What does CTEC mean ?

CTEC is the California Tax Education Council that governs professional tax preparers in California.

If I have  been preparing taxes professionally in another state, am I required to register with CTEC ?

Yes.  Even if you have been preparing taxes for several years in another state, California requires you to register with CTEC.  The only exceptions, are if you are an enrolled agent, CPA, or tax attorney.

How much does it cost to register with CTEC ?

The current registration fee with CTEC is $25.00 

Are there any kinds of insurance bonds that are required ?  

Yes.  Every tax preparer in the state of California is required to have in place a $5,000 face value insurance bond.  The purpose of this bond is to protect you as a professional preparer against errors and omissions in preparing returns.