PTIN Renewal: What Every Paid Tax Preparer Needs Before Filing Season
Before another filing season begins, every paid tax return preparer has one non-negotiable task: renewing their Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). It’s quick — but skipping it has real consequences.
Who needs a PTIN
Anyone who prepares or helps prepare a federal tax return for compensation must have a valid PTIN and include it on returns they prepare. That includes CPAs, EAs, attorneys, and unenrolled preparers.
Renewal basics
- PTINs must be renewed every year; renewal season typically opens in mid-October for the coming year.
- A user fee generally applies.
- Renew through your IRS Tax Professional PTIN account online — it takes only a few minutes.
Don’t forget the CE connection
- AFSP participants must have a valid PTIN and complete their continuing education to earn the Record of Completion.
- Enrolled Agents maintain both their PTIN and their EA continuing education.
- Preparing returns with an expired or missing PTIN can lead to penalties.
Getting compliant on CE? Our catalog covers AFSP and EA continuing education.
Stay current with CPE Options
Rules change every filing season. Keep your knowledge sharp — browse the catalog, get a full year with Unlimited Access, or see all CPE plans. Confirm your state’s rules on our CPE requirements page.
This article is general information for tax and accounting professionals and is not tax, legal, or accounting advice. Rules, rates, and thresholds change and have specific effective dates — confirm current requirements with the IRS, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, or qualified counsel before acting or advising clients.
