When Can I Renew My PTIN for the Next Tax Season?
Learn when and how to renew your PTIN for the upcoming tax season. Essential guidance for tax preparers to maintain compliance.
A Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) is a nine-digit identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who prepare federal tax returns for compensation. It serves as official identification for paid tax preparers and must be included on all federal tax returns they prepare. The PTIN helps the IRS identify and track tax preparers, ensuring compliance with tax laws. It also provides privacy for tax preparers by allowing them to use this number instead of their Social Security Number on client tax returns.
Annual PTIN Renewal Period
All Preparer Tax Identification Numbers expire annually on December 31st. To maintain validity for the upcoming tax season, preparers must renew their PTINs annually. The renewal period typically begins in mid-October for the subsequent tax year.
For the 2025 tax season, the renewal period began around October 18, 2024. Renewing your PTIN during this window ensures it remains active, allowing you to continue preparing federal tax returns for compensation without interruption. Failing to renew by the deadline invalidates the PTIN, leading to penalties if federal returns are prepared using an expired number.
What You Need to Renew Your PTIN
Gather necessary information before initiating the online renewal process. You will need your existing PTIN. Personal details like your full name, current mailing address, and date of birth are required for verification.
Contact information, including your primary phone number and email address, must be provided for communication regarding your PTIN account. If you hold professional credentials (e.g., CPA, EA, or Attorney), supply the certification number, issuing jurisdiction, and expiration date. You may also need to provide information on any felony convictions or issues with your U.S. tax obligations.
A non-refundable fee is required for renewal. For the 2025 PTIN, this fee is $19.75. You will need a valid payment method (e.g., credit card, debit card, ATM card, or eCheck from a checking or savings account).
Steps for PTIN Renewal
The most efficient way to renew your PTIN is through the IRS online system. Navigate to the official IRS website and locate the PTIN system, accessible through the “Tax Pros” section. On the PTIN login page, enter your existing username and password to access your account.
If you cannot recall your login credentials, the system provides options to retrieve your User ID or reset your password. After logging in, locate and select the “Renew PTIN” or “Renew my PTIN” option from the main menu. The online application will pre-populate much of your personal and professional information.
Review all displayed information for accuracy and make any necessary updates to your address, contact details, or professional credentials. The system will prompt you to answer questions, which may include attestations regarding tax compliance or changes to your background. Once all information is confirmed and updated, proceed to the payment section to submit the $19.75 renewal fee using your chosen payment method.
Upon successful payment and submission, the system provides immediate confirmation that your PTIN has been renewed for the upcoming year. This online process generally takes about 15 minutes. While a paper renewal option (Form W-12) is available, it can take four to six weeks for the IRS to process, making the online method highly recommended for expediency.