IRS expands Tax Pro Account for firms managing multiple clients [US]

What changed

The IRS expanded Tax Pro Account on 9 February 2026 to support accounting firms and tax preparation companies managing multiple clients. The update adds business-level controls for firms using Centralised Authorisation File (CAF) systems.

Designated representatives can now manage employee CAF access levels, link their business CAF number to the company's Employer Identification Number (EIN), view client data within active authorisations, and withdraw authorisations through the platform. Previously, these required paper processes.

Sole proprietorships and businesses not using CAF systems are unaffected by this release.

Why it matters

IRS CEO Frank Bisignano said the expansion reduces paperwork for firms serving larger client volumes. The digital tools aim to streamline operations for practices handling authorisations at scale, rather than individual practitioners.

This builds on 2023 and 2024 updates that allowed solo practitioners to manage authorisations and act on behalf of clients online. The business-entity extension gives firms the same digital capabilities.

Background

Launched in July 2021, Tax Pro Account provides secure online access for tax professionals to manage authorisation relationships, request CAF numbers, review client account information, and process payments on behalf of taxpayers.

The expansion aligns with the IRS's broader digitisation push. On 3 February 2026, the agency expanded Individual Online Account features to include document access for forms like W-2 and 1099, alongside 200+ digital notices.

The Taxpayer Advocate Service has prioritised expanding online tools, including secure messaging, by the end of calendar year 2025.

What firms need to do

Firms with business CAF systems can access the new features through Tax Pro Account now. Link your CAF number to your EIN and assign employee access levels as needed. Sole proprietors continue using the platform as before.

This is genuinely useful if you're managing authorisations for more than a handful of clients (we know you are).