Most states require nothing beyond the federal PTIN. But a handful have their own registration, education, or licensing requirements. Here's where things stand. California Non-exempt preparers must register with the California Tax Education Council (CTEC)…
Referrals from other professionals are the highest-quality, lowest-cost clients you'll ever get. Here's how to build a network that produces them consistently. Who to Target Real estate agents talk to homebuyers and sellers with tax…
Knowing when to refer is one of the most important skills a tax preparer can develop. It protects your client, protects you, and builds your professional reputation. IRS Audits If your client gets an examination…
The difference between a preparer who earns $250 per client and one who earns $500 or more is the ability to see beyond the current return to what the client could do differently next year.…
Franchise marketing focuses on the brand recognition and the "proven system." Here's what the brochure downplays. The Initial Investment Franchise fees for the major tax preparation brands (H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt, Liberty Tax) range from…
You'd think people would be warming up to AI-powered tax preparation. The opposite is happening. The Numbers As of early 2026, only 37% of tax filers said they'd trust AI over a human preparer. That's…
You'll be handling Social Security numbers, income data, bank account information, and dates of birth. The IRS requires you to protect it. Here's what that means in practice. The Legal Requirements The IRS requires all…
If you claim the Earned Income Credit, Child Tax Credit, Additional Child Tax Credit, American Opportunity Credit, or Head of Household filing status on a client's return, the IRS requires you to complete Form 8867…
One of the most valuable skills a tax preparer can develop is recognizing when a client's situation has crossed from return preparation into legal territory. Here's where that line typically falls. IRS Audits If your…
These two sections of the Internal Revenue Code apply to every paid tax return preparer, regardless of credentials. If you're preparing returns for compensation, these are the rules that can cost you money. IRC Section…