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: irs.e-helpmail@irs.gov 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