As a California Tax Education Council (CTEC) Registered Tax Preparer (CRTP), you need to fulfill specific continuing education (CPE) requirements annually to maintain your registration.
Here’s a summary of the 2024 requirements:
Annual Continuing Education Requirements
Total Hours: 20 hours of continuing education are required each year.
Breakdown:
- Federal Tax Law Topics: 10 hours
- Tax Law Updates: 3 hours
- Ethics: 2 hours
- State-Specific: 5 hours
These courses are designed to ensure you stay updated with the latest tax laws and ethical standards, which are crucial for providing accurate and professional tax preparation services to your clients.
Key Deadlines and Fees
Renewal Deadline: October 31st annually
Annual Renewal Fee: $33 if paid by October 31st; $55 if paid after October 31st
Late Renewal Details: If you fail to renew by January 15th of the following year (2025), you will be considered a new tax preparer and must meet new preparer requirements, including taking a 60-hour qualifying education course.
Additional Requirements
Tax Preparer Bond: Maintain a $5,000 tax preparer bond from an insurance/surety agent.
PTIN Renewal: Renew your Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) with the IRS each year.
How to Complete Your CPE
CTEC-approved providers offer the required courses online, allowing you to complete them by the deadline at your convenience. Access our industry-leading courses here.
Importance of Compliance
Staying compliant with the 2024 CTEC CRTP CPE requirements is essential to avoid penalties and continue legally preparing tax returns in California. It also helps you provide the best service to your clients by staying informed about current tax laws and ethical practices.
TaxCPE
Access our industry-best TaxCPE courses here for your CE needs