ACCA

ACCA Taxation (TX) Syllabus Explained

The ACCA Taxation (TX) syllabus has seven parts. You will study the UK tax system, income tax and national insurance, chargeable gains, inheritance tax, corporation tax, and value added tax (VAT). The final section, Part G, focuses on using technology in the exam, especially spreadsheets and word processing tools. The syllabus combines knowledge of tax rules with the ability to apply them in practical scenarios.

What are the main parts of the TX syllabus?

The TX syllabus is divided into seven key parts:

Part A: UK Tax System and Administration
Part B: Income Tax and National Insurance Contributions
Part C: Chargeable Gains (Capital Gains)
Part D: Inheritance Tax
Part E: Corporation Tax
Part F: Value Added Tax (VAT)
Part G: Using Technology in Taxation

What will I learn in Part A: UK Tax System and Administration?

In this section, you will get a foundation in the UK tax system. You will study:

The role of HMRCas the authority responsible for UK taxation.
How taxes are used to support the economy.
How tax laws are created.
Practical issueslike submitting tax returns, payment deadlines, and penalties.
What happens if you make mistakes or disagree with HMRC, including appeals and compliance checks.

Tip from experience:

Do not skip this section. Many students think it is only background knowledge, but examiners often test your understanding of deadlines and penalties.

What does Part B: Income Tax and National Insurance cover?

This part focuses on individual taxes. You will learn:

The different categories of income (employment, self-employment, property, and investments).
How to calculate an individual’s income tax liability.
The classes of National Insurance Contributions (NICs)for employed and self-employed people.
Exemptions and reliefs that reduce tax liabilities.

Example:
If you are self-employed, you pay Class 2 and Class 4 NICs, while employees pay Class 1 NICs.

What is Part C: Chargeable Gains?

Chargeable gains are also known as capital gains. This section covers:

What counts as a capital gain (for example, selling property or shares).
The difference between a gain and a loss.
How to calculate capital gains tax.
Exemptions and reliefs (for example, the first $8,029 of gains is exempt for individuals).

Example:
If you sell an investment property and make a profit, you may need to pay capital gains tax, but reliefs could reduce your liability.

What will I study in Part D: Inheritance Tax?

Inheritance tax (IHT) applies to transfers of wealth, such as gifts and estates after death. You will learn:

Who pays inheritance tax.
The exemptions and reliefs available.
How and when liabilities can be deferred.

Example:
Passing property to a child may create an inheritance tax liability, but exemptions and timing rules can reduce or delay this tax.

What does Part E: Corporation Tax include?

This section shifts focus to business taxation. You will cover:

The scope of corporation tax.
How to calculate trading profits.
Chargeable gains for companies.
Reliefs available (for example, replacing old machinery with new).
Group structures and how corporation tax applies to groups of companies.

Tip from experience:

This section links closely with financial reporting. Understanding adjustments to profit is key to scoring well.

What will I learn in Part F: Value Added Tax (VAT)?

VAT is a major tax for businesses. You will learn:

When registration is required (compulsory and voluntary).
How to calculate VAT liabilities.
What VAT can be reclaimed.
Special VAT schemes for certain industries.

Example:
A business with sales above the registration threshold must register for VAT and charge it on sales.

What is Part G: Technology in Taxation?

Part G is about applying knowledge using technology, since TX is an applied skills exam. You will practice using:

Spreadsheets for calculations.
Word processing tools for explanations and written answers.

Tip from experience:
Do not underestimate this part. Even if you know the rules, you must show your answers clearly using the exam software.

How can I succeed in the TX exam?

To succeed:

Cover all parts of the syllabus, including administration and technology.
Practice calculations for income tax, NICs, capital gains, and corporation tax.
Focus on exemptions and reliefs, as these are frequently tested.
Work in the ACCA exam software so you are confident on exam day.

Key Takeaways

📌 TX Syllabus Overview

Part A: Tax system and HMRC administration.
Part B: Income tax and NICs for individuals.
Part C: Capital gains (chargeable gains).
Part D: Inheritance tax.
Part E: Corporation tax for companies.
Part F: VAT for businesses.
Part G: Applying knowledge with technology.

Final Thoughts

The ACCA TX syllabus builds your knowledge step by step, moving from the tax system and individual taxes to company taxes and VAT. The exam tests not only what you know but also how you apply it using technology. Cover the full syllabus, practice in exam software, and make sure you understand reliefs and exemptions. With a structured study plan, you will be ready to face the exam with confidence.

Premium

Get the real feel of the ACCA TX Exam.
Start Practicing Today!

Experience the real CIMA exam feel with our practice materials. Get familiar with the format, sharpen your skills, and boost your confidence. Start practicing today!