Drake Tax - 1040: EF Message 5331

EF Message 5331 occurs if the Preparer # field on screen 1 identifies a preparer who is not set up with a PIN for e-filing. The message may not appear until you attempt to sign the PIN screen. The problem occurs because either screen 1 does not point to the intended preparer, but rather someone else who is missing a PIN or, the preparer is correct but lacks a PIN setup.

To fix the problem, choose one of the following options:

Open screen 1 and use the drop list to set the Preparer # field to a preparer who is set up with a PIN (you can check which preparers have PINs in the steps below).

Open screen 1 and note the number displayed in the Preparer # field. In the steps that follow, you may have to be logged in with full security or as admin. See your system administrator if you cannot proceed.

1. Close the return and go to Setup > Preparers and Users. Note the preparer numbers listed in the left-hand Number column.

2. Select the preparer whose number was shown on screen 1 by clicking the entry.

3. Open the entry by clicking the Edit Preparer button.

4. Under Return Signature Options, confirm or enter a 5-digit number in the PIN Signature box and a check in the box 8879 PIN Signature. (Checking Alternative Electronic Signature is not necessary to e-file.)

5. Click Save and Exit setup.

6. Go back into the return and view.

7. The message should be cleared.