A Preparer Taxpayer Identification Number (PTIN) is a unique eight-digit number preceded by the letter P, issued by the Internal Revenue Services (IRS) for enrolled agents and any person who prepares or assists in preparing federal tax returns for compensation. In general terms, persons who receive compensation for preparing, calculating, and filing federal income tax returns on behalf of other persons or entities will require a PTIN.
An applicant may apply for a PTIN online or by filling out Form W-12 and delivering it to the IRS Tax Pro PTIN Processing Center. The IRS will require the applicant to provide the following information in the application process:
- Social Security Number.
- Personal information, such as name, mailing address, date of birth.
- Business information, such as name, mailing address, telephone number.
- The applicant's previous year’s tax return.
- If applicable, information about felony convictions or problems with the applicant’s U.S. individual or business tax obligations.
- If applicable, any U.S. based professional certification information (CPA, attorney, enrolled agent, enrolled retirement plan agent, enrolled actuary, certified acceptance agent, or state license), including certification number, the jurisdiction of issuance, and expiration date.
- Payment confirmation of the application fee.
The PTIN expires on December 31 each year. Therefore, it must be renewed every calendar year using the user’s PTIN online account. Please visit the IRS webpage for further information about the PTIN.
[Last updated in November of 2021 by the Wex Definitions Team]