Professional Tax Preparation Level I

Comprehensive Course Outline

Duration: 40–60 Hours (8–12 Weeks)

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • Prepare basic federal individual income tax returns.
  • Complete Form 1040 and common schedules accurately.
  • Determine filing status and dependent eligibility.
  • Calculate taxable income, deductions, and credits.
  • Use professional tax software to prepare and e-file returns.
  • Conduct compliant client interviews and maintain due diligence.
  • Understand IRS ethical requirements and preparer responsibilities.

This outline is suitable for a Level I program at a training academy such as KKC Tax Academy. It can also serve as the foundation for a state-approved or continuing education curriculum, with advanced topics (Schedule C, rental property, partnerships, corporations, estates, and multi-state returns) reserved for Level II and Level III courses.

Course Content

Module 1 – Introduction to Tax Preparation
2 Topics
1 Quiz
Chapter I Introduction to Tax Pro
Chapter 1. Case Study
Chapter 1. Quizzes
Module 2 – Understanding the IRS
Module 3 – Filing Requirements
Module 4 – Taxpayer Identification
Module 5 – Dependents
Module 6 – Income
Module 7 – Adjustments to Income
Module 8 – Standard Deduction vs Itemized Deductions
Module 9 – Tax Credits
Module 10 – Tax Calculation
Module 11 – Payments
Module 12 – Form 1040
Module 13 – Common IRS Forms
Module 14 – Tax Preparation Software
Module 15 – Client Interview Skills
Module 16 – E-File Process
Module 17 – Ethics & Due Diligence
Module 18 – Tax Office Operations
Module 19 – Practical Workshops
Module 20 – Final Examination