Boost Your Tax Prep With the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP)
Tax preparation is a rewarding and in-demand profession — but it’s also highly competitive. To stand out, you need more than just experience. You need to show clients that you’re committed to staying current with tax laws and best practices.
That’s where the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) comes in. The AFSP is a voluntary IRS program designed for non-credentialed tax return preparers. It helps you stay up to date with the latest tax law changes and demonstrates your commitment to professional development. By completing the AFSP, you’ll earn a Record of Completion from the IRS and be listed in the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers — a valuable marketing tool that helps clients find qualified professionals like you.
AFSP participants can represent clients before the IRS (e.g., during audits or inquiries) for returns they prepared and signed. This added service can justify higher fees and attract clients who value comprehensive support.
Invest Just 18 Hours to Accelerate Your Tax Prep Career
To earn your AFSP Record of Completion, you must complete 18 hours of continuing education from an IRS-approved provider like Latino Tax Pro:
- 10 hours of federal tax law topics
- 2 hours of ethics
- 6 hours of the Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course
Already completed part of the 18 hours? You may be eligible to take just the AFTR course, which includes a comprehension test and covers the latest tax law updates.
A Few Simple Steps Will Take You to the Next Level
Before you can participate in the AFSP, you’ll need an active Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). To renew your PTIN, start by visiting the IRS website at https://rpr.irs.gov/ptin. Once there, click “Log in” if you have an account, or “Create an Account” if you don’t. For 2025, the fee for either a new PTIN or a renewal is $19.75.
Once you complete the AFSP, your continuing education hours are reported to the IRS. You’ll also agree to adhere to Circular 230 standards.
Recognition for Your Accomplishment
Within 48 to 72 hours of completing the AFSP, you’ll receive your Record of Completion and be added to the IRS Directory of Tax Preparers. This certificate is more than just a piece of paper — it’s a tangible signal to clients that you’re knowledgeable, ethical, and up to date. Display it proudly in your office!
An IRS-Approved Provider Can Get You There
Latino Tax Pro is an IRS-approved provider offering the AFSP in both English and Spanish. We make it easy to complete your education with self-paced online courses, live webinars, bilingual support, and affordable pricing. Whether you're new to tax prep or a seasoned pro, we’re here to help you grow your business and serve your community.
Don’t wait until the last minute — the deadline to complete the AFSP for the next filing season is December 31. Enroll in the AFSP with Latino Tax Pro today and take your tax career to the next level.
Additional Resources
IRS AFSP Frequently Asked Questions
