Resources

WISP & Compliance Guides

Free resources for tax preparers navigating IRS Publication 4557, the FTC Safeguards Rule, and PTIN renewal requirements.

FTC Compliance

What is a WISP and Does My Tax Practice Need One?

If you're a tax preparer, enrolled agent, or CPA, you've probably heard the term WISP thrown around — but what exactly is it, and do you actually need one?

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IRS Compliance

IRS Publication 4557 Explained in Plain English

IRS Publication 4557 is one of the most important documents for tax professionals — and one of the least read. Here's what it actually requires.

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PTIN Compliance

Form W-12 Line 11 — What Tax Preparers Need to Know

Every year 810,000+ tax preparers renew their PTIN. Most don't realize Line 11 contains a certification that could create serious legal exposure.

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FTC Compliance

FTC Safeguards Rule for Tax Preparers — Complete Guide

The FTC Safeguards Rule requires tax preparers to protect consumer data. Here's everything you need to know about what it requires and who it applies to.

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Risk & Penalties

What Happens if a Tax Preparer Gets Audited Without a WISP?

Most tax preparers never think about what happens when they're on the other side of an audit. Here's what an FTC investigation looks like — and why no WISP makes it much worse.

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WISP Requirements

9 Things Every Tax Preparer WISP Must Include

Not all WISPs are created equal. A generic template may look like a WISP but won't provide real protection. Here are the 9 things the FTC and IRS require.

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Compliance Basics

WISP vs Privacy Policy — What's the Difference?

Many tax preparers assume their website privacy policy satisfies their data security obligations. It doesn't. Here's the important difference between the two.

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Implementation Guide

How to Document Employee Security Training for Your WISP

The FTC requires employee security training — but it doesn't require expensive software. Here's how small tax firms can satisfy this requirement easily and free.

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WISP Documentation

Free WISP Template vs. Customized WISP: What's the Difference?

If you've searched online for a WISP, you've probably found dozens of free templates. Here's what a template provides, where it falls short, and how a customized WISP is different.

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Mortgage & Lending

Do Mortgage Brokers Need a Written Information Security Plan?

Most independent mortgage brokers don't realize the FTC Safeguards Rule applies to them directly — and the penalties for non-compliance are severe.

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Auto Dealers

FTC Safeguards Rule for Auto Dealers — What the F&I Department Needs to Know

If your dealership arranges financing or holds a single credit application, federal law classifies you as a financial institution — and requires a written data security plan.

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PTIN Compliance

How to Renew Your PTIN in 2026 — The WISP Requirement on Line 11

PTIN renewal season opens in October. Before you renew, here's what Line 11 of Form W-12 actually requires — and the compliance mistake 810,000 preparers make every year.

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WISP Requirements

What Is a Data Breach Response Plan — and Does Your WISP Need One?

The FTC requires more than just a WISP — it requires a specific incident response plan inside it. Most free templates skip this entirely.

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Financial Advisors

FTC Safeguards Rule for Financial Advisors and Small RIAs

Most independent advisors focus on SEC and FINRA compliance — but the FTC Safeguards Rule applies separately, requires its own documentation, and is actively enforced.

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