For IndividualsFor Educators
ExpertMinds LogoExpertMinds
ExpertMinds

Ace your certifications with Practice Exams and AI assistance.

  • Browse Exams
  • For Educators
  • Blog
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Cookie Policy
  • Support
  • AWS SAA Exam Prep
  • PMI PMP Exam Prep
  • CPA Exam Prep
  • GCP PCA Exam Prep

© 2026 TinyHive Labs. Company number 16262776.

    PracticeCPA®CPA REG Practice Exam 4Question 02
    Hard1 markMultiple Choice
    Area I: Ethics & Tax ProceduresPreparer PenaltiesEthics

    CPA · Question 02 · Area I: Ethics & Tax Procedures

    A tax return preparer is engaged to prepare a tax return for a client who has a significant deduction that is not supported by substantial authority. The preparer determines there is a reasonable basis for the position. To avoid the penalty for an understatement of taxpayer liability due to an unreasonable position under IRC §6694, which of the following actions must the preparer take?

    Answer options:

    A.

    The preparer must ensure the position is more likely than not to be sustained on its merits.

    B.

    The preparer must document the reasonable basis in the workpapers; no specific disclosure on the return is required.

    C.

    The preparer must disclose the position on Form 8275 or 8275-R.

    D.

    The preparer cannot sign the return under any circumstances if the position lacks substantial authority.

    How to approach this question

    Recall the hierarchy: Frivolous (never allowed) < Reasonable Basis (needs disclosure) < Substantial Authority (no disclosure needed usually) < More Likely Than Not (required for tax shelters).

    Full Answer

    C.The preparer must disclose the position on Form 8275 or 8275-R.✓ Correct
    C
    IRC §6694 imposes a penalty for understatements due to unreasonable positions. A position is unreasonable unless: (1) there is substantial authority for the position, or (2) the position is disclosed as provided in section 6662(d)(2)(B)(ii) and there is a reasonable basis for the position.

    Common mistakes

    Thinking 'Reasonable Basis' is sufficient on its own without disclosure.
    Question 01All questionsQuestion 03

    Practice the full CPA REG Practice Exam 4

    72 questions · hints · full answers · grading

    Sign up freeTake the exam

    More questions from this exam

    Q01A CPA is representing a client in an IRS examination. The client has requested that the CPA not p...HardQ03Regarding the burden of proof in a civil tax proceeding, which of the following statements is cor...HardQ04A taxpayer filed their Year 1 individual income tax return on April 1, Year 2. The return reporte...HardQ05Under the Ultramares doctrine regarding a CPA's liability for negligence to third parties, which ...HardQ06Which of the following communications between a CPA and a client would generally be protected by ...Hard
    View all 72 questions →