Final Reminder for PTIN Renewal

With the launch of filing season, the IRS Return Preparer Office has sent PTIN expiration letters to those return preparers who have not yet renewed their PTINs. Following is a copy of the letter: 

Dear Tax Professional,

As of January 27, 2020, our records indicate that you have not renewed your IRS preparer tax identification number (PTIN) for 2020. Your PTIN expired on December 31, 2019. If you renewed your PTIN after January 27, 2020 or recently sent a paper renewal, you may disregard this letter.

If you do not renew your PTIN, you can no longer prepare federal tax returns for compensation. If you intend to renew your PTIN for 2020, you can renew online or submit a paper application.

Online Renewal

You can renew online at www.irs.gov/ptin.

Paper Renewal

If you prefer, you can renew by paper using Form W-12, available at www.irs.gov, and checking the “renewal” box. It will take 4-6 weeks to process.

You should not prepare returns until you receive notification that your PTIN renewal is complete.

We monitor expired PTINs. If you continue to prepare returns, you may be subject to penalties or other actions imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.

If you are not preparing tax returns for compensation for the 2020 calendar year and are not an enrolled agent (EA), you can place your PTIN in voluntary inactive status.

Inactive

This function is available under the ‘Manage My PTIN Account’ section within your online PTIN account. Note: This function allows individuals who take a full calendar year off from return preparation to more easily reactivate and renew their PTIN in a later year. However, if you are paid to prepare tax returns during any part of a year, you must have a valid PTIN. Additionally, an EA must maintain a valid PTIN each year in order to maintain the EA credential and therefore is not eligible to inactivate their PTIN.

Return Preparer Office

Internal Revenue Service