When I log in as a preparer, do I have to select my preparer number on the demographics screen, or does the software put it there for me?
If you have checked the option Autofill preparer and firm number on new returns, selected by going to Setup > Options > Data Entry tab, then when you are logged in as a preparer and open an new return, your preparer number and firm are auto-filled on screen 1. If that option is not checked, you must enter your preparer and firm number on new returns.
Regardless of the option, if you are logged in as Admin, the program will not auto-fill this information and you will need to select appropriately on Screen 1.