Frequently Asked Questions

Are you IRS approved?
Yes we are IRS approved and you can validate this by going to the IRS Approved Education Provider List. Our provider number is P619F.
Are you CTEC approved?
Yes we are CTEC approved and you can validate this by going to the CTEC Approved Education Provider List. Our provider number is 2040.
What is your return policy?
100% Money back guarantee for any reason prior to completion of your exam within 60 days of purchase. If a book is ordered and returned in good condition full refund will be given. If the book is not returned we will refund the electronic version price.
What are my CTEC 20 hr Continuing Education course options?
We have two options:
The first is our $34.95 electronic options in which everything is done online. You purchase online, download the course as a PDF, take the test online and finally we email you your certificate.
The second option is our $64.95 Traditional Book, which we send by USPS. You can take the course and fax or mail in your answer sheet or complete the exams online, whichever you prefer. As always with the book option you have FREE access to the PDF course. We will email your certificate unless you mark the box stating you want it mailed.
How do I set up my account with GSTTI?
On the Home page, click Open an Account or click on Check out, in the upper right corner, to start the process. We need your Name and Email to get started.
How do I get assistance?
Contact us via email or by phone 877-674-9290
When can I register with CTEC?
After successful completion of your test, we will notify CTEC electronically. Once you receive your certificate, we have notified CTEC and you can register with them. CTEC registration opens in August every year and must be completed by October 31st to avoid the late registration fee. The late registration period is from November 1st through January 15th so you must register before this date to be a legal tax preparer. Go to www.ctec.org to register.
I forgot my User Name?
Your User Name is your email address. If you have forgotten it or need to change it please contact us via email or by phone 877-674-9290
I forgot my Password?
Your password can be automatically emailed to you by going to the Home page and clicking on the Forgot Password link. Or contact us via email or by phone 877-674-9290
Can you explain your online test?
Yes, the online test is exactly the same as the printed one, it is designed to save our customers time and add to your convenience. Once you login, you will see a link to take the test online, you may start the test at anytime and quit whenever you like, you do not have to complete the test all in one sitting. All answers are saved once you hit NEXT. Finally, if you skipped any questions, you will be reminded of unanswered questions before you submit the test.
How many times can I take my exam?
If you take the online exam and do not pass, you will receive a message after the last question letting you know if you passed. If you did not pass, simply re-take your exam. You have unlimited attempts to pass an exam. (Annual Federal Tax Refresher course exam has limited attempts)
What are my payment options?
You may pay by credit card (Mastcard, Visa, Discover, Amex), Paypal or check/money order.
What is your fax number?
Our fax number is 877-674-3472. Please press send before it answers.
How do I get a PTIN?
Go to the IRS website at www.IRS.gov/PTIN There cost for 2024 is $19.75 and it takes as little as five minutes.
Do I have to take both the CTEC 20 hour and the AFSP course?
No, California Registered Tax Preparers (CRTPs) are exempt from having to take the AFSP package. Once you complete the 20 hour course, we will notify both CTEC and the IRS. This will qualify you for the Annual Filing Season Program – Record of Completion.
When does the AFSP course need to be completed?
The deadline to complete the AFSP package and participate in the IRS Annual Filing Season Program is December 31st every year. There is no extension or grace period.
Do I have to take the AFSP course every year?
Yes, if you would like to be included in the IRS Directory of Tax Preparers and have limited representation rights for clients, the AFSP package must be completed by December 31st every year. Here is the link for information on the IRS AFSP: https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program
Can an Enrolled Agent (EA) take an AFTR course and earn CE credit towards AFSP requirements and/or their EA credentials?
No. Due to the high level of knowledge required of Enrolled Agents (EAs), this basic level "refresher" course is not allowed for IRS credit. Note: If an EA voluntarily takes an AFTR course (for no IRS credit), it may show in the CE history in their PTIN account, but it will not count towards either AFSP or EA CE requirement calculations.
I just submitted my exam, when do I get my results?
We will notify and email certificates within 2 to 4 hours during business hours, or within 24 hours if the exam is submitted during non-business hours.