When I Efile a multi-state return (PA resident, DE non-resident) PA requires that the DE return get attached to the PA. I am assuming that Lacerte does this automatically, however my clients keep getting a notice from PA that the DE is not attached (Efile returns). Is there something I should be doing on my end to create this attachment?
Same thing happens with proseries. im not sure that its possible to attach other state returns while efiling 1040's. maybe its neccesary to paper file those returns.
For PA you have to print out a paper copy of the out-of-state return (DE, or NY, or wherever -- even though with that particular state, you can e-file it) and then either fax it to one of the special fax numbers, or mail it to the special address. The address and 2 of the fax numbers will print out automatically on Lacerte's PA letter, but if you don't use that letter, the info is:
Most common 2 fax numbers:
1-717-772-4193 and 1-717-787-2840.
There's also a THIRD fax number, 1-717-772-9310.
The mailing address is:
Dept. 280507, Harrisburg PA 17128-0507
One of my clients has both DE and NY to attach to his PA return, and invariably, one of the many pages I fax, doesn't come thru legibly, and PA asks me to re-fax the info, but the 2nd time I do it, it works out OK. Hopefully if you have only 10 pages or so, you won't run into my problem.
Sincerely,
Amy
Thank you Amy, I have not been doing that. I wonder if it would be easier to just wait until PA ask for the DE return and send it to them at that point, probably not as it holds up the refund.
In my own view, it's always better to try to do the faxing a day or two after the IRS accepts the e-file. I usually fax a cover letter indicating the DCN, client's name, and what I'm faxing and why. (Sometimes people have oddball employers who withhold so much PA tax that I can't believe it, and I fax the W2 to prove to Harrisburg that I didn't make a keypunch error about PA wages, and PA withholding.)
At least half the time, the PA return goes thru without a hitch. With the guy in DE whose wife worked in NY (thank goodness she got a job in Philly in '07), I always have to re-fax, but on most of my other clients, I don't, and they get their refund faster.
Sincerely,
Amy
