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What Exactly Is an ATP (Accredited Tax Preparer)?

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Amelie john


Accredited tax preparers (ATPs) are tax professionals who have fulfilled the IRS's requirements for knowledge of tax returns. The national ATP credential indicates a comprehensive comprehension of the current tax code and the creation of individual tax returns by passing an exam. 

The Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation (ACAT), a nongovernmental testing, accrediting, and monitoring organization, offers the accredited tax preparer credential. While there are no prerequisites in terms of education or work experience, candidates must pass an in-person exam that is given twice a year at testing facilities in all 50 states. It costs $250 to take the exam. Additionally, there is a $20 certificate charge as well as a separate $50 credential activation fee. 

Additionally, studying for the test might be costly. Participants can attend an online ATP preparation course for $150 (or $100 for members of the National Society of Accountants). The course covers a wide range of 1040-related subjects, such as supporting schedules, self-employed returns, and ethics. In order to aid users in preparing, it also includes an online practice test that generates randomized questions. You may also buy the ATP practice test separately. 

ATPs must complete 24 hours of continuing education each year, or 72 hours over the course of three years, in order to maintain their accreditation. One ACAT certificate, including the ATP designation, costs $99 to renew annually. 

Positive aspects of ATP Designation 

For tax consultant, standing out from the competition means having an approved tax preparation credential next to your name. Choosing an ATP is a clear indication to clients that the person they are working with has advanced knowledge. 

The IRS's Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP), which aims to encourage non-credentialed tax-return preparers to complete continuing education courses, doesn't need ATPs to take any additional lessons because they have previously passed the ACAT exam. 

limited rights of representation: Only clients whose returns they have completed and signed may be represented by tax preparers with restricted representation privileges, and only before customer service representatives, revenue agents, and other similar IRS employees. Even though they completed and signed their clients' tax returns, tax return estimate with restricted representation privileges are not permitted to represent clients in relation to appeals or collection difficulties. Limited representation rights apply to those taking part in the IRS's Annual Filing Season Program, including accredited tax preparers who are automatically eligible. 

Rights of non-representation: Additionally, PTIN holders do not take part in the Annual Filing Season Program despite having an active preparer tax identity number and no professional credentials. PTIN holders are only permitted to file tax returns as of 2016; they are not permitted to represent customers before the IRS in any capacity. 

Suggestions on Tax Filing  

  • It doesn't have to be difficult to find a financial advisor who fits your requirements and ambitions. The free service from Smart Asset matches you with local financial experts in 5 minutes. If you want to be connected with local experts who can assist you in reaching your financial objectives, click here. 
  • To assist you in making plans for retirement and estate planning in addition to your yearly tax return, you might wish to speak with a financial counsellor. 
  • Make sure they are aware of any significant life events, such as an inheritance or a divorce, that may have an impact on your tax status if you do decide to use a qualified tax preparer. 
  • Consider using a certified tax preparer to guarantee that your tax return is accurate and meets IRS requirements. Additionally, an ATP could be able to uncover additional exemptions or deductions for you. 

 

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