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By Stacie Clifford Kitts, CPA

Tax preparers heads up, according to the new IRS rules, you have until January 1, 2011 to register for your PTIN (preparers tax identification number).   I’m getting a little concerned about the IRS’s ability to GET IT DONE by the January 1, 2011 due date.

Robert Flach of the Wondering Tax Pro, describes his frustration with trying to register on line in his post  WHAT A MUCKING FESS!

Before I could submit the PTIN application I first had to create an “account”. I completed this process and was “told” that I would receive an email from the IRS with a temporary password for my account.

It never came!

Two hours later I went online to try again, stating that I needed help with my password when “logging in”. After properly answering the security question I had established in my initial try I was again “told” that I would receive an email with a new password.

It never came!

I gave up for the day.

Ultimately Robert decided to mail in a Form W-12 IRS Paid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) Application,  the alternative to applying on line.  If you choose this option beware, the IRS indicates that it could take 4 to 6 weeks to process.  The IRS has also posted the following warning on their site:

**The PTIN sign-up system and toll-free number are experiencing high volumes of users. We appreciate your patience and encourage you to try again later if you encounter delays.**

Good luck preparers, and my advice, don’t wait to GET IT DONE!