Lacerte - e - File - Returns (Wazhua - Com)

Lacerte: e-File Returns Tutorials
Rev 05_10
Copyright
Copyright 2010 Intuit, Inc. Intuit, Inc.

All rights reserved. 5601 Headquarters Drive
Plano, TX 75024
Trademarks
©2010 Intuit Inc. All rights reserved. Intuit, the Intuit logo, Intuit ProLine, Lacerte, ProAdvisor, ProSeries
and QuickBooks, among others, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intuit Inc. in the United
States and other countries. Other parties’ marks are the property of their respective owners.
Notice To Readers
The publications distributed by Intuit, Inc. are intended to assist accounting professionals in their practices
by providing current and accurate information. However, no assurance is given that the information is
comprehensive in its coverage or that it is suitable in dealing with a client’s particular situation.
Accordingly, the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent research.
Intuit, Inc. does not render any accounting, legal, or other professional advice nor does it have any
responsibility for updating or revising any information presented herein. Intuit, Inc. cannot warrant that the
material contained herein will continue to be accurate nor that it is completely free of errors when
published. Readers should verify statements before relying on them.
Lacerte e-File Returns Tutorials
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
General Information .................................................................................................................................... 2
Prerequisites ............................................................................................................................................... 3
e-file Preparation and Application Process.............................................................................................. 4
Preparing to e-file........................................................................................................................................ 5
The e-File Setup wizard .............................................................................................................................. 8
Entering Client Detail ................................................................................................................................ 16
Paperless e-File ......................................................................................................................................... 22
Validating The Return & Printing e-File Forms ...................................................................................... 26
Checking Returns ................................................................................................................................... 26
Validating Returns .................................................................................................................................. 28
Printing E-File Forms ................................................................................................................................ 31
Transmitting E-Files & Receiving Acknowledgements ......................................................................... 34
Creating & Transmitting E-Files .............................................................................................................. 34
Receiving Acknowledgements ................................................................................................................ 41
Additional Information .............................................................................................................................. 47
Checking The E-File Status .................................................................................................................... 47
Printing Acceptance Letters .................................................................................................................... 52
1
GENERAL INFORMATION
There are six main steps in the e-filing process. The first two are preliminary and are generally one-time
events. This section contains a module for each step.
Preparing to e-file - This section shows you how to register for the IRS' e-services, and how to complete
and file Form 8633 with the IRS so you can receive your Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN).
The e-file Setup Wizard - This section shows you how to setup the program for e-filing.
Entering Client Detail - In this section, you will enter the necessary detail information for an e-file return.
Validating Returns & Printing e-file Forms - This section shows you how to validate the e-file and print
e-file forms such as Forms 8879 and 8453 and the state equivalents.
Transmitting e-files & Receiving Acknowledgements - In this section, you will create and transmit an
e-file and then connect to Lacerte to receive acknowledgements (Acks).
Additional Information - This section shows you how to print the acceptance letter and activity reports.
You will complete the exercises using a sample client file that you create.
2
PREREQUISITES
Before you begin this section, we recommend that you complete all of the exercises in the Input
Techniques tutorial as well as the exercises in the Individual Returns tutorial. This tutorial contains
information regarding the 1040 program only. There may be some differences encountered in this
process for 1065, 1120, 1120S, and 990 returns, but the overall process is similar. Information regarding
e-filing these returns can be found in the Lacerte Help Center. You should be familiar with entering data,
printing returns, and getting status information through Lacerte before you begin.
3
E-FILE PREPARATION AND APPLICATION PROCESS

Before you can file returns electronically, you must become an authorized e-file provider. In this section,
we'll show you how to register online for the IRS' e-services feature, enabling you to fill out and update
Federal Form 8633, Application to Participate in the IRS e-file Program. You will also learn how to print,
complete, and mail a blank From 8633, and be provided with links to related e-file information. Being
accepted into the IRS e-file program is your first step towards preparing to e-file tax returns in Lacerte.
4
PREPARING TO E-FILE
Prerequisites
You must have an internet connection to be able to fill out Form 8633 on-line or to access and print Form
8633 on the IRS website.
Objective
In this exercise, you will learn how to fill out Form 8633 on-line through e-services, and how to use your
firm's information to complete Form 8633 to mail to the Internal Revenue Service.
How?
To complete Form 8633 on-line:
1. Access the e-services page of the IRS website for Tax Professionals at
http://www.irs.gov/taxpros/article/0,,id=109646,00.html
2. Click Registration Services.
e-Services is a suite of web-based products that allow tax professionals and payers to do business with
the IRS electronically. These services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from just about any
computer with an internet connection.
3. Click Registration Services and follow the instructions.
5
Once you receive your registration confirmation code from the IRS and enter that number on this website,
the registration process will be complete, enabling you to complete Form 8633 on-line and utilize the
other available services.
NOTE: We suggest that you read IRS Publication 3112, IRS e-file Application and Participation prior to filling
out Form 8633. This publication provides important information regarding the e-file application process, as
well as rules for participation in IRS e-file that are applicable to all authorized IRS e-file providers.
To complete and mail Form 8633:
NOTE: You must use the most current version of Form 8633, which can be accessed on the IRS website by
clicking here. Form 8633 cannot be printed from within the Lacerte program.
1. Check the boxes at the top of Federal Form 8633 that correspond to the type of application being
filed and the description of your firm.
2. Use the appropriate firm information to complete pages 1 and 2 of Federal Form 8633.
3. Use the following chart to fill out some of the specific fields on the form:
Question Recommended Input
2A Yes
2D, 2E No
4 1040, ETD (extensions), 1065, 1120, 990
7, 8, 10 Provide original signatures
6
The application process may also require the submission of fingerprint cards or evidence of professional
status for all Principals and Responsible Officials. Refer to IRS Publication 3112, IRS e-file Application
and Participation (pages 9-11) at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p3112.pdf for more information.
If you want to mail the application, mail the completed form to the IRS using one of the following
addresses:
Standard Postal Service Overnight Mail Service
Internal Revenue Service

Internal Revenue Service
Andover Campus
Andover Campus
Attn: EFU Acceptance
Testing Stop 983
Testing Stop 983
310 Lowell Street
P.O. Box 4099
Andover, MA 05501-0001
Woburn, MA 01888-4099
Wait 4-6 weeks for your confirmation letter and EFIN to be mailed to you by the IRS.
IMPORTANT: If you are mailing Form 8633, be sure to answer all pertinent questions and obtain all required
signatures. Incomplete Forms 8633 received by the IRS are returned to the applicant and may result in delayed
acceptance for participation in IRS e-file.
Tips & Shortcuts

 Make sure that you sign and date the form before you mail it.
 Both on-line applications and paper applications are accepted year round, allowing individual and
business e-file applicants the opportunity to apply to participate in the e-file program at any time.
It is recommended that you submit your completed application 45 days prior to the date you
intend to begin filing returns electronically (business and/or individual).
 More info can be found at the IRS publication e-file for Tax Professionals at
http://www.irs.gov/efile/article/0,,id=118663,00.html.
Review
You should now be able to complete or update Form 8633 on-line using the IRS' e-services feature, and
you should have a completed Form 8633 that is ready to be mailed to the Internal Revenue Service.
Troubleshooting
 Problem: I am not sure how to answer some of the questions on the form.
Solution: Use the chart from the How? section for instructions to specific line items. You can also
contact the IRS at 1-866-255-0654 if additional information is required.
7
THE E-FILE SETUP WIZARD

After you get your EFIN from the IRS, you need to complete the e-file Setup Wizard before transmitting
any returns to the IRS. The exercise in this section shows you how to complete the wizard and connect to
Lacerte. If you have already completed the e-file Setup Wizard, you should skip this section.
Prerequisites
You need an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) to complete this exercise. If you don't have an
EFIN, complete the exercises in the Applying to e-file section. If you have applied for an EFIN but haven't
yet received it, you can use the EFIN provided in this exercise.
Objective
In this exercise, you will complete the e-file Setup Wizard that prepares the program for e-filing.
Facts
Start the e-file Setup Wizard and enter the appropriate information. This wizard runs the first time you
install the program or access electronic filing by clicking the Validate/Send Returns button on the
toolbar.
Program Considerations
The purpose of the wizard is to automate the entering of your EFIN in the options and to connect to
Lacerte to initialize your batch counters. If the wizard has already run, then your program is setup for e-
filing.
8
How?
To complete the e-file Setup Wizard:
1. Click Yes when the program asks, "Do you intend to e-file this year?"
NOTE: If you click No, the wizard closes. See Troubleshooting below.
2. Click Next when the wizard opens.
9
2. Enter your EFIN and click Next. If you do not have an EFIN then enter 999999. If you use this
sample EFIN, make sure to replace it with your actual EFIN before transmitting returns for your
clients.
NOTE: This screen will not appear if an EFIN was entered in the prior year program. This will already be in
the Firm Info tab of the Options.
3. Enter the preparer(s) for your firm and click Next.
10
NOTE: This screen will not appear if preparers were entered in the prior year program. They will already be in
the Preparers tab of the Options. You can also leave this screen blank and enter preparers later.
Connect to Lacerte to initialize the batch counter:

1. If your computer has a modem or Internet connection, click Next.
11
2. The Lacerte Communication Manager opens. Select Internet Connection (Recommended), and
then click Next.
3. Select your connection type and click Next.
12
4. Click Finish, and the program connects to Lacerte.
13
5. The final window shows a flowchart for e-filing returns. Click Finish when complete.
Tips & Shortcuts

 Your EFIN is entered in the Firm Info tab of the Options.
 The Batch counter on your computer can be reset by clicking Reset DCN Counter on the E-File /
e-file Support Tools menu.
Review
You should now be familiar with the e-file Setup Wizard.
Troubleshooting
 Problem: I clicked No when the e-file Setup Wizard first appeared. How do I get back to it?
Solution: If the wizard has not been completed, you can click the icon in the toolbar. This re-
opens the wizard.
 Problem: I currently don't have a modem or Internet connection on my computer, but I want to
complete the e-file Setup Wizard.
Solution: When prompted to connect to Lacerte (Step 1 above), select This computer does not
have a modem or internet connection. Complete setup manually. Then click Next.
14
The Set Batch Number window opens. Then enter a number between 1 and 99 and click Next. Click
Finish to close the wizard.
15
ENTERING CLIENT DETAIL

One you have set up Lacerte for e-filing, you are ready to prepare client files for e-filing. In this section,
you will create a sample client file and enter data to prepare it for e-filing.
Prerequisites
You should be familiar with or have completed the Wages and Pension Distribution exercises in the
Individual Returns tutorial.
Objective
In this exercise, you will create a sample file, and then prepare it for e-filing.
Facts
We will provide the information to create a sample e-file return.
 You can enter W-2 and pension information through the grid input or the expanded detail.
 The expanded inputs of the Wages and Pensions, IRA, W-2G screens are designed to facilitate
data entry from W-2's and 1099-R's. The numbers in parentheses following the descriptions refer
to the box numbers on the W-2 or 1099-R.
 Check the Spouse box to indicate the W-2 or 1099-R relates to earnings of the spouse.
 If any of the Employee information does not match the information on the W-2 or 1099-R, edit the
applicable fields.
How?
To create a new client:
1. Click the Add a client icon in the toolbar.

2. Enter "TUT-EF1" for the client number and click OK.
16
The program opens Screen 1, Client Information.
To enter client data and designate the type of electronic return you're preparing:
1. Click the drop-down arrow in the Electronic Return(s) field and check the Federal box.
This designates the client file as an electronic return. If there were state returns being prepared, you
would check the boxes next to the states that you intend to e-file.
2. Enter the information from the Client Information table below:
Client Information Data Entry
Filing Status Single
Taxpayer First Name Sample
Taxpayer Last Name Reject
Taxpayer Social Security# 999-99-9999
Taxpayer Occupation Worker
Taxpayer Date of Birth 8/13/1948
Street 1234 Testing Drive
City Anytown
State, Zip TX, 75240
Select a Preparer in the Miscellaneous Info

Preparer
section if there are multiple preparers set up
17
in your program
Enter employee information:

1. Click the Contents tab, and under the Income section, click 10 Wages, Salaries, Tips.
18
2. Click Employer Information in the Section list, and enter the information listed below:
Employer Information Data Entry
Employer Identification
01-0000000
Number
Name of employer Employer1
Employer Address 1234 Anyplace Drive
Employer City Anytown
Employer State TX
Employer ZIP Code 75240
Enter wages information:

1. Click Wages in the Section list, and then enter the information listed below:
Wages Data Entry
Retirement Plan (15)
Wages (1) $50,000
Federal income tax

$8,500
withheld (2)
Box 12a: D – Elective

$2,200
deferrals to 401k
19
Enter Pension information:

1. On the Income pull-down menu, open 13.1 Pensions, IRA, and enter the following information:
Pensions Data Entry
Name of payer Payer1
Street address 123 Some Street
City/State/Zip code Some Nice Place, TX, 75240
Federal identification
50-00000000
number
Gross Distribution $10,000
Taxable amount $9,500
Federal income tax

$1,000
withheld
20
Review
You should now be familiar with the additional input needed for an e-file return and have an e-file sample
client with wages and pension information entered.
Troubleshooting
 Problem: The Wages table doesn't have a control number listed, but there is an input field for it in
the Electronic Filing (W-2) section.
Solution: Not all W-2s contain this number. Leave this field blank if this information is not
available.
21
PAPERLESS E-FILE
Prerequisites
You should be familiar with or have completed the Entering Client Detail exercise in this section, and the
Tax Return exercise in the Before You Prepare a Return tutorial.
Objective
In this exercise, you will make entries required for a paperless e-file return.
Facts
Use the sample client (TUT-EF1) you created in the Entering Client Detail exercise and enter the
information we’ll provide in Screen 4.1, e-file PIN Main Form.
Paperless e-filing is the default method used in the Lacerte tax program. A paperless e-file means that
the IRS will not be expecting any paper return items to be sent in after transmitting the return
electronically. It is not a paperless process for you, the Electronic Return Originator (ERO), as you must
retain Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization for 3 years. This is similar to Form 8453, U.S.
Individual Income Tax Declaration for an IRS e-file Return, which must be mailed to the service center
where the e-file was transmitted within three business days after receiving the "accepted"
acknowledgement (the traditional non-paperless e-file process).
When you create an electronic file in Lacerte, the program default is to generate the IRS e-file Signature
Authorization form and automatically assign the 5-digit PIN(s) required for paperless e-filing (covered in
the Tax Return exercise referenced in the Prerequisite section above). Based on the program defaults,
the only entry you should have to make on a return would be entering the Taxpayer's signature date in
Screen 4.1, e-file PIN Main Form (see e-file PIN Main Form below).
Screen 4.1, e-file PIN Main Form:
Use this field To
Eliminate the need to enter the PIN signature date. The program will
automatically use the current computer date when the return is
transmitted for electronic filing. The program does not print the current
computer date on Form 8879; the computer date is only sent as part of
the e-file.
Computer date as PIN signature date [O]
The program default under Tax Return Options is set to No, which
requires a PIN signature date be entered in the Paperless Filing
Signature Section of the Electronic Filing Screen for all returns using the
e-file PIN Signature. Changing this option to Yes will alleviate the need
to enter the PIN signature date.
22
Note: The date entered on Form 8879 by the taxpayer must match the
date entered in this field. Only use the Computer date as PIN
signature date when you will be transmitting the e-file on the same day
that Form 8879 is being signed and dated. An Informational Diagnostic
will be generated when this option is selected.
Enter the date that form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization, was
Taxpayer's signature date
signed by the taxpayer (and spouse if applicable).
Override the "e-File PIN signature" user option in the Tax Return
options. The program default is set to when applicable, which will allow
you to e-file all applicable e-file returns using Form 8879, IRS e-file
Signature Authorization, alleviating the need for Form 8453 to be
e-file PIN signature: 1=when applicable, 2= mailed to the IRS.
suppress [O]
If the e-File Pin signature option is set to suppress and you wish to e-file
this return using the PIN method, enter a 1 in this field.
If the e-File Pin signature option is set to when applicable and you do
not wish to e-file this return using the PIN method, enter a 2 in this field.
Override the "Computer Generated PIN(s)" user option in the Tax

Return options. Beginning in tax year 2004, the IRS allows PIN
signatures to be computer generated when using the paperless
signature method. Use this field to The program default is set to Yes
which will alleviate the need for you to enter the Taxpayer (and spouse
if applicable) PIN(s) for each client.
If the Computer Generated PIN(s) user option is set to yes, the program
will generate a PIN signature for each client who is using the PIN
Computer generated PIN(s): 1=yes, 2=no [O]
signature(s) method. If the user option is set to Yes and you do not
want the program to generate the taxpayer (and spouse if applicable)
PIN, enter a 2 in this field.
If the Computer Generated PIN(s) user option is set to no, the program
will not generate a PIN signature for each client who is using the PIN
signature(s) method. If the user option is set to No and you want the
program to generate the taxpayer (and spouse if applicable) PIN enter
a 1 in this field.
Override the computer generated PIN which prints on Form 8879, IRS
e-file Signature Authorization. Entries in these fields are necessary only
PIN [O] for Taxpayer/Spouse if using the paperless signature method for this client and the Computer
Generated PIN is not being used. The PIN must be five numeric
characters and cannot be all zeros.
Select the method by which the PIN(s) were entered into the program if
not using the Computer Generated PIN. An entry in this field is
PIN authorization (Ctrl+T) [O]
necessary only if using the paperless signature method and the
Computer Generated PIN is not being used.
Override the Tax Return user option to print Form 8453 on a paperless
e-file return. Form 8453 is not required to be signed or mailed to the
Print Form 8453 on paperless e-file [O] IRS when e-filing using the paperless signature (PIN) method. The
program defaults to "No" which will not print the form 8453 when using
a PIN signature.
23
If the "Force 8453 on Paperless e-file" user option is set to No and you
wish to print the 8453 with the PIN signature, enter a 1 in this field.
If the "Force 8453 on Paperless e-file" user option is set to Yes and do
not you wish to print the 8453 with the PIN signature, enter a 2 in this
field.
Override the ERO PIN located in the User Options Preparer

Information for the preparer assigned to the return in the Client
Information screen. The PIN must be five numeric characters and
cannot be all zeros. E-filing a return using the paperless signature (PIN)
ERO's PIN [O] method requires the preparer or Electronic Return Originator (ERO) to
have a PIN. The PIN is the ERO signature on Form 8879, IRS e-file
Signature Authorization. The program automatically fills the ERO PIN
for each preparer based on the preparer assigned to the return in the
client information screen.
How?
To create a paperless e-file:
1. Access the Detail tab for client TUT-EF-1.
2. Open Screen 4, Electronic Filing.
3. Select e-file Signature Main Form in the EF list.
24
4. Enter the information from the Paperless Filing table below:
Paperless Filing Data entry:
Taxpayer signature date [Enter today's date]
Tips & Shortcuts

Form 8879, the IRS e-file Signature Authorization form can be printed as a PDF and e-mailed to your
clients. This can eliminate the need for an additional office visit since they can fax or mail this form back
to you. More information regarding the printing of these forms is discussed in the Validating & Printing
section of this tutorial.
Review
You should now be familiar with the input required for a paperless e-file return.
Troubleshooting
 Problem: I am confused by the other entries in screen 4.
Solution: Screen 4, Electronic Filing contains additional entries for some electronically filed
returns; most e-file returns will not require you to use screen 4 at all. Use the F1 help function in
the program for field specific help (select the field in question, then press [F1] on your keyboard).
25
VALIDATING THE RETURN & PRINTING E-FILE FORMS

Now that you have entered the detail information for the sample return, you need to check it for errors,
and then validate it so that the e-file can be created. This section shows you how use the Interactive
Diagnostics to check a return for errors and how to use the e-file Validate and Send Wizard to validate a
return so that it meets criteria that allow it to be e-filed. You also learn how to print e-file forms in this
section.
NOTE: If you need REP permission to process your returns, you will need REP access for this sample return.
The client you create in this exercise is a sample client, and will not be charged to your REP account.
CHECKING RETURNS
Prerequisites
You should be familiar with or have completed the Entering Client Detail exercise in this section to create
a sample return with e-filing information.
Objective
In this exercise, you will check a return to determine if it is ready to e-file. To do this, you will view the
Diagnostics tab to make sure there are no errors in the return.
Facts
Remove required information from the sample return (TUT-EF-1) you created earlier, and then check the
return for errors by viewing the Diagnostics tab.
The Diagnostics tab displays warnings that may be errors that you must correct before sending the e-file.
You should use the Diagnostics tab to check for potential problems with a return. For all clients,
Diagnostic Warnings are listed as either Critical or Informational. For electronic returns, a third category
called Fatal Diagnostic Warnings may appear. If a return has Fatal Diagnostic Warnings listed, it cannot
be filed electronically. Some of these warnings can be corrected while other warnings of this nature refer
to situations or forms that require filing on paper.
If Critical Diagnostic Warnings exist (which prohibit the return from passing validation), the e-file Validate
and Send Wizard jumps you to the Diagnostics tab so you can view these errors (when a single client is
selected).
For additional information regarding the interactive diagnostics see the Interactive Diagnostics exercise in
the Review section of the Program Operations tutorial.
26
How?
To check a return for potential errors:
1. Open the sample client (TUT-EF-1).
2. Delete the following information:
o Screen 1, Client Information: Taxpayer’s Social Security number
o Screen 10, Wages, Salaries, Tips - Employer information: State
3. Click the Diagnostics tab.
4. The return calculates and displays the diagnostic warnings.
5. Click each warning to jump to the input and correct the input.
6. Once you have corrected all the input errors, no warnings that will prevent the e-file from being
validated or created should be displayed at the Diagnostics tab.
Tips & Shortcuts

Using the Interactive Diagnostics eliminates errors so that once you begin the e-file Validate and Send
Wizard, you do not encounter errors that prohibit a return from passing validation.
Review
You should now have a sample e-file that is ready to pass validation and be created.
27
Troubleshooting
 Problem: The return has errors and did not pass validation.
Solution: If a return has validation errors, a report displays the errors. If only one client is
selected in the validation process, the program takes you to the Diagnostics tab to view the
warnings, and then repeat the validation process.
VALIDATING RETURNS
Prerequisites
You should be familiar with or have completed the Entering Client Detail exercise in this section and the
sample client file (TUT-EF-1) should be free of all diagnostic warnings.
Objective
In this exercise, you will use the e-file Validate and Send Wizard to validate the sample e-file return.
Facts
Highlight the sample return (TUT-EF-1) and open the e-file Validate and Send Wizard. Select the Validate
Only option.
The e-file Validate and Send Wizard consolidates each process involved in the creation and transmittal of
the e-file. You can elect to just validate a return, validate and create a return, or validate, create, and send
the e-file. This wizard can also be used to "batch" a group of returns for e-file processing.
When a return is validated, the program assigns a Declaration Control Number (DCN) to the return. The
DCN is a unique return tracking number used by the IRS that is a combination of three numbers: the
EFIN, the batch counter, and the serial counter.
How?
To use the e-file Validate and Send Wizard to validate a return:
1. Select the sample client (TUT-EF1).
2. From the E-File menu, select Validate/Send Returns or click the icon in the toolbar. The e-
file Validate and Send Wizard opens.
28
3. Select the return(s) for which you want to create the e-file and click Next.
4. Select Validate Only, and then click Next.

5. The program checks the return for errors and displays the results.
29
6. Click Finish.
Tips & Shortcuts

This process also occurs when you print the return, so it is not necessarily a separate step.
Review
You should have successfully validated the sample e-file.
Troubleshooting
 Problem: The return has errors and did not pass validation.
Solution: If a return has validation errors, a report displays the errors. If only one client is
selected in the validation process, the program takes you to the Diagnostics tab to view the
warnings and correct the errors. Once the errors are corrected, you can repeat the validation
process.
30
PRINTING E-FILE FORMS
Prerequisites
You should have completed or be familiar with the exercises in the e-file Setup Wizard section and the
Checking Returns exercise. You should also have the successfully validated the sample client file.
Objective
In this exercise, you will print Form 8879 for the sample e-file return.
Facts
Print Form 8879 for the sample client by selecting Print e-file Signature Document from the E-File
menu.
The Print e-file Forms selection of the E-File menu is designed to make printing the forms related to e-
filing quick and easy.
For paperless e-files, the program prints the e-file Signature Authorization form (8879). Form 8879 must
be signed before transmitting the e-file and is retained by the ERO. See the Paperless e-filing exercise in
the Entering Client Detail section for more information.
For non-paperless e-files, the program prints Form 8453 and the state equivalent. Form 8453 must be
signed before transmitting the e-file and must be mailed to the service center where the e-file was
transmitted within three business days after receiving the "accepted" acknowledgement.
How?
To print e-file forms:
1. Highlight client TUT-EF-1 at the client list.
2. From the E-File menu, select Print e-file Signature Document.
31
3. Select the desired printer and number of copies and then click OK.
Tips & Shortcuts

You can check the Print to File (PDF) box to print these forms to a file. This can be especially beneficial
for clients that would prefer you to e-mail the forms to them. They can then print, sign, and return them to
you.
32
Review
You should now have a printed copy of Form 8879 and an e-file that is ready to be transmitted. This form
should be signed by the taxpayer(s) before you transmit the e-file.
Troubleshooting
 Problem: I can't open the PDF file, and I'm afraid my client won't be able to either.
Solution: PDF files require Adobe Acrobat® Reader, which can be downloaded for free from
www.adobe.com.
33
TRANSMITTING E-FILES & RECEIVING

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
General Information
After you validate the return and complete the appropriate paperwork, you are ready to create the e-file
and transmit it to Lacerte. The exercises in this section show you how to transmit a return to Lacerte and
receive acknowledgements.
CREATING & TRANSMITTING E-FILES
Prerequisites
You should have created the sample e-file (TUT-EF-1), and completed the exercises in the Validating &
Printing section. You also need a modem or internet connection.
Objective
In this exercise, you will create the e-file and transmit it through a direct modem or Internet connection.
Facts
Highlight the sample return (TUT-EF-1) and open the e-file Validate and Send Wizard. Select the
Validate/Create/Send option.
The program always validates and creates e-files before sending them. This verifies that any changes to
the return are included. For this reason, you can create the e-file as part of the validation process.
How?
To use the e-file Validate and Send Wizard to create and send a return:
1. Select the sample client (TUT-EF1).
2. From the E-File menu, select Validate/Send Returns or click the icon in the toolbar.
3. The e-file Validate and Send Wizard opens. Select the return(s) for which you want to create the
e-file, and then click Next.
34
4. The e-file window opens. Select Validate/Create/Send, and then click Next.
35
5. The program checks the return for errors and displays the results. Click Next.
6. The e-file is created and the Summary Report is displayed. Click Next.
7. You are prompted to select a "send" option. Select Send the e-file(s) now and click Finish.
36
8. A connection is made with Lacerte* and the e-file is transmitted.
37
*The program connects via the connection type you selected when you initialized the program for the first time.
9. The Post Transmission Summary window is displayed, detailing what was transmitted. Click OK.
10. Once complete, you are reminded that you must connect to Lacerte to receive
acknowledgements. Click OK.
Acknowledgements are covered in the next exercise.
Tips & Shortcuts

You can opt to send the e-file at a later time. This allows you (or other users on a network who may not
have a connection) to "queue" the e-file in the Communication Manager to be sent when you connect
later. Choose Send the e-file(s) later option prior to transmitting the e-file to Lacerte.
38
Review
You should have been able to transmit the sample client file.
Troubleshooting
 Problem: I got an error when I tried to connect to Lacerte.
Solution: Open the Communication Manager (Tools > Communications > Communication
Manager), verify the preferred connection method by clicking Settings > Connection Type.
39
Once selected, click Next, then complete the connection wizard.
40
RECEIVING ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Prerequisites
You must have already completed the Creating & Transmitting e-files exercise in this section and
transmitted the sample client file.
Objective
In this exercise, you will receive an acknowledgement for the e-filed sample return.
Facts
Connect to Lacerte using the Communication Manager to retrieve an acknowledgement for the sample e-
file return. For this exercise, the return will be rejected with Reject Code 500. Whenever a return is
rejected, use the rejection information to correct the client file, and then retransmit to receive an Accepted
acknowledgement. To correct the sample return, change the client's last name from Reject to Electronic
Filing, then recreate the file and retransmit the return.
When you file an electronic return, the IRS sends an acknowledgement notifying you of the status of your
electronic file. Anytime you connect to Lacerte, you receive acknowledgements if they are available.
Normally your acknowledgement should be available within 48 hours, as determined by the IRS. For your
sample client file, the acknowledgement will be available approximately 1-3 minutes after you transmit the
file.
How?
To connect to Lacerte and receive acknowledgements:
1. Click Receive Acknowledgement Statuses on the E-File menu.
41
The Communication Manager opens and the program connects to Lacerte.
A Post Transmission Summary displays the acknowledgements. The Post Transmission

Summary shows that the return was rejected.
42
2. Click OK to close the Communication Manager.

3. To correct the sample e-file, change the taxpayer's last name from “Reject” to “Electronic Filing”,
then recreate the file and retransmit the return.
4. Repeat this procedure until you correct all the errors.
Tips & Shortcuts

You can view the last acknowledgments received by selecting View Last Acknowledgements on the E-
File menu. If the return was rejected the reason will be displayed, as well as the steps required for
resolution.
43
You can also view a report that contains information regarding all clients for whom you have not received
accepted acknowledgements on. On the E-File menu, click Outstanding Client Report.
The report automatically previews, but you can click Preview to view the report if you change one of the
selections on the left. You can also click Print to print the report.
Review
You should now be familiar with receiving acknowledgements and understand the appropriate steps to
follow when an e-file return is rejected.
44
Troubleshooting
 Problem: I got an error when I tried to connect to Lacerte.
Solution: Open the Communication Manager (Tools > Communications > Communication
Manager), verify the preferred connection method by clicking Settings > Connection Type.
Once selected, click Next, then complete the connection wizard.
45
46
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
General Information
Lacerte helps you track the status of e-filed returns as they move through the e-file process, and print an
acceptance letter for each client after their return is accepted by the IRS.
This section shows you how to track your e-filed returns, print acceptance letters for e-filed returns, and
use filters to display specific e-file status information.
The State Appendix provides information regarding state returns that can also be e-filed using Lacerte.
CHECKING THE E-FILE STATUS
Prerequisites
You must have submitted the sample e-file return to check the status. If you haven't, complete the
exercises in the Transmitting & Acknowledgements section.
Objective
In this exercise, you will check the status of an e-file return using the Client Status feature.
Facts
Use the Client Status feature to view the e-file status of TUT-EF-1.
Just as you can use the Client Status feature to track work in progress, you can also use the Status
feature to check the Status of an individual e-file return. For e-file clients, the program creates an
additional tab in the Status window.
You can also check the status of multiple clients by using the Database Reports feature. This allows you
to view and print reports containing the various e-file statuses.
How?
To check the e-file Status (All Clients View):
1. Select TUT-EF1 in the client list.
2. On the Client menu, select Status or press [F4].
3. Select the e-File Status tab. This displays the electronic filing status for the client.
47
4. Click OK.
To check the e-file Status (e-file Clients View*):

1. Click the status hyperlink in the Fed EF Status or State EF Status columns on the client list.
2. This displays the e-file status for the client.
48
3. Click OK.
*see Tips and Shortcuts below
To generate a report displaying the e-file status for multiple clients:

1. Select the clients you want to include in the report. You can select multiple clients using the
Group Select feature. Click the Select a Group of Clients icon on the toolbar.
2. On the E-File menu, select e-file Activity Report.
3. In the list at the top of the window, choose a report type.
49
 Click Complete Activity for the complete e-file history for the selected client(s), including the
reason for rejection, if applicable.
 Click Condensed Activity for a one-line summary for the selected client(s), including the client
number, social security number, DCN, type of electronic return, dates the e-file return was sent
and received, and when the return was accepted or rejected.
4. Select the check box(es) next to the status(es) you want to include in the report.
Although the report automatically previews when you open this window, you may need to click
Preview to view the report if you make different selections (as in steps #3 and #4). You can also
click Print to print the report.
5. Click Close to close the e-file Activity Report window.
Tips & Shortcuts

Utilize the e-file Clients View at the Clients tab by selecting e-File Clients on the View menu:
Or click e-file Clients in the Views list.
50
By default, the program displays the following columns that can be useful for e-filing:
 Client Full Name, last name first

 e-file Status (Federal)
 e-file Status (State)
 Client Number
 Taxpayer Social Security Number
 e-file DCN / Return ID
 Extension Status (Federal)
You can adjust which columns appear at the e-file Clients View at the Display tab of the Options.
Review
You should now understand how to view and print the e-file status for an individual return or a group of
returns.
Troubleshooting
 Problem: The activity report is empty when I view or print it.
Solution: Make sure that you highlight the clients to include in the report before you open the
report. You must also ensure that the selected clients have been designated as e-file returns.
51
PRINTING ACCEPTANCE LETTERS
Prerequisites
You must have submitted the sample e-file return and received a "Federal Accepted" acknowledgement.
If you haven't, complete the exercises in the Validating & Printing and Transmitting & Acknowledgements
sections.
Objective
In this exercise, you will print the Acceptance Letter for the accepted e-file sample return.
Facts
Print the Acceptance Letter for client TUT-EF-1.
The final step in the electronic filing process is record keeping. You are required to provide the taxpayer
with a copy of:
 The acceptance letter

 The completed forms and schedules you filed for the taxpayer
 Form 8453 (if used) with the ERO's signature (original sent to Service Center where e-filed)
 Any documents that require a signature
 Any other documents that are not IRS forms or schedules.
The Acceptance Letter contains the following:
 The Declaration Control Number (DCN) assigned to the return

 The service center that received the return
 The amount of the refund or balance due
 The client's direct deposit election, and
 An 800 number for the IRS.
You cannot print the Acceptance Letter until you receive the "Federal Accepted" acknowledgement from
the IRS. Acceptance Letters are available for regular e-filed returns and returns with e-filed extensions.
52
How?
To print the acceptance letter:
1. Select the clients for whom you want to print letters.
2. On the E-File menu, select Print Acceptance Letters.
3. Select the Letter Type for the Acceptance Letter you wish to print, and then click Print.
53
4. Select Printer in the Print To section of the Print Settings dialog.
5. Click OK, and then click Close.
After the acceptance letter prints, Lacerte assigns a status of e-file Complete to the return.
Tips & Shortcuts

You can print the Acceptance Letter to a PDF File that can be e-mailed to your client.
To print a PDF File:

1. In the Print Settings window, check the File (PDF) box in the Print To section.
54
2. Click OK.
3. Select a name and location for the file.
4. Click Save.
Review
You should now understand how to print Acceptance Letters for e-filed returns.
55
Troubleshooting
 Problem: I get an "Incomplete" message when I try to print the Acceptance Letter.
Solution: Make sure that you have received "Accepted" acknowledgements for the selected
client(s).
56

Lacerte - e - File - Returns (Wazhua - Com)

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Исходное описание:

Оригинальное название

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Lacerte - e - File - Returns (Wazhua - Com)

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Lacerte: e-File Returns Tutorials

Copyright 2010 Intuit, Inc. Intuit, Inc.

General Information .................................................................................................................................... 2

e-file Preparation and Application Process.............................................................................................. 4

The e-File Setup wizard .............................................................................................................................. 8

Entering Client Detail ................................................................................................................................ 16

Paperless e-File ......................................................................................................................................... 22

Validating The Return & Printing e-File Forms ...................................................................................... 26

Checking Returns ................................................................................................................................... 26

Validating Returns .................................................................................................................................. 28

Printing E-File Forms ................................................................................................................................ 31

Transmitting E-Files & Receiving Acknowledgements ......................................................................... 34

Creating & Transmitting E-Files .............................................................................................................. 34

Receiving Acknowledgements ................................................................................................................ 41

Additional Information .............................................................................................................................. 47

Checking The E-File Status .................................................................................................................... 47

Printing Acceptance Letters .................................................................................................................... 52

E-FILE PREPARATION AND APPLICATION PROCESS

3. Click Registration Services and follow the instructions.

To complete and mail Form 8633:

Question Recommended Input

4 1040, ETD (extensions), 1065, 1120, 990

7, 8, 10 Provide original signatures

Standard Postal Service Overnight Mail Service

Internal Revenue Service

Tips & Shortcuts

THE E-FILE SETUP WIZARD

2. Click Next when the wizard opens.

3. Enter the preparer(s) for your firm and click Next.

Connect to Lacerte to initialize the batch counter:

3. Select your connection type and click Next.

4. Click Finish, and the program connects to Lacerte.

Tips & Shortcuts

ENTERING CLIENT DETAIL

1. Click the Add a client icon in the toolbar.

The program opens Screen 1, Client Information.

2. Enter the information from the Client Information table below:

Client Information Data Entry

Filing Status Single

Taxpayer First Name Sample

Taxpayer Last Name Reject

Taxpayer Social Security# 999-99-9999

Taxpayer Occupation Worker

Taxpayer Date of Birth 8/13/1948

Street 1234 Testing Drive

State, Zip TX, 75240

Select a Preparer in the Miscellaneous Info

Enter employee information:

Employer Information Data Entry

Name of employer Employer1

Employer Address 1234 Anyplace Drive

Employer City Anytown

Employer ZIP Code 75240

Enter wages information:

Wages Data Entry

Retirement Plan (15)

Wages (1) $50,000

Federal income tax

Box 12a: D – Elective

Enter Pension information:

Pensions Data Entry

Name of payer Payer1