User's Manual - Drake Software

Preparing to e-File
Drake Software User’s Manual
Preparing to e-File
Applying for ERO Status
In order to e-file tax returns, your firm or office must be an Electronic Return Originator
(ERO), have an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN), and be an authorized
IRS e-Services provider. ERO and EFIN information must be entered in ERO
Setup before a return can be transmitted.
The IRS accepts ERO applications throughout the year. All new EROs must apply to
the IRS to become an e-Services provider in order to receive an EFIN. If you are a
new ERO and are not a CPA, EA, attorney, banking official, or officer of a publicly
held company, you must also submit a fingerprint card.
An established ERO must make changes to its e-file application only if the information
in its original application has changed. Changes should be made online.
IMPORTANT
If you plan to e-file business returns this year after filing only 1040
returns in the past, you must update your e-file application online,
or your e-filed returns will be rejected by the IRS.
To register as an e-Services provider online through the IRS website:
1. Go to www.irs.gov
2. Click the For Tax Pros tab.
3. In the Getting Started section, click Become an Authorized e-file Provider.
4. Follow the directions on your screen.
Be aware that processing can take up to 45 days.
To request federal e-file program fingerprint cards, contact Drake’s Education Department
at education@DrakeSoftware.com, call Drake at (828) 524-8020, or contact the
IRS e-Help Desk at (866) 255-0654.
Once your application is processed, the IRS assigns you an EFIN. If your firm has
applied for an EFIN but does not have one yet, Drake will assign you a temporary
EFIN. Your temporary EFIN cannot be used to e-file returns, but it does allow you to
transmit Drake test returns.
When you receive your EFIN or make changes to the ERO status, forward a copy of
the response letter from the IRS to accounting@DrakeSoftware.com so we can update
your Drake customer account.
228 Tax Year 2012