Update on Change to Accessing E-Services

As a reminder, the IRS will be instituting changes to how e-services users will access their accounts. Originally the IRS said that all e-services users would need to re-register using the new Secure Access authentication process around October 24, 2016.

The IRS has announced that the IRS is delaying this requirement at this time.  The delay is to allow the IRS to discuss the proposed new Secure Access authentication process with key stakeholders and to ensure a smooth transition when they do implement the new process.

When a new date is set, the IRS will send out an announcement.

See the Important Update about Your e-Services Account page on the IRS website for more information on what the Secure Authentication Process is and for the official IRS announcement on this delay.

IRS Now Accepting ITIN Renewal Applications

This is a reminder that the IRS has begun accepting renewal applications for individuals whose ITINs will expire at the end of 2016.

Under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015, the following ITIN holders must renew their ITIN before they file their 2016 federal tax return during the upcoming 2017 filing season:

• Have not used their ITIN on a tax return for the last three consecutive years; or
• Have an ITIN with the middle digits of 78 or 79.

The IRS recently sent letters to taxpayers with the affected middle digits informing them that they need to renew their ITINs.

To renew an ITIN, a taxpayer must complete Form W-7 and submit all required documentation to the IRS either by mail, through a Certified Acceptance Agent, or in person by making an appointment at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center. For renewals, a completed federal income tax return does not need to be attached to the Form W-7.

For more details on which taxpayers need to renew their ITIN as well as the process for renewing ITINs see the following on the IRS website:

• IRS news release of October 6 – IRS Now Accepting ITIN Renewal Applications
• IRS Form W-7 instructions