Meet Jerry Brune, Tax School Instructor

One of our greatest strengths at Tax School is our instructors. So we thought we’d spend the summer leading up to 2024 Fall Tax School giving you a more in-depth look at each our instructors, starting with Jerry Brune.

Jerry Brune has been an instructor for the University of Illinois Tax School and has served as an author and reviewer for the annual University of Illinois Federal Tax Workbook since 1999. Jerry was employed as a revenue agent with the IRS for 31 years before retiring. Jerry has taught accounting and business taxation courses at Illinois Central College and the University of Illinois at Springfield, respectively. Jerry is an EA and CPA, and he currently practices in Bolingbrook. His alma mater is St. Joseph’s College in Rensselaer, Indiana.

How long have you been preparing taxes? 

I’ve been preparing taxes full-time since 2009. Prior to starting my own tax practice, I was an internal revenue field agent (started in 1978) and prepared a handful of taxes during my tenure there when IRS employees actually did taxes for people.

Describe your tax practice in Bolingbrook, Illinois.

I am a sole practitioner and have seasonal administrative assistance. I provide income tax only. No bookkeeping or payroll.

What was the most surprising change in perspective from being an IRS employee to a tax practitioner?

Going from a “bad guy” to a “good guy” and learning to protect clients in an honest way.

When answering questions during Fall Tax School, you often say “it depends.” Why do you say that and why do the other instructors tease you about it?

I think it’s fun. It has taken on a life of its own. Most questions have multiple answers depending on the surrounding circumstances.

What do you like to do for fun and relaxation when you’re not preparing taxes or teaching?

We have four grandchildren and are always busy with their various activities. My wife and I have been on 20 cruises. My bucket list is to tour all 30 major league ballparks (I am currently at 22).

What have been some of your favorite cruise stops and why?

Roatan, which is an island in the Caribbean about 40 miles off the northern coast of Honduras, is a favorite stop. It’s very scenic but also very hot. Alaska is also a favorite spot and very scenic.

Cubs or Cards?

You’re kidding, right? Lifelong Cards fan. I enjoy watching the Cubs lose.

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