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ProSeries Frequently Asked Questions

How do I electronically file a return?

Products Affected:

• ProSeries
• ProSeries Express Edition
• ProSeries Basic Edition

To file electronically, you must have an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) issued by the IRS and you need to be able to connect to the Internet from the computer on which ProSeries is installed.

Getting an EFIN

All ProSeries users must have an EFIN (Electronic Filing Identification Number) to electronically file tax returns. To receive an EFIN, you must register with the IRS by completing Form 8633, Application to Participate in the IRS e-file Program. This application should be completed at least 45 days before you want to start electronically filing returns. You should fill out this application on the IRS Web site.

Note: If you already have an EFIN for electronically filing 1040 tax returns and will also be electronically filing 1120, 1120S, or 1065 tax returns this tax season, you will need to revise your Form 8633. It is very important that the IRS has up-to-date information. You can revise your application on the IRS Web site.

Connecting to the Internet

If you don't have an Internet connection, you must first sign up for service with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Once you have an ISP, go to the Help menu, choose Internet Connection Setup, then follow the instructions in the dialog boxes.

Set up the Electronic Filing Information

1. If you haven't entered your electronic filing information yet, in ProSeries and ProSeries Basic, go to the Help menu. In ProSeries Express, go to the Tools menu.
2. Choose Options Setup Wizard.
3. In the first Options Setup Wizard dialog box, select Express Setup and click Next.
4. In the Firm/Preparer Information dialog box, complete all setup information for Firm Information and Preparer/Electronic Return Originator (ERO) Information.
   
   Note: Enter the firm's Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) in the Firm Information section. Also enter the first and last name of the individual representing the firm as the Efile Contact.
   
   If an individual preparer will be transmitting returns using their own unique EFIN (separate from the firm's EFIN), the preparer will enter their EFIN in their respective section in Preparer/Electronic Return Originator (ERO) Information. Each preparer filing with a unique EFIN must also enter the Efile Contact first and last name.
   
   If your firm will be participating in the Practitioner PIN program, enter each preparer's ERO Practitioner PIN. This is a five digit code of the preparer's choosing.
   
   
5. Click Next to see the Filing Client Returns Electronically dialog box. Select Yes, some returns may be filed electronically.
6. In ProSeries and ProSeries Express, answer the question about ProSeries Installed On More than One Computer and click Next.
7. Answer the questions regarding Bank Products as they apply to your practice. Note: These screens refer to bank products offered through Santa Barbara Bank & Trust.
   
8. Click Next and complete the remainder of the Express Options Setup Wizard screens.
   

Once you have setup ProSeries for electronic filing, go to the HomeBase EF Center or EF Clients tab to view the steps to electronically file.

There are six basic steps to electronically file your returns:

• Step 1 - Mark the return for electronic filing
• Step 2 - Prepare the client's return
• Step 3 - Run Final Review or Check for Return Errors
• Step 4 - Go to the EF Center or EF Clients tab and select the return
• Step 5 - Convert and transmit the selected return
• Step 6 - Wait 24 to 48 hours, then check for acknowledgments

In the HomeBase EF Center or EF Clients tab, click the blue underlined text for each step to see more detailed instructions.

More information on electronic filing can be found on the IRS Web site.

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