Maximize Your Filing Season Success: Master the IRS AFSP with the AFTR Course!

Are you a non-credentialed tax preparer, a seasonal tax preparer, or someone interested in pursuing a career in tax preparation? If so, achieving compliance with the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) in 2023 can significantly enhance your professional standing and expand your opportunities in the field.

This article will explore the numerous advantages of Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) compliance for tax preparers in 2023. Whether you are a non-credentialed tax preparer, a seasonal tax preparer, or an individual transitioning into tax preparation, understanding and complying with AFSP CE requirements can significantly boost your career prospects. We will delve into the details of AFSP, and the benefits it offers. So, let's dive in and discover how AFSP compliance can enhance your career as a tax preparer.

Understanding the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP)

The Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) is a voluntary initiative by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) designed to acknowledge the efforts and competency of tax preparers. It ensures that non-credentialed tax preparers have the necessary skills and knowledge to serve their clients effectively.

Purpose of the AFSP

The AFSP is primarily intended to enhance taxpayer compliance and improve the quality of tax return preparation services. By participating in the program, tax preparers can demonstrate their commitment to ongoing education and stay up-to-date with the ever-changing tax laws and regulations.

​AFSP Continuing Education Requiments

 The AFTR (Annual Federal Tax Refresher) course is a mandatory component of the AFSP. This course provides tax preparers with a comprehensive review of tax law updates and changes for the upcoming filing season. Completing the AFTR course ensures that AFSP participants have the knowledge and skills to deliver accurate and compliant tax returns.
The AFTR course covers various tax-related subjects, including tax law updates, filing requirements, tax credits, deductions, and ethical considerations. Tax preparers must successfully pass the AFTR course exam to meet this requirement.

Apart from the AFTR course, AFSP participants must fulfill annual continuing education (CE) requirements. These CE requirements ensure that tax preparers stay updated with the latest tax laws and regulations, enabling them to provide accurate and reliable tax services.

Continuing education plays a vital role in the tax preparation profession. As tax laws evolve, ongoing education helps tax preparers remain abreast of changes, understand complex tax scenarios, and apply accurate tax strategies. It demonstrates their commitment to professional growth and ensures they offer their clients the highest quality of service.

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements for the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) Overview

The Benefits of AFSP Compliance

• Enhanced Professional Reputation: AFSP compliance demonstrates your commitment to professionalism and ongoing education. It sets you apart from non-compliant preparers, instilling trust and confidence in your clients. You can showcase your dedication to providing quality tax services with an AFSP Record of Completion.
• Increased Competence and Knowledge: The AFTR course and continuing education requirements under the AFSP ensure that you stay updated with the latest tax laws, regulations, and best practices. This continuous learning helps you develop a deep understanding of complex tax concepts, enabling you to provide accurate and informed advice to your clients.
• Expanded Client Base: Many taxpayers are now aware of the AFSP and actively seek out tax preparers who hold the AFSP Record of Completion. By becoming compliant, you become an AFSP participant, giving you a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Potential clients are more likely to choose a tax preparer who has demonstrated their commitment to excellence through AFSP compliance.
• Increased Earning Potential: AFSP compliance opens up new career growth and advancement opportunities. With an enhanced reputation and a broader client base, you can attract more clients and charge higher service fees. Additionally, some employers and organizations prefer to hire AFSP tax preparer, increasing your chances of securing better job prospects.
• Professional Development and Networking Opportunities: Participating in the AFSP allows you to engage in continuous professional development. Attending AFSP-approved courses and seminars can expand your knowledge and network with fellow tax professionals. These connections can lead to valuable collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and a supportive community to help you navigate challenges in your tax preparation career.

Finding the Right AFSP Course Provider

It is crucial to select an IRS-approved course provider. Choosing an IRS-approved course provider is essential as it guarantees that the course material meets IRS standards and covers the necessary topics. It is essential to review the course offerings, syllabus, and participant reviews to make an informed decision when selecting a course for AFSP compliance.

We at myCPE ensure the quality and validity of the education received. myCPE, as an IRS-approved continuing education provider, offers comprehensive AFSP courses to meet the needs of tax preparers seeking AFSP compliance. The course material should be well-structured, easy to understand, and interactive. myCPE offers a variety of learning resources, such as video lectures, case studies, practice quizzes, and reference materials, to enhance your learning experience.

We at myCPE ensure the quality and validity of the education received. myCPE, as an IRS-approved continuing education provider, offers comprehensive AFSP courses to meet the needs of tax preparers seeking AFSP compliance. The course material should be well-structured, easy to understand, and interactive. myCPE offers a variety of learning resources, such as video lectures, case studies, practice quizzes, and reference materials, to enhance your learning experience.  

How myCPE Supports Your AFSP Course Journey

myCPE provides tax preparers with a smooth and all-inclusive AFSP course experience. Through engaging learning modules, skilled instructors, and convenient accessibility, myCPE guarantees that tax preparers can effortlessly meet their AFSP requirements and enhance their expertise and professional abilities.
myCPE offers unlimited access to a wide range of AFSP CE courses, including the Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course. These courses are available in both live webinar and self-study formats and are approved by the IRS. By subscribing to myCPE subscription plan, you can fulfill your AFSP CE requirements and stay up-to-date with the necessary subject areas. Enjoy the convenience of accessing all AFSP CE courses under one subscription plan.

The AFSP Course and Beyond: Continuing Education Opportunities

Besides the AFTR course, tax preparers have access to a broader selection of continuing education options. myCPE provides an extensive range of IRS-approved courses, advanced certifications, and professional development opportunities that go beyond AFSP compliance, allowing tax preparers to enhance their skills and knowledge. These courses encompass various subjects, including advanced tax planning, tax research, specialized industry taxation, and more.

Conclusion

Complying with the Annual Filing Season Program requirements offers numerous benefits for non-credentialed tax preparers, seasonal tax preparers, and individuals transitioning into tax preparation. By completing the AFTR course and fulfilling the continuing education requirements, you demonstrate your commitment to professionalism, gain a competitive edge, and open doors to new opportunities in the tax preparation industry. Elevate your career as a tax preparer by becoming AFSP-compliant, and enjoy the rewards of enhanced knowledge, reputation, earning potential, and professional growth.

Remember, AFSP compliance is not just a requirement; it is a valuable investment in your future as a tax preparer. Start your journey towards AFSP compliance today and unlock the benefits that await you! As an IRS-approved continuing education provider, myCPE supports tax preparers on their AFSP course journey and offers a wealth of additional professional development opportunities. Choose myCPE as your trusted partner to fulfill your AFSP requirements and propel your career as a tax preparer to new heights.

FAQs

Q1. What are the AFSP CE requirements?

Ans. AFSP CE requirements include completing the Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course and fulfilling annual continuing education (CE) requirements. PTIN holders required to complete the AFTR course need 18 hours of CE annually, while those exempt from the AFTR course need 15 hours of CE annually.

Q2. How long does it take to complete the AFTR course?

Ans: The AFTR course takes approximately 6 hours to complete.

Q3. Can I become an AFSP participant without completing the AFTR course?

Ans: You must complete the AFTR course in order to become an AFSP participant. It is a mandatory component of the program.

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.