Tcp Overview

TCP — Tax Compliance and Planning: Overview Exam: CPA — Certified Public Accountant Section: TCP — Tax Compliance and Planning (Discipline) Last Updated: 2026-06-26 --- ## Key Takeaways - TCP is one of three Discipline sections; candidates choose one of BAR, ISC, or TCP. - TCP is 4 hours, with 68 MCQs and 7 TBSs. - TCP goes deeper than REG on individual and entity tax — it adds personal financial planning and advanced compliance topics. - OBBBA provisions (TCJA permanent, SALT cap, estate exemption) are testable on TCP starting July 1, 2026. - Best fit for candidates planning careers in tax — public accounting, private industry tax, or advisory. --- ## TCP vs. REG: Understanding the Difference Many candidates choose TCP because they work in tax. It is important to understand that TCP does not repeat REG — it builds on it. | Area | REG Coverage | TCP Coverage | |---|---|---| | Individual income tax | Filing requirements, common deductions, standard credits | Advanced scenarios: nonroutine income, complex phase-outs, multi-year strategies | | Passive activity / at-risk | Basic rules | Complex structures, grouping elections, real estate professional | | Retirement | Contribution limits, basic RMD rules | Distribution planning, SECURE 2.0 implications, Roth conversion strategy | | Estate and gift | Basic rules tested lightly | Valuation concepts, GRATs, trusts, portability elections, marital deduction | | International tax | Not tested | GILTI, FDII, Subpart F income, FTC calculations | | Personal financial planning | Not tested | Insurance, education funding, integrated cash flow planning | Exam Tip: Candidates who do well on REG but stopped there should expect TCP to require significant additional preparation, particularly…