IRS E-File API?

Question

I've been trying to understand how IRS e-file works. Does anyone know if it's a public API, and if so, where I can get information on it? Google has not been helpful.

Answer 1

My company, http://www.aplossoftware.com is an Authorized IRS e-File Provider. It is quite the process to get approved to become an e-file provider for the IRS. Several layers of application, fingerprinting, FBI background checks, to extremely buggy sdk... with few log explanations.

If you are serious about getting into the IRS e-file program, Publication 3112 was a helpful overview of process: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p3112.pdf

IRS recently updated their site and changed all the urls with no forwarding...

Here is the Modernized e-File main page: https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/modernized-e-file-program-information

Another helpful document is Publication 4164, Modernized e-File Guide for Software Developers and Transmitters.

E-file application questions are handled by the e-Help Desk. Here is the e-Help desk email inbox: [email protected] You can email that inbox for any specific inquiries.

IRS also does have an SDK. You just have to email the help desk to request it and they'll send you a form to fill out to officially request it.

Good luck..

Answer 2

It looks like this page has the list of documentation for the efile process: https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/become-an-authorized-e-file-provider