Step by step
- Get your PTIN. Every paid preparer needs one: $18.75 for 2027, about 15 minutes online through the IRS PTIN system, and it expires December 31. See how to get or renew a PTIN.
- Register with New York State for the calendar year. The 2027 education content and registration application open in mid-November 2026.
- If you're a commercial preparer (10+ NYS returns), pay the $100 fee and complete the 16-hour qualifying course in the state's online learning system. It's free, and IRS courses don't count toward New York's requirement.
- Put your NYTPRIN on every New York return you prepare and sign.
- Apply for an EFIN if you'll e-file as your own business. There's no IRS fee, the application includes a suitability check, and it can take up to 45 days — apply well before January. See how to get an EFIN.
- Choose professional tax software and, if your clients need it, enroll in bank products so fees can come out of refunds. As a partner office you pay $0 upfront for software, setup and training, and we help you get clients.
- Write your security plan (WISP). The FTC Safeguards Rule and IRS Publication 4557 expect every preparer to protect client data — multi-factor authentication, encryption, backups.
Every year after
Re-register each calendar year, renew your PTIN, and — as a commercial preparer — complete 4 hours of state continuing education.
Preparing returns in New York for 2027? Get your software lined up.
Professional tax software with $0 upfront, four bank partners, and help getting clients: your website, listings and ads set up for you.
Who's excluded
New York excludes attorneys, CPAs, public accountants, enrolled agents, volunteer preparers, employees supervised by those professionals, and employees who prepare only their own employer's returns.
Start your New York office
Once registered, get your software, bank-product enrollment and training in place before January. Partner offices pay $0 upfront, with launch help and local search setup to bring in clients — see pricing. Compare with every other state in our tax preparer requirements by state table.
New York tax preparer FAQ
Do I need to register to prepare taxes in New York?
Yes, unless you're excluded. Register with the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance each calendar year before preparing NY returns for pay.
How much is New York tax preparer registration?
$100 for commercial preparers (10 or more NYS returns a year). Commercial preparers also complete free state education.
When does 2027 New York preparer registration open?
The state says the 2027 education content and registration application will be available in mid-November 2026.
Are enrolled agents exempt in New York?
Yes — attorneys, CPAs, public accountants and enrolled agents are excluded from the definition of tax return preparer.
Sources
Program rules change; confirm current requirements with the IRS and your providers.