1040 E-file: Creating the E-file for the Return

After verifying that e-file diagnostics do not exist, create the data e-file:

  1. Go to E-file > Enable/Create, and select the Return tab.

  2. Click the Create Return E-files button on this form.
  3. To see the results from creating the e-file, check the information under Column I (Number of Validation Errors) for each jurisdiction (federal and/or state) to see the details.
  4. To review the validation errors, select View > Diagnostics > Efile XML Validation Errors, and select Federal or State.
  5. Correct the invalid input causing the errors.
  6. Recreate the XML file by clicking the Create Return E-files button to clear all validation errors.

Reviewing with the E-file Viewer

Click here for more information.

Sending Returns and Checking Status for E-File

Send your return and check the e-file status on your return.

Make sure that the file is generated as the last step before sending (after ALL changes have been made to the return). If not, incorrect information will be sent to the IRS.

E-file Statuses

If the return contains reject e-file diagnostics or XML validation errors, the Status of e-file field will display a message stating that the XML file was created, but is not qualified for e-file. The reject diagnostics and XML validation errors must be cleared and the XML file recreated.

Possible statuses that may display in the Status of e-file field are:

  • Created, but Not Qualified: The e-file return (or extension) has been created for viewing, but can not be transmitted until reject diagnostics and XML validation errors are corrected.
  • Qualified: Return (or extension) can be transmitted.
  • Sent, Started, Transmission, or Waiting: Each of these statuses indicates the return is being processed. The e-file cannot be recreated while the return shows this status.
  • Rejected: The return has been rejected by IRS (or state authority). The condition causing the reject should be corrected, and the file re-created and retransmitted.
  • Accepted: The IRS (or state authority) has accepted the return.

 

 

 

E-file/1040_ef_return_10.htm/TY2020

Last Modified: 02/17/2020

Last System Build: 09/13/2021

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