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Common questions about electronic filing in Lacerte

by Intuit• Updated 3 months ago

Below are solutions to frequently asked questions about electronic filing in Lacerte.

Follow these steps to set up e-file without the E-File Setup Wizard:

  1. From the Settings menu, select Options.
  2. Select the Firm Info tab.
  3. Locate the Electronic Filing section.
  4. Enter the 6-digit EFIN number.
  5. Select the ERO Contact from the dropdown menu.
  6. Select the Preparers tab.
  7. Enter the ERO PIN for each preparer.
    • This pin can be any five digits.
    • This number will be used in place of the ERO signature on e-file Form 8879, and PIN will be used for all e-file clients assigned to this preparer.
  8. Click on the Tax Return tab.
  9. Enter EF preferences under the Tax Return Options section and click OK.

Beginning in tax year 2004, the IRS allows PIN signatures to be computer generated when using the paperless signature method. The program default is set to YES, which will alleviate the need for you to enter the taxpayer or spouse PIN(s) for each client.

If the Computer generated PIN(s) user option is set to YES, each client utilizing the paperless e-file signature PIN method will be assigned a 5-digit numeric PIN. The PIN(s) will print on Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization. 

If the Computer generated PIN(s) is set to NO, the preparer must enter the PIN signatures in Screen 4.1 for the taxpayer and spouse. The preparer will also have to enter the PIN Authorization in Screen 4.1 to indicate how the PIN(s) were entered into the program.

Next, you need to confirm that the Communication Manager has been set up for transmissions.

Follow these steps to access the Communication Manager:

  1. From the Tools menu, select Communications.
  2. Select Communication Manager.
  3. Click on the Connect button.
    • If this is the first time connecting to Lacerte, you'll be asked to set up the type of connection you'll be using to connect to Lacerte. Follow the steps in the Communication Manager Wizard to complete the initial transmission.

Visit our online portal to learn more.

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