Q&A's

1)  Have you checked to ensure the accuracy of your input?

•  Did you transpose a number? 

2)  Are you using a "valid" ETIN or EFIN or Zip Code?

• ETINS contain 5 digits and EFINS contain 6.
• Is the zip code you entered, the "year round mailing address" placed on the original Application Form? (Maybe you've moved since you first applied and your zip code changed).  Did you update your new zip code on the QuickAlerts system (QA)? 
• Are you using the correct combination of numbers?  (You may be responsible for more than one site and have several EFIN/ETINs and zip code assignments - be certain to not get them confused).
• IMPORTANT... Zip code changes (as well as email addresses) are not automatically updated in the QuickAlerts database. You must access the QA system and update your information on the QuickAlerts CONTACT Screen or notify QuickAlerts@irs.gov that the password (zip code) needs to be reset.  This action is required only if you are unable to access the system with your new zip code (password).

3) Does the zip code entered consist of the first 5 digits only?

• Do not place all 9 digits in the "password" box. 
• Are you using the year round mailing address zip code?

4)  Do you have both an ETIN and EFIN?

If you have both an ETIN and an EFIN, try  the ETIN first.  If an "0" precedes the first number, enter it that way initially.

5)  Has your ETIN or EFIN been suspended?

• Please check with the e-HELP DESK, 1-866-255-0654.  If you have been removed from the program, please follow the guidelines associated with that removal or suspension.  Refer to the following Publications for additional information:
   
  Publication 1345, Handbook for Authorized IRS e-file Providers of Individual Income Tax Returns.

Revenue Procedure 2000-31, Requirements of Participants in the IRS e-file Program for Individual Income Tax Returns.

6)  Problems with the database update.**

• Your data (EFIN, ETIN and zip code)  from the Form 8633 (Application to Become an Authorized IRS e-file Provider), is entered into the IRS Third Party Data Store (TPDS).  That information is compiled into different reports.  The EFINS and ETINS reports are subsequently uploaded into the QuickAlerts online database (after no less than two weeks processing time and in some instances, could be longer depending on volume and unexpected circumstances).
• On occasion, data is sometimes skipped/missed either in the transfer or the upload from TPDS to QuickAlerts online .  **QuickAlerts will continue to address this ongoing issue.
• Contact QuickAlerts@irs.gov for assistance.  We will do our best to respond as soon as we possibly can, but please be advised that the mailbox has a tendency to become extremely backlogged during pre-filing (November/December) and throughout the filing season, making the response time slower than normal.  We ask and appreciate your patience and understanding in this matter.  

7)  If you do not have an EFIN or an ETIN assigned to you by the IRS and you wish to subscribe to the e-file QuickAlerts Messaging System, please submit your application to become an Authorized IRS e-file Provider via the online e-Services e-file Application Process or contact the e-Help Desk for further information: 1-866-255-0654.  Once you receive your EFIN or ETIN assignment, proceed to the online QuickAlerts site and follow the log in screen for access to QuickAlerts (allow no less than two weeks' processing time).  

Complete the subscription process by filling in the CONTACT screen, making your  selections on the SUBSCRIPTION screen  and associating the device choices with your contact information on the EDIT SCHEDULE screen.  "Save or Apply" on each screen to secure your entries.  Remember, your password and logon must be pre-set in order for the database to recognize your information and for you to gain access the system.

8)   QuickAlerts and e-Services

QuickAlerts and e-Services are two different systems.  Your password and Login for e-Services does not automatically carryover or transfer for purposes of signing in and subscribing to QuickAlerts.  These are two entirely different products and services.