Avoid These 5 Mistakes
Renewing your CTEC registration doesn’t have to be stressful. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure a smooth renewal process and keep your registration up to date!
1. Not Allowing Enough Time to Report Continuing Education Hours
Many CTEC Registered Tax Preparers (CRTPs) wait until the last minute to complete their continuing education (CE), but did you know your hours aren’t always reported instantly?
- CTEC policy gives education providers until the end of the quarter to report CE hours outside of the renewal cycle, and up to ten business days from the course completion date during the renewal cycle (August 1 – October 31).
- Completing your CE on October 31 does not guarantee you will be able to renew by the deadline.
Tip: Complete your education early to avoid last-minute issues!
2. Reprinting Your Old Certificate Instead of Renewing
Some CRTPs mistakenly think reprinting their certificate for $10 is the same as completing renewal.
- You must follow all renewal steps and pay all required fees to successfully renew your registration.
3. Assuming Your Education Provider Registers You
Your CTEC-approved education provider will submit your CE hours, but they do not complete your CTEC registration for you.
- To renew online, all CE hours must be electronically reported to CTEC by your education provider(s).
- If hours are missing, contact your education provider(s) directly and confirm they have your valid CTEC ID number so they can upload your hours.
4. Not Providing Your CTEC ID to Education Providers
If you don’t receive a certificate of completion, it’s often because your CTEC ID number (an “A” followed by six digits) wasn’t provided during course registration.
- This is a common issue, especially with credits from the IRS Nationwide Tax Forums.
- Always provide your CTEC ID number when registering for any CE course.
5. Not Verifying Your Education Provider’s Status
Not all education providers offering CE credits are CTEC approved.
- Some providers may have lost their approval, been suspended or opted out of renewing their approved status with CTEC.
- Always verify your education provider’s current status before registering for a course.
Find the full list of approved education providers here.
Renewing on time and following these tips will help you stay compliant and ready for the upcoming tax season!
