California is one of the five states in the United States that regulates tax preparation by implementing specific regulations. Registration with CTEC (California Tax Education Council) is mandatory for every tax preparer in the state.
For staying updated with all regulations about the preparation of state or federal income tax returns, tax preparers must renew their license every year.
To renew the registration with CTEC, you must complete the CTEC renewal course before the 31st of October every year. Failing to do so will result in substantial penalties.
Here are a few tips to prepare for the renewal course.
A Good Education Provider
The first step to prepare for the CTEC renewal course is to find a CTEC and an IRS-approved provider who offers continuing education. The list is available on the CTEC website. Be vigilant of dubious CTEC course providers.
Discounts and Referral Programs
The renewal course is very affordable. Some providers offer additional discounts for group enrolment. Take advantage of such offers if you have friends or acquaintances preparing for the renewal course. Pick a provider who lets you take a trial session before you invest in the course.
Meeting the Deadline
The renewal course must be completed within the deadline. An extension can be availed but is not the ideal choice. Ensure that the course provider reports course completion to CTEC within a day or two (anything longer than that is questionable). Working with providers with prompt reporting services gives you more time for preparation and much less to worry about.
Substantial Use of Technology
Physical books are the usual way of preparation for the course. However, online resources will help to complete the CTEC renewal course at your own pace. Most people appearing for the test have a regular job to attend to. Online videos make it easy for them to multi-task.
Online resources can be accessed from any location, thus offering more flexibility. You can make use of online books and videos even while you are commuting to work.
Student Support
As a student preparing for an important course, you may need support in various preparation areas, which is normal. Feel free to contact your provider through email or phone and have your queries addressed instantly. This will help you prevent procrastination and make you more confident to face the test.
A Composed Approach
CTEC allows sufficient time for preparation. In the unfortunate event of you failing to clear the test in the first attempt, test retakes will be permitted. Take sufficient time to understand the course outline and the expectations of the test. Feel free to reach out to your provider in case of any queries.
Renewal Is Necessary
Every individual who prepares taxes and charges a fee must take the renewal test. If the tax preparer fails to complete the course by the 15th of January in the following year, they will have to undergo all requirements (including the 60-hour education course) again. So, if you are a tax preparer, the renewal course is something that certainly demands your attention.
Understand the importance of the CTEC renewal course and take the time and effort to give your best towards the test.
