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Tax Preparer License in Michigan

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Tax Preparer license in MI. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

2-4 Weeks

Exam Required

IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Tax Preparer license in Michigan.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Tax Preparer training program in Michigan.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your MI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Michigan licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 2-4 weeks in MI. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

To obtain your Tax Preparer license in Michigan, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Michigan requires all applicants to pass the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in MI is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

The Michigan licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Tax Preparer professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam. MI also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

Michigan sets the Tax Preparer license application fee at $150. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in MI. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in Michigan typically ranges from $150 to $350.

License Fee Calculator — Tax Preparer in Michigan

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Michigan requires Tax Preparer license holders to renew their credentials every 1 year. The renewal fee is $75 in MI. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Michigan offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Tax Preparer in MI

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Michigan requires renewal every 1 year.

Additional Information

Michigan takes professional licensing seriously, and the Tax Preparer field is no exception. The state board in MI regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Tax Preparer in Michigan, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The MI licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Tax Preparer

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Michigan Tax Preparer License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize MI Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts MI Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts MI Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
California (CA) FullCA accepts MI Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts MI Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Michigan

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Lansing

611 W Ottawa St, Lansing, MI 48933

(517) 241-0199

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Detroit

2 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

(313) 224-3400

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Grand Rapids

300 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

(616) 456-3000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Ann Arbor

301 E Huron St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

(734) 794-6000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Flint

1101 S Saginaw St, Flint, MI 48502

(810) 766-7346

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Michigan Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Michigan state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.