IRS Reminds E-file Providers to Complete Annual Self-Certification and URL Registration
The IRS is reminding Authorized IRS e-file Providers that they must answer the annual self-certification questions beginning Oct. 1, 2020 to ensure they comply with Publication 1345 IRS e-file security, privacy and business standards.
If you are an Authorized IRS e-file Provider who owns or operates a website(s) that collects, transmits, stores or processes taxpayer information, the IRS also requires you to register the URL(s) for your website on your e-file Application. The annual certification process includes the registration of these websites. If you have not previously registered your URL(s), select the URL collection link on the e-file Application information page menu to register.
Registration of Websites with the IRS
To safeguard taxpayer information by more quickly identifying fraud schemes including phishing, the IRS requires Providers to register with the IRS all website that collects taxpayer information, either directly or through third parties, and used by the Provider for federal returns that are filed electronically. 15 Providers must submit the below information to the IRS prior to the website being accessible on the Internet, and submit any changes to previously provided information to the IRS within three (3) business days.
1. An EFIN for the Provider;
2. The name of a Principal or Responsible Official shown on the e-file application for the EFIN; and
3. The Uniform Resource Locators (URLs) of all websites from which the Provider collects information from taxpayers, either directly or through third parties, for electronic filing of federal returns.
Providers must login to e-services and navigate to the e-file Application. Click “Add/Delete URL” and proceed as instructed. If “Add/Delete URL” is not in the e-file Application Menu, click “Firm Information” and select “Yes” in response to the website question. After saving, the “Add/Delete URL” link should be available on the “e-file Application” menu page.
For more information, visit the IRS website.