Tax Tip 2025-05: Tax Pros: Become an authorized e-file provider in three steps

IRS Tax Tips

Jan. 22, 2026

Issue Number: Tax Tip 2026-05

Tax Pros: Become an authorized e-file provider in three steps

Tax professionals must become an authorized e-file provider to file their clients' federal tax returns electronically. The process is as easy as 1-2-3. E-filing is the most secure and accurate way to file returns, and it saves time.

How to apply
Tax pros can complete and submit an authorized e-file provider application online with IRS.gov. They can complete the application at their own pace, save their progress and return to it later.
To complete the application, tax pros should:

Sign into an existing account or create a new account with the e-Services e-file application
Fill out identification information for their firm
Enter information about each principal and responsible official in their organization
Choose the e-file provider option
Select "Electronic Return Originator" if they are return preparers who want to offer e-file to their clients
Enter their current professional status information such as whether the principal or responsible official is certified or licensed

Get fingerprinted
If the applicant isn't already certified or licensed, they must schedule an appointment with the IRS-authorized vendor for fingerprinting. The scheduling link is on the e-file application summary page. There is no charge for this service.

Pass a suitability check
After the IRS receives the application and required information, the agency will conduct a suitability check which may include a:

Credit check
Tax compliance check
Criminal background check
Check for prior non-compliance with IRS e-file requirements

It can take up to 45 days from the date of submission for the IRS to approve an application. Once an application is approved, the IRS sends an acceptance letter in the mail with the preparer's Electronic Filing Identification number.

More information

Subscribe to IRS Tax Tips

Thank you for subscribing to IRS Tax Tips, an IRS e-mail service. For more information on federal taxes please visit IRS.gov.

This message was distributed automatically from the IRS Tax Tips mailing list. Please Do Not Reply To This Message.

Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com.

This service is provided to you at no charge by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

This email was sent to [email protected] by: Internal Revenue Service (IRS) · Internal Revenue Service · 1111 Constitution Ave. N.W. · Washington, D.C. 20535

Useful Links:

News Essentials

The Newsroom Topics

IRS Resources

Issue Number: Tax Tip 2026-05