Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN)
Go to the official page ↗Direct official link
What you'll learn
This is a registration, not a course. You apply for or renew the identification number the IRS requires of anyone who prepares federal tax returns for pay, online in about 15 minutes or by paper form.
- Who must have a valid PTIN
- Applying online or with Form W 12
- Annual renewal and fee
- Optional Annual Filing Season Program
Source: the provider's official page ↗
Is this right for you?
- Level
- Beginner People new to this. You can start today with no experience.
- What you get
- Hands on skills you can use right away. No certificate, so the proof is what you do with it.
- How you learn
- Online, self paced, about 15 min.
- How to use it
- Turn it into proof: use the skill on one real task at work, put the result on your résumé, and lead with that story in interviews.
- Why it's worth it
- Required to work in this field where it applies, and the first thing employers check. Get it and every door in the field opens.
What you will pay$18.75Upfront cost. Full details below.
- Time
- About 15 minutes online; about 6 weeks by paper Form W 12.
- Before you start
- Required for anyone who prepares or assists in preparing federal tax returns for compensation.
- How you are tested
- Online application at the IRS Tax Pro PTIN system or paper Form W 12.
- Renewal
- Must hold a valid PTIN for each calendar year.
- Full cost details
- $18.75 for 2026 (new or renewal); first time fee nonrefundable. 2027 fee not seen on pages loaded.
- Where it applies
- United States federal.
Jobs asking for this
See live job postings that mention Preparer Tax Identification Number.
Open to work?Join the free Open to Work list so hirers looking for this credential can find you. No phone number needed.
Join the listChecked at the source Oct 12, 2026
Sources and what we verified
IRS PTIN requirements: who must have one, fee, how to apply ↗IRS PTIN FAQ: fee $18.75 for 2026 ↗What we verified: IRS pages say nothing about bookkeepers specifically; the requirement depends on preparing returns for compensation.
Fees and eligibility can change. Confirm current terms with the issuer before you pay.
Also listed for: AI for Bookkeepers