1. Certification and Testing
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

2. Tax-Aide Certification Requirements (1)
All Volunteers – IRS Standards of Conduct test
Pub 4961 is available only in electronic format
Support Coordinators – No further requirements
Local Coordinators, Counselors and Client Facilitators
Intake/Interview and Quality Review training and test –ten questions
Link & Learn or Pub 5101 (on-line only)
Training materials in Pub 4961 are good to use. The revision of Form 6744 on 10/19/15 will probably result in a difference between the electronic version of Form 6744 and the hardcopy version since the hardcopy version has already gone to press.
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

3. Tax-Aide Certification Requirements (2)
Counselors – Anyone preparing or reviewing returns
Advanced test
35 questions
Complete at least four exercises from NTTC Workbook
Training materials in Pub 4961 are good to use. The revision of Form 6744 on 10/19/15 will probably result in a difference between the electronic version of Form 6744 and the hardcopy version since the hardcopy version has already gone to press.
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

4. Certification Testing
Recommend (URGE!!!) Link & Learn rather than paper
Excellent on-line training reinforces classroom
Easier for the Instructors
However, Volunteer Agreement doesn’t show test score – only that the tests were passed
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

5. Reviewing Counselors Test Results
On-line certification doesn’t indicate the test score
Instructors may want to learn how they actually did
Some options. Ask for:
pdf’s of F1040 of test scenarios
Print out of test results page
Student’s log-in credentials to review answers
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

6. Optional Certification Tests
Optional Certifications for Counselors
HSA
Military
International
HSA training and testing via Link & Learn or Pub (electronic only)
Pub 4942 also serves as good reference resource while counseling
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

7. “Printed” Training Materials (1)
Pub 4012 (loose-leaf three-hole-punched) has been ordered for all Counselors
Tax-Aide will create custom electronic version reflecting expanded scope – ENCOURAGE IT’S USE!
Pub 4491 (2016) available only electronically.
Pub 4491A (electronic) lists changes to edition
Appendix has good ACA affordability exercises
4491X (errata) will be available late December
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

8. “Printed” Training Materials (2)
Duck Books will be mailed in January
All districts have ordered through the TRS
Additional copies – use FTB form 2333V-CA
Districts have varying policies for distributing Instructions, Pub. 17 and CA 540 booklets
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

9. New/Expanded Training Tools
NTTC Workbook for Tax Year 2016
Several new practice returns
Quizzes and exercises
Loose leaf binder format
Each district must obtain/distribute copies to trainees
Available from AARP Fulfillment
Last year’s NTTC Workbook has more returns
Workbook based on previous years’ Pub 4491W problems updated for 2015
Slides – continue to incorporate feedback – more emphasis on using resources (Pubs 4012 and 17)
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

10. New/Expanded Training Tools
NTTC Lesson Plans:
(OSHC>Tax Training>Immersion Training)
Series I – Designed for local customization
Series II – Designed to be more turn-key with minimal customizing required
Includes schedules for new and returning counselors
NTTC Power-Point Training Slides
Select/edit as appropriate to audiences
CA-specific set available
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop

11. Certification and Testing
Questions…
Comments…
2016 CA-2 Instructor Workshop