Tax Return Preparers

In May 2019, the Iowa legislature enacted House File 590, a bill providing requirements and penalties for tax return preparers. Beginning January 1, 2020, individuals preparing certain tax returns or claims for refund under Iowa Code chapter 422 may be classified as tax return preparers. Tax return preparers will be subject to continuing education requirements and penalties for failing to provide their preparer tax identification number (PTIN) on returns they prepare. This guidance explains who shall be considered tax return preparers and the specifics of completing and reporting continuing education courses. Additionally, this guidance provides information on the penalties for violating the tax return preparer requirements and examples of situations involving tax return preparers.