Form 8948: Preparer Explanation for Not Filing Electronically

Attach Form 8948 to the relevant paper tax return when submitting. Ensure that all required fields are completed accurately before filing. For submission, follow the instructions provided by the IRS for mailing or delivering paper returns to the appropriate IRS office. Always include Form 8948 when exceptions to electronic filing are applicable, and keep copies of the form for your records. Advice: Ensure all information is correct and complete before submission to avoid delays or penalties. Follow up with the IRS if you do not receive confirmation of receipt.

For tax years 2024 and 2025, it is important to file Form 8948 along with the corresponding paper tax return by the IRS deadline for each tax year. Refer to the IRS website for specific deadline dates.

The purpose of Form 8948 is to provide a valid explanation for tax preparers who file certain tax returns on paper instead of electronically. Tax preparers may be required by law to e-file specific returns, but exceptions such as taxpayer preference, waivers, or unresolved e-file rejections necessitate the use of this form. By attaching Form 8948 to the paper tax return, tax preparers comply with IRS guidelines and document the reason for not filing electronically. Form 8948 helps the IRS understand the circumstances that led to the decision to file on paper, ensuring that all compliance requirements are met. This includes documentation of taxpayer choices, waiver references, and other valid grounds for not using e-file. The form covers various situations, including religious objections, technological limitations, and foreign preparers' ineligibility to e-file. Form 8948 streamlines the process of providing necessary explanations, helping tax preparers avoid potential penalties for not e-filing. It ensures that all relevant information is captured and submitted along with the paper tax return, supporting transparency and adherence to IRS regulations.

• 1. Names on Tax Return and Taxpayer's Identifying Number: Enter the taxpayer's name(s) and identifying number as they appear on the tax return.
• 2. Taxpayer Chose to File on Paper: Check this box if the taxpayer has opted to file the return on paper.
• 3. Undue Hardship Waiver: Check this box if the preparer received a waiver and provide the waiver reference number and approval letter date.
• 4. Religious Group Opposition: Check this box if the preparer is part of a recognized religious group opposed to using electronic technology.
• 5. E-file Rejection: Check this box if the return was rejected by IRS e-file and the reject condition could not be resolved, and provide the reject code and attempts made to resolve.
• 6. Software Limitation: Check this box if the preparer's e-file software does not support a form or schedule attached to the return.
• 7. Foreign Preparer without SSN: Check this box if the preparer is a foreign person without an SSN and is ineligible to e-file, and has applied for a PTIN.
• 8. IRS Sanction: Check this box if the preparer is ineligible to e-file due to an IRS sanction.
• 9. Other Technological Difficulties: Check this box if the preparer is unable to e-file due to other verifiable technological difficulties and describe the circumstances.

Failure to submit Form 8948 when required may result in penalties and non-compliance with IRS regulations. It is crucial to provide valid explanations for not filing electronically.

• Penalties: Tax preparers may face penalties for not complying with e-filing requirements without submitting Form 8948.
• Non-Compliance: Submitting paper returns without Form 8948 can result in non-compliance with IRS filing regulations.
• Disallowed Exemptions: Failure to document valid reasons for not e-filing may lead to disallowed exemptions and increased scrutiny.

• 1. Taxpayer Opts for Paper Filing: Use this form if a taxpayer prefers to file their return on paper.
• 2. Received Waiver: Use this form if the preparer has received an undue hardship waiver from the electronic filing requirement.
• 3. Religious Opposition: Use this form if the preparer belongs to a religious group that is opposed to electronic filing.
• 4. Unresolved E-file Rejection: Use this form if the return was rejected by IRS e-file and the reject condition could not be resolved.
• 5. Technological Limitations: Use this form if the preparer's software does not support the necessary forms or schedules for electronic filing.