New Tax Prep Laws: Who are they helping?

As tax preparers head into the busy season, some are finding the playing field a very different place than last year. In a move to ensure all tax preparers are qualified to do their jobs, the government has enacted new laws governing the practice.

Along with ceasing the production of debt indicators, which help preparers file for Refund Anticipation Loans (RALs), the IRS is now requiring all preparers to file for Preparers (or Practitioners) Tax Identification Numbers (PTIN). When preparers file for their PTIN they are required to pay a $64.25 fee, pass a competency exam and enroll in continuing education classes.

While it could present problems for Mom and Pop tax preparers, the registration process hasnt proven to be a hindrance for big industry players, who are pleased the new requirement could squeeze out their smaller competition.

In defense of smaller shops, PostcardMania, a marketing firm that caters to small to medium sized businesses, is going out of their way to alert clients of the new law and ensure they know how to register for their PTIN online.

Its hard enough to be a small business in this economy, says Founder and CEO of PostcardMania, Joy Gendusa. We need incentives for businesspeople, not roadblocks. Were determined to help our clients succeed not just with marketing, but with business in general. Thats why were giving them a heads up on new changes that will ultimately increase their marketing success.

Services from PostcardMania will definitely help develop my business on to a higher level, reports PostcardMania customer, Tom Beaton of Beaton Accounting.

Clients and prospects alike are welcome to call in for free business and marketing advice from their professional marketing consultants. If information is power, PostcardMania is a small business personal trainer.