CPA Exam Lab
Section 4: 22–32%R15

Individual Tax Credits and the AMT

Exam Insight

Credits cut tax dollar-for-dollar, so the refundable-vs-nonrefundable distinction and the phaseouts drive the final number on the return. The AMT runs a parallel system that recaptures benefits the regular tax allowed.

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What AICPA Wants You to Know

  • 1Distinguish refundable from nonrefundable credits
  • 2Apply the child tax credit and credit for other dependents, including the 2025 phaseouts
  • 3Apply the education credits (AOTC and lifetime learning) and child/dependent care credit
  • 4Apply the earned income credit eligibility rules
  • 5Compute alternative minimum taxable income and the AMT using the 2025 exemptions
  • 6Identify common AMT preferences and adjustments