It has long been an issue with paid tax preparers. There are those who see only the 'under the counter' money that they can generate using Turbo Tax thinking that they have the knowledge to assist those that put their trust into the 'stay at home' individual who abuses the system by printing 'self prepared' as they take someone's money. There should be something in place to protect the public from individuals who are not EAs, CPAs, etc. I myself, am not an EA, nor am I a CPA. The system as developed by the IRS is a reasonable condition to protect those who do not know the tax laws and don't think they need to. As a Certified Public Bookkeeper, I understand the need to be knowledgeable regarding the tax conditions of many of my clients. The PTIN program is not perfect, but it is a reasonable venue and will provide a higher standards for the general public. If EA's and CPA's are required to use continueing education to safe guard the public, I say, so should I. Integrety is not lost, but it is clouded by those who do not, nor care to know more than they do.