What a CTS™ means for your business and taxes
A Certified Tax Specialist™ is an educated, experienced professional committed to you, your family and your business.
How the designation is earned
Granted by the Institute of Business & Finance (IBF), established in 1988, to advisors who meet four requirements.
Education
An advanced program covering every aspect of income taxes.
Qualification
Exams, a written case study, experience criteria and yearly continuing education.
Ethics
A signed Code of Ethics that puts the client’s interests above the advisor’s.
Exclusive
According to the IBF, fewer than 1% of people who give tax advice hold the CTS™.
What a CTS™ can help you with
Basic and advanced guidance across income and tax topics, starting with a full understanding of your goals.
Ways to reduce taxes
- Gross income and exclusions
- Business expenses
- Retirement plans
- Self-employed and employee expenses
- Medical costs
- Educational incentives
Credits and special taxes
- Child and dependent care
- Energy and automobiles
- Income of a minor
- Alternative minimum tax
- Depreciation
Understanding your liability
- Filing status and the tax formula
- Exemptions and dependents
- Itemizing vs the standard deduction
- Limits on deductions
- Estimated payments and e-filing
The CTS™ advisor pledges to
- Put your interests above all else
- Keep up with standards, new strategies and legislation
- Act with the highest integrity and honesty
- Deliver tax planning competently and economically
- Advise only in areas of competence
Source: Institute of Business & Finance (IBF). Thompson Bourque holds the CTS™ designation.
Let’s look at your numbers.
Answer a few questions and upload your return. We show you where you stand and what may be possible.