As a preface: This is my first year using Intuit ProConnect. I am a previous HRB employee and have recently been self-employed with my own firm, with an EIN, EFIN, and all- based out of CA.

I have repeatedly received and EF critical diagnostic about CA requiring preparers PTIN, which is already in my "Preparer Information." As well as my ERO pin. My firm has a separate EIN & EFIN, and I am an "employee" of said firm. I am fully a sole proprietor and plan to make the S-Corp conversation after this year.  

Regarding the EF CD- should I be listing the return as "prepared by" my firm, with myself as the preparer? Because that is when I am receiving the ED CD. When I leave "preparer" as myself, and "prepared by" as "non-paid preparer" I'm able to get rid of the EF CD, but that doesn't feel entirely correct. 

On the final 1040 (or 540 for CA) I should be listed as the preparer, and my firm should be listed as the firm. 

Any advice for a workaround for the EF CD  "California requires preparer PTIN or STIN number. The paid preparer indicated on this return does not have a PTIN or STIN entered in Preparer Information. CA - Ref #18034"?