First time user of Lacerte....how do I print a blank tax organizer? I don't have clients yet but want to give a blank organizer to my new clients.

[stephloghry]

When I go to Tools, Organizer, a message pops up....If you need to print an Organizer based on 2017 return data, please verify that you have installed the 2017 Proforma CD and launch this feature from the 2017 Tax Program. 

2018 is the first year I am using the software, therefore there is nothing to proforma. I simply want to print a blank organizer. Please help.

[sjrcpa · Accepted solution]

2018 Organizers are printed from the 2017 software. You should be able to download 2017 Lacerte,

[stephloghry]

I did try to do it from 2017, but because I have no clients it does not work. I get the message from above with 2016 replacing the 2017s.

[sjrcpa]

Set up a dummy client. Then try to print a blanl Organizer

[abctax55]

Or, change the data path to the "DemoData" and try it from there?

[itonewbie]

If all you want is to print a blank organizer, you should be able to do so by going to Tools / Organizers and from the Popup, choose Organizer / Print Paper Organizer / Blank Organizers, then select the pages and state(s) to include.

[sjrcpa]

:+1:

[George4Tacks]

Do you have clients? If so, create their 2017 returns so that you can (a) get used to the program and (b) proforma (transfer) those clients with proper carry overs to 2018. You can create and check depreciation and the state return that goes with it.  You might also be able to use the Lacerte conversion from other software. https://proconnect.intuit.com/lacerte/getting-started/data-conversion/

No Clients? Create a dummy return with typical starter items like name, dependent, wage, interest, dividend and Schedule A. Use this dummy to print organizers. 

[stephloghry]

That is a good point! And I'm entering one return now. However, I cannot view the forms because I pay per return. I'm not going to pay the fee to enter all my prior year client returns. Is there a work around for that????

[abctax55]

Use all 9's for the SSN - you'll still be asked to REP, but there won't actually be a charge. And if there is, customer support will reverse it.

[George4Tacks]

to the all 9's. That works for EIN in business returns, also.:+1: