Tag: IRS AFSP Tax Preparer
Do I Really Need the AFSP Certificate of Completion?
The tax code can be complex, and staying up-to-date is crucial for any tax preparer. The IRS Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) offers a voluntary path for non-credentialed preparers to enhance their expertise and gain a competitive edge. Here are some of the ways that obtaining the AFSP Certificate of completion is beneficial for tax preparers.
1. Boost Your Knowledge and Skills:
The IRS AFSP emphasizes continuing education (CE). By completing the required courses, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the latest tax laws and tax law changes. This not only improves the accuracy of your work but also allows you to confidently tackle a wider range of client tax situations.
2. Stand Out from the Crowd:
The tax preparation industry is competitive. Earning the AFSP Record of Completion demonstrates your commitment to professional development. You can display this credential to potential clients, signifying your dedication to providing high-quality service. Remember this is a yearly program so it will need to be completed by the end of the year, every year in order to stay active.
3. Limited Representation Rights:
Being able to speak with the IRS on behalf of your clients is probably the biggest benefit (and it can also increase your billings). Non-credentialed tax preparers typically cannot represent clients before the IRS. However, completing the AFSP grants you limited representation rights. This allows you to advocate for your clients during IRS examinations of returns you prepared and signed for the years that you were an IRS AFSP Tax Preparer.
4. Gain Recognition from the IRS:
Successful completion of the AFSP program gets you listed on the IRS directory of federal tax return preparers. This official recognition can boost your credibility and attract new clients seeking qualified professionals.
Is the AFSP Right for You?
The AFSP is voluntary and caters to non-credentialed tax preparers like yourself who want to elevate their skills and gain a competitive edge. If you're passionate about professional development and building a strong reputation a tax preparer, the IRS AFSP is an excellent opportunity to take your career to the next level. *This is an interim program until the IRS can get the statutory authority to require the Registered Tax Return Preparer program.
Additional Considerations:
Remember, the AFSP is not mandatory, and it does require that you agree to be bound by Circular 230. However, as tax laws evolve, staying current is essential. The program offers a structured approach to continuing education and valuable recognition for your efforts.
Author Tina HarveyPosted on Categories IRS AFTR COURSEWhen is my 2024 AFSP Due for the IRS?
In order to get your certificate of completion for the 2024 Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP), you must meet all of the requirements by the last day of the calendar year, December 31st, 2024. This will enable you to be considered an "AFSP Tax Preparer" for the tax year 2024 (calendar year 2025).
The requirements to participate are:
- Renew or Obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number via irs.gov/ptin.
- Complete the Annual Federal Tax Refresher. This exam counts as 6 credit hours.
- Complete 10 credit hours of IRS continuing education from an approved continuing education provider in the General Tax Law category.
- Complete 2 credit hours of IRS continuing education from an approved continuing education provider in the Ethics category.
Ensure that all of your credits are reported to the IRS. Once you have met the requirements to participate the Annual Filing Season Program, the IRS will send you a message in your PTIN message box. Agreeing to be regulated under circular 230 is the last step in the process to become an IRS AFSP Tax Preparer.
Author Tina HarveyPosted on Categories IRS AFTR COURSE