Start by knowing that the IRS or software vendor will never ask you for your personal information and security questions via email. Please take some time to read our online information security tips below.  Always be suspicious of unexpected emails, even if it appears to come from a legitimate source.  Triple check emails before ever […]

What is an EFIN? An EFIN is an Electronic Filing Identification Number. The EFIN is used to identify the location from where an e-file was sent. How to get an EFIN number? You can get your EFIN through the IRS’ website at e-services. There is a registration process followed by an application process which includes […]

The IRS is at it again… Since they were shut down on their authority to mandate all tax preparers get continuing education and take a competency test, they have now developed a “voluntary certification” that preparers can opt into.  The program is called the Annual Federal Tax Refresher Course; and yes, successful completion of the […]

Why does it seem that just before something is fully functional and working well that it needs to be changed? The IRS has made several new changes and “improvements” to the online PTIN registration portal. Hopefully, these changes improve it’s capacity in registering and renewing preparers’ PTINs.  Hopefully, there won’t be three weeks just before […]

The IRS’ PTIN website for renewing and obtaining Preparer Tax Identification Numbers has been a challenge this year, to say the least.  Ever since mid December, the PTIN site has been broken and under maintenance more than it has been up.  New PTIN applicants have not been able to complete the process and pay for […]