EFIN Number: How to Obtain Your Electronic Filing ID in 2025

An EFIN number, or Electronic Filing Identification Number, is a 6-digit code issued by the IRS to authorize tax professionals to e-file tax returns. To obtain an EFIN, you must complete the IRS e-file application, pass a suitability check, and receive an acceptance letter. This number is crucial for tax preparers to streamline the filing process and ensure compliance with IRS regulations. Maintaining an active EFIN involves renewing it periodically and safeguarding it against unauthorized use.

For small businesses and tax professionals, acquiring an EFIN enhances efficiency and client trust, making it an essential component of modern tax preparation.

What is an efin and what does it stand for?

EFIN stands for Electronic Filing Identification Number. It is a 6-digit number that allows you to electronically file tax returns, making the entire process easier, streamlined, and simpler. In addition, an EFIN helps to identify firms that pass a suitability check and have completed the IRS e-file application.

If you are curious about how to get an EFIN, then you'll be glad to know that the process is quite smooth. The number is issued to companies and individuals who are approved as authorized IRS e-File providers.

After that, you need to complete the appropriate e-File applications. The IRS will then send an acceptance letter, complete with the EFIN included. You can then use this EFIN to file and prepare your taxes comfortably.

Instead of the number being assigned to an individual, the entire firm owns the EFIN. It is considered to be key to providing better service to your clients while complying with the federal and legal demands for electronic tax filing. Getting an EFIN can allow you to act as a fiduciary on behalf of your clients.

How long does it take to get an EFIN

Typical timeline for EFIN approval

The typical timeline to get an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) ranges from 4 to 6 weeks after submitting your application to the IRS. This period includes the IRS reviewing your background check, fingerprint results, and business details. The IRS uses this time to ensure security and compliance before issuing the EFIN.

For example, if you apply in early January 2024, you can expect to receive your EFIN by mid to late February 2024. The IRS recommends submitting your application well before tax season to avoid delays. Incomplete applications or errors can extend this timeline significantly.

To stay on track, prepare all required documents upfront, including your fingerprint cards and business information. Using IRS-approved fingerprint vendors like IdentoGO can speed up the background check process. Monitor your application status online through the IRS e-Services portal to stay informed and address any issues promptly.

Factors that can affect your EFIN processing time

Several factors can influence how long it takes to get your EFIN. One major factor is the accuracy and completeness of your application. Missing information or errors can cause the IRS to request additional documents, which adds weeks to the process. For instance, failing to submit fingerprint cards on time often leads to delays.

Another factor is the volume of applications the IRS is handling. During peak tax season, processing times may increase due to higher demand. Additionally, if your business is located in a state with specific licensing requirements, you may need to provide extra verification, further extending the timeline.

To minimize delays, double-check your application before submission and use the IRS’s online tools to verify requirements specific to your state. Consulting with tax software providers like Drake or TaxSlayer Pro can also help you navigate the application process more efficiently.

How to expedite your EFIN application

You can take several steps to expedite your EFIN application. First, submit your application early, ideally several months before you plan to start e-filing. Early submission reduces the risk of delays caused by IRS backlogs during tax season.

Second, use IRS-approved fingerprint vendors such as IdentoGO or Fieldprint to complete your background check promptly. Scheduling your fingerprint appointment as soon as you apply helps avoid unnecessary waiting periods. Some vendors offer expedited services for an additional fee.

Finally, ensure your application is complete and accurate by reviewing IRS Form 8633 instructions carefully. If you use tax software like TaxSlayer Pro or Drake, they often provide checklists and reminders to help avoid common mistakes. Staying proactive and organized is key to receiving your EFIN as quickly as possible.

Efin requirements

Who is eligible for an efin?

An Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) is available to individuals and businesses that prepare or transmit federal tax returns electronically. Eligibility primarily includes tax professionals, enrolled agents, certified public accountants (CPAs), and tax preparation firms.

Freelancers and small business owners who file their own taxes electronically do not need an EFIN unless they plan to submit returns for others.

To qualify for an EFIN, applicants must have a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) issued by the IRS. Additionally, the IRS requires applicants to pass a suitability check, which includes a background check and review of prior compliance with tax laws. This process ensures only trustworthy individuals or entities handle electronic submissions.

For example, a freelance accountant who assists multiple clients with tax filing must apply for an EFIN to submit returns electronically on their behalf. Understanding your eligibility helps avoid unnecessary applications and streamlines your tax filing process.

Who is required to have an efin?

Anyone who transmits federal tax returns electronically to the IRS must have an EFIN. This includes tax professionals, accounting firms, and software companies that submit returns for clients. The IRS mandates this requirement to maintain security and accountability in electronic filing.

For small business owners who file only their own returns, an EFIN is not required. However, if a business hires an external preparer or uses software that submits returns on its behalf, that preparer or software provider must have an EFIN. For example, a CPA firm preparing taxes for multiple small businesses must have an EFIN to comply with IRS regulations.

Ensuring the correct party holds an EFIN prevents delays or rejections in electronic submissions. If you plan to expand your services to include filing for others, obtaining an EFIN is a critical step to stay compliant in 2024.

Necessary documentation and prerequisites for an efin number

Applying for an EFIN requires specific documentation and meeting IRS prerequisites. First, applicants must have a valid PTIN and complete the IRS e-Services registration. This process includes identity verification through Form 8633, which must be submitted electronically.

Applicants also need to provide business details such as legal name, address, and Employer Identification Number (EIN) if applicable. The IRS conducts a suitability check that reviews criminal background, prior tax compliance, and credit history to ensure applicants meet security standards.

For example, a sole proprietor applying for an EFIN must submit their Social Security Number (SSN) for background checks, while a corporation will provide its EIN. After submission, the IRS typically processes EFIN applications within 45 days, but delays can occur if documentation is incomplete. Staying organized and submitting all required forms accurately speeds up approval.

How to apply for an EFIN

Understand what an EFIN is and why you need one

An Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) is a unique number assigned by the IRS to tax professionals who are authorized to electronically file tax returns. You need an EFIN to submit tax returns electronically on behalf of clients or your own business. Without an EFIN, the IRS will reject your electronic submissions.

For freelancers and small business owners who prepare taxes or offer tax-related services, obtaining an EFIN is essential to streamline filing and maintain compliance. The IRS uses the EFIN to track authorized e-file providers and ensure security in the tax filing process.

Before starting your application, confirm that you meet IRS requirements, including passing a suitability check that reviews your background and business practices. This step helps protect taxpayer data and maintain trust in the e-filing system.

Gather the necessary information and documents

To apply for an EFIN, you need specific information about your business and yourself. This includes your Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN), your business address, and contact details. Having these ready speeds up the application process.

You will also need to provide details about your business structure, such as whether you operate as a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporation. The IRS uses this information to verify your identity and business legitimacy. Additionally, prepare to provide your prior year's tax return if applicable.

Keep your personal and business records organized during this process. Use tools like HelloBonsai, QuickBooks, or Bonsai Tax to manage your business information efficiently. These tools make it easier to retrieve documents when applying for the EFIN.

Complete and submit the IRS e-file application

The IRS requires applicants to complete Form 8633, the Application to Participate in the IRS e-file Program. You must submit this form electronically through the IRS e-Services website, which is available year-round. The application involves providing your business details and agreeing to IRS terms.

After submitting Form 8633, the IRS will conduct a suitability check, which includes a background check and verifying your business information. This process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks but can vary depending on IRS workload. You can check your application status through the e-Services portal.

Once approved, the IRS will issue your EFIN, which you can then use to electronically file tax returns. Remember to keep your EFIN secure and only share it with authorized personnel to prevent misuse.

Maintain your EFIN and stay compliant

After receiving your EFIN, maintaining compliance with IRS rules is crucial. This includes safeguarding taxpayer data and renewing your participation annually by submitting updated information if required. Failure to comply can result in suspension or revocation of your EFIN.

Use IRS e-Services to update your contact information and monitor your EFIN status. Additionally, stay informed about IRS e-file program changes by subscribing to IRS newsletters or checking official IRS updates regularly.

For freelancers and small business owners, integrating your EFIN management with software like HelloBonsai can help track deadlines and compliance tasks, ensuring your e-filing privileges remain active without interruption.

Can anyone get an efin?

No, not everyone can obtain an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN). EFINs are issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to tax professionals who are authorized to e-file tax returns for their clients. To qualify for an EFIN, tax professionals must meet certain requirements set by the IRS.

To apply for an EFIN, tax professionals must complete the IRS e-file application process, which includes:

• Submitting Form 8633 (Application to Participate in the IRS e-file Program)
• Undergoing a suitability check conducted by the IRS
• Passing a background check
• Providing business and personal information as required

1. Obtaining a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN)
2. Passing a suitability check
3. Paying a fee

Additionally, tax professionals must have a valid Electronic Signature Agreement on file with the IRS, have a computer system that meets IRS e-file requirements, and have completed an IRS-sponsored training course on e-filing.

EFINs are not issued to individuals who are not tax professionals or who do not meet IRS requirements for e-filing. For example, individuals who only prepare their own tax returns do not need an EFIN and, therefore, cannot obtain one.

Additionally, individuals who are not authorized to prepare and file tax returns for others, such as those who do not have a valid PTIN, cannot obtain an EFIN.

Furthermore, the IRS may deny or revoke an EFIN if a tax professional engages in unethical or illegal practices, fails to comply with IRS rules and regulations related to e-filing, or if their computer system fails to meet the IRS e-file requirements.

The eligibility criteria also have other caveats. The eligible principal or responsible official must be a U.S. citizen or a foreigner with permanent resident status. They must be over 18 years of age at the time of application. Lastly, they must meet state and local bonding requirements for maintaining tax returns.

Can I prepare taxes without an efin?

It is no longer possible to prepare taxes without an EFIN for tax preparation businesses. All tax preparation businesses and consultancies must have an EFIN as per IRS requirements. Additionally, any business that files over 10 tax returns must use the dedicated e-File services. As a result, e-filing is now mandatory for businesses.

If you are not a tax professional, you do not need an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) to prepare your own tax return. You can prepare your tax return manually by filling out the necessary forms and mailing them to the IRS. You can also use tax preparation software to prepare your return electronically without needing an EFIN. The IRS also provides a Free File program that allows eligible taxpayers to prepare and file their federal tax returns for free without needing an EFIN.

However, suppose you are a tax professional who prepares tax returns for clients. In that case, you are required to have an EFIN to file those returns with the IRS electronically. If you do not have an EFIN, you cannot e-file tax returns on behalf of your clients. Instead, you will need to prepare the returns manually and have your clients sign and mail them to the IRS.

Obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) if you are paid to prepare tax returns for others, even though an EFIN is not required to prepare your own tax return.

A PTIN is a unique number issued by the IRS to tax professionals who are authorized to prepare federal tax returns. If you are a paid tax preparer, you must have a valid PTIN in order to prepare tax returns for others.

Efin expiration and IRS rules

An EFIN does not expire and does not require renewal once it is issued, which clears up confusion for entrepreneurs and tax preparers wondering about its expiration.

However, be warned. If your company does not file tax returns through electronic means for two consecutive years, the IRS will send you a notification about its removal from the list of active e-file providers.

After receiving a removal notification, you have 60 days to respond. You can reactivate your EFIN by replying to the notification and following the instructions. If you fail to respond in time, you must submit a new application to start over.

Suspensions and cancellations of EFINs are uncommon, but possible. If suspended, you can apply to reactivate your EFIN. If expelled, you cannot reapply.

How many returns can you file without an efin?

Individual taxpayers can file their returns electronically without an EFIN by using IRS-approved tax preparation software or online platforms. These tools submit tax returns electronically on their behalf without requiring an EFIN.

The IRS limits electronic filing from an unlicensed tax preparer to 5 returns to prevent fraud and abuse. Individual taxpayers, however, can file unlimited electronic tax returns without an EFIN.

Taxpayers who file more than 5 returns electronically must obtain an EFIN by applying to the IRS and meeting specific requirements. This ensures accountability among tax preparers.

The IRS requires tax professionals to pass a suitability check, comply with e-file requirements, and submit fingerprints for a background check to obtain an EFIN.

Individual taxpayers can file electronic returns without an EFIN, and there is no limit to the number they can file without one.

The IRS limits electronic filings to 5 returns from a single computer or IP address. Taxpayers filing more than 5 returns must obtain an EFIN by meeting qualifications and applying to the IRS.

What software do tax preparers use?

E-filing is mostly done through tax software and applications that offer convenience, user-friendly interfaces, increased security, and save time for tax preparers and companies.

One of the most widely used tax filing software includes:

• QuickBooks

Quickbooks

Quickbooks offers an all-in-one umbrella solution for tracking expenses, running reports, and customizing invoices. In addition, they attempt to offer customized support for different types of users so as to meet their needs better. As such, they have different packages, each suited to a different type of customer.

The three packages offered are for starting businesses, running businesses, and expanding businesses. All of these include the basic functions of:

• Tracking income and expenses
• Tracking GST and VAT
• Integration with business account software
• Progress invoicing
• Reporting and insights
• And much more

However, for running and expanding businesses, there are premium features. These include:

• Managing bills and payments
• Multi-currency utility
• Inventory tracking
• Budget management
• Project profitability

The core idea behind Quickbooks's success and rapid adoption is its commitment to convenience. The software also has mobile applications, allowing for managing accounts and taxes on the go. This is perhaps why almost 3.4 million small businesses are using it.

With loads of options to choose from, each customizable, Quickbooks is the go-to application for many businesses and individuals. Additional cloud storage and accountant access also help to build closer and stronger relationships. In addition, by cutting down the time from hours to minutes, Quickbooks is helping SMEs save time and bolster convenience.

TaxSlayer

TaxSlayer Pro is another well-established software that is designed for preparing taxes efficiently. In addition, it provides a plethora of resources and utilities that make this quite a useful app for unlimited tax filing.

The app provides guidance on preparing taxes and properly filing them, making this one good for beginners. The app allows multiple devices to be used simultaneously to prepare individual tax returns. In addition, there are different price plans for different taxes, such as state, local, and federal.

TaxSlayer offers convenience and attractive price plans. They greatly boost individual tax preparers who need to file taxes for dozens of clients at once. The user interface is helpful, and the guidance provided can be useful if you run into any problems or irregularities.

Due to its guaranteed refund policy, online support, and special guides available, TaxSlayer was rated #1 on Trustpilot. The app guarantees 100% accuracy and is a brilliant investment for tax preparers, new and old alike.

Due to its affordability and inclusive product lines, many service providers have even taken to use it as freelancers. However, the app does not support certain business returns. Thus, despite being affordable, accurate, and comprehensive, it may not be suited for every project.

Bonsai

Bonsai Tax provides a tax and financial management software that is designed for accuracy, speed, and convenience. It is built exclusively for self-employed tax preparers to track expenses, estimate quarterly taxes, and maximize tax write-offs.

The app can integrate into your bank or credit/debit card and automatically generate tax receipts for increased convenience and speed. With Bonsai Tax, you easily have your transactions scanned for any potential tax write-offs. Then, with a few clicks, you can have the results you need with little hassle.

Bonsai Tax promises to help you save an average of $5,600 per year and help you avoid surprise bills during tax time. This is a godsend for self-employed tax preparers and tax firms. The ability to enjoy tax write-offs and save thousands of dollars per year is a huge benefit.

Since Bonsai automatically identifies the expenses that are deductible, it helps to save you some extra money during tax time. The app also allows for better calculation and tracking of expenses so you can rest assured about any surprise tax bills.

Perhaps the best thing about Bonsai is that it is part of a larger financial assistance software suite. Bonsai Tax can be used alongside:

• Bonsai CRM
• accounting
• business account
• invoicing

It can handle all financial matters, enabling a financial service provider to leverage the entire Bonsai service line for greater benefit and convenience.

H&R Block

H&R Block is a tax preparation software that allows individuals to prepare and file their taxes online. It offers various features to help taxpayers maximize their refund and ensure that they pay the correct amount of taxes. In addition, the software has a user-friendly interface that guides taxpayers through the filing process step-by-step.

H&R Block also offers a feature called "Worry-Free Audit Support," which provides assistance in the event of an audit by the IRS. In addition, the software can import tax information from other sources, such as W-2s and 1099s. It can also import data from previous years' tax returns.

H&R Block offers free federal tax filing for simple tax returns and charges a fee for more complex returns.

Jackson Hewitt

Jackson Hewitt is another tax preparation software that allows individuals to file their taxes online. The software offers a user-friendly interface that guides taxpayers through the filing process. It also offers various features to help taxpayers maximize their refund and ensure that they pay the correct amount of taxes.

Jackson Hewitt offers a "Maximum Refund Guarantee," which promises to get taxpayers the maximum refund they are entitled to. In addition, the software can import tax information from other sources, such as W-2s and 1099s. It can also import data from previous years' tax returns.

Jackson Hewitt offers free federal tax filing for simple tax returns and charges a fee for more complex returns. It also offers a feature called "Audit Defense," which provides assistance in the event of an audit by the IRS.

Conclusion

The process of obtaining an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) requires proper eligibility. The IRS issues EFINs to make electronic tax filing easier and smoother. With more tax preparers filing taxes online, e-filing has become essential in the tax business.

Having an EFIN offers many benefits for your firm. You can file unlimited tax returns, save time and costs, and keep your information secure. Since an EFIN does not expire, you can use it for long-term benefit.

Due to the growth of online and electronic tax software, many companies have emerged promising accurate results. Software such as QuickBooks, TaxSlayer, H&R Block, and Jackson Hewitt serve particular niches. All offer ease in filing and tax preparation at affordable prices.

Bonsai competes in this field by providing an umbrella of financial tools for self-employed tax preparers and financial firms. From accounting software to invoicing assistance, Bonsai's tax preparation software makes filing taxes easier and more convenient. It also helps save money. To learn how to get an EFIN, consider consulting Bonsai.

Bonsai is a full-stack suite of business tools, including CRM, scheduling, and invoicing for accountants, coaches, consultants, and others. Start your free trial today.

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