Being enrolled at the H&R Block Academy is your first step toward preparing tax returns like a professional or, even better, become a professional tax preparer. You will learn the principles and practices as well as the rules and regulations about filing federal and state taxes for individuals and businesses here. You will also learn communication skills that will be useful in dealing with your future clients, in case you decide to become a tax preparer.
But it isn’t just a matter of enrolling in H&R Block’s tax school and paying its fees either. You have to get the most of your time here so that you can also get the most value from your money. Here are a few tips that will prove useful in this regard.
Know What You’re Getting Into
Of course, you should set realistic expectations about your tax education at the H&R Block tax school. You should know, for example, that you will be required to study and understand a wide range of concepts – and it demands hard work on your part. You have to acknowledge, too, that completing the course doesn’t automatically mean the legal capacity to practice as a tax preparer.
You can choose between classroom-based instruction or online instruction depending on your personal preferences and lifestyle. But in either case, you will be getting instructions on the following matters:
- Tax theory on wages and income, tax filing requirements, interest and dividends, due diligence, dependent exemptions, and earned income credit, among others.
- Current rules and regulations regarding federal and state taxes including common credits and deductions
- Step-by-step procedure in preparing tax returns
- Communication techniques
Keep in mind that your instructor will not take the spoon-feeding approach in your education. You have to study hard and study well so that you can actually learn the concepts. Otherwise, you’re just wasting your time and money.
Put in the Time and Energy
Even when you’re enrolled in the online program, you are still required to attend the virtual classes, as is the case for the classroom-based program students. You will find that the classes demand your full attention, partly because tax rules and regulations can be confusing for beginners. You have to put in not just the time but the energy and effort to actually learn nearly everything, if not understand everything that your instructor strives to impart.
The actual number of hours you will be spending in the classes vary depending on the program you’re enrolled in. You may spend anywhere between 60 and 84 hours in classroom instruction during the entirety of the program. You may skip on a few hours but it will be to your disadvantage – the advanced lessons obviously need in-depth understanding of the basic concepts.
Your class schedule will also vary. You may, for example, attend classes two days a week for three hours each session. You may also choose between day and night classes, even all-day Saturday classes; even the busiest person will find a suitable schedule.
Just like all students, you will also be required to submit your homework and pass your quizzes and tests. The tax course, indeed, will demand chunks of time from your daily schedule aside from the actual classes. You may have to sacrifice a few things or activities for it.
Whenever you feel pressured from your studies, you may also consider stress-busting techniques, such as deep breathing and taking small breaks. You should also take advantage of the one-on-one instruction that your instructor may offer, especially in areas where you may be struggling.
And keep your eye on the prize! Even when you spend only a few weeks at the H&R Block Academy, you will realize that it’s positive impact on your life will last for several years – and it’s all the more reason to study hard.
