@pverma222 wrote:
...why do you have to have final approval from the IRS? Know that they DO NOT CHECK your software code.
The current release date is 2/20.
They most certainly do require interaction/compatibility test between the e-file vendor (TurboTax) and the IRS efile system before the IRS authorized the release of the form by the vendor.
Because e-fileing does not use paper forms - it transmits encrypted data in the exact format specified by the IRS/State or the IRS/State could not read it. The IRS/State first finalizes the paper form, then writes the e-file specifications and gives that to e-file providers to develop their software. Then the IRS/State must test with the e-file providers and approve the electronic forms before they can be released so that both ends are compatible. That process usually takes several weeks after the paper version has been released.
**Disclaimer: This post is for discussion purposes only and is NOT tax advice. The author takes no responsibility for the accuracy of any information in this post.**
