Troubleshooting tips if electronic file is not creating

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After going through the File > Print Returns > Create electronic file process, the e-file is not creating.

Take the following troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue:

  • Verify under Setup > User Preferences > File Locations that the data path is not pointing to a "personal" location. If it is, then change / modify the location to point to the "firm's" location.

  • If UNC paths are used (drive mappings that begin with \\, rather than a drive letter, such as X:), map the network drives in order to test whether or not this is causing the issue. Consult with your network technician if you need assistance with mapping network drives.

  • Disable any anti-virus software (for the creation of the electronic file only; make sure that you are not connected to the Internet).

  • Have your network technician verify that the firewall configuration is not blocking the creation of the e-file.
  • Try creating the electronic file in Windows Safe Mode, a diagnostic version of Windows that disables many non-essential Windows processes. To reboot in Safe Mode, follow the instructions outlined below.

    Note: You may be asked to login to your workstation / network after Windows reboots. Have your login credentials available before proceeding.

  1. Choose Start > Run.

  2. Type msconfig.exe and click OK.
  3. Click on the Boot tab and mark Safe Boot and choose Network
  4. Click OK and once Windows is in Safe Mode, try to re-create the electronic file again. If it succeeds, there may be a process running on your machine that is preventing the electronic file from creating. Consult your network technician for further assistance.
  5. Once finished in Safe Mode, choose Start > Run and click OK

  6. Click on the Boot tab and unmark Safe Boot to reboot into the standard version of Windows.

  • Additional troubleshooting:
    1. This step is primarily for 1120 returns; therefore, if you are not working with an 1120 return, move on to Step 2. Access Screen ELF, located under the Electronic Filing folder, and unmark and remark the return for e-filing.

    2. Choose File > Send to > File (send to Desktop for easy access).

    3. Next, choose File > Delete and delete the client from UltraTax CS.

    4. Restore the client from the Desktop .CSD file by double-clicking on the .CSD file itself.

    5. Recreate the e-file and see if the above process was successful.

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