Any person who, for a fee, assists with or prepares state or federal income tax returns for another person, or who assumes final responsibility for completed work on a tax return, and is not exempt. Required when: Prior to rendering any tax preparation services and as a condition of registration with the California Ta…
Overview
What it is.
Any person who, for a fee, assists with or prepares state or federal income tax returns for another person, or who assumes final responsibility for completed work on a tax return, and is not exempt. Required when: Prior to rendering any tax preparation services and as a condition of registration with the California Ta…
Who usually needs it
Any person who, for a fee, assists with or prepares state or federal income tax returns for another person, or who assumes final responsibility for completed work on a tax return, and is not exempt.
Pricing & timing
What to expect.
Generic pricing
License bonds are required by state and local governments to ensure compliance with industry regulations. Typical Pricing:. • Small bonds (under $25,000): Typically $100–$250 per year (flat fee). • Larger license bonds: Commonly around 1–5% of the bond amount annually. • Credit impact: Good credit: starting around 1–2% · Average credit: typically 2–4% · Credit challenges: often 4–5% or higher. Same-day approval is typical for many common license bonds. Some license bonds may price higher de…
Typical timeframe
Issuance timeframe varies by bond type and underwriting
Application
What to do next.
Tell us the bond name, state, and amount on your form.
Share business and applicant info so the team can quote it.
Sign and pay; we issue the bond and send you the documents.
Keep your effective date and renewal date on file with us.
Start the application.
You are on the exact bond page. The next step is to start the quick application.
StateCABond amount$5,000Term lengthAnnualObligeeCalifornia Tax Education Council (CTEC)RenewalThe bond must be maintained continuously and proof of a current bond must be submitted to CTEC during the annual registration renewal process, which must be completed by October 31 each year.Bond classLicense BondCategoryProfessional ServicesBondTax Preparer BondStatutory referenceCalifornia Business and Professions Code Section 22250.1JurisdictionState
