Business Returns 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.

Opening the E-file Viewer

  1. Successfully generate an e-file XML file in Organizer. The system automatically creates a PDF file of the XML when you click the Create Electronic File button to create a federal or state e-file.

    Be patient! The E-File Viewer may take time to load.

  2. In the binder, on the TAS navigation tree, open the Tax Return folder and click E-File Viewer.

  3. The E-File Viewer opens with two panes. The right pane contains additional information about using the E-File Viewer.

  4. The left pane contains the navigation tree for viewing the PDF file and the full XML file.

  5. On the E-File Viewer navigation tree, click the Full XML node. You can either Open or Save the XML file. If you have an XML editor program, the file will open in the program. If you do not have an XML editor program, your computer will open the XML in Internet Explorer.

  6. Click Save to download the XML file to your computer.

  7. On the E-File navigation tree, click the PDF folder to open the file. The PDF displays as a grid with columns for line number (if applicable) in a separate window. A description of the schema element, data from the XML file, and schema element name. The Acrobat toolbar is displayed at the top of the screen.

The toolbar allows you to send the PDF file in an e-mail (letter icon), accessing a page directly by typing a number in the page field on the left (or using the up and down arrows), or Find content by selecting the bookmarks icon.

The XML header information, such as taxpayer and paid preparer information, is not displayed in the PDF. However, this information can be verified by reviewing the full XML file. Click the file under the PDF folder. For advanced use of the Adobe® Acrobat Reader® DC, see https:// helpx.adobe.com/reader.html

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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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/oit_ef_review_1.htm/TY2020

Last Modified: 08/10/2021

Last System Build: 09/13/2021

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