Steps to Maintain Your CTEC Registration Active
If you’re a CTEC Registered Tax Preparer (CRTP) who missed the CTEC renewal deadline, don’t panic! Here are the essential steps to get back on track and maintain your ability to legally prepare tax returns in California.
Understand the Consequences
Missing the CTEC renewal deadline (October 31) means your registration is now inactive. As an inactive CRTP, you are not legally permitted to prepare tax returns for a fee in California until your registration is reinstated
Stop Providing Paid Tax Preparation Services
It is illegal to prepare tax returns for a fee without current CTEC registration. Pause your services immediately until you’ve completed the renewal steps.
Complete the Late Renewal Process
CTEC offers a late renewal window, but you must act quickly:
- Reinstatement is available from November 1 through January 15.
- During this period, you can log in to your CTEC account and complete the late renewal process online.
- A $55 late fee will apply in addition to standard renewal fees.
Fulfill All Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
You must have completed the required 20 hours of continuing education (CE) before you can renew your registration. If you haven’t finished your CE, do so as soon as possible and ensure your education provider promptly reports your hours to CTEC.
Submit Your Renewal Application and Fees Online
Ensure you have the following ready:
- Basic personal information.
- Current bond information—including any claims made against your bond.
- 20 hours of continuing education (10 hours federal tax law, 3 hours federal tax law updates, 2 hours ethics, 5 hours state) already uploaded into the CTEC database by your education provider.
- A current IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN).
- Visa or MasterCard to pay the $33 registration fee, $55 late fee, plus a $2 processing fee.
What If You Miss the Late Renewal Window?
If you do not complete your renewal by January 15, you must retake the 60-hour qualifying education course and re-register as a new CRTP to regain compliance. This process includes submitting a live scan and passing a background check, as well as paying an initial application and processing fee in addition to registration fees.
Helpful Tips to Avoid Future Lapses
- Set calendar reminders for CTEC deadlines.
- Complete CE hours well before the deadline.
- Bookmark CTEC.org for easy access to your account and renewal information.
