Requirements
File under your own EFIN.
We provide the software and the IRS transmission channel. Your firm files as itself, under its own credentials — three requirements, then every return is identified correctly, automatically.
Three things your firm brings
Step 1
Your own EFIN with the ERO option
Your firm files under its own identity, so you need your own IRS e-file application with the Electronic Return Originator option. If you already e-file today, you already have one — if not, apply through IRS e-Services and plan on about 45 days for fingerprinting and suitability.
Step 2
We verify your EFIN
After you sign up, enter your EFIN and ERO PIN in your firm settings. We verify your EFIN before enabling production e-filing — the IRS requires transmitters to transmit only for authorized EROs (Pub 3112). We may ask you for your IRS e-file application summary (a one-page PDF from e-Services) as part of that check. Production e-filing unlocks once your EFIN is verified.
Step 3
Each preparer adds their PTIN
Every return identifies the preparer who made it — name and PTIN — automatically, from whoever is signed in preparing it. Each of your preparers adds their PTIN to their profile once.
Who provides what
Identity on the return | Who provides it |
|---|---|
| Tax software + IRS Software ID | Lanatax — every return carries it, you never need your own |
| IRS transmission channel (ETIN, certificates, MeF connection) | Lanatax — we transmit for you; firms never need an ETIN |
| EFIN (ERO — who originates the return) | Your firm — your returns file under YOUR EFIN, never anyone else’s |
| Firm name, EIN, address | Your firm — printed and transmitted in the paid-preparer section |
| Preparer name + PTIN | Each preparer — resolved per return, automatically |
IRS Pub 3112 expressly allows EROs to contract with an accepted third-party transmitter, and does not allow firms to share an EFIN. That transmitter is Lanatax — the transmission side is entirely ours to run and maintain.
Bring your firm to Lanatax
Sign up, add your EFIN in firm settings, and start preparing.