My parents have a CPA who does their taxes for them, and they have told him that because I’m filling out the FAFSA, their taxes have to be filed as soon as possible (they usually request an extension due to owning a business). The CPA usually mails in the 1040, but in order for me to later use the IRS Retrieval Tool, should it be instead e-filed?
No, tax return does not have to be e-filed, it can be mailed but it may take up to 8 weeks from the date of mailing before you can use the IRS Tool.
That makes sense, thanks!
I would think most CPA are required to e-file their clients’ returns. See http://www.irs.gov/Tax-Professionals/e-File-Providers-&-Partners/Most-Tax-Return-Preparers-Must-Use-IRS-e-file
Hm, I guess maybe he doesn’t have a lot of clients, so he prepares less than 11? I’m not sure, but I’ve seen the 1040 myself, and it was specifically a mailed-in paper copy.
Preparers of over 10 returns can still have clients who paper file but there are hoops to jump through.
I just checked last year’s returns, and there was a hardship waiver attached I hadn’t seen before - basically, he didn’t get his EFIN number on time and so was unable to e-file. So, I guess this year it’ll be e-filed, anyway!