IRS: Tax preparers need IDs



BOSTON - The Internal Revenue Service is reminding the nation’s 730,000 federal tax return preparers, including more than 1,400 in Vermont, that they are required to renew their Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs) for 2013. Also, preparers who have a competency test requirement should take the time to schedule an appointment for the exam.

Anyone who is a paid federal tax return preparer must register with the IRS and have a PTIN, as must all Enrolled Agents.

The online PTIN renewal process takes about 15 minutes. Renewed PTINs will be valid for calendar year 2013. The IRS also has significantly upgraded the PTIN system to make it easier to use and more intuitive.

Preparers who have forgotten their log-in information, password, or email address can use online tools to resolve these issues. Get started at www.irs.gov/ptin.

New continuing education and testing requirements also apply to approximately 340,000 preparers who previously had no such requirements.

For more information about requirements for federal tax professionals, visit www.irs.gov/for-Tax-Pros.