Tax preparers are reminded that December 1 is the IRS deadline for registering for e-filing capabilities for the forthcoming tax filing season. Although the application may be filed after December 1, the IRS recommends filing by December 1 to ensure your participation in the e-file season beginning January 1.

The IRS anticipates an increase in demand for e-filed tax returns, partly due to concerns about mail delivery resulting from concerns of bio-terrorism and issues with misplaced tax returns last tax season. During the 2001 tax filing season approximately 40 million Americans filed tax returns electronically. It is estimated that that number will increase to at least 46 million in 2002.

Tax preparers who wish to register for e-filing need to file IRS Form 8633, Application to Participate in the IRS e-file Program. There is no fee required with this form.

The IRS has indicated that the form will take four to six weeks to process. Tax preparers will be issued an Electronic Filing Identification Number.