California Tax Education Council


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2023/2024 CRTP Renewal Registration is Now Open


The 2023/2024 renewal registration cycle for CTEC Registered Tax Preparers (CRTPs) starts August 1, 2023 and ends October 31, 2023. If you've completed the required 20 hours of continuing education, have a current surety bond, as well as a valid PTIN from the IRS, now is the time to complete your renewal and pay the $33 registration fee. CRTPs who fail to renew by the October 31, 2023, deadline may renew their registration during the late registration period, November 1, 2023, thru January 16, 2024, and pay a $55 late fee plus the $33 registration fee, a total of $88.

If a CRTP does not renew his/her registration by the late renewal of January 16, 2024, he/she will have to retake the 60-hour qualifying education course, complete a criminal background check, and register as a new CRTP.

If your education is not showing in your CTEC account, call your education provider(s) to upload the hours into the system and make sure they have your valid CTEC ID number. Remember CTEC policy allows education providers 10 business days from the date the course was completed to electronically report hours to CTEC.

CRTP Login - Click here to log in to your account >  

 

Taxpayer Beware Podcast




You're a victim of fraud. Now what? You need a tax pro, but don't know who to choose. Or happens if your tax pro makes a mistake? Get tips on our Taxpayer Beware podcast.  

Listen Now >  


 

Just as a reminder, an individual preparing taxes for a fee may also be a licensed CPA with the California Board of Accountancy (www.dca.ca.gov/cba), an Enrolled Agent (www.irs.gov), or an attorney (www.calbar.ca.gov). You may wish to check the websites indicated to be sure the individual in question is not a CPA, EA or attorney, and, therefore, exempt from registering with CTEC. If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact CTEC.



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TAXPAYER TIPS

Is Your Tax Preparer California Approved?

California law says only an Attorney, Certified Public Accountant (CPA), CTEC Registered Tax Preparer (CRTP) or Enrolled Agent (EA) can prepare tax returns for a fee.  Learn More >

 



Tips for Choosing Your Tax Preparer >

Did you know California is one of the few states to have set requirements for paid tax preparers? Before you hand over your private tax information, get tips on red flags to know and how to find a legal tax preparer.  Learn more >

 




The Scary Truth About "Ghost" Tax Preparers >

Who are ghost tax preparers? They set up shop every tax season, prepare countless fraudulent tax returns, then disappear without a trace leaving clients to deal with the mess.  Learn more >