What New Tax Preparers Need to Know About Getting an EFIN ⋆ Pronto Tax School (2024)

FAQs

What New Tax Preparers Need to Know About Getting an EFIN ⋆ Pronto Tax School? ›

Obtaining an EFIN from the IRS is free. However, you may have to get fingerprinted and pass a “suitability check.” Fingerprinting usually costs around $50. The IRS can take up to 45 days to process an EFIN application, so get your application in now to make sure you receive your EFIN before tax season starts.

This process may include a credit check, a tax compliance check, a criminal background check, and a check for prior non-compliance with IRS e-file requirements. Once approved, you will receive an acceptance letter from the IRS containing your Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN).

No, not everyone can obtain an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN). EFINs are issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to tax professionals who are authorized to e-file tax returns for their clients. To qualify for an EFIN, tax professionals must meet certain requirements set by the IRS.

Log in to your IRS Tax Professional account. On the Select Organization screen, select your firm's name which should be listed under "Individual," then click the eyeball icon under the View/Edit column. At the top of the Application Summary screen, click Print and print to a PDF.

If an individual wants to prepare and electronically file more than five (5) tax returns, the IRS requires that individual obtain an EFIN (Electronic Filing Identification Number).

Preparer Tax Identification Numbers are issued to individuals. Electronic Filing Identification Numbers are issued to individuals or firms. Most preparers need both.

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.

How long does it take to get an EFIN? To obtain an EFIN, first you have to apply to become an Authorized e-file provider by the IRS. This process may take up to 45 days.

Common reasons an EFIN application is denied include incomplete or inaccurate information, failure to meet eligibility criteria, or previous non-compliance issues.

Do I need to renew EFIN every year? ›

Renew your EFIN

Good news is no, you do not need to renew. Once your office is approved as an e-File Provider, there's no need to renew or reapply your EFIN as long as you continue filing tax returns using the eFile system every year.

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.

An EFIN is for tax preparers who prepare returns for clients. It proves you have completed the IRS e-file application with the intent to become an authorized IRS e-file provider. The EFIN is separate from an Employer Identification Number (EIN); many businesses will have both numbers.

How long does it take to get an EFIN? To obtain an EFIN, first you have to apply to become an Authorized e-file provider by the IRS. This process may take up to 45 days.

This suitability check may involve: a credit check; a tax compliance check; a criminal background check; and a check for prior non-compliance with IRS e-file requirements. If your application is approved, the IRS will send you an acceptance letter with your Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN).