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What is a California Tax Preparer Bond?

The California Tax Preparer Bond is required by the California Tax Education Council (CTEC). A tax preparer is a person who, for a fee, assists with or prepares tax returns for another person. One who assumes final responsibility for completed work on a return on which preliminary work has been done by another person, or who holds himself or herself our as offering those services. They can also be a corporation, partnership, association or other entity. All who wish to be in this line of profession or business must first be registered. The bond is one of the requirements for registration. This bond protects the public from negligence or other problems regarding the treatment of W-2 forms by the tax preparer. The required amount for this bond is $5,000.

Additional Requirements:

Aside from the $5,000 surety bond, tax preparers must also be at least 18 years of age. They must also obtain a certificate of completion of instruction as required by Section 22255, along with a statement of compliance.

How do I get a California Tax Preparer Bond?

Complete our easy to navigate online application. Within one business day,  one of our licensed agents will contact you with a no-obligation quote for your bond (the “premium”). Once any necessary paperwork is signed and the premium payment is processed, your surety bond will be shipped to you via USPS Priority Mail (overnight shipping options also available).

The surety bond experts at Surety Solutions Insurance Services, Inc. (Surety1) are here to help you get bonded quickly and reliably. We work with over a dozen “A” rated surety markets to ensure we find you the lowest rate for your bond. We are also licensed in all 50 states and maintain an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau.