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Why Choose ExamMatrix Exam Reviews

• When is the last time you took a timed test?

  With the ExamMatrix RTRP Exam Review course, they don't just help you to acquire the necessary tax knowledge, they help you to simulate actual exam conditions so that you CAN successfully answer all questions on the RTRP Exam, within the time allowed. In other words, they don't just teach you the material, they train you to handle the nuances of the actual test. The Registered Tax Return Preparer (RTRP) Exam is not just about testing your tax knowledge, it's about whether you have the ability to successfully find the RIGHT answer for questions when you DON'T know the answer. So the ExamMatrix preparation also teaches successfully utilizing the IRS "open book" tools to find the correct answer.

• Their "Adaptive Learning" Technology optimizes your study time with the Exam Matrix RTRP Course so you can pass the first time.

  When you first begin using the software it may appear as if you're just working through random multiple-choice questions, but in reality there is MUCH more going on behind the scene. The innovative exam reviews are actually dynamically reacting to how you answer every question. The software is identifying your strengths and weaknesses and then adapting your study sessions to your personal study needs. As you begin to develop scoring patterns across the different categories, the software calibrates that with weights assigned to each category and then alters the percentage of questions you get for each category.

  This means that, unlike old-fashioned exam reviews, ExamMatrix's "Adaptive-Learning" software ensures every study session is tailor-made just for you, optimizing your valuable time while greatly improving your results.

• Pass or Refund Guarantee

  Upon successfully completing the ExamMatrix review course within seven days of taking your RTRP exam ExamMatrix guarantees you'll pass or will refund your money.

• Want to know more?

  Watch A Free Demo

  More About ExamMatrix

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More About ExamMatrix

• Why Tenenz Chose Exam Matrix for our Customers

  ExamMatrix exam reviews are perfect for the value-conscious, working professional, whose time is a valuable commodity. Unlike more traditional courses where classroom and travel time are necessary and the reading of books from cover to cover is required, the ExamMatrix RTRP exam review works on your schedule, at your convenience, and utilizes technology to generate unmatched efficiency and effectiveness. Study at home on the couch, on the train, at the coffee shop, or on your lunch break at work, anywhere your laptop can go (no Internet connection required with purchase of CD-ROM ). A program that's this flexible exponentially improves your chances of success, making ExamMatrix the BEST way to prepare for your RTRP exam.

• Adaptive Learning

  The ExamMatrix "Adaptive-Learning" Software is shaping the future of exam review and test preparation with unprecedented results. By offering an unmatched combination of effectiveness and flexibility, we enable you to become better prepared, faster. Utilize this groundbreaking technology to study exactly what you need to, every study session, and nothing more. Think of ExamMatrix as your own personal professor. In fact, our Exam Reviews have proven to be so effective over the last 20 years, they all come backed by a Pass or Refund Guarantee*

• Study Options

  You can look at Questions Missed a Number of Times, Study by Category, or do Timed Tests.

Why are ExamMatrix Exam Reviews so Effective

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Why are ExamMatrix Exam Reviews so Effective

When you first begin using our exam review software it may appear as if you're just working through random multiple-choice questions...it's that simple to use...but in reality there is MUCH, MUCH more going on behind the scenes that makes their reviews so incredibly effective. The innovative exam reviews are actually reacting to how you answer every question. The software is identifying your strengths and weaknesses and then adapting your examination study sessions to your personal study needs. All the while you'll be learning the primary concepts and principles that are fundamental to pass your exam, not just memorizing answers to questions. Every multiple-choice question utilizes the "Tiered Learning" methodology, giving you access to layers of detailed reference material to use as needed. You'll get an explanation of which answer is correct and why, a list of definitions, access to a full glossary of terms, and a reference back to our comprehensive books or IRS publications (EA Exam Review Course) for further inquiry. This means that, unlike old-fashioned exam review courses, ExamMatrix's "intelligent" software ensures every study session is tailor-made just for you, optimizing your valuable time while greatly improving your exam results. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all, linear learning.

For an incredibly efficient method of study, have the software guide your study sessions in the "Personal Professor" mode. Or choose to customize your study sessions, to study the questions you missed during your last study session, to look at trouble questions, or to see questions in a specific category or topic. Create a flexible study schedule by setting your exam date and the days of the week you wish to study in the Set Exam Date feature. In addition, the comprehensive reporting features of the software allow you to track your progress with pinpoint accuracy, and identify your readiness for the exam. All ExamMatrix reviews and reference books are authored and managed by industry-leading experts and college professors. In addition, they are constantly updating the software and books to be in line with the most current edition of all the exams, ensuring you'll be studying with the most up-to-date and relevant content possible to help you pass your exam.

Other Valuable Tools Available

Enhance your understanding with SFS University 1040 Tax Training

Feel like you need a thorough overview of the exam content before you begin your actual study for the RTRP Exam? With the ExamMatrix RTRP Exam Review you have the option of bundling it with SFS® University's "Individual Income Tax Preparation and Preparer Responsibility" interactive lessons. You can study these modules prior to beginning your RTRP Exam prep from ExamMatrix, or use the two courses together. Most test questions include specific study references to enhance your overall understanding of various topics.

Use the same technology that has made the ExamMatrix Enrolled Agent Exam Review Legendary

With ExamMatrix there is so much more! They start by using their adaptive learning technology, which creates study sessions that are built to address your weak areas, making you spend more time on study questions that cause you the most problems. That means you, the busy tax professional, will be able to prepare for this exam in less time than with more traditional methods. And let us not forget the course author! Every question and detailed explanation is written by Anthony Curatola, Ph.D., renowned tax education expert and author of the ExamMatrix Enrolled Agent and RTRP Exam Review Courses.

Choose Online or CD Versions Available

As an ExamMatrix RTRP student you have the choice between two study options. Purchase the online version and study from any computer that has internet access, a great choice for people who'd like to study on more than one computer. Or order the course on CD-ROM. The CD version installs right onto your hard drive, meaning there's no internet connection required. Ideal for people with a laptop or limited internet access.

• Available as an Online or CD Study Program
• Adaptive-Learning Software
• Personalized Study Program (focuses on problem areas, greatly reducing study time)
• Up-to-Date IRS Publications - Built Right Into the Software
• Simulates Exam Environment, Including "Open Book Research Tool" and Question Timer
• Outstanding Content with Questions Authored by Industry Expert Anthony Curatola Ph.D.
• Optional bundling with the CCH Small Firm Services(R)University online learning system
• Backed by a Pass or Refund Guarantee

System Requirements

• Operating systems: Windows XP SP2, or newer.
• Pentium 3 Processor or Higher, 512MB RAM or Higher, 200MB HD Space
• Recommended monitor resolution: 1024 x 768
• Recommended Adobe Reader versions - 7.0 or higher

Don't Delay. With an estimate of 350,000 to 500,000 Tax Professionals planning to take the RTRP Exam, we are STRONGLY recommending candidates prepare now and schedule their exam as soon as possible while test availability is wide open. Those candidates who wait until 2013 to schedule their test may find it difficult to find a test date and time that accommodates their schedule.

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About the RTRP Exam

Here are the New Rules from the IRS

• As of January 1, 2011, all paid tax return preparers must obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) before preparing returns.
• If you already have a PTIN, you must renew it each year.
• Those individuals required to take the Registered Tax Return Preparer competency test who already have a provisional PTIN have until December 31, 2013, to pass the test.
• Most preparers must take and pass a competency test in order to prepare federal tax returns.
• Certified Public Accountants, attorneys, Enrolled Agents and individuals who do not prepare 1040-series returns are exempt from the testing requirement.
• Some preparers who are supervised by Certified Public Accountants, attorneys, and Enrolled Agents may also be exempt.

The Registered Tax Return Preparer Exam will be 120 questions in length with questions coming from 7 domains:

• Domain 1: Preliminary Work and Collection of Taxpayer Data 15%
• Domain 2: Treatment of Income and Assets 22%
• Domain 3: Deductions and Credits 22%
• Domain 4: Other Taxes 11%
• Domain 5: Completion of the Filing Process 10%
• Domain 6: Practices and Procedures 5%
• Domain 7: Ethics 15%

Questions will be mostly four-answer multiple-choice, but True/False questions will also be used in the test.

With an estimate of 350,000 to 500,000 Tax Professionals planning to take the RTRP Exam, we are STRONGLY recommending candidates schedule their exam as soon as possible while test availability is wide open. Those candidates who wait until 2013 to schedule their test may find it difficult to find a test date and time that accommodates their schedule.

Test Preparation Information and Links

• Candidate Information Bulletin (pdf)
• RTRP Test Specifications (pdf)

To assist in test preparation, the following is a list of recommended study materials. This list is not all-encompassing, but a highlight of what the test candidates will need to know. IRS encourages preparers to go green and download electronic copies of the reference materials for study purposes. Simply click on the resource you need. Once it is open select File: Save As to save it to your computer

NOTE: Beginning April 16, 2012 all references on the test are to the Internal Revenue Code, as amended through December 31, 2011

• 2011 Form 1040
• 2011 Form 1040 Instructions
• 2011 Publication 17: Your Federal Income Tax
• Circular 230 (Rev. 8-2011): Regulations Governing Practice Before the Internal Revenue Service
• 2011 Publication 334: Tax Guide for Small Business
• 2011 Publication 970: Tax Benefits for Education
• 2011 Form 6251: Alternative Minimum Tax - Individuals
• 2011 Form 6251 Instructions
• 2011 Form 8879: IRS e-File Signature Authorization
• 2011 Publication 596: Earned Income Credit
• 2011 Form 8867: Paid Preparers Earned Income Credit Checklist
• Form 2848 (Rev. March 2012): Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative
• Form 2848 Instructions (Rev. March 2012)
• Form 8821 (Rev. October 2011): Tax Information Authorization
• Publication 1345 (Rev. 3-2009): Handbook for Authorized IRS e-file Providers
• Publication 4600 (Rev. October 2008): Safeguarding Taxpayer Information Quick Reference Guide For Businesses

Scheduling a Test:

In order to take the test, you must have a PTIN. You can schedule your test directly from your online PTIN account.

Test Logistics:

• Test Locations

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Watch A Free Demo

Tenenz, Inc. 2012 Registered Tax Return Preparer Exam Course from Tenenz, Inc. on Vimeo.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Registered Tax Return Preparers

  • How does someone become a Registered Tax Return Preparer?

    In order to become an RTRP you must obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), take and pass the RTRP Competency Test and pass a tax compliance check. After you become an RTRP, you must renew your PTIN each year and obtain 15 hours of continuing education annually from IRS-approved providers. Here are the CPE requirements

  • On-going CPE Requirements

    Registered Tax Return Preparer - 15 Hours per year 2 hours of ethics

    • 3 hours of federal tax law updates
    • 10 hours of other federal tax law
  • What practice rights do Registered Tax Return Preparers have?

    Registered tax return preparers have the right to prepare and sign tax returns and claims for refund. RTRPs also may represent clients before revenue agents, customer service representatives, or similar officers and employees of the IRS (including the Taxpayer Advocate Service) during an examination if they signed the tax return or claim for refund for the tax period under examination.

• Who Has to Test?

  • Who needs to take the RTRP competency test?

    Attorneys, certified public accountants, enrolled agents, certain supervised preparers, and individuals who do not prepare Form 1040 series returns are not required to take the new Registered Tax Return Preparer competency test. (Note: Forms 1040-PR and 1040-SS are not considered Form 1040 series returns for this purpose.) All other paid preparers are required to take this minimal competency test. Review this chart of return preparer requirements.

    Those individuals required to take the Registered Tax Return Preparer competency test who already have a provisional PTIN have until December 31, 2013, to pass the test.

  • Can I take the RTRP test even if I'm not required to?

    Yes, however, you must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number if you wish to take the test. You may obtain a PTIN at www.irs.gov/taxpros/article/0,,id=210909,00.html.

• General Test Information

  • I understand that I have until December 31, 2013 to pass the RTRP test because I have a provisional PTIN. Can I continue to prepare all types of returns and claims for refund until December 31, 2013 if I wait to take the test?

    Yes. Your provisional PTIN enables you to continue to prepare all types of tax returns and claims for refund through 12/31/13, provided you complete any required continuing education requirements and renew your PTIN timely each year.

  • If I pass the RTRP test, am I limited to preparing only the forms tested on the examination?

    No. You will be able to prepare any Federal tax return or claim for refund if you pass the RTRP test unless the IRS develops additional competency tests for other tax returns in the future.

  • Do I have to pass the RTRP test more than once?

    No. Passing the test is a one time requirement to become a Registered Tax Return Preparer. The continuing education requirement is yearly.

  • What language(s) is the competency test available in?

    At least initially, the test is only available in English. Some feedback has been received that the IRS should offer the test in Spanish. After more data is available, we will consider the feasibility of a future Spanish version.

  • Who administers the IRS Registered Tax Return Preparer test?

    Prometric, Inc. administers the test under the supervision of the IRS. Read more about Prometric's role.

  • Is a CPA, attorney, or enrolled agent who keeps his or her license current but is considered inactive exempt from testing?

    No. Only attorneys, certified public accountants, or enrolled agents who are active and in good standing with their respective licensing agencies are exempt from the RTRP test.

  • What happens to return preparers who have a provisional PTIN but do not pass the RTRP test by Dec. 31, 2013?

    The IRS will contact them proposing to deactivate their PTIN and remove them from the list of authorized preparers.

  • Is the test offered online or do I have to go to a designated location?

    You must physically go to a testing site, authenticate your identity, and take the test in person at the testing site. More information about testing, including test procedures, is available here.

  • Does the IRS offer study courses?

    No.

  • Who wrote the RTRP test?

    The test was written and developed in a collaborative manner between Prometric, Inc., the tax preparer community, and the IRS. Prometric, Inc. has extensive experience in the test development field.

  • What if I need extra time or special accommodations to take the RTRP test?

    You may contact Prometric's Special Accommodations Line (877-347-5080) and explain the special circumstances for which you require extra time or other accommodations. A determination will be made as to the appropriate accommodations based on the nature of your request.

  • What is the cost of the RTRP test?

    The test is $116 and must be paid at the time the appointment is scheduled. The test fee is non-refundable and not transferrable. Refer to the Candidate Information Bulletin (pdf) to read the policy for rescheduling appointments.

  • How do I schedule an appointment to take the RTRP test?

    If you have an online PTIN account, please schedule your appointment through your account by selecting "View Next Steps" from the Main Menu. If you do not have a PTIN account, please call 1-855-IRS-EXAM (477-3926). You must have a PTIN in order to schedule a test. You will be asked for the file number when scheduling your test by phone. The file number is provided on your PTIN Welcome or Renewal Letter. Be sure to locate your file number before calling to schedule your test.

  • How far in advance can I schedule an appointment to take the RTRP test?

    In general, you should be able to schedule your test within 6 months. At some test centers you may be able to schedule dates farther in advance. View a list of test center locations.

  • I live outside the United States and I tried to register to take the RTRP test, but the test isn't being offered near me. What should I do?

    Prometric, the IRS's test vendor, is currently offering the competency test in selected cities in the United States. We are continuing to work on details for testing preparers living outside of the U.S. Check the webpage (www.irs.gov/taxpros/tests) periodically for additional guidance.

    Once we have finalized the details, preparers living outside the U.S. will have a reasonable period of time to take and pass the test. We apologize for the delay.

  • What is the Special Enrollment Exam and where do I get information on it?

    Individuals who wish to become an Enrolled Agent must pass the Special Enrollment Exam. Learn more about becoming an Enrolled Agent here.

  • Do the questions change from year to year?

    Yes. The test questions are updated annually for tax law changes. Tests administered from April 16, 2012 through March 31, 2013 are based on 2011 tax law.

  • Is the registered tax return preparer test offered year round?

    Yes. You may take the test at any time during the year except during the annual black-out period from April 1--April 15. During this time, the test is unavailable while the system is updated.

• Test Day Information

  • Is the RTRP test open book or resource assisted? (revised 7/20/10)

    Certain resources are provided at the testing center, including a calculator, Form 1040, Form 1040 instructions and Publication 17.

    You should view the test tutorial to better understand how to use these sources electronically on test day.

  • What should I bring to the test? (posted 10/27/11)

    Please bring with you one unexpired U.S. government issued photo ID that includes your name, photo, and signature. Paper and pencil, a calculator, and reference materials will be provided at the test site. Personal items are not allowed in the test room and must be stored in a locker. Persons not scheduled to take a test are not permitted to wait in the test center.

  • How long is the RTRP test?

    There are 120 questions. The test is timed at 2 hours and your appointment will average 3 hours. You should plan to arrive for your test appointment at least thirty minutes early to check in. Once you are seated in the test room, you will receive a personalized introduction to the testing system. You may also take a short pre-test computer system tutorial. Following the test, you will have the opportunity to participate in a customer satisfaction survey.

• Test Results

  • What is the required percentage to pass the RTRP test?

    Test questions are weighted in value to arrive at an overall pass/fail score. If you fail the test, you will receive diagnostic information to assist you with future examination preparation. More information about test results can be found in the Candidate Information Bulletin.

  • How will I get my RTRP test score?

    You will receive your test score at the test center immediately after taking the test.

  • Do I have to send my RTRP test results to the IRS?

    No. Scores are automatically shared with the IRS and IRS records will be updated accordingly. If you have an online PTIN account, the test information will be updated on the "Next Steps" page in your account in 7-10 business days.

  • Can you send my results directly to my supervisor?

    No. Test results will be made available only to the candidate taking the test.

  • I am a supervisor and want the test results for my entire staff. Can I obtain them?

    No. Test results will only be made available to the individual taking the test.

  • How many questions do I have to get right in order to pass the test?

    There is no exact number of questions to obtain a passing score. Test questions are weighted in value to arrive at an overall pass/fail score. The test's potential scaled scores range from 50 - 500. Scaled scores of 350 and above are passing scores. If you fail the test, you will receive diagnostic information to assist you with future examination preparation. More information about test results can be found in the Candidate Information Bulletin.

  • Can I find out which questions I got right and which ones I got wrong?

    We will not provide test results on a question-by-question basis. If you did not achieve a passing score, your performance in each Knowledge Domain will be shown on your test results letter. This information can assist you with future examination preparation. For a breakdown of the topics that fit into each domain, view the Test Specifications.

  • If I am required to pass the test and have not done so, can I still be considered a Registered Tax Return Preparer?

    No. You may not hold yourself out as a Registered Tax Return Preparer. You must pass the test and a tax compliance check before obtaining the Registered Tax Return Preparer credential.

  • How did you determine the passing score? What percentage of questions do I need to get right in order to pass?

    The passing score was determined by the IRS following a cut score study. The cut score study followed a modified Angoff method for establishing the cut score. A panel of subject matter experts composed of Enrolled Agents, CPAs, unenrolled preparers and IRS representatives developed a definition of the minimally qualified candidate. Using this definition, they considered each item on the base form and estimated the difficulty of the item for the minimally qualified or borderline candidate. The results of these estimates were analyzed and presented to the IRS for final decision. Once the passing score was determined for the base form, Prometric used a statistical equating process to ensure comparability of scores on all forms. Scaled scores are used to report the scores. The tests have been developed to identify the passing candidate from the failing candidate. We do not use either normal distribution or a preconceived pass rate to establish the passing score.

  • How is my total scaled score calculated?

    Scaled scores are determined by calculating the number of questions answered correctly from the total number of questions in the examination and converting to a scale that ranges from 50 to 500. The IRS has set the scaled passing score at 350, which corresponds to a minimum level of knowledge deemed acceptable by those persons who will be practicing before the IRS. Failing candidates are provided a scaled score value so that they may see how close they are to being successful. For example, candidates that receive a scaled score of 304 are very close to passing. Candidates with a scaled score of 100 are far from passing.

  • What do the different levels mean on my test results letter?

    If you fail to obtain a passing score, your test results letter gives feedback on your performance level in each Knowledge Domain. Level 1 means that you were considerably below the minimally accepted score. Level 2 means that you were marginally below the minimally accepted score. Level 3 means that you were at or above the minimally accepted score.

  • Which areas of the test do I need to study again in order to pass?

    In general, Level 1 and Level 2 performance level areas require additional study in order to pass the test.

  • Can I get a copy of my scored test so that I can see what I missed?

    No. Please refer to your test results letter for information on the areas of the test that may require additional study.

  • What should I do if I passed the RTRP test but haven't received my RTRP certificate?

    Certificates take 2-4 weeks to process. If it has been more than 45 days since you passed the test, please contact the PTIN Information Line to inquire into the status of your certificate.

    NOTE: Certificates may be delayed if the name in your PTIN account doesn't match the name you provided Prometric when scheduling your exam.

• More Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I install the ExamMatrix Review product on an Apple/Macintosh computer?

    We do not support our software in the Macintosh environment.

  • Where is my Installation Code?

    It is located on the back of the CD case. If you received an email for a download, the Install Key will be in the email.

  • When I enter my Installation Code, I either get an "Invalid Product Installation Code" error message or the system does not activate my software. What should I do?

    Verify that you have entered the Installation Code correctly. Be sure to look at it carefully. Sometimes the letter 'O' is actually a zero, and a lower-case letter 'L' is the number one (or vice versa).

  • When I try to activate my software via the Internet, I get an error saying I am not connected to the server or the Internet. How do I activate my software?

    The activation is being blocked by some kind of security. You will need to either activate manually via e-mail (you will get an e-mail reply), or activate manually via phone (we are open 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Eastern Time).

  • Is the ExamMatrix Review software compatible with Microsoft Vista and Windows 7?

    Yes, it is. Some of our users have to use the Run as Admin option. Go to the ExamMatrix Desktop icon, right-click on the icon, and select "Run as Admin".

  • Adobe X Reader: When I attempt to open your electronic Manuals/References with Abobe Reader X, I get the error, "There was an error opening this document. Access Denied."

    The issue is with Adobe Reader X's new Reader Protected Mode.

    Please use the following "fix":

    1. Open Adobe Reader
    2. Select Edit, then Preferences from the menu
    3. Select the General tab
    4. Un-check the "Enable Protected Mode at Startup" option
    5. Answer "yes" to the "are you sure?" prompt
    6. Click OK
    7. Close Adobe Reader X
  • Can I print out all of the questions?

    No. Our questions are copyrighted and owned by ExamMatrix. In order to protect this valuable company asset, we do not allow you to print all of the questions in the database. However, you may print individual questions. After you answer the question, select Print Question from the drop-down menu under the Session tab at the top of the display window.

  • Tables displayed on my screen are not aligned properly. What should I do?

    To fix the tables, we have found that adjusting the setup helps. From the main menu, select Options under Setup. Go to the Display tab, where you will see the "Aspect Ratio Modifier" setting. The default setting is 1.0. Changing that setting to 1.5 or 2.0 should fix the problem. If not, then try some other setting numbers.

  • I have answered all the objective questions correctly. How should I continue my studies?

    At this time, you should start using the Take My Own Path or Customize Session. This option offers some excellent advanced study features. You can look at Questions Missed x Number of Times, Study by Category, or do Timed Tests.

  • I am having trouble with my CPE (Continuing Education) course. Who should I call?

    MicroMash still owns and maintains the CPE courses. Please call them at 1-800-231-1860.

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