Steps for becoming a Certified Agent

There are four steps that need to be taken by all new and renewing applicants.

  • Complete Form 13551 (PDF), Application to Participate in the IRS Acceptance Agent Program.
  • Attach a fingerprint card (YOU CAN GET A FINGERPRINT CARD BY CALLING THE IRS E-HELP DESK AT 866-255-0654.)
  • Complete the Mandatory Acceptance Agent training, print, sign and submit the certification form.
  • Attach the certification form for each authorized representative (person listed in block 5 of the application) to Form 13551.
  • Complete forensic training and submit the certificate of completion to the IRS. (CAA applicants only)

Additionally:

  • Applications received without the required certification form(s) will not be processed.
  • All Acceptance Agents are required to submit at least five W-7 applications a year to remain in the program.
  • Background checks and tax compliance checks will be conducted by the IRS after the application is received.

Send Form 13551, along with your completed fingerprint card or evidence of professional status if required, forensic documentation, and mandatory training certification to:  

Internal Revenue Service

3651 S. IH 35

Stop 6380 AUSC

Austin, TX 78741

Additional Acceptance Agent Requirements

  • Training
    To ensure that Acceptance Agents have the tools they need to perform their jobs, all new and renewing applicants are required to complete mandatory training. The training session is available online at ITIN AA-CAA Online Pre-ApplicationTrainingPowerPoint. New and Renewing CAA applicants are also required to complete formal Forensic Document Training to obtain the necessary skills to determine the authenticity of identification documents. The original certificate of completion must be attached to the application Form 13551, Application to Participate in the IRS Acceptance Agent Program. For more information see: Forensic Training.
     
  • Compliance Reviews
    The IRS will conduct compliance reviews including both physical and correspondence reviews. Certifying Acceptance Agents are required to cooperate with IRS compliance checks as well as requests for information from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration or the Government Accountability Office. Failure to do so can result in termination from the program.
  • Quality Standards
    All Acceptance Agents will be required to adhere to new quality standards established and monitored by the IRS. The focus of the new standards will be on the quality of each agent’s W-7 submissions as well as their adherence to the terms and conditions of their Acceptance Agent Agreement.

These changes and requirements are designed to strengthen the ITIN program and improve service to both Acceptance Agents and their clients. Questions about the IRS Acceptance Agent Program can be directed to the ITIN Policy Section by e-mail at ITINProgramOffice@irs.gov or to Tax Advisor Inc. support at support@taxadvisorpro.com.