Declaration Control Number – A unique 14 digit number assigned by the ERO, to each electronically filed tax return.

The IRS scheduled time for processing electronically filed return data.

When used in context with the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC or EIC) refers to requirements that income tax return preparers must follow when preparing returns or refund claims that involve EITC.

Electronic Filing Identification Number – An identification number assigned by the IRS to accepted applicants for participation in IRS e-file. This is a taxpreparer’s “SSN”. This is also how we identify our users.

Electronic Return Originator – An authorized IRS e-file provider that originates the electronic submission of returns to the IRS. Generally the owner of the tax practice is the ERO.

Electronic Transmitter Identification Number – An identification number assigned by the IRS to participants in the IRS e-file program. They must have an ETIN to transmit returns Directly to the IRS. They do not need an ETIN to transmit to PTSTAX.

A tax processing number for certain nonresident and resident aliens. The ITIN is only available from IRS for those individuals who cannot obtain a SSN. To obtain an ITIN, complete IRS Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Identification Number.

An electronic signature option for taxpayers who use an ERO to e-file. This method requires the taxpayer to create a five-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) to use as the signature on the e-file return.

An identification number issued by the IRS which paid tax return preparers may use in lieu of disclosing their SSN on returns they prepared. If the tax preparer does not have a PTIN, they must use their SSN on the return.

The anticipated date that a refund would be issued by the IRS.

The transmitting computer is the computer in the office that will e-file returns to either PTSTAX or Directly to the IRS. This will be the computer that prints checks from Bank One. There may only be one transmitting computer in the office

The workstation computer is a computer in the office that only preparers returns. This computer does not communicate directly with the IRS or PTSTAX.