IRS FIRE System Retiring Update: efile4Biz Ready for the Transition to IRIS
The IRS is retiring the legacy information return e-file system FIRE (Filing Information Returns Electronically) and replacing it with Information Returns Intake System (IRIS). While the FIRE to IRIS transition is a significant change for organizations that file information returns directly with the IRS, efile4Biz customers can rest easy because the transition will be seamless with no impact to your current e-filing process. Our development team is ready for the transition which means efile4Biz will manage all of the required system and electronic file specification changes on your behalf.
Decommissioning the FIRE system is part of the modernization effort by IRS to shift information return filing to digital tax processing. Current FIRE users must transition to IRIS to file tax year 2026 returns due in the 2027 processing season. Beginning January 2027, IRIS will be the only electronic filing platform for information returns previously submitted to IRS through FIRE. All forms previously supported by FIRE will be available through the modernized IRIS platform.
Many filers are asking questions such as “What is IRIS (IRS)?”,“IRIS vs FIRE”, “How to file a 1099 after FIRE retires?” and “Can I use my FIRE TCC to file in IRIS?”
The IRS FIRE to IRIS transition is a multi-year process that began in 2022 and will reach its final stage in late 2026:
For customers using efile4Biz to file information returns such as form 1042-S and forms in the 1098, 1099 and 5498 series, the answer is simple: No. Our team at efile4Biz will coordinate the new electronic filing requirements, system connections, and regulatory updates automatically, allowing you to focus on your business while we handle the compliance details.
efile4Biz is an authorized IRS transmitter of 1099 and ACA informational data. We maintain the required Transmitter Control Codes (TCCs) for access to the IRS FIRE, IRIS, and AIR systems. In addition, we are registered, authorized, and approved with the Social Security Administration's Business Services Online (BSO) program to electronically submit wage and income data in EFW2 and EFW2C formats.
Because we file on your behalf, you do not need your own TCC, and you do not need BSO credentials when using efile4Biz services
The transition from FIRE to IRIS is an important IRS modernization effort, but for efile4Biz customers, it will be virtually transparent. We'll continue to manage the filing requirements, system connections, and regulatory updates, allowing you to focus on your business while we handle the compliance details.
No. When you use efile4Biz to file forms, the transition from FIRE to IRIS will be handled completely by our team. Simply enter or import your data into our convenient platform and efile4Biz will convert your data into the electronic filing format required by IRIS. We will manage all required IRS filing system updates behind the scenes, so you can continue filing as you do today.
No. Customers using efile4Biz do not need their own IRIS Transmitter Control Code (TCC). As an authorized IRS transmitter efile4Biz has passed the mandatory testing. We maintain the necessary credentials and system access required to submit information returns to IRIS on your behalf. Customers filing with efile4Biz do not need to obtain or maintain their own IRIS (TCC).
Simply continue using efile4Biz. While the IRS is replacing FIRE with IRIS for electronic information return filing, efile4Biz will handle the technical and compliance requirements of the new electronic filing process. There is no change to the way our customers submit their data to us.
IRIS accepts corrections for forms previously filed in FIRE. On the efile4Biz input screen, users enter the correct data that was submitted to FIRE in error and our system transmits the correct information to the IRS.
Yes. Forms from previous years can be filed on efile4Biz, we offer a variety of forms for previous years. On the efile4Biz input screen select the form and previous year you need to file, complete the required information entries and we will submit the form to IRS for processing.
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