Comprehensive Cybersecurity Helps Tax Preparers Address WISP Responsibilities and Protect Taxpayer Information to Satisfy FTC Safeguards Mandates
SAN DIEGO, CA – Sept. 1, 2026 – Empowered IT Solutions, a family-owned managed IT provider specializing in cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and ransomware recovery, today announced a comprehensive Written Information Security Plan (WISP) Compliance Package tailored specifically for tax preparers, enrolled agents, and CPAs. The package will launch officially at the 2026 IRS Nationwide Tax Forum held at the Town and Country Resort in San Diego from Sept. 15–17, where the company will be exhibiting.
The latest IRS Form W-12, used to apply for or renew a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), now includes a “Data Security Responsibilities” section asking paid tax return preparers to acknowledge that they are aware they are required by law to create and maintain a WISP that provides data and system security protections for taxpayer information.
For many small and mid-sized tax practices, the challenge isn’t simply knowing that a WISP is required. It’s understanding what needs to be put in place behind the document.
To simplify this process for small and mid-sized practices, Empowered IT Solutions’ done-for-you IRS WISP Compliance Package brings tax preparers’ practices into regulatory compliance with minimum effort
Written Information Security Plan (WISP) Compliance Package
- Technical Safeguards: Empowered IT Solutions implements and manages the cybersecurity protections needed to safeguard taxpayer data, including device, email, and account security, access controls, backups, and monitoring.
- Documentation and WISP: The team develops security policies and procedures, audits the environment, identifies and documents remaining compliance gaps, and creates a customized Written Information Security Plan (WISP).
- FREE Team Cybersecurity Awareness Training ($200 Value): Cybersecurity awareness training helps employees recognize phishing, social engineering, business email compromise, and other threats that put taxpayer information at risk.
Rather than handing tax professionals a generic WISP template and leaving implementation up to them, Empowered IT Solutions helps firms put the safeguards in place, document their security program, train employees, and receive ongoing support to help maintain compliance.
“Tax professionals handle some of the most sensitive identity and financial information, making them prime targets for cybercriminals,” said Maribel Hernandez, Business Development Director at Empowered IT Solutions. “We handle the complex compliance heavy lifting so tax practitioners can focus entirely on serving their clients with total peace of mind. Total security made simple.”
Schedule a Meeting at the IRS Nationwide Tax Forum in San Diego
As part of its IRS Nationwide Tax Forum initiative, Empowered IT Solutions is offering tax professionals and their teams a complimentary live Cybersecurity Awareness Training on Sept. 30, 2026, at 10 a.m. PT, a $200 value.
Tax professionals can learn more about the IRS WISP Compliance Package and claim their free team cybersecurity training by booking a meeting with the Empowered IT team. To reserve a meeting slot before the event, visit: https://empowereditsolutions.com/irs-tax-forum
About Empowered IT Solutions
Empowered IT Solutions is an award-winning managed IT consultancy serving small and medium-sized businesses across the United States. Backed by over 15 years of deep industry expertise, the family-owned enterprise delivers managed IT support, proactive cybersecurity, ransomware prevention and recovery, and regulatory compliance consulting designed to foster secure, long-term business growth. Learn more at empowereditsolutions.com.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is the cybersecurity training really free?
Yes. It’s a $200-per-session value, offered complimentary to tax professionals and their teams by booking a meeting with the Empowered IT team or connecting at the IRS Nationwide Tax Forum in San Diego. There’s no purchase or contract required to claim it.
Is the training in person or online?
It’s a live online session on Sept. 30, 2026, at 10am PT, so your whole team can join from their own devices, no travel required.
Do I need a WISP if I’m a small or solo practice?
Yes. IRS Form W-12 states that paid tax return preparers are required by law to create and maintain a Written Information Security Plan that protects taxpayer information. Tax professionals should review IRS Publications 5708 and 4557 for additional information regarding their responsibilities.
Does PTIN renewal really require a WISP?
Yes. The current IRS Form W-12 now includes a Data Security Responsibilities section (Item 11) requiring you to certify that you maintain a written information security plan. You must check Yes or No. Signing the form under false pretenses carries criminal penalty exposure. If you don’t have a WISP, you’re not able to renew.
What happens after I submit the Empowered IT Solutions form?
A member of our team will reach out to schedule a meeting at the Tax Forum and confirm your team’s spot in the Sept. 30 online training session.
Do you work with practices outside San Diego?
Yes. While we’re based in San Diego County, we support tax practices throughout the United States. Since the training is delivered as a live online session, your team can join from anywhere.