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Want to showcase your expertise as a tax preparer to clients? 

Here's what you need! The Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) is a game changer for all tax professionals. As an IRS Certified Public Accountant, your designation makes you stand out from the competition and proves that you are committed to staying up to date with tax laws and regulations.

Understanding the AFTR Course

Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) is a course designed for tax professionals. AFTR course provides knowledge of federal tax laws, updates, and ethical standards. Additionally, it helps tax professionals stay up-to-date on key federal tax changes and developments each year.

Importance of the Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) for AFSP

The Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course plays a significant role in the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP). Here are some key points explaining its importance:

  • Knowledge Update: The AFTR course is designed to provide tax professionals with an annual update on federal tax law changes and important updates. It ensures that tax preparers stay current with the latest tax regulations, forms, and guidelines.
  • Compliance: By completing the IRS AFTR course, tax professionals demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a high level of competence and compliance with IRS regulations. It helps enhance their understanding of tax laws and ability to accurately prepare tax returns.
  • Certification Requirement: The AFTR course is a mandatory requirement for tax preparers who wish to obtain or renew their Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) record of completion. This record distinguishes them as non-credentialed tax return preparers who meet specific IRS educational requirements 
  •  Representation Rights: One of the significant benefits of completing the AFTR course is that it grants tax preparers limited representation rights before the IRS. This means they can represent their clients during audits, examinations, and specific tax matters, adding value to their services.
  • Professional Development: The AFTR course equips tax professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality tax preparation services and maintain their professional standing.
  • Consumer Confidence: Clients often prefer tax preparers who demonstrate their commitment to ongoing education and staying up-to-date with tax laws. By completing the AFTR course, tax professionals can instill confidence in their clients, ensuring their competence and adherence to IRS standards.
  • AFSP Listing: Upon completion of the AFTR course and meeting other program requirements, tax preparers become eligible for inclusion in the IRS. This listing enhances their visibility to potential clients, further building trust and credibility.
  • Risk Mitigation: Staying current with tax laws through the AFTR course helps tax preparers reduce the risk of errors, omissions, or non-compliance with tax returns. It minimizes the likelihood of penalties and audits, protecting both tax professionals and their clients.

IRS Promoting Tax Education For Non-Credentialed Tax Preparers - AFSP

The IRS aims to encourage tax preparers to acquire and maintain knowledge of tax laws and regulations. By emphasizing tax education, the IRS seeks to enhance tax preparation services and protect taxpayers' interests.

The AFSP is specifically designed for non-credentialed tax preparers, including those who do not hold credentials such as Enrolled Agent (EA) status, Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licenses, or attorney licenses. It provides a pathway for tax preparers to develop their skills and demonstrate their commitment to ongoing education.

As part of the AFSP requirements, tax preparers must complete a specific number of continuing education (CE) hours each year. AFSP online CE course covers topics such as tax law updates, ethics, federal tax filing requirements, and other relevant subjects. The IRS provides a list of approved CE providers and courses to ensure the educational content meets the program's standards.

What is the Annual Filing Season Program?

With the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP), unenrolled tax preparers are encouraged to improve their skills by participating in continuing education (CE) every year. A key objective of the AFSP is to improve the skills of tax preparers.

What Professionals Can Participate in the Annual Filing Season Program?

The AFSP is intended only for uncredentialed tax preparers. Tax preparers use an AFSP status to differentiate themselves from their competitors since not all preparers require qualifications. Participating in the AFSP ensures participants have an elevated level of tax preparation expertise.

A tax preparer with credentials, such as an attorney, CPA, or enrolled agent, was not intended for the AFSP. In the IRS's view, these tax professionals have too much expertise to be involved.

What are the benefits of an AFSP?

By earning an AFSP status, you will:

  • Stay informed about the latest tax changes and updates
  • Become a standout among unenrolled preparers
  • Your profile will be more visible on the public IRS database
  • Enhance client credibility and marketability
  • Provide more services, such as limited IRS representation

Annual Filing Season Program participants have limited representation rights, meaning they can represent clients whose returns they prepared and signed, but only before revenue agents, customer service representatives, and similar IRS employees including the Taxpayer Advocate Service.

Return preparers with full IRS representation rights are limited to credentialed professionals (such as CPAs, attorneys, and enrolled agents). An AFSP participant can help clients appeal IRS decisions and audits and resolve payment issues in addition to everything else they offer.

What are the AFSP continuing education requirements?

AFSP participants must complete a certain number of hours in continuing education (CE) from a CE provider approved by the IRS, such as myCPE.

Subject area requirements for PTIN holders required to complete the AFTR course:

  • 6-hour Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course
  • 10 hours of Federal Tax Law
  • 2 hours of Federal Ethics

Subject area requirements for PTIN holders exempt from the AFTR course:

  • 6-hour Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course
  • 10 hours of Federal Tax Law
  • 2 hours of Federal Ethics

The preparer must also have a valid preparer tax identification number (PTIN) and consent to the obligations of Circular No. 230, Subpart B.

Finding the Right AFTR Course Provider

Now, as we know everything about AFTR courses and its need for AFSP, we must find the right AFTR course provider. Here are a few points that you must consider to land on the best AFTR course provider’s platform:

  • Accreditation and Compliance

First and foremost, it is essential to choose an AFTR course provider that is accredited and recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The provider should be compliant with the IRS guidelines and requirements for the AFSP. Ensure that the course content aligns with the IRS's curriculum and covers the necessary topics, such as recent tax law changes, tax updates, and ethics.

  • Reputation and Experience

Consider the reputation and experience of the AFTR course provider. Look for providers that have been in the industry for several years and have a track record of delivering high-quality courses. Check for reviews and testimonials from previous participants to gauge the provider's credibility and effectiveness in delivering comprehensive and engaging AFTR courses.

  • Course Content and Delivery

Evaluate the course content and delivery methods offered by the provider. The AFTR course should cover all relevant topics required by the IRS and provide up-to-date information on tax laws, regulations, and procedures. The course material should be well-structured, easy to understand, and interactive.

  • Instructor Qualifications

Find out about the qualifications and expertise of the instructors who will be delivering the AFTR course. The instructors should have in-depth knowledge of tax laws and regulations, as well as practical experience in tax preparation. They should be able to effectively communicate complex concepts and provide real-world examples to enhance your understanding. Look for instructors who have relevant certifications, credentials, or professional affiliations in the field of taxation. 

  • Flexibility and Convenience

Consider the flexibility and convenience offered by the AFTR course provider. Look for providers that offer online courses, allowing you to learn at your own pace and according to your schedule. Additionally, check if the provider offers customer support or assistance during the course in case you have any questions or need clarification.

  • Support and Resources

Assess the level of support and additional resources provided by the AFTR course provider. Look for providers that offer access to a dedicated support team or instructor for any course-related queries. Consider whether the provider offers supplementary resources, such as study guides, reference materials, or practice exams, to help you prepare for the AFTR course and exam effectively.

  • Cost and Value

Compare the cost of the AFTR course across different providers and assess the value you will receive. While it is important to consider affordability, remember that the quality and comprehensiveness of the course should be the top priority. Look for providers that offer a reasonable price for their courses while providing excellent educational content and resources. Some providers may also offer package deals or discounts for multiple courses or group registrations.

Continuing Education Credit

Check whether the AFTR course provider offers continuing education credit (CE) for completing the course. CE credits are valuable for tax preparers as they contribute to their professional development and demonstrate their commitment to ongoing education. Find out if the provider is accredited to offer CE credits, and ensure that the credits earned will be recognized by relevant professional organizations or licensing boards.

Post-Course Support

Consider the post-course support provided by the AFTR course provider. Will you have access to the course materials after completion? It is beneficial to choose a provider that offers ongoing support to ensure that you are well-equipped for future tax seasons.

Recommendations and Referrals

Seek recommendations and referrals from colleagues, fellow tax preparers, or professional associations. Their insights and experiences can provide valuable guidance in selecting the right AFTR course provider. Additionally, consider reaching out to your state's tax preparer association or local IRS office for recommendations on reputable providers in your area.

myCPE: Complete Your AFSP requirements in One Go!


For tax preparers who wish to fulfill the AFTR requirements, choosing the right provider is essential. So, myCPE's Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) package courses are here!

myCPE can help you complete your AFTR course requirements by offering a diverse selection of IRS-approved AFSP courses conveniently accessible online. Here, you will get access to interactive learning materials, including On-demand courses along with live webinars, podcasts, short videos, etc., to enhance comprehension. Expert instructors offer valuable insights and guidance throughout the course. The platform also tracks your progress, ensuring you meet the requirements and receive a completion certificate. By leveraging myCPE's resources and flexibility, you can successfully complete your AFTR course and stay updated on federal tax laws, updates, and ethics.

It's the right time to complete the 2024 AFSP CE requirements and earn your credits at the best AFSP CE course provider’s platform!

Join myCPE through our subscription plan which costs only $199. 

FAQs:

What are the exceptions to the AFTR course and exam?

  • Enrolled Agents (EA)
  • Certified Public Accountants (CPA)
  • Attorneys
  • Registered Tax Return Preparers (RTRP) who used to work for the IRS (Learn more about RTRPs)
  • The Enrolled Retirement Plan Agent (ERPA)
  • A candidate who has passed the Special Enrollment Exam (SEE) Part 1 within the last three calendar years is eligible.
  • CTEC-registered tax preparers
  • Volunteers with the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA)
  • Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners-registered tax preparers
  • Maryland-certified candidates and/or Maryland-registered candidates

Why should I choose myCPE for my AFTR course?

There are several reasons to choose myCPE for your AFTR course:

  • There are several reasons to choose myCPE for your AFTR course:
  • Comprehensive Course Selection, including more than 11,500 hours of content
  • Convenience and Flexibility
  • Interactive Learning Experience
  • Expert Instructors
  • Track Progress and Completion
  • Continuing Education Credit
  • User-Friendly Interface


Jason Dinesen
Jason Dinesen
President, Dinesen Tax & Accounting, P.C.

Jason Dinesen (LPA, EA) is an entrepreneur, tax expert, and CPE Presenter. Dinesen brings over 15 years of experience helping individuals and businesses with accounting, bookkeeping, tax preparation, and business advisory in various industries. Dinesen is a regular CPE Presenter at myCPE. He has coached more than 200k+ accounting, taxes, and HR professionals on various topics of accounting, individual taxation, corporate taxation, and professional ethics. Jason has developed a strong following within the professional community for tax-related subjects. Dinesen is known for sharp tax interpretations, and he quickly brings his analysis of the latest tax updates and IRS guidance to the professional community.