PTIN renewal and your WISP: what line 11 asks
Last updated: October 29, 2026
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Line 11 | Form W-12 (Rev. October 2026), line 11, "Data Security Responsibilities": "I am aware that paid tax return preparers are required by law to create and maintain a written information security plan that provides data and system security protections for all taxpayer information." There is a required Yes/No box. |
| Attachment | The form text doesn't ask you to attach a plan. |
| Renewal season | As of October 29, 2026, the preparer PTIN requirements page says applications and renewals for 2027 are being processed. The PTIN renewal FAQ says all PTINs expire on December 31 of each year, and that renewal open season begins in mid-October for the following year. |
| Export | The PlainWISP export includes a note that line 11 asks about a written plan and about maintaining it. |
| Price | Solo $149, Firm $299, Multi-office $599. One-time payment. Includes 12 months of updates. No subscription, no automatic charges. |
| Answers | Your answers stay on your device. We never receive or store them. |
| What it doesn't do | PlainWISP does not file the renewal and it is not legal advice. |
| Last updated | October 29, 2026 |
What does line 11 say?
Form W-12 (Rev. October 2026), line 11, is labeled "Data Security Responsibilities." It reads: "I am aware that paid tax return preparers are required by law to create and maintain a written information security plan that provides data and system security protections for all taxpayer information."
There is a required Yes/No box. You can read the form at Form W-12 (Rev. October 2026).
Is it a certification or an acknowledgment?
It is a required Yes/No acknowledgment that you are aware of the requirement. It is not a request to certify that a particular document was uploaded.
The form text doesn't ask you to attach a plan.
Do I upload my plan with the renewal?
No. The form text doesn't ask you to attach a plan. Line 11 is the Yes/No box only.
What should my plan cover?
Your plan has to describe your own office: who the Qualified Individual is, who has access, which systems and vendors touch client files, and how you review the plan. Includes a section for each element of 16 CFR 314.4.
You're responsible for implementing your plan. Publication 5708 is a sample structure, not a finished plan for your office. PlainWISP is not affiliated with or endorsed by the IRS.
How long does a draft take?
PlainWISP does not state a draft time. You can answer the questions and preview the plan before you pay.
Your answers stay on your device. We never receive or store them.