electronic filing tax estimates

[amacpa]

so I'm compelled to start with WTFF. Please tell me I'm doing something wrong. I can no longer file 1040 IRS tax estimates using the Estimates wizard. I already submitted two returns w/the estimates but at no point along the eFile process did it confirm these would be scheduled. Spoke w/tech support - only option is to  goto eFile Support Tools > View eFile - and pretend I work for doge and try to read HTML code to locate the verbiage that indicates the efile estimates. On the 'Financial Transaction Summary' is my only evidence that it is "supposed" to schedule. 

I'm so certain I was able to confirm this in past years but seems like the updates blew this out as an option. 

This time I filed the 1040 w/o the estimates. Waited for confimation. Tried to eFile the estimates - NADA. 

Made a copy of the taxpayer's 2023 file, rolled it over to 2024 - so this file wouldn't show it transmitted the tax return and entered on the estimates info to eFile - Nada again. 

Why is there a Wizard for eFiling estimates if it doesn't work. 

Even the help is circular in that it reads as thought it can be done but also says if you receive an error then it can only be done with the tax return... ah but oops I already filed the return.  Guess I'm going to visit IRS - direct.

Any thoughts?

[Strongsilence-CPA]

The Wizard for estimates isn't used for federal estimates.  That wizard is used for California estimates.  There could be other states too. It must be a programming rationale for that.

[Karl]

Lacerte has always worked this way. Your only chance to e-file federal estimates is with the original return filing. The separate Estimates e-filing wizard is for states only.

You are correct: you or your client needs to go to IRS Direct Pay.