What Is the IRS Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) Certification and Does Shaan Rizvi Have It?

The IRS Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) is a voluntary tax preparer credentialing program administered by the Internal Revenue Service. It was created to encourage non-credentialed tax preparers — those who are not CPAs or Enrolled Agents — to pursue ongoing education in federal tax law, ethics, and filing standards. Preparers who complete the program annually receive a Record of Completion and are listed in the IRS public directory of credentialed preparers. And yes — Shaan Rizvi, founder of RizBiz Services in Spring, Texas, holds this certification.

Why the AFSP Certification Matters for Small Business Owners

Not all tax preparers are created equal. In the United States, there is no federal requirement for most tax preparers to hold any specific credential — which means anyone can technically hang a shingle and prepare your taxes. The AFSP was designed to help taxpayers identify preparers who have demonstrated knowledge, completed continuing education, and committed to ethical standards. For small business owners in Houston, The Woodlands, Katy, or anywhere across Greater Houston, choosing an AFSP-certified preparer like Shaan means choosing verified expertise over guesswork.

What AFSP Certification Allows Shaan to Do for Clients

AFSP-certified preparers have limited representation rights before the IRS, meaning Shaan can represent RizBiz Services clients in examinations, communications, and responses to IRS notices for returns he personally prepared. This is a meaningful protection for business owners who may receive an IRS letter or face a tax audit. Combined with the firm's partnership with Protection Plus for full audit support, RizBiz Services clients are thoroughly protected. Explore the complete RizBiz tax services here.

Credentials Backed by Real Experience and Authentic Mission

Shaan's AFSP certification sits alongside his corporate Senior Accountant background, his aspiring CPA status, and his personal experience paying off $63,000 in debt in 13 months — celebrated with a Debt-Free Scream on the Dave Ramsey Show. Together, these form the foundation of one of the most credible and personally authentic accounting practices serving the Houston metro. Explore business bookkeeping and tax services, read client reviews, and schedule your free tax consultation today.