The deadline for having IRS Representation Rights and enrolling in the Annual Filing Season Program is fast approaching. After December 31st, 2015 tax returns signed by non-credentialed return preparers will have no IRS representation rights if they do not participate in the program. Non-Credentialed return preparers who participate in the Annual Filing Season Program will continue to have limited rights to represent clients. They will be able to represent clients whose tax returns they prepared and signed before revenue agents, customer service reps, and similar IRS employees. They must participate in both the year the return was prepared and the year they are representing the client.
For 2016 program record of Completion, non-credentialed tax return preparers will need to complete either 15 or 18 hours of IRS-approved continuing education. Participants have until Dec. 31, 2015 to do so, in order to receive a 2016 Annual Filing Season Program Record of Completion.
The Changes to IRS representation rights do not effect returns signed prior to December 31st, 2015. This program is considered voluntary, and seems to be an “end around” by the IRS after the loving decision that stopped the required RTRP program. For more information about the changes to the IRS Representation Rights go to IRS.GOV.
Enrolled Agents, CPA’s, and attorneys will still have the same IRS representation rights as before, and are NOT required to participate in the Annual Filing Season Program. IRS Solutions tax resolution software helps tax pros stop the IRS from interrupting their practice with notices and audits. Most accountants use IRS Solutions to help them maintain a smooth running practice all year long. Join us and get access to the monthly case study webinar hosted for our members. Click here to join IRS Solutions.
