ACCA – Advanced Taxation (ATX) – Optional

The Advanced Taxation subject is designed to reflect the need to exercise professional judgement and provide relevant information and advice to individuals and businesses on the impact of major taxes on financial decisions and situations. The syllabus builds on the basic knowledge of core taxes from the earlier taxation subjects and introduces you to stamp taxes. As this is an optional exam, aimed at those requiring/desiring more than basic tax knowledge for their future professional lives, the syllabus also extends the knowledge of income tax, corporation tax, capital gains tax and inheritance tax to encompass further overseas aspects of taxation, the taxation of trusts and additional exemptions and reliefs. Computations will normally only be required in support of explanations or advice and not in isolation. You are not expected to concentrate on the computational aspects of taxation. Instead, this subject seeks to develop candidates’ skills of analysis, interpretation and communication. You are expected to be able to use established tax planning methods and consider current issues in taxation. 

Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this subject, you should be able to:

• Apply further knowledge and understanding of the UK tax system through the study of more advanced topics within the taxes studied previously and the study of stamp taxes.
• Identify and evaluate the impact of relevant taxes on various situations and courses of action, including the interaction of taxes.
• Provide advice on minimising and/or deferring tax liabilities by the use of standard tax planning measures.
• Communicate with clients, HM Revenue and Customs and other professionals in an appropriate manner.

Note: The Advanced Taxation (ATX) exam is part of the Strategic Professional Level of the ACCA qualification. No exemption for this subject.