Please Note: At this time we are not providing the California Tax Prepare Course until further notice.
The Federal Income Tax Course will not satisfy the requirements to become registered in the state of California
To legally prepare tax returns for a fee in the State of California you must register with the California Tax Education Council (CTEC).
To become a “California registered tax preparer” you need to complete the following steps:
- Complete an approved 60 hour tax training program which consists of 45 hours of study in Federal taxation and 15 hours in California State taxation.
- Purchase a $5000 surety bond. Bond costs range between $35 and $100 – depending on the applicants credit history – the first year, and usually lower in subsequent years. Tax preparer bonds can be purchased online or from most insurance or surety companies, and can be found in your local yellow pages or through your insurance agent. Bonds can be purchased even before you finish the tax course.
- Register with the IRS to obtain a Tax Preparer Identification Number (PTIN).
- Register with CTEC on-line at https://www.ctec.org
The law also requires that every tax preparer earn a specific amount of approved Continuing Education (CPE) credits annually.
For more information contact the California Tax Education Council (CTEC) (916) 492-0457
Our CTEC Provider number is: 1025
