Using the Self-Select Personal Identification Number (PIN) with 1040 electronic extensions

Show expandable text

New (tax) year, new help!

Fixed Assets and UltraTax CS 2023 help is now on Help and Support. We're still moving articles, but you can find most content for the 2023 tax year there. Continue using the Help & How-To Center for tax years 2022 and older.

Screen PIN allows the use of the IRS Self-Select method for the Personal Identification Number (PIN) signature with the federal extension Forms 4868 and 2350. Also, the Practitioner PIN method is available when filing Form 4868 with Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW). The Practitioner PIN method is not available for use with electronic Form 2350. These PINs are used to electronically sign the extension forms and, if applicable, to authorize the Electronic Funds Withdrawal (Direct Debit) capability for payment of a balance due.

Be sure to review the diagnostics prior to generating the electronic file. If you have not entered all of the required data in Screen PIN, UltraTax CS generates a diagnostic that identifies the missing data. In addition, UltraTax CS does not generate Form 8878, IRS e-file Signature Authorization for Form 4868 or Form 2350, which is usually generated when there is a valid PIN in the electronically filed return.

Use the following table as a guide to determine which fields you need to complete in Screen PIN based on the return you are creating for electronic filing.

Fields to complete 1040 without electronic funds withdrawal (direct debit) 1040 with electronic funds withdrawal (direct debit) 4868 with electronic funds withdrawal 2350
Signature date X X X X
PIN authorization indicator If applicable If applicable If applicable If applicable
ERO PIN X X X X
Taxpayer PIN (if not deceased) X X X X
Spouse PIN (if not deceased) X X X X
Prior year AGI X* X* X* X
Prior year PIN X* X* X* X
Date of birth X* X* X* X

*Prior-year AGI, prior-year PIN, and date of birth are not needed for 1040 electronic filing for Practitioner PIN program filers.

Notes

  • To indicate participation in the Practitioner PIN program, choose Setup > Office Configuration > E-Filing tab > ERO button, and mark the Practitioner PIN Program filer (1040 Only) checkbox.
  • If you are filing Form 4868 and are using the EFW option or filing Form 2350, you must enter the following information in Screen PIN. If you do not complete the required fields, UltraTax CS generates a diagnostic message and does not create the electronic extension file.

    • Preparer PIN
    • Taxpayer and, if applicable, Spouse PINs
    • Prior-year adjusted gross income from the original return (not the amended return)
  • The Practitioner PIN option is not available for Form 2350 electronic extensions.

Related topics

Was this article helpful?

Thank you for the feedback!