Taxation of Business Entities I: Corporations from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Orientation

In this module, you will become familiar with the course, your instructor, your classmates, and our learning environment. This orientation will also help you obtain the technical skills required to navigate and be successful in this course.

Module 1: Overview of Business Taxation

In this module, you will review the basics of tax law, which includes the origins of taxation, the three sources of tax law, the hierarchy of tax law, and judicial doctrines. Next, you will cover the fundamental features of the different organizational forms: sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and limited liability corporation. There will also be a discussion on strategic form choice. Finally, you will be introduced to entity classification for tax purposes.

Module 2: Corporate Income Taxation

In this module, you will compare the tax formula for C corporations with the tax formula for individuals. Next, you will examine special tax deductions available only to corporations, such as the dividends received deduction, and the organizational expenditures deduction. You will learn how to calculate corporate income tax liability and compute the corporate Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT). This module will also discuss book-tax differences, and finally, it will discuss compliance procedures.

Module 3: Corporate Formation I

In this module, you will review the taxation of property transactions. You will be introduced to the Sunchaser Shakery which is a firm that you will apply concepts to. Then, you will examine the nonrecognition provisions in property-for-stock transactions and consider possible exceptions and conditions.

Module 4: Corporate Formation II & Operations

In this module, you will continue to explore property-for-stock transactions. Assumption of liabilities and transfer of services along with property will be introduced. Next, you will examine the effects of capital contributions on corporations, shareholders, and non-shareholders. You will also analyze the rules for debt and equity regarding capital structure. Finally, investor losses due to worthlessness of debt/equity investments and bad debts will be discussed.

Module 5: Corporate Non-Liquidating Distributions

In this module, you will learn about corporate non-liquidating distributions. First, earnings and profits (E&P) will be discussed, and you will learn how to calculate E&P. Next, you will analyze the treatment of cash distributions followed by property distributions. You will then cover the treatment of stock distributions. Finally, treatment of constructive dividends and qualified dividends will be explored.

Module 6: Corporate Redemptions and Partial Liquidations

In this module, you will explore redemptions and partial liquidations, which is when shareholders sell stock back to the issuing corporation in exchange for cash. You will learn about the five types of qualified redemptions, which are applied after you have considered stock attribution rules. Finally, you will analyze how these redemptions are treated by both the shareholders and the corporation.

Module 7: Corporate Liquidations

In this module, you will be introduced to corporate liquidations. Some basic information on liquidations will be given, followed by a discussion on corporate tax treatment of complete liquidations. Also, the tax effects on shareholders will be analyzed. Finally, you will examine the tax effects on both the parent and subsidiary in parent-subsidiary liquidations.

Module 8: Corporate Reorganizations

In this module, you will explore corporate reorganizations. First, some background on the history of corporate restructuring will be given. Next, you will be introduced to the different types of tax-deferred reorganizations. Finally, you will learn analyze the tax consequences of these reorganizations.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides a comprehensive overview of U.S. federal income taxation of corporations and their shareholders

Taught by a well-respected professor with extensive experience in corporate taxation

Focuses on practical problem-solving, which helps learners develop professional skills

Covers a wide range of topics, from corporate formation to liquidations and reorganizations

Assumes a basic understanding of tax law, which may be a barrier for beginners

Does not cover international tax issues, which may be a limitation for some learners

Reviews summary

Highly rated corporate taxation course

Learners say this engaging course is very good and highly recommended. Excellent instructors provide clear explanations of thoroughly covered topics. Most importantly, students feel that the content is useful and beneficial for their professional lives.

The course covers a wide range of relevant tax topics.

"Very good in-depth review of a wide range of topics relating to the tax effects on shareholder and corporation in funding and monetisation of C Corporations."

"This course is very good. And I have finished it well. The subject can enrich my knowledge regarding taxation of business entities I."

"I really enjoyed the applications of the principles to Sunchaser as it made the concepts much clearer."

Instructors are knowledgeable and make the material engaging.

"Prof. Donohoe is an excellent teacher and I find his examples useful in learning the concepts."

"Amazing class. Very thorough and incredibly brilliant and likeable instructor. Highly recommend it."

"Very professional! Clear and understandable information and instructor!"

Concepts are useful to students and working professionals.

"I find these courses super useful in my daily professional life and in achieving new goals."

"Whether you're a tax professional or a business owner looking to navigate the complexities of corporate tax, this course equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel."

"Good material, not in-depth but sufficient for such learning platform. "

Clear explanations and examples help make learning easier.

"All the concepts are explained thoroughly"

"The material and Instructor were both very good. Thank you!"

"Very well organized and more importantly, taught extremely well."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Taxation of Business Entities I: Corporations with these activities:

Review corporate law fundamentals

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Refresh your understanding of corporate law concepts to prepare for the course material.

Browse courses on Corporate Law

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Read an introductory textbook on corporate law.
Take practice tests or quizzes on corporate law topics.
Review notes or materials from previous corporate law courses.

Complete online tutorials on corporate taxation

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Supplement your understanding of corporate taxation concepts with guided tutorials.

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Research online tutorials on corporate taxation.
Select a reputable tutorial provider.
Complete the tutorials at your own pace, taking notes and asking questions as needed.

Participate in peer discussion groups

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Engage with peers to discuss course concepts, exchange perspectives, and clarify misunderstandings.

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Join or form a peer discussion group.
Actively participate in discussions, sharing your thoughts and asking questions.
Listen attentively to the perspectives of others and be open to alternative interpretations.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Solve practice problems on corporate income taxation

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Reinforce your understanding of corporate income taxation through practice problems.

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Gather practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or the instructor.
Solve the problems independently, referring to course materials for assistance.
Compare your solutions with the provided answer key or discuss them with classmates.

Analyze a real-world corporate tax case study

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Apply your knowledge by analyzing a real-world corporate tax case and identifying the key legal and tax issues involved.

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Select a recent corporate tax case study from a reputable source.
Read and analyze the facts of the case, including relevant legal and tax documents.
Identify the main legal and tax issues raised by the case.
Write a concise analysis of the case, discussing the key legal and tax arguments and their implications.

Mentor junior students or peers in corporate taxation

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Reinforce your understanding and develop leadership skills by mentoring others in corporate taxation.

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Identify a junior student or peer who could benefit from your guidance.
Offer your time and expertise to mentor them on corporate taxation concepts and skills.
Regularly meet with your mentee, providing guidance, feedback, and encouragement.

Contribute to open-source software projects related to corporate taxation

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Expand your knowledge and gain practical experience by contributing to open-source projects in the field of corporate taxation.

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Identify open-source projects related to corporate taxation on platforms like GitHub.
Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
Develop and submit code contributions, following the project's guidelines.

Career center

Learners who complete Taxation of Business Entities I: Corporations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Tax Manager

Tax Managers are responsible for overseeing an organization's tax strategy and ensuring compliance with tax laws. A background in the U.S. federal income taxation of corporations and their shareholders is essential to succeed as a Tax Manager. This course would help you develop your knowledge of Subchapter C of the Internal Revenue Code and related Treasury Regulations and judicial opinions governing corporate formation, operations, distributions, and liquidation. You would also gain practical experience in solving tax problems, which is a critical skill for Tax Managers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Tax Manager

Tax Accountant

Tax Accountants prepare and file tax returns for individuals and businesses. They also advise clients on tax planning and compliance issues. A strong understanding of corporate income taxation is essential for Tax Accountants, and this course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area. You would learn how to calculate corporate income tax liability and compute the corporate Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT). You would also gain experience in analyzing book-tax differences and compliance procedures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Tax Accountant

Auditor

Auditors examine an organization's financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting standards. They may also perform risk assessments and provide consulting services. A background in corporate taxation is helpful for Auditors, as it allows them to better understand the financial implications of business decisions. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in corporate income taxation, as well as practical experience in analyzing financial records.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts evaluate investment opportunities and make recommendations to clients. They typically have a strong background in accounting and finance, and a knowledge of corporate taxation can be helpful in understanding the financial performance of companies. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in corporate income taxation, as well as practical experience in analyzing financial statements.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Tax Preparer

Tax Preparers prepare and file tax returns for individuals and businesses. They typically have a background in accounting or taxation. A strong understanding of corporate income taxation is essential for Tax Preparers, as they must be able to correctly calculate corporate tax liability. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in preparing tax returns.

See salaries and explore the career path for Tax Preparer

Tax Examiner

Tax Examiners review tax returns to ensure accuracy and compliance with tax laws. They may also conduct audits and investigations. A strong understanding of corporate income taxation is essential for Tax Examiners, as they must be able to correctly interpret and apply the law. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in reviewing tax returns.

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Tax Attorney

Tax Attorneys advise clients on tax planning and compliance issues. They also represent clients in tax disputes with the IRS. A strong understanding of corporate income taxation is essential for Tax Attorneys, as they must be able to correctly interpret and apply the law. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in solving tax problems.

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Tax Policy Analyst

Tax Policy Analysts research and analyze tax laws and policies. They may also make recommendations to policymakers on how to improve the tax system. A strong understanding of corporate income taxation is helpful for Tax Policy Analysts, as they need to be able to understand the impact of tax laws on businesses. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in analyzing tax policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Tax Policy Analyst

Investment Banker

Investment Bankers advise companies on mergers and acquisitions, as well as other financial transactions. A strong understanding of corporate taxation is helpful for Investment Bankers, as they need to be able to understand the tax implications of different transactions. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in analyzing financial transactions.

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Corporate Controller

Corporate Controllers are responsible for overseeing an organization's financial operations. They typically have a strong background in accounting and finance. A knowledge of corporate taxation can be helpful for Corporate Controllers, as they need to be able to understand the tax implications of business decisions. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in analyzing financial statements.

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Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

CFOs are responsible for overseeing an organization's financial operations. They typically have a strong background in accounting and finance. A knowledge of corporate taxation can be helpful for CFOs, as they need to be able to understand the tax implications of business decisions. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in analyzing financial statements.

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Management Consultant

Management Consultants advise businesses on a variety of issues, including finance, operations, and strategy. A knowledge of corporate taxation can be helpful for Management Consultants, as they need to be able to understand the tax implications of business decisions. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in analyzing financial statements.

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Entrepreneur

Entrepreneurs start and run their own businesses. A knowledge of corporate taxation can be helpful for Entrepreneurs, as they need to be able to understand the tax implications of business decisions. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in analyzing financial statements.

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Financial Planner

Financial Planners advise individuals and businesses on financial planning and investment strategies. A knowledge of corporate taxation can be helpful for Financial Planners, as they need to be able to understand the tax implications of investment decisions. This course would provide you with a solid foundation in this area, as well as practical experience in analyzing financial statements.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Planner

Loan Officer

Loan Officers evaluate loan applications and make recommendations on whether to approve or deny loans. A knowledge of corporate taxation can be helpful for Loan Officers, as they need to be able to understand the tax implications of different types of loans. This course may provide you with a basic understanding of corporate taxation, but it is not directly relevant to the role of Loan Officer.

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Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Taxation of Business Entities I: Corporations.

Your Federal Income Tax For Individuals...

Save

This is the official compilation of the regulations that interpret the federal income tax laws. It good choice for practitioners who need to stay up-to-date on the latest tax laws and regulations.

Your Federal Income Tax For Individuals...

Paperback

Treasury Department Circular No. 230 - Regulations...

Save

This is the official compilation of the federal income tax laws. It good choice for practitioners who need to stay up-to-date on the latest tax laws and regulations.

Treasury Department Circular No. 230 - Regulations...

Paperback

Fundamentals of International Taxation

Save

This multi-volume treatise comprehensive guide to the federal income tax. It good choice for researchers and practitioners who need to research a specific tax issue.

Fundamentals of International Taxation

Paperback

Check price

Fundamentals of International Taxation

Kindle Edition

Check price

Federal Taxation of Corporations and Corporate...

Save

Comprehensive guide to the taxation of corporations. It covers all of the major topics relevant to the course, in a clear and concise manner.

Federal Taxation of Corporations and Corporate...

Kindle Edition

$$$$

Onward and Upward

Save

Provides a practical guide to corporate tax planning. It covers a wide range of topics, including entity selection, mergers and acquisitions, and international tax planning.

Onward and Upward: Guide For Getting Through New...

Paperback

Corporate Finance 5e

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of corporate finance. It good resource for students and practitioners who are interested in learning more about the financial management of corporations.

Corporate Finance 5e

Paperback

$$$$

Contract, Governance and Transaction Cost Economics

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of organization and management. It good resource for students and practitioners who are interested in learning more about the economic theory of the firm.

Contract, Governance and Transaction Cost Economics

Hardcover

$$$

Auditing and Assurance Services, Global Edition

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of auditing and assurance services. It good resource for students and practitioners who are interested in learning more about the auditing profession.

Auditing and Assurance Services, Global Edition

Paperback

Auditing and Assurance Services, Global Edition

Paperback

$$$$

Auditing and Assurance Services plus Pearson MyLab...

Paperback

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