Final answer:
The IRS does regulate unenrolled tax preparers by requiring a PTIN and adherence to ethical standards, but not as strictly as enrolled agents. Federal income taxes are assessed based on individual tax returns and may include other taxes like sales and payroll taxes. Additionally, tax laws are significantly influenced by politics, reflecting the goals of current administrations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Does the IRS regulate unenrolled tax preparers? Yes, to a certain extent. While the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not enforce strict regulations over unenrolled tax preparers as it does with enrolled agents, CPAs, and attorneys, there are guidelines and basic requirements that these preparers must meet. This includes obtaining a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) and adhering to the ethical standards outlined in the IRS's Circular 230. Additionally, some preparers may choose to participate in the Annual Filing Season Program, which involves voluntary education and testing. The main function of the Internal Revenue Service is to administer and enforce the tax laws of the United States, and this includes overseeing all persons who are involved in the preparation of tax returns.
Federal income taxes are assessed based on an individual's tax return, which must accurately reflect their income, deductions, and credits. Other types of taxes a person may have to pay include state and local taxes, property, sales taxes, payroll taxes for Social Security and Medicare, and estate taxes, among others.
Politics can significantly influence tax laws, as governmental policy decisions often lead to reforms in tax rates, tax credits, deductions, and the implementation of new taxes. Changes in leadership may result in shifts in tax policy that reflect the political and economic goals of the current administration.