Fundamentals of Taxation for Individuals: A Practical Approach

Present the big picture with a practice-based approach to understanding tax laws so students can develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare them for the real world. Fundamentals of Taxation for Individuals, 2024 Edition introduces a logical foundation with the income tax system so students can understand why a law exists and how to apply the law to practical tax problems. Professional skill-building exercises develop critical thinking and communication skills and the ability to identify and address ethical dilemmas, preparing students for future careers.

GREGORY CARNES My love for education and learning began very early in life. I attended an excellent college prep school, Baylor, in Chattanooga, TN, which is where I discovered how to be curious and creative, and to push myself intellectually. My father majored in accounting in college, and worked in public accounting and industry his entire career. So, I first learned about accounting careers from him, and I decided I would give it a try at college. I had great accounting instructors at Lipscomb University, especially Dr. Axel Swang and Professor Charles Frasier. I worked at Charles Frasier's accounting firm during my senior year, which is when I decided that the tax route was best for me, and I would leave the audits to others. After graduation, I decided to specialize in taxation and began the Master of Science in Accounting with Tax Emphasis program at the University of Memphis. I received a very good foundation in the tax law, especially from Dr. Rodger Bolling, who would later be my colleague at Northern Illinois University.

SUZANNE YOUNGBERG Being raised by hardworking parents who worked in corporate accounting, I was introduced to the field at an early age. After taking three high school accounting courses and being known as the penny-pincher of the family, I pursued my Bachelor of Science in Accountancy at Northern Illinois University. I was not a straight A student in college and worked very hard to earn my grades from outstanding professors who set a high bar. This early introduction to working hard to achieve my goals has carried through to all areas of my life. After working in taxation for a medium-sized public accounting firm in Chicago, passing the CPA Exam, and earning my Master of Science in Taxation from DePaul University, I was given the opportunity to teach one tax class at North Central College in Naperville, IL. I fell in love with teaching and have never looked back. Instructing students, understanding their difficulties in mastering the material, and celebrating their achievements were all extremely satisfying to me. When NIU asked me back to teach tax at my alma mater, I was thrilled!