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Why do I get the message that my EFIN is Invalid when batching returns for e-file transmission

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📚 Background for Invalid EFIN

You may have an On-Line Tax Preparation EFIN that begins with 10, 21, 32, 44, or 53.

You may have an On-Line Tax Preparation EFIN that begins with 10, 21, 32, 44, or 53. These EFINs are assigned for On-Line Tax Preparation.On-Line Preparation is where an ERO inputs returns on an Internet-based program, or files the return using software that is designated as On-Line Preparation (such as TurboTax). This is different from the professional software that CCH Small Firm Services provides.

Question 2d of IRS Form 8633 asks whether you will transmit returns prepared through commercially purchased software or an on-line Internet site.

Question 2d of IRS Form 8633, Application to Participate in the IRS e-file Program, asks the following:Will you transmit individual or business income tax return information prepared by a taxpayer using commercially purchased software or software you provide through an on-line Internet site? (On-line Provider)

What this means for your EFIN selection.

Which means:An Online Filer should not be chosen unless you intend to allow taxpayers to self-prepare returns by entering return data directly on commercially available software, software downloaded from an Internet site and prepared off-line, or through an online Internet site. Taxpayers using the Internet to file their tax returns may also be filing through an ERO.

📊 Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm whether you were issued an On-Line EFIN

If you answered YES to the IRS Form 8633 question, you were issued an On-Line EFIN.

If you answered YES to this question, you were issued an On-Line EFIN. To resolve this problem, you need to contact Andover Service Center for correction.

Step 2: Revise Form 8633 through IRS e-Services

You can revise your Form 8633 online through the IRS e-Services page.

You can also revise your Form 8633 through the IRS e-Services page, at http://www.irs.gov/taxpros/article/0,,id=109646,00.html. The IRS will then issue a new EFIN to you.

Step 3: Get confirmation after revising Form 8633

After revising online, call the Andover IRS Service Center to make sure the problem is fixed.

No matter what method you choose, you need a new EFIN. After revising the Form 8633 online, you can call the Andover IRS Service Center at 866-255-0654 to make sure the problem is fixed. Select option 1 on the first menu, and then select option 1 on the second menu.

Step 4: Ask IRS e-Help Desk to update your ERO

IRS e-Help Desk personnel can update your EFIN/ERO setup.

IRS e-Help Desk personnel can drop the on-line EFIN and add you back as an ERO.

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