Register or Renew PTIN
Creating a PTIN
You should only create a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) account if one or more of the following descriptions pertains to your situation:
Plan to prepare federal tax returns for compensation
Are an Enrolled Agent
Intend to become an Enrolled Agent
Plan to participate in the Annual Filing Season Program
Required Documentation
Before you begin your PTIN renewal application, be sure you have the following available:
Personal information (name, mailing address)
Business information (name, mailing address)
Explanations for felony convictions (if any)
Explanations for problems with your U.S. individual or business tax obligations (if any)
If applicable, include information about any relevant certifications such as CPA, attorney, Enrolled Agent, Enrolled Retirement Plan Agent, Enrolled Actuary, Certified Acceptance Agent, or state licenses.
If applicable, provide the certification number, jurisdiction of issuance, and expiration date for each applicable credential.
Create
Go to the online PTIN system and click on “Create Account”.
Follow the Prompts
Complete the account setup process and obtain a temporary password. Then use your User ID and temporary password to login to the system. Your User ID is the email address you used when you created your account.
Change Your Password
You will be prompted to change your password upon logging in for the first time.
Apply for Calendar Year
Once logged in, if you have a social security number, you must select: “Sign Up with SSN.” Follow the prompts to apply for the calendar year or prior year/s, and obtain a PTIN.
Don’t have a Social Security Number?
If you do not have a Social Security Number, refer to the PTIN FAQs for guidance regarding your eligibility for a PTIN and how to obtain one. You may need to provide supplemental form 8946 “PTIN Supplemental Application For Foreign Persons Without a Social Security Number”
Steps to Renew
Per the IRS, all PTINs expire on December 31 of each year.
PTIN renewal open season begins approximately October 16th each year for the following year. You can renew online by logging into your PTIN account or by submitting a paper Form W-12 with the “Renewal” box.
Note: Online renewal generally takes approximately 15 minutes or less Paper renewals can take a few weeks to process.
Below is the checklist of what personal information you will need in Step 2 before you get started:
- Personal information (name, mailing address)
- Business information (name, mailing address)
- Explanations for felony convictions (if any)
- Explanations for problems with your U.S. individual or business tax obligations (if any)
- If applicable, any U.S.-based professional certification information (CPA, attorney, enrolled agent, enrolled retirement plan agent, enrolled actuary, certified acceptance agent, or state license) including certification number, jurisdiction of issuance, and expiration date
1. Access Your Account
If you already have an online PTIN account, click here to login now.
2. Verify Your Information
Complete the online renewal application. You need to verify your personal information and answer some basic questions.
3. PTIN Renewal Confirmation
Upon completion of your online renewal application, you will receive confirmation that your PTIN has been renewed.
