CTEC Registered Tax Preparer (CRTP) 

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California law requires anyone who prepares tax returns for a fee within the State of California and is not an exempt preparer to register as a tax preparer with the California Tax Education Council (CTEC).

NEW CTEC Registered Tax Preparers (CRTP) must...

  • Complete 60-hours (45 hours federal and 15 hours state) of qualifying tax education from a CTEC Approved Provider

  • Pass a background check and live scan

  • Obtain a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) from the IRS

  • Purchase a $5,000 tax preparer bond

  • Register with CTEC within 18 months from the completion date on the certificate of completion

  • Pay a registration fee with CTEC of $33

Benefits of a CRTP

IRS Tax Preparer Directory

Be included in the public directory of tax return preparers on the IRS website.

Refreshed for Tax Season

You will learn the latest updates every year you renew with CTEC

Limited Representation

You will be able to represent clients during an examination of a return that you prepared if you sign the Circular 230 form.

New California Tax Preparers

This course meets the 60-hour Qualifying Education requirement (45 hours of Federal Tax Law, which includes the required 2 hours of Ethics and 15 hours of California Tax Law) imposed by the state of California to become a California Registered Tax Preparer (CRTP). 

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