1120 E-file: Reviewing the E-file Return

Business returns and extensions are transmitted to the IRS as XML files. The XML file can be downloaded from the RS Browser for your review and record keeping, and can also be reviewed with the E-file Viewer.

Downloading the XML File For Review

From the RS Browser, select Returns Processing > E-file > Download > Select Returns.
Use the drop-down lists to select an Account and the Year for the e-files you want to download. Select one of the options for the return Type. To further refine your search, employ the Sort List by and Assigned To options. After selecting the Jurisdiction from the drop-down list, select Continue.
For the account and criteria selected, a list of available returns is shown, Select the check box to select e-files to download, and then select Continue.
Even though more than one file can be listed, only one return can be selected.
A Federal e-File Download page is displayed for you to confirm your selection. Select Close.
Select Batch Status on the left menu. Use the drop-down list to select a Year and Return Type on the Batch Status screen. If desired, enter the Date Batch Submitted dates (From (MM/DD/YYYY) and To (MM/DD/YYYY). Select Continue.
Select the Batch ID hyperlink for the return you want to download.
The e-File Download Batch Details dialog box is displayed. Select Download All. However, if the return has a password, select the return hyperlink after entering the password in the field.
A pop-up dialog box is displayed at the bottom of the screen. Select Open to save the XML as before, or select Save, Save As, or Save and Open from the drop-down list options to save the ZIP file.
Download the file to the location selected on the Browse for Folder dialog box. Select OK.
The e-File Download Batch Details dialog box displays a dialog box that indicates Download complete, and displays File Export Complete in the Export Status column.
At the bottom of the screen on the popup dialog box, select Open. View the ZIP file by selecting the XML file inside the ZIP application, or saving the file and using a text editor.

Reviewing with Internet Explorer or a Text Editor

You can view the XML file using the Internet Explorer browser or a text editor, such as Notepad.

When viewing the XML file, the return/extension data can be identified by the surrounding schema element names (enclosed in angled brackets, such as <TOTALDEDUCTIONS>) and the number (267199) highlighted below.
By reviewing the actual XML file in an editor, you can confirm the accuracy of the return or extension e-file that is sent to the IRS.

E-file/1120_ef_review_1.htm/TY2020

Last Modified: 03/20/2020

Last System Build: 09/13/2021