E-Filing - Limit of Five Returns (2024)

FAQs

How can I efile more than 5 returns? ›

If you're not a licensed tax preparer, you can't e-file more than five tax returns. That's the limit set by the IRS. Tax preparers: To e-file an unlimited number of returns, you need to purchase one of the TaxAct Professional programs.

The IRS limits the number of returns that can be completed and e-filed per individual to five (5) individual returns. This is so tax preparers are held responsible for the returns they have prepared.

If taxpayers file more than 5 returns electronically, they must obtain an EFIN. To obtain an EFIN, the taxpayer must apply to the IRS and meet certain requirements. This is done to ensure proper accountability with among the tax preparers.

In fact, some people have their tax returns rejected multiple times before they finally get it right. Though filing a return over and over again isn't ideal, rest assured that you can technically resubmit as many times as necessary until your return is accepted.

The 5 e-file limit is imposed on all consumer-level tax prep software by the IRS. You would have to upgrade to a professional version, or file with a professional, to e-file more than 5 returns.

Each of H&R Block's software options allows you to file multiple returns – up to five federal returns. Most of our software options include one personal state return, as well. If you prefer […] When Will H&R Block's Online Products Be Available?

It is an IRS requirement for software providers. See requirement number 5 on page 31 of this IRS Publication: IRS Pub 1345. The IRS requires that software developers ensure there is no more than 5 electronic files from one software package or from one email address.

It also allows you to prepare and print unlimited federal tax returns, and e-file up to five at no charge (additional fee per state e-file with TurboTax Desktop).

Highlights of the data

More than 213.3 million returns and other forms were filed electronically. These represented 78.6 percent of all filings. For individual tax returns, 90.7 percent were filed electronically (Table 4XLSX).

Providers need an EFIN to electronically file tax returns. We assign an EFIN to identify firms that have completed the IRS e-file Application to become an Authorized IRS e-file Provider.

Do I need an EFIN if I have a PTIN? ›

It's important to note: everybody who prepares taxes needs a PTIN. However, only your firm needs an EFIN. One per firm or per physical location is usually required.

Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN): A six-digit ID number assigned by the IRS for e- filing. Electronic Return Originator (ERO): An authorized IRS e-file provider that originates the electronic submission of returns to the IRS.

Tax returns get rejected frequently because a name or number on the return doesn't match information in the IRS or Social Security Administration databases. Typos and misspellings can be quick and easy to fix. You might even be able to correct the issue online and e-file again.

Once you've been notified of an error on your e-filed return, you need to go back to your return, find the pages with errors, and correct the issues. Repeat this as many times as necessary until you've corrected all of the issues you know about.

If your tax return was rejected, it could be due to a number of reasons – such as missing information. However, there could be another issue, like a name or number that doesn't match up with the data the IRS already has on file.

For example, if you file with H&R Block Online, you can file one federal return for free. However, if you're using one of our Tax Software options, you can e-file five federal returns for free.

The TaxAct^® Desktop program allows you to prepare an unlimited number of paper returns and the e-file capability of up to five (5) returns. You may opt to purchase the Deluxe, Premier, or Self Employed packages.