Tax return preparers who prepare all, or substantially all, of a federal tax return for compensation are subject to new requirements including Registration, Testing, and Continuing Education.

Using a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) on returns prepared for pay is mandatory as of January 1, 2011. Preparers who already have a PTIN will still need to register in the new system. Preparers who have an EFIN but do not have a PTIN will have to register to obtain one.

Related Links:

• New Requirements for Tax Return Preparers
• New PTIN Requirements for Tax Return Preparers
• FAQs on PTIN Requirements
• IRS Releases Proposed Regulations Related to Fees for Preparer Tax Identification Numbers
• Return Preparer Review Leads to Recommendations For New Requirements of Paid Tax Return Preparers (history of the new requirement)