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Filing Season

30 days to a clean opening day: the pre-season checklist

PTIN, EFIN, software, engagement letters and pricing. Everything that has to be done before the first return.

Tax Pros 360 Editorial Team · Editorial edition:

· Reviewed October 9, 2026

30 days to a clean opening day: the pre-season checklist

Most opening-week problems start in November: an expired credential, software that isn’t installed, an organizer nobody updated. Use this 30-day plan to get your practice ready.

Week 1: Credentials

TaskDeadline / note
Renew your PTINEvery current PTIN expires Dec 31, 2026. The 2026 fee was $18.75; confirm the 2027 fee on IRS.gov.
Confirm the EFIN application is currentUpdate Form 8633 within 30 days of any change (address, principals, ERO).
Complete AFSP hours (if applicable)18 hours, including the AFTR course, by Dec 31.
Check CE for EAs72 hours per 3-year cycle, minimum 16 per year (2 in ethics).

Week 2: Software and security

  • Install the new season’s software and confirm the e-file setup.
  • Turn on multi-factor authentication for every user.
  • Review your WISP (written information security plan). The PTIN renewal asks you to confirm it.
  • Run a test return through every form you plan to prepare.

Week 3: Client-facing documents

  • Update engagement letters and Section 7216 consents.
  • Refresh your organizer: add tips, overtime, car loan interest, age 65+ and direct-deposit questions.
  • Publish your 2027 price list. Raise prices now, not mid-season.

Week 4: Capacity

Do the math before you book. For example:

InputExample
Preparers3
Returns per preparer per day4
Working days, Feb 1 – Apr 15~50
Capacity~600 returns

If you’ve booked 700, you need another preparer or an extension plan, and you need to decide that now.

Print this:

Credentials → Software → Documents → Capacity. Check off one group per week.

This article is general information for tax professionals, current as of October 2026. It is not legal advice. Confirm figures against current IRS guidance before you rely on them.