How to Renew Your WISP with the IRS: A Complete Guide for Tax Professionals

Renewing your WISP (Written Information Security Plant) and PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) annually via the IRS login system is crucial for tax professionals. However, this process goes beyond simply updating your credentials. You must also demonstrate compliance with data security obligations, including acknowledging that your firm maintains a Written Information Security Plan (WISP). The IRS highlights these responsibilities through key publications such as IRS Publication 5708, Publication 5709, and Publication 4557, all designed to help you safeguard taxpayer data and uphold federal regulations.

The Importance of a WISP in PTIN Renewal

During PTIN renewal, the IRS requires tax preparers to confirm that they have implemented a robust WISP—a legal document detailing the procedures and safeguards for protecting sensitive taxpayer data. Establishing a WISP is critical because:

1. It demonstrates compliance with IRS standards and federal data protection laws.
2. It reduces the risk of data breaches, penalties, and reputational harm.
3. It aligns your firm with industry standards (e.g., PCI DSS for payment security and HIPAA for health-related tax information).

Key IRS Publications Supporting WISP Creation

• IRS Publication 5708 – WISP Sample Plan
  Offers a detailed, adaptable framework covering essential elements such as access controls, incident response, and encryption protocols, serving as a strong baseline for your own WISP.
• IRS Publication 5709 – WISP Summary
  Provides a concise overview of WISP essentials, emphasizing regular risk assessments, employee training, and advanced digital safeguards.
• IRS Publication 4557 – Safeguarding Taxpayer Data
  Focuses on practical strategies to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches, including multi-factor authentication, secure backups, and robust encryption—key measures to be included in your WISP.

By integrating a Written Information Security Plan into your annual PTIN renewal process, you proactively protect both your business and your clients. Adhering to the guidelines in these core IRS publications ensures you meet federal regulations while reinforcing trust in your professional services. Invest the time to develop or update your WISP today, and rest assured that you’re safeguarding sensitive taxpayer data, maintaining compliance, and securing your firm’s long-term success.

Buy our WISP with all these Fillable Agreements:

• IRS "6" Mandated Standards - IRS Publication 1345
• Data Security Coordinator Compliance Person - Responsiblities
• Data Security Coordinator Compliance Person - Agreement and Attachment #3
• Public Information Officer - Responsibilites
• Public Information Officer - Agreement
• Document Safety Measures in Place with Suggested Policies to Include in your WISP - Template #8
• Firm Employees Authorized to Access PII - Template #9
• Employee Acknowledgement of Understanding - Agreement - Attachment #5
• Contractor Acknowledgement of Understanding - Agreement- Attachment #5
• Government Agencies - Ongoing
• Remote Working Employees - Template and Agreement
• Remote Working Contractors - Template and Agreement
• PII Disclosure Policy
• Reportable Events Policy
• WISP and HIPPA - Satisfying PII Protection Requirements through a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) in Compliance with HIPAA, IRS, and FTC Regulations
• WISP Duties of ERO Electronically File - Template to capture the key duties of an EFIN and PTIN holder serving as an ERO