is especially helpful to those with no hands-on experience preparing tax returns – and those who are returning to tax preparation after years in corporate or other jobs. This course is also designed to help CPAs earn their Enrolled Agent credential so they can practice anywhere in the country without re-certifying.

Topics Covered

• Changes to the Form 1040
• Changes to the standard deduction
• Changes to exemptions
• Changes to the tax rates
• Changes to the Child Tax Credit
• Changes to itemized deductions
• Form 13614C Interview and Intake

Learning Objectives

• Identify who is required to file a tax return
• Recognize what information is required to file a return
• Determine the appropriate filing status for the individual taxpayer
• Determine who is considered a dependent
• Identify the pitfalls and strategies for filing as Married Filing Separately
• Recognize the guidelines for filing as Head of Household
• Recognize issues for domestic partners and same-sex couples
• Identify how an annulment affects filers
• Identify considerations for nonresident alien spouses
• Identify the rules for divorced parents

Level
Basic

Instructional Method
Self-Study

NASBA Field of Study
Taxes (2 hours)

Program Prerequisites
None

Advance Preparation
None