MSATP member cybersecurity benefits
Bellator Cyber Guard has partnered with the Maryland Society of Accounting and Tax Professionals to provide exclusive cybersecurity services and discounts for MSATP members.
Member benefits
Exclusive cybersecurity resources and discounts available only to MSATP members.
Free WISP Template
Download our IRS-compliant Written Information Security Plan template at no cost. Covers all 8 required sections and is fully customizable for your practice.
Learn moreDiscounted Professional WISP
MSATP members receive an exclusive discount on our professionally written, custom WISP service. Get a document tailored to your practice at a reduced rate.
Learn morePriority Security Assessments
MSATP members receive priority scheduling for cybersecurity assessments and compliance reviews, with dedicated support from our tax security team.
Learn moreExclusive Webinars & Training
Access to MSATP-exclusive cybersecurity webinars, training sessions, and continuing education content focused on IRS compliance and data protection.
IRS compliance requirements
Every tax preparer with a PTIN must comply with these cybersecurity requirements. Bellator helps MSATP members meet every one.
IRS Publication 4557
The IRS requires all tax preparers to follow the guidelines in Publication 4557 — Safeguarding Taxpayer Data. This includes maintaining a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) and implementing specific data protection controls.
FTC Safeguards Rule
The updated FTC Safeguards Rule requires financial institutions — including tax preparers — to develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive information security program with specific technical controls.
PTIN Compliance
Maintaining an active PTIN requires ongoing compliance with IRS cybersecurity requirements. Non-compliance can result in PTIN revocation and inability to prepare or file tax returns.
Maryland State Regulations
Maryland has its own data breach notification laws and privacy regulations that apply to tax preparers handling residents' personal and financial information.
Employee Security Training
The IRS and FTC both require that all employees with access to client data receive regular cybersecurity awareness training, including phishing identification and data handling procedures.
Incident Response Planning
Tax preparers must have a documented incident response plan that includes IRS notification procedures (Form 14039), client notification requirements, and breach remediation steps.
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