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New York tax preparer registration
Do you need a license to prepare taxes in New York? There is no state exam or qualifying course, but you must register with the state every year before you prepare New York returns for pay.
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What New York requires
New York requires paid tax preparers to register with the Department of Taxation and Finance. If you are paid to prepare even one New York return, you register every year and receive a New York Tax Preparer Identification Number (NYTPRIN). For what every state requires, see our guide on how to become a tax preparer.
If you prepare 10 or more New York returns a year, you are a commercial preparer. Commercial preparers pay a $100 annual registration fee and complete free state continuing education: 16 hours in your first year, then 4 hours each year after. CPAs, attorneys, and some other licensed professionals are exempt.
Requirements last verified October 2026.
Who must register
Anyone paid to prepare a New York return
Commercial preparers
10 or more returns: $100 fee plus free state CE
Renewal
Every year
How to register in New York
1
Get your PTIN
Apply online with the IRS. It costs $18.75 for 2026 and takes about 15 minutes.
2
Learn the work
New York does not require a qualifying course, but you are responsible for every return you sign. A full tax preparation course teaches you the forms and the law before your first client.
3
Complete state CE if you are commercial
Commercial preparers take the state's free online courses before they register. IRS continuing education does not count toward New York's hours.
4
Register every year
Register online with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance and print your certificate of registration with your NYTPRIN. If you plan to e-file, start your EFIN application with the IRS early, since approval can take up to 45 days.
What it costs in New York
| Requirement | Cost |
|---|---|
| PTIN | $18.75 for 2026, non-refundable |
| Tax preparation course | from $345 |
| Latino Tax Pro AFSP course | $183.53 in English, Spanish, or bilingual |
| State registration | $100 a year for commercial preparers |
| State continuing education | Free |
| EFIN application | Free |
Beginner courses for New York preparers
Learn federal tax preparation in English, Spanish, or bilingual before you register and take your first New York client.
New York tax preparer questions
Do I need a license to prepare taxes in New York?
New York requires registration, not a license. There is no state exam or qualifying course, but you must register every year before you prepare New York returns for pay.
What is a NYTPRIN?
Your New York Tax Preparer Identification Number. You get it on your certificate of registration when you register with the state, and it goes on the New York returns you prepare.
What is a commercial tax return preparer?
A preparer who was paid to prepare 10 or more New York returns last year and will prepare at least one this year, or who will prepare 10 or more this year. Commercial preparers pay the $100 fee and complete state continuing education.
Is New York's continuing education really free?
Yes. Commercial preparers complete the required hours through the state's free online courses. IRS continuing education does not count toward New York's hours.
How many continuing education hours do I need?
16 hours in your first year as a commercial preparer, then 4 hours each year after. Preparers with more than three years of New York experience take 4 hours a year.
Ready to start in New York?
Get your PTIN, learn the work, and register with the state. Our bilingual staff can help you choose the right course.
Other state requirements: California · Maryland · Oregon · Connecticut · All states