Tax toolkit: Working with uncertain tax positions

In our Toolkit podcast series, we are taking a deep dive into one accounting topic each month that goes beyond the basics and into areas that require judgment. This month, we are covering income taxes–a multifaceted area that generates numerous technical questions.

In this episode, Heather Horn was joined by Jennifer Spang and Kassie Bauman from PwC’s National Office to discuss the accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions, focusing on some of the primary judgments that need to be made.

In this episode, you will hear:

• 1:32 - What constitutes an uncertain tax position (UTP)
• 5:11 - Rules covering the measurement and recognition of UTPs
• 9:32 - How to assess multiple outcomes and cumulative probability when recording UTPs
• 15:07 - Key judgments to exercise when evaluating the consistency of a position with administrative practice and precedence
• 23:58 - The importance of periodic reassessment and continuing to evaluate new information that could impact how UTPs are recorded
• 33:59 - Disclosure considerations
• 40:33 - Final advice on preparing disclosures and related documentation

Want to learn more? Listen to our previous podcast, Uncertain tax positions: the basics, and read our chapter on Accounting for uncertainty in income taxes in our Income taxes guide.

Jennifer Spang is a partner in PwC’s National Office and serves as the income tax accounting leader, specializing in tax accounting under US GAAP and IFRS. She has over 25 years of experience helping companies in a variety of industries navigate complex tax accounting matters.

Kassie Bauman is a managing director in PwC's National Office who consults on tax accounting under US GAAP and IFRS. Kassie has more than 20 years of auditing and accounting experience, including significant experience addressing complex technical accounting matters as part of the firm’s National Office.

Heather Horn is PwC’s National Office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com. 

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