I’ve spoken with several preparers the last few months who have experienced some degree of difficulty in obtaining or registering their PTIN. Some called in a panic last week because their application was still “pending”, and tax season was about to start.

The IRS issued notice 2011-11, which will allow certain tax preparers who have applied to register or obtain a PTIN, to file tax returns using either their old PTIN or their SSN until they receive a response on their application. The notice indicates that these preparers will receive instructions from the on-line application process on how to proceed.

For preparers who have filed a paper application (W-12) with a payment, this will constitute a good faith effort to comply with the requirement.

Tax preparers who receive a new PTIN during tax season should immediately begin to use the new PTIN.

IRS Notice 2011-11 has been released, and can be accessed by clicking here.
Internal Revenue Bulletin 2001-7 should be released soon and provide additional details of the clemency.

Posted by John Sapp
Drake Software