2023 PTIN renewal period underway for tax professionals

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service urges the nation's more than 750,000 active tax return preparers to start the upcoming 2023 filing season smoothly by renewing their Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs) now. All current PTINs will expire Dec. 31, 2022.

Anyone who prepares or helps prepare a federal tax return for compensation must have a valid PTIN from the IRS before preparing returns, and they need to include the PTIN as the identifying number on any return filed with the IRS.

The fee to renew or obtain a PTIN is $30.75 for 2023. The PTIN fee is non-refundable.

Tax return preparers with a 2022 PTIN should use the online renewal process, which takes about 15 minutes to complete. A paper option, Form W-12, along with the instructions, is also available for PTIN applications and renewals. However, the paper form can take four to six weeks to process. Failure to have and use a valid PTIN may result in penalties.

To renew a PTIN online:

Start at IRS.gov/taxpros.
Select the “Renew or Register” button.
Select “Log in” and enter the user ID and password to access the online PTIN system.
Select the “Renew my PTIN” button from the main menu.
Once completed, users will receive confirmation of their PTIN renewal.
The online system not only allows PTIN renewal but tax return preparers may receive communications through a secure mailbox from the IRS Return Preparer Office.

First-time PTIN applicants can also apply for a PTIN online.

To apply for a PTIN online:

Start at IRS.gov/taxpros.
Select the “Renew or Register” button.
Select "Create an Account" and follow the prompts to complete the account setup process and obtain a temporary password.
Log in and follow the remaining steps to access the online PTIN system.
Select the “Register for a PTIN” button from the main menu.

PTIN system enhancements

The online PTIN system has a new look and feel for a more optimized preparer experience when renewing or registering for a PTIN. Improvements include:

Dynamic application design – system dynamically adapts based on the preparer’s responses and guides them to the correct application.
Mobile responsive/mobile friendly – system will adjust to device’s screen size.
Multi-year renewals/registrations – preparers can renew/register for multiple calendar years at one time.
Expanded Support Channel – webchat available for assistance with PTIN account questions.

More information can be found at
https://www.irs.gov/news...ay-for-tax-professionals 

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