As a professional tax preparer, you must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) from the IRS to perform paid tax preparation, filing, claim, and refund paperwork for clients. The IRS typically processes PTIN renewals from October through December, so it’s important to renew your PTIN during this timeframe to ensure you are ready for the upcoming tax season. Here is a quick guide to the steps, requirements, and costs associated with how to get a PTIN and how to renew it once you have one.
The deadline to apply for or renew a PTIN is usually December 31st of each year, so make sure to complete your PTIN renewal by this date to avoid any interruptions in your ability to prepare taxes for clients.
Who needs a PTIN?
The IRS requires anyone who professionally prepares federal tax returns to get a PTIN. Reporting agents who provide tax advice and enrolled agents must also obtain PTINs. Non-credentialed tax preparers, such as participants in the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP), are required to maintain a valid PTIN. This is necessary if they intend to legally prepare federal tax returns for compensation. However, different types of professionals may provide tax guidance and advice who are not required to obtain a PTIN:
- Attorneys, certified public accountants, and enrolled retirement plan agents do not usually need a PTIN unless clients compensate them for preparing all or substantially all a federal tax return.
- VITA site preparers do not need a PTIN.
Remember, you must use your PTIN as the identifying number on the returns you prepare. Failure to obtain and use a valid PTIN or renew your PTIN may result in section 6695 penalties and/or disciplinary action from the Office of Professional Responsibility.
How to renew a PTIN
Most tax preparers choose to renew their PTIN online because it’s faster and more convenient—typically taking only about 15 minutes with immediate confirmation. However, the IRS also offers a mail-in option for those who prefer to submit a paper application.
Renewing by mail
If you prefer to apply for a PTIN or PTIN renewal by mail:
- Complete and submit Form W-12, IRS Paid Preparer Tax Identification Number Application and Renewal.
Processing your PTIN renewal application by mail typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Renewing online
If you need a PTIN renewal, it takes about 15 minutes to renew your PTIN online.
- Go to the IRS PTIN System and select “Renew or Register.”
- Log in to your account.
- Start the renewal process.
- Pay the renewal fee
You’ll get a confirmation immediately once your PTIN is successfully renewed.
How much does it cost to renew a PTIN?
The cost for PTIN renewal or to apply for a new PTIN is $19.75. This fee can be paid using a credit, debit, ATM card, or eCheck and is non-refundable. The PTIN renewal fee is set by the IRS and remains the same regardless of when you apply during the renewal period. You can complete the PTIN renewal process online through the IRS PTIN website, which is not only convenient but also expedites the processing of your application.
How to apply for a PTIN
You’ll need to apply for a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) if you plan to prepare or assist in preparing federal tax returns for compensation. Obtaining a PTIN is a requirement to ensure compliance with IRS regulations, before you proceed with setting up your account. To get started, follow these simple steps to apply for a PTIN.
Step 1: Gather the necessary documentation for the PTIN application process.
You’ll need the following information on hand to complete your PTIN application:
- Your Social Security Number
- Your personal information (name, mailing address)
- Your business information (name, mailing address)
- Explanations for any felony convictions if you have them
- Explanations for any problems with your U.S. individual or business tax obligations
- Certification information for any applicable U.S.-based professional services you offer, including as a CPA, attorney, enrolled agent, enrolled retirement plan agent, enrolled actuary, or certified acceptance agent as well as any state licensure you hold. Be sure to include your certification number, jurisdiction of issuance, and expiration date when you apply to get a PTIN.
Step 2: Set up your PTIN account.
You’ll receive a prompt to help you set up an account with a user ID and temporary password that you will change when logging in for the first time. You can sign up using your Social Security number (SSN). If you do not have an SSN, see the PTIN FAQs to determine your eligibility and documentation requirements for obtaining a PTIN.
If you have a U.S.-issued Social Security Number, you’ll be automatically routed to ID.me during the PTIN application process for identity verification and login. If you don’t already have an ID.me account, you’ll need to create one to access the IRS Tax Professional PTIN System. This secure login process helps protect your personal information and ensures only verified individuals can apply for or renew a PTIN.
Step 3: Start your PTIN application.
Begin your initial PTIN application or PTIN renewal with the IRS Tax Professional PTIN System by selecting “Renew or Register.”
How long does it take to get a PTIN?
You can submit your PTIN application as early as mid-October each year. If you apply for your PTIN online, you may be able to obtain it within 15 minutes, but it will take about four to six weeks for the IRS to process an application submitted by mail. If you want to check the status of your initial PTIN or PTIN renewal application, you can manage your account by logging in to the IRS Tax Professional PTIN System.
When should you apply for your PTIN?
The IRS makes applications available mid-October for applying for an initial PTIN or PTIN renewal for that calendar year’s taxes. So, if you successfully apply for a PTIN or PTIN renewal in October 2025, you’ll be eligible to prepare taxes for clients for the 2025 tax year.
How long is a PTIN valid?
Once you receive your PTIN or renew it, it will be valid for one calendar year, expiring on December 31 of the tax year for which it was issued. The renewal fee is $19.75, and both the expiration date and fee remain the same, regardless of when you complete the renewal.
Becoming a paid tax preparer allows you to work independently in your own small business. If you’d like to learn more about how to become a paid tax preparer and what steps you need to take to get a PTIN, check out TaxSlayer Pro’s online tax preparer demo.
