WASHINGTON, D.C. — October 2025:

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has officially opened the 2026 Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) renewal period, reminding over 800,000 paid tax professionals nationwide to renew before the deadline.

At Funds To Function, we understand how important compliance and timely renewal are for every tax preparer , whether you’re managing hundreds of returns or assisting clients part-time. Staying proactive keeps your credentials valid, protects your reputation, and ensures seamless service for the upcoming 2026 tax season.

WHO NEEDS A PTIN
Any professional who prepares or assists in preparing federal tax returns or refund claims for compensation must have an active PTIN and include it on all filings.
Even enrolled agents, whether or not they actively prepare returns, must renew annually to maintain their active status.
All 2025 PTINs will expire on December 31, 2025, so prompt renewal avoids delays and processing interruptions.

RENEWAL FEE AND VALIDITY
The renewal or application fee for the 2026 PTIN is $18.75 (non-refundable).
Each PTIN is valid for a single calendar year and must be renewed annually to remain in effect.

HOW TO RENEW EFFICIENTLY
The IRS recommends completing renewal online — a process that takes less than 15 minutes.

Steps to renew online:
1. Visit IRS.gov/taxpros
2. Click “Renew or Register”
3. Log in using your user ID and password
4. Select “Renew my PTIN” from the main menu
5. Receive immediate confirmation once complete

A paper option is also available via Form W-12 (PTIN Application and Renewal), though it can take up to six weeks for processing.

Through the IRS online PTIN system, tax pros can also:
– Review continuing-education credits
– Track how many 1040 returns were filed using their PTIN
– Access communications from the IRS Return Preparer Office
– Monitor participation in the IRS Annual Filing Season Program

NEW FOR 2026 — ID.me SIGN-IN
The IRS now uses ID.me, a trusted identity-verification platform, for secure sign-ins to the PTIN system.
Tax preparers with a Social Security Number will be automatically routed through ID.me for verification.
Those without an SSN will continue using their existing login process.
If you don’t yet have an ID.me account, you’ll need to create one before renewing.

FUNDS TO FUNCTION’S INSIGHT
At Funds To Function, our advisory team helps tax professionals and accounting businesses stay ahead of evolving IRS requirements. The new ID.me integration underscores the agency’s focus on digital security and professional accountability.

As a compliance-focused accounting and advisory firm, we encourage all tax preparers to complete their renewals early and verify credentials to avoid year-end rushes.

FINAL REMINDER
Timely PTIN renewal isn’t just a procedural step — it’s a professional commitment.
Make it a priority today to keep your credentials valid, your operations smooth, and your clients confident in your compliance excellence.

For personalized guidance or IRS-related advisory support, reach out to Funds To Function LLC,  where accuracy, integrity, and compliance drive every financial solution.

Disclaimer :

The information shared in this article is for educational and informational purposes only.             

While Funds To Function , LLC ensures accuracy from reliable sources, readers should verify details independently before applying them to personal or business decisions.                            Funds To Function , LLC is not responsible for any actions taken based on this content, it is provided solely to enhance your knowledge.