The cost of doing tax preparation business decreased in a minor amount due to new temporary regulations issued by the IRS (TD 9742).

The total cost of PTIN renewal for the season from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016 will decrease from $63 (the 2015 amount) to $50.  In reality, the actual PTIN drops by $17 (to $33), but the processing fee paid to the third party processor will increase to $17 for renewals—thus the $50 fee.

For those first applying for a PTIN the cost is slightly higher ($1.25 more) due to a higher third party processing fee for such applications.

All individuals who are considered tax preparers will need to have a valid 2016 PTIN before doing any preparation after January 1, 2016.  As always, the PTIN renewal online form opened up on November 1.