IRS PTIN Information

Anyone preparing or helping prepare federal tax returns for compensation must have a valid Preparers Tax Identification Number (PTIN). This is separate from any relevant or required state tax preparer registration numbers.

PTIN applications and renewals for coming tax seasons become available through the IRS website around the end of October. Be aware and cautious that PTINs are issued and valid for a calendar year and expire annually on December 31st. The IRS website is the ONLY place to renew or acquire a valid PTIN. Additionally, in order to become an IRS AFSP tax preparer, you must renew no later than December 31st of the calendar year.

General requirements for obtaining a PTIN are that an individual must have a Social Security Number, and they must have filed a tax return in at least one of the prior two (2) preceding years. The new PTIN fee established for annual PTIN renewal for 2026 is $19.75. For the 2027 PTIN, it will likely remain at a cost of $19.75. Only in limited and specific circumstances can an ITIN-holder obtain a PTIN.

The IRS created and maintains an online account for PTIN holders. You can create an online PTIN account or log into an existing account with your ID.me credentials by visiting the IRS website at https://rpr.irs.gov/datamart/login.do

We highly suggest registering and/or renewing your PTIN via the IRS's website, but if you prefer they do offer a paper application option. This may be the only option for ITIN-holders who do not qualify to apply online. This PTIN application/renewal option will take approximately 4-6 weeks to process and is done via completing and submitting via mail form W-12, https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw12.pdf