How to Apply for your EFIN for Tax Preparers

Get your EFIN or Electronic Filing Identification Number and start your tax preparation business.
In 2012, the IRS made EFIN as a requirement for tax preparers who prepares and files 11 or more tax forms during a calendar year. Getting an EFIN would enable you to efficiently file tax returns for your clients with lesser processing time. Overall, the e-file system increases your productivity and improves your client service.
Did You Know?
You need your EFIN before you can purchase your professional tax software.
In this video, you’ll know everything you need to know about EFIN. You’ll learn what it is, why it’s important to your business, and how to apply. Take the first steps in getting your professional tax software.
Understand how to get an EFIN so you can start your tax career now!
References:
UltimateTax - www.ultimatetax.com
Get your PTIN to Be a Tax Preparer - www.ultimatetax.com/tax-prepa...
Get your EFIN for your Tax Preparation Business
www.ultimatetax.com//tax-prep...
How to Get Your PTIN for Tax Preparers
• How to Get Your PTIN f...
IRS References
Become an Authorized e-File Provider - www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/...
FAQs about EFIN - www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/...
Reference to music:
At the End of the Day | audiohero.com | Publisher: S.I. Publishing (SOCAN) | Album: Corporate Power
Backbone of the Company | audiohero.com | Publisher: S.I. Publishing (SOCAN) | Album: Corporate Success

[@eztaxservicesllc3202]

Do you have a video on how to do the application like im a home business but on the application do i put that address or my virtual address

[@advanceknowledge3835]

Hi, thank you so much for this video. If the application is rejected can we reapply, please?

[@lapulgavargas6419]

Where can I buy a software to do taxes

[@NoNonsenseNan]

When I applied for EFIN it asked me about my website and things like External Vulnerability test...I have no clue how to answer these questions. My website will not be used to transmit client info. I use 3rd party apps for that? Do I just answer NO to all those questions??

[@user-zt4dp7sc4o]

Getting EFIN, do you need to be a US citizen or permanent resident while living in the USA? I am a legal resident in the US and authorized to work, please replay

[@AbhinavGulechha]

If I am not a citizen of US and live outside US can I apply for EFIN

[@deannawilson3421]

Do i need to have an LLC already established to file for the EFIN? Im looking to file my LLC on the 1st of January but want to apply for the EFIN now.

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

Normally it takes a minimum of 45 days to get a new EFIN.

[@lialex22]

if i already created an account when i applied for my ptin do I use the same account to apply for the efin thanks

[@widgerjoseph4923]

hello if i live in an other country do you think i can get a PTIN please ?

[@relanamapugilo]

💪

[@zoemotivation]

do u need an ein in order to apply for efin?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

No you do not.

[@bkpjoshi]

I already have EFIN. Whether my (Single Member viz. myself) needs a separate EFIN? ULTIMATE Tax, please Reply. Thanks.

[@dannyalex6144]

Hi! I was in process of EFIN application and I got to where it asked about adding a principal which I didn't understand. can you help clarify that please?

[@dirttydianna7537]

I have my PTIN and applied for my EFILE in April 2021 and has not received anything in the mail. I called the IRS in dec 2021 and its like that can't tell me anything. I don't owe and I don't have a criminal background anyway, they submitted an expedited ticket and said I should here something mid jan 2022 well its feb 2022. on the website it says that it should not be no more than 45 days for a response. Can I be a sole proprietor and work from home for now and apply for efile number? or should I change it to LLC?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

The normal process is 45 days. We have seen longer delays this year. As far as how your account is setup we cannot speak to that. I would suggest making a e-services account, unless you already have and monitor your application in there.

[@cturner828]

I put sole proprietor on my EFIN application because it’s only going to be me filing taxes. Was I supposed to put LLC? And do I select Principal or primary contact on the application?

[@sombraenlaluna]

I believe you can be a DBA

[@guadalupecampos2633]

Can I get approved for an EFIN if I’ve never filed taxes?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

Prior tax experience is not a requirement. You have to go through the process and the IRS approves or declines. Here is a great resource: www.ultimatetax.com/tax-preparer-center/irs-efin-details/

[@romainecrawford2720]

do I need a business to have an PTIN? why is a business address required to apply for my PTIN?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

Thank you for the comment. The business address is the address you associate with having your PTIN. Essentially it would be your mailing address.

[@rummansaeed5277]

Can non SSN holder apply for efin?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

We believe that you have to have a social to apply.

[@LuisFernando-kw4yz]

I owe back taxes. Will that affect my application?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

It might, but if you are on a payment plan then I would think they would take that into consideration.

[@raiiik923]

How can I get the fingerprints card if they don't answer the phone?

[@dirttydianna7537]

check in your area

[@janeilrobinson868]

I need help filing my paper work for a efin

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

Were you able to get your EFIN applied for?

[@marcelodossantos4479]

Quick question: I checked for my EFIN and it was approved but when I login to the e-service, I have the option to continue and at the end of the page I got the option to submit it to the IRS for approval; but on top of the page it says approved already. Anything else I need to do?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

As long as it is approved, you do not have to submit again. This is encase you need to make any changes to it.

[@theanimeaccountant1472]

So say you are a paid tax preparer with a PTIN, but not EFIN. And you electronically file clients tax returns through TurboTax or Tax slayer, what trouble can you get into?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

If you are a paid preparer, you need to put your information on the return. Using turbo tax and not putting your information is a violation.

[@pl793]

You can also contact turbo tax and set up a professional account. if you have trouble getting your efin you can still have your own office by connecting with a service bureau. I can give you info if you would like.

[@ochicoloto3524]

Thanks for the video. Do I need to create an LLC before applying for an EFIN? I want to be a sole proprietor. Can I create LLC after EFIN has been issued?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

No you don't have to. Though it would be best to have your organization complete before applying.

[@shasuvathanan3931]

Hi I am from India, How to become an IRS-authorized e-file provider

[@steelecag]

I belive you have to be US based to get an EFIN.

[@widgerjoseph4923]

how can I get a PTIN as a foreigner please who lives abroad ?

[@ultimatetaxsoftware]

That is not a service that we offer. Or know if that is something anyone offers.