Overview:
As practitioners, we must devote lots of time to the technical understanding of the tax law. We may be puzzled about why they have so many details and why some special rules are so limited. Appreciation of the design of a tax system (also known as tax policy) can help deepen our understanding of technical rules and where improvements are needed in our tax system. Understanding the principles of sound tax policy is necessary to objectively evaluate legislative proposals and critique them to clients and lawmakers. This course covers the basics of tax policy, principles of good tax policy, how to use this information for improved practice, and advocacy ideas to help improve our tax laws. Examples and practice analysis are included.
Objectives:
• Explain the basic design of the income tax, consumption taxes, wealth taxes and head taxes • Explain how tax expenditures affect the design of a tax system and the ability of a tax system to meet principles of good tax policy • Apply principles of good tax policy to existing rules and tax proposals • Describe tax reform processes • Explain challenges underlying tax reform • Draft comments on a legislative or administrative proposal
Major Topics:
• Definition and relevance of the term tax policy • Principles underlying the four main tax types • Principles of good tax policy • How to analyze existing tax rules and proposals for changes against principles of good tax policy and utilize the results • How and why to advocate for tax law changes
Major Topics:
• Definition and relevance of the term tax policy • Principles underlying the four main tax types • Principles of good tax policy • How to analyze existing tax rules and proposals for changes against principles of good tax policy and utilize the results • How and why to advocate for tax law changes
Designed For:
Practitioners interested in understanding our tax systems beyond a technical focus to also a policy focus. Practitioners interested in explaining tax reform issue to clients, colleagues and elected officials and those running for office.
Prerequisites:
Understanding of the differences between types of taxes. Interest in tax reform, both major and minor.