2026 Express Tax Course
Need to get up to speed on Form 1040 without committing to a full-length course? The Express Tax Course covers the essentials in a fraction of the time — perfect as a fast refresher for working preparers or a quick-start for front desk and support staff who need to answer basic client questions with confidence.
In just 12 hours, you'll cover filing status, standard and itemized deductions, income, credits, qualifying dependents, capital gains and losses, adjustments to income, and more — everything you need to understand how a return comes together, without the deep dive.
No classroom, no long wait — enroll today and start building your tax knowledge right away.
📚 What is a Self-Study Course?
Take as long as you need. No deadlines, no rush — just progress on your schedule.
Enroll today and begin immediately. No waiting for a class to open or a session to start.
All materials are included. You study independently through readings, lessons, and a final exam.
What You'll Be Able to Do
- Safeguard the taxpayer's documents
- Know when to use Form 4868
- Understand the different e-filing options
- Complete Schedule 2 of Form 1040
- Explain how a nonrefundable credit affects tax liability
- Know which deductions are limited to the 7.5% floor
Course Chapters
Learn how to determine the right filing status, who qualifies as a dependent, and how to choose between standard and itemized deductions.
Understand all types of taxable income — wages, tips, interest, dividends, and more — and where they go on the return.
Discover above-the-line deductions like student loan interest and IRA contributions that can reduce taxable income.
Explore how withholding, estimated payments, and valuable credits like the Child Tax Credit and EIC reduce what a taxpayer owes.
Covers the professional standards and responsibilities tax preparers must follow, including Circular 230 guidelines.
Course Details
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Field of Study | Federal Tax Law — 10 hrsBehavioral Ethics — 2 hrs |
| Course Level | Basic |
| Prerequisite | None |
| Delivery Method | Self-Study |
| CE Credit Deadline | July 31, 2027 |
| Upon Completion | 🎓 Certificate of Completion |
| IRS Credit Reporting | CE credits reported directly to the IRS for tax preparers with a valid PTIN |
* This course does not qualify for California Continuing Education hours.
Self Study
Learn at your own pace, read or watch the lessons, pass the exams.
Mobile Friendly
Learn on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Bilingual
All our courses are available in English y español.
Career Paths
No matter where you’re at in your career, we have courses for you.
Simple Learner Experiences
Prendo365 gives you access to your course anytime, anywhere, on desktop, tablet, or mobile device. You're able to easily navigate through your course and receive your certificate of completion.
Why choose us
Over 35+ years tax preparation experience
We know what tax preparers need to succeed in their office
7+ EA’s and tax preparers on staff
Our team does extensive research to ensure you receive the best education
Bilingual live support
Having technical issues? We're ready to help you get started and complete your course.