Small Business Taxes & ManagementTM--Copyright 2016, A/N Group, Inc.
Protecting taxpayer and tax preparer information and maintaining the security of its systems is important to the IRS. As part of that effort, the Service is strengthening the identity validating process used to access certain self-help tools on IRS.gov.
Starting late October--October 24 is the target date--e-services users will be required to re-register using the Secure Access authentication process. Users must validate their identities through this process before they can access their accounts.
All e-services users will be affected by this change. Those who use e-services for TIN Matching only also must re-register. However, because there is no exchange of sensitive data, TIN Matching will use a more streamlined process.
For details, go to Important Update for Your e-services Account.
Secure Access is a two-factor authentication process that meets government standards and adds greater protections against attacks by cybercriminals. This is a more rigorous process, and part of a wider effort to protect taxpayers and the tax community. For first-time users, it requires identity proofing, financial verification and an activation code text. Returning users must submit their username/password credentials AND a security code text.
Starting October 24, the IRS also will provide additional staff for the e-Help Desk and provide assistance to those users who are having difficulty passing Secure Access. This assistance may include identity authentication by phone and an activation code by mail which will take five to 10 calendar days for delivery.
The same Secure Access authentication process currently supports Get Transcript Online. E-services users who created a Get Transcript account after June 2016 will have their Secure Access registration automatically migrate to e-services, but they will need to change their passwords on October 24. For additional information go to Secure Access: How to Register for Certain Online Self-Help Tools. Users should ensure all credentials and certificates are up-to-date prior to October 24. Those with upcoming filing requirements should consider filing early.
Over the next month the IRS will keep users informed of the next steps involving e-services.
Copyright 2016 by A/N Group, Inc. This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional service. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. The information is not necessarily a complete summary of all materials on the subject. Copyright is not claimed on material from U.S. Government sources.--ISSN 1089-1536
--Last Update 09/22/16