SB17 Alabama 2016 1st Special Session Session

Under current law, Certified Public Accountants, Public Accountants, Attorneys, Enrolled Agents, and other qualified individuals are required to obtain a license or certification in order to prepare Alabama income tax returns.

However, there are minimal provisions in place to protect consumers against other individual income tax preparers that incorrectly file tax returns on a recurring basis.

This legislation would require certain tax preparers to register with the Department, prior to preparing returns, which will help regulate services, prohibit unregistered persons from performing said services, and establish penalties for violators.

It would also establish qualifications for registration, requirements of disclosures to consumers, and exemptions to those obligated to register.

In addition, this bill creates the Alabama Taxpayer Protection and Assistance Act Advisory Council for the purpose of determining acceptable examinations, continuing education requirements, and certifications.

To provide for the registration and regulation of certain individual tax preparers; to provide for registration exemptions; to prohibit individuals not registered from conducting tax preparation services; to provide penalties for violations; and to create the Alabama Taxpayer Protection and Assistance Act Advisory Council for the purpose of determining acceptable examinations, continuing education requirements, and certifications.