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Open Your Tax Office

Build your opening plan with a team behind you.

From your EFIN to your first client conversations, Tax Processors Plus helps you put the software, setup, and support in place for your tax office.

A short introduction to your EFIN.Prefer to read? The six opening steps are below. Use their IRS links for current application instructions.Open the video separately

Six steps from planning to opening.

Start with your registrations, then work through the tools, space, and marketing your office will need. Choose any step to see what to plan.

Office building, application clipboard, and document folder representing firm registration

Apply for your firm’s EFIN.

An Electronic Return Originator (ERO) submits clients’ returns electronically. Apply through IRS e-Services to become an authorized e-file provider; an approved firm receives an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN).

Plan for the application
  • Gather your firm’s information and identify its principals and responsible officials.
  • Choose the ERO provider option if your firm will originate clients’ electronic returns.
  • Follow the IRS instructions for suitability checks and fingerprinting when required. Apply early: processing can take up to 45 days.

Your EFIN belongs to your firm and is not transferable. Our team can help you understand the steps; the IRS reviews and approves the application.

Individual profile card, calendar, and pencil representing preparer registration

Register each paid preparer.

Your PTIN identifies you as a paid tax return preparer. Anyone preparing federal returns for compensation needs a valid PTIN. Each preparer applies individually and renews it annually.

Plan your registration and training
  • Use the IRS PTIN system for your application or annual renewal, and check its current fee before applying.
  • Check the education and registration rules that apply to your state and professional credentials.
  • The IRS Annual Filing Season Program is voluntary. Its education requirements are separate from simply obtaining a PTIN.

Build time for tax-law training and software practice into your opening plan, so your team is ready for the work as well as the registration.

Laptop, open book, and play symbol representing software practice and training

Choose software you can work with.

Choose your tax software and training together. Look beyond the feature list to the support, workflow, and practice your team will need during the busiest weeks of tax season.

Compare the working experience
  • Review the return types and office workflows your business expects to handle.
  • Understand how software support works and what training is included with your setup.
  • Practice a complete client workflow, from document intake through return review and filing.

Tax Processors Plus can help you review software and support options for your office. Software supports the work; your team still needs the knowledge to review it.

Professional office building and map with a location pin

Put your office where clients can reach you.

Choose a location around the clients you plan to serve and the way your office will work. Consider access, visibility, parking, privacy, and overhead before committing to a space.

Plan the space and the team
  • Look at your local market and the clients you want to reach.
  • Compare the cost of the space with your opening budget and realistic seasonal workload.
  • Plan staffing around appointment demand, return complexity, and time for quality review.

Bring your location and staffing questions to our team. Use your local market and team capacity to build a practical staffing plan and opening budget.

Desktop computer, printer, and document tray representing office setup

Give your team a place to do good work.

Plan the workstations, internet connection, printing, and document handling around the software you choose. Your setup should support a smooth client visit and a clear workflow for each preparer.

Walk through an appointment
  • Check the device and connection requirements for your software before buying equipment.
  • Plan where clients check in, share documents, and review their return privately.
  • Decide how your team will manage access, store documents, and back up its work.

Run through the workflow with your team before opening day. Make sure each person knows the tools, the process, and where to ask for help.

Megaphone, smartphone, and message bubble representing client outreach

Start building relationships before opening day.

Give people a clear reason to choose your office and an easy way to reach you. Build a local marketing plan that connects your brand, appointments, and follow-up.

Plan your first client conversations
  • Define who you want to serve and explain the services your office offers.
  • Make your contact details, office hours, and booking process easy to find.
  • Keep track of inquiries and follow up consistently before, during, and after tax season.

Work with our team on your office’s marketing direction, and explore the CRM tools that help keep client communication organized.

Experts are here for you.

Still working through your EFIN application, software choice, or office plan? Tell us where you are in the process. We can help you understand the next step and the support that fits your business.

Choose The Support Path That Fits Your Tax Business

Whether you are preparing returns, managing a tax office, or building a Service Bureau, Tax Processors Plus gives you the software, systems, and support to operate with more control.

Start With The Right Setup

Talk with our team about where you are now and what kind of tax business you are trying to build.

  • Understand your current office needs
  • Review software and support options
  • Get pointed in the right direction

Compare TPP Packages

Explore package options built for tax pros who need software, support, and tools for growth.

  • Professional tax software options
  • CRM and automation tools
  • Support for growth focused offices

Build Toward Service Bureau Growth

See how the right package can help you support preparers, manage offices, and build a stronger backend.

  • Support other tax preparers
  • Manage multiple office needs
  • Keep your operation organized

Need Help Choosing?

Not sure which path fits your office? Reach out and we will help you understand what makes the most sense.

  • Get help reviewing your options
  • Ask questions before choosing
  • Plan your next move with support