IRS ACCOUNT
ACCESS
Sign in with an existing IRS account or create one so you can access e-Services and the IRS e-file application.
EFIN SERVICES
INTERESTED IN OBTAINING YOUR EFIN?
An Electronic Filing Identification Number identifies a firm approved to participate in IRS e-file. Use this guide to understand the application, suitability review, estimated timeline, and the steps that follow approval.
YOUR EFIN IS
THE E-FILE
FOUNDATION.
An EFIN is used to identify a firm that has completed the IRS e-file application and has been accepted as an authorized IRS e-file provider. Providers need an EFIN to electronically file tax returns through IRS e-file.
The EFIN is firm-based. Your application includes information about the firm, its principals, responsible officials, provider role, professional status, and other information requested by the IRS.
Approval is not instant. The IRS reviews the application and conducts a suitability check before issuing the firm's acceptance letter and EFIN.
IMPORTANT DISTINCTION
A PTIN identifies an individual paid return preparer. An EFIN identifies an approved firm participating in IRS e-file.
KNOW WHAT THE IRS WILL REQUEST.
Gather the information and credentials connected to your firm, principals, responsible officials, provider role, and professional status before starting.
IRS ACCOUNT
FIRM
INFORMATION
Prepare your legal business name, tax identification information, address, entity details, and other firm information requested in the application.
PRINCIPALS AND
RESPONSIBLE OFFICIALS
Identify the people who control the firm and the individuals responsible for ensuring compliance with IRS e-file rules.
PROVIDER
TYPE
Select the provider role that matches your operation. Return preparers who want to e-file for clients generally select Electronic Return Originator.
PROFESSIONAL STATUS OR
FINGERPRINTING
Licensed or certified applicants enter current professional status. Other principals and responsible officials may need IRS-authorized fingerprinting.
SUITABILITY
REVIEW
The IRS suitability check may include credit, tax compliance, criminal background, and prior e-file compliance reviews.
DO NOT WAIT UNTIL FILING SEASON
APPROVAL CAN TAKE
APPROVAL CAN TAKE
UP TO 45 DAYS.
The IRS states that approval can take up to 45 days from submission. Missing information, fingerprinting requirements, or additional review can extend the process, so begin well before you plan to transmit returns.
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
HOW TO GET YOUR
HOW TO GET YOUR
EFIN STEP BY STEP.
Complete each stage carefully and keep your firm information current after approval.
Prepare credentials
Access application
Submit application
Complete review
Receive EFIN
-
1
PREPARE YOUR TAX PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS
Obtain or renew any required PTINs for individuals who prepare federal returns for compensation, and gather your firm's legal and ownership information.
-
2
ACCESS THE IRS E-FILE APPLICATION
Sign in through the IRS account system, open e-Services, and access the e-file provider application.
-
3
COMPLETE AND SUBMIT THE FIRM APPLICATION
Enter the requested firm, principal, responsible official, provider-role, and professional-status information.
-
4
COMPLETE FINGERPRINTING AND SUITABILITY REVIEW
Complete fingerprinting when required and allow the IRS to perform the applicable suitability check.
-
5
RECEIVE THE ACCEPTANCE LETTER AND EFIN
After approval, the IRS issues an acceptance letter containing the firm's EFIN. Protect it and use it only for the approved firm.
GET A PERSONAL EFIN
WALKTHROUGH.
Get organized before you submit. A focused walkthrough can help you understand the application flow, prepare your information, and identify the next action for your specific situation.
FOCUSED 30-MINUTE SESSION
Review your current stage, timeline, documents, and the next steps to complete.
APPLICATION GUIDANCE
Understand the firm information, responsible roles, and suitability requirements involved.
CLEAR NEXT ACTION
Leave the session knowing exactly what to complete next and where to find it.