Form 706: Tax Compliance, Review and Planning
Author: Michael Miranda
| CPE Credit: |
2 hours for CPAs
2 hours Federal Tax Related for EAs and OTRPs
2 hours Federal Tax Law for CTEC |
Estate tax compliance is a critical area for professionals serving high-net-worth clients. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Form 706 and the estate tax regime, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to guide clients through complex estate planning and filing requirements.
You’ll learn how to navigate Form 706, understand portability and DSUE elections, apply special valuation rules, and identify post-mortem planning opportunities. With practical insights and real-world examples, this course will help you deliver exceptional value to clients during one of life’s most challenging transitions.
Per the IRS Education Provider Standards this course must be COMPLETED by 12/31/2028 to receive credits. NOTE: Go to My Professional Profile in your CCH CPELink account settings to ensure your name, and PTIN number; matches your PTIN card
Publication Date: January 2026
Designed For
All tax professionals who desire a better understanding of the “Estate Taxes” (i.e., Form 706) and be able to understand its role considering estate planning for middle to high-net-worth clients
Topics Covered
- Statutory framework of the Estate Tax
- Sample Form 706 and related schedules
- Changes to Form 706
- Basic GST principles and examples of GST reporting
- The “Portability” rules and how they work
- Review of a sample Form 706 with a DSUE election
- Special valuation rules
- The “qualified appraisal” issue
- Reviewing appraisal criteria and valuation discounts
- Form 706 important elections
- Estate tax planning in light of the OBBB Act
Learning Objectives
- Identify the basic framework of the Estate Tax regime
- Identify the different parts of Form 706 and the various schedules
- Recognize how to successfully navigate Form 706
- Identify the Deceased Spousal Unused Exemption (DSUE)
- Recognize how to handle “Portability” and comply with timely (or untimely) filings
- Identify the special valuation rules available to minimize a decedent’s overall estate tax liability
- Identify appraisals and valuation adjustments
- Identify post-mortem tax planning opportunities
Level
Basic
Instructional Method
Self-Study
NASBA Field of Study
Taxes (2 hours)
Program Prerequisites
None
Advance Preparation
None
