Safeguarding California's Taxpayers

Stay informed, stay compliant. Work with approved professionals and access essential California tax education services to effectively navigate tax preparation.

The Community We Empower

Taxpayers

Let us be your guide to confident tax filing. Find verified tax preparers, learn about fraud prevention, and access helpful resources.

Tax Preparers

Have a trustworthy partner in us for tax preparation success. 
Stay compliant, access education, and build your reputation.

Education Providers

Streamline your course management and ensure quality. Keep in the loop on industry trends and deliver top-notch tax education.

Essential Tax Resources for Californians

Get everything you need for informed tax filing.

Check Registrations

Confirm your tax preparer’s credentials using our searchable database.

Get Registered

Learn how to become a registered tax professional and find the necessary forms as well as other requirements.

File a Complaint

Help protect others and yourself by reporting misconduct by tax preparers and education providers.

For Taxpayers
For CTEC Preparers

Keep Up-to-Date

Access the latest news, resources, and compliance guidelines on tax preparation so you can stay informed.

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Check Registrations

Confirm your tax preparer’s credentials using our searchable database.

Get Registered

Learn how to become a registered tax professional and find the necessary forms as well as other requirements.

File a Complaint

Help protect others and yourself by reporting misconduct by tax preparers and education providers.

For Taxpayers
For CTEC Preparers
Keep Up-to-Date

Access the latest news, resources, and compliance guidelines on tax preparation so you can stay informed.

Important Announcements

Never miss a beat. Be informed on the latest tax preparation news and regulatory changes.

Got any questions?

CTEC is now accepting applications to become a new preparer.

Click here to access the application.

11 Jan 2022

State enforcement warns LA wildfire victims to beware of tax scammers.

Taxpayers should be vigilant about scammers pretending to be tax preparers. Know the warning signs.

11 Jan 2022

The 2024/2025 late renewal cycle for CTEC Registered Tax Preparers (CRTPs) is now closed.

Late renewals were due January 15, 2025. CRTPs who missed the deadline will need to start over as a new preparer.

11 Jan 2022

Maintaining Industry Knowledge and Professionalism

As a state-mandated nonprofit, the California Tax Education Council (CTEC) is committed to ensuring that California taxpayers receive proficient tax preparation services. Established in 1997, we oversee tax preparer education and registration, and work tirelessly to maintain the highest standards in the industry.

Our dedicated Board of Directors, comprised of volunteer members from qualified organizations, guides our mission. Through our efforts, we protect taxpayers and promote ethical tax practices in the state.

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Your Guide to CTEC Registration

Get the information you need on requirements, 
state law exemptions, and enforcement.

Trending Topics

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CTEC Registration Requirements

Interested in registering with CTEC? Watch video one of our webinar series.
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Understanding CTEC Exemptions

Certain professionals are exempt from CTEC registration.
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Experience In Lieu Application

Some experienced professionals can opt out of the 60-hour qualifying education course.

Tune into Taxpayer Beware

Stay in the loop with more updates and news via our podcast.

English
17:20

Avoiding Social Media Scammers

Christella Sanchez, Senior Stakeholder Liaison with the IRS, joins Ray Davis on Taxpayer Beware to discuss how to avoid social media tax scams.
Spanish
27:28

Cuidado con las estafas fiscales en redes sociales

Fernando Angell conversa con Kenji Chavez, Enlace Senior con Partes Interesadas del IRS, para identificar las formas en que los estafadores utilizan las redes sociales para engañar a sus víctimas, cómo detectar una estafa y más.
English
31:19 min

Beware the Scam: A Tax Fraud Victim’s Story

Tom O’Saben & Rebecca Landeros join Ray Davis on Taxpayer Beware to discuss the story of a real-life victim of tax fraud, & learn from his mistakes.
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