Below is the Step-by-Step Process to Become a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) so your tax professionals can legally submit ITIN applications on behalf of clients (without mailing passports).

🏛️ What Is a CAA?

A Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) is authorized by the IRS to:

✅ Verify a client’s original passport
✅ Complete Form W-7
✅ Attach the tax return
✅ Submit the ITIN package directly to the IRS
✅ Avoid mailing original documents

That means your office becomes the IRS-approved intermediary

💰 Many tax offices generate $10K–$50K+ per year from ITIN services alone.

🪪 STEP 1: Complete IRS Acceptance Agent Training

You must complete:

📘 Acceptance Agent Training from the IRS

This covers:

• Document authentication
• ITIN eligibility
• W-7 Exceptions
• Fraud prevention
• Record retention rules
• Certification procedures

Training is self-study using:

• IRS Publication 4520
• Form W-7 Instructions
• Document authentication guide

📝 STEP 2: Complete Form 13551

👉 Application to Participate in the IRS Acceptance Agent Program

You’ll need to provide:

• Business legal name
• EIN
• Office address
• Responsible Officer
• Authorized Representatives
• PTIN (for each preparer)

Select:

✔ Certifying Acceptance Agent (NOT just AA)

👮 STEP 3: Complete Fingerprinting

Each:

• Responsible Officer
• Authorized Representative

Must:

• Submit fingerprints
• Complete FBI background check

This is done through an IRS-approved vendor.

🚨 This step is REQUIRED to be a CAA

📎 STEP 4: Attach Required Documents

Include:

• PTIN for each rep
• EFIN (if applicable)
• Professional credentials (EA, CPA, Attorney — optional but helpful)
• Signed Acceptance Agent Agreement

📬 STEP 5: Mail Application to IRS

Mail your:

📄 Form 13551
📎 Supporting documents

To the IRS ITIN Unit (address listed on Form 13551)

⏱️ Processing time:

🕒 Typically 60–120 days

🎉 Once Approved:

You will receive:

• IRS CAA Agreement
• Office Agent ID Number
• Access to submit certified W-7 packages

Now your office can:

✔ Certify passports
✔ Submit ITINs
✔ Renew ITINs
✔ Process dependent ITINs
✔ Assist foreign investors

💼 Suggested ITIN Pricing for Tax Offices

📦 Bundle Offer Ideas:

• ITIN + Schedule C Filing
• ITIN + Real Estate Investor Return
• ITIN + Partnership K-1
• ITIN + 6013(g) Election
• ITIN + Foreign-Owned LLC Filing