PTIN RENEWAL

[Lee B]

Stop, stop, this thread is out of control 

[jklcpa]

4 hours ago, cbslee said:

Stop, stop, this thread is out of control 

Over 50 posts!    Beats out the topic entitled "CPE recommendations"and second only to "1040 Postcard" that takes the  prize.  

[SaraEA]

I think that H&R Block worked with IRS to establish the PTIN system.  Many of their preparers, especially those in shady neighborhoods, were uncomfortable putting their SS#s on returns for all the world to see (and this was in the days before identity theft was as common as shoplifting).  So don't feel bad if your number isn't ultra low--Block preparers probably got to register first.  I did work at Block back then, and mine starts with 000, then a 4.

[JohnH]

Here is where it all began.

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-news/ir-99-72.pdf

Wikipedia says IRS issued 1 million PTIN's in the first year.  I assume the numbers were issued on a first come/first served basis. 

[Lion EA]

I don't know if my CAF ever had a hyphen, but it has always had a space and an R at the end.

I was divorced in 1987, so know that I don't have any returns from 1986 back. I kept everything from 1987 forward, because ex bugged me with custody and other issues for years.

[Lion EA]

I worked for Block back then, but it was an IRS e-News/Alert/whatever in my email box at home that told me about the new PTIN. I jumped right on it and applied. Then I received a letter from Block that they would help us/make sure we all applied -- don't remember much, because I'd already done it for me. But, Block did make sure we were no longer using our SSNs.

[mcb39]

On 10/11/2018 at 4:04 PM, Lynn EA USTCP in Louisiana said:

Max, the invitation to renew 'early' was provided to a select number of PTIN holders, not to all.  I have no idea what criteria the IRS based their selection process on; I was not invited to renew 'early', and in fact don't plan to renew until early December.  By then I expect the kinks in their system to be worked out.

 

I believe the early applications were for preparers who were going for the AFSP.  I applied with no issues.

 

 

[mcb39]

Obviously I have been gone too long.  I will have to relearn this site.

 

[jklcpa]

3 minutes ago, mcb39 said:

Obviously I have been gone too long.  I will have to relearn this site.

 

 

I fixed it, I think. Your response ended up inside the quote box because that's where the cursor was when you started to type.  Just click outside the box before typing and this won't happen. Remember, you also have 5 minutes to edit your post.  

[Catherine]

I just renewed my PTIN.  Also took a peek at the returns e-filed under my PTIN, and I was surprised at how high the number is.  Then on thinking about it I wasn't as surprised.