Summary
The IRS has announced that more than 800,000 tax preparers in the U.S. can now renew their Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs) for the 2026 tax season. A valid PTIN is required for tax preparers to legally prepare federal tax returns for payment, and they must renew it every year. The renewal costs $18.75 and can be completed online or by mail.
Key Facts
- Over 800,000 tax preparers can renew their PTINs for 2026.
- Renewing a PTIN is mandatory for anyone preparing or helping to prepare U.S. federal tax returns for payment.
- The PTIN renewal fee is $18.75 and is non-refundable.
- PTINs for the 2025 tax year expire on December 31, 2025.
- Online renewal takes less than 15 minutes via IRS.gov/taxpros.
- Renewing by mail using Form W-12 can take up to six weeks.
- New security measures require some users to use ID.me for verification.
- Failure to renew a PTIN can lead to penalties or disciplinary action.
