Distance Learning in Tax Preparation Courses
Distance learning allows students to complete coursework online and prepare for a new career without having to attend classes on campus. In today's world, where people often work full-time, raise children and are involved in many activities, finding time to invest in school may be difficult. Students wishing to become tax preparation professionals can attend online courses through a tax preparation school. Upon completion of the program, they will be prepared to enter the tax industry as an entry-level employee.
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Courses and Schools
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Three programs that are available to students throughout the United States include the tax preparation courses offered by Jackson Hewitt, The Income Tax School and Merit Education. Jackson Hewitt offers students the opportunity to learn in both the classroom at Jackson Hewitt locations all over the country or online. The online basic tax course teaches students the skills necessary to prepare tax returns. This coursework may also be transferred to University of Phoenix for college credits. Jackson Hewitt also offers intermediate and advanced courses for those already working as tax preparation professionals who wish to expand their knowledge base. The Income Tax School offers a comprehensive, online course for beginners, which can also be combined with the intermediate course for a competitive edge in the employment marketplace. All courses at the Income Tax School are taught by working tax professionals. Merit Education also offers a similar beginning course to train entry-level tax preparers. All three schools consistently update their coursework to reflect the most current tax law.
Time frame
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The time frame required to complete a tax preparation course online differs depending on the school and program chosen. The Income Tax Schools' comprehensive beginner and intermediate courses require 60 hours of coursework, according to the school's website. Jackson Hewitt's basic tax course is divided into three courses and can typically be completed in less than a year.
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Materials
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All three schools include text books, online classroom study and basic course materials in the cost of their courses. Students are responsible for extra study materials such as paper, notebooks, pens and highlighters.
Topics Covered
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Basic tax preparation courses cover the skills, forms and knowledge necessary to break into the tax industry. Students learn about basic income tax preparation, how to file necessary forms, online filing and standard tax deductions. As they move through the coursework, students learn more about specialized tax credits and the proper way to apply them to an individual's tax returns.
Career Placement Services
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Jackson Hewitt's Tax School website states that some students have the opportunity to gain employment as a seasonal tax preparer with the Jackson Hewitt Company. The Merit Education course provides students with the skills necessary to start their own tax preparation business. The Income Tax School offers a career center to help its graduates obtain employment in the tax industry.
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References
- Photo Credit tax forms image by Chad McDermott from Fotolia.com
