The IRS released Notice 2011-80 yesterday, which provides additional guidance for paid tax return preparers.
One of the key points discussed in the new IRS guidance is that paid tax return preparers will need to renew on an annual basis their Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs).
Renewals should be made each calendar year after October 15 and before January 1. For 2012, the fee for renewing a PTIN is $64.25.
Renewals can be made online or by filing a paper W-12. However, the IRS will not accept any paper filings on Form W-12 between September 27, 2011 and October 16, 2011.