Overview

An "unsent batch" message can be caused by an internet connection failure, other internet connection problems, setup issues, or a large PDF attachment.

Internet Connection

Ensure that the computer is connected to the Internet. Preferably do this by opening a web page the computer has never been to before, like https://dnet.net/, https://www.1040.com/, https://weather.com/, etc.

Go to the Control Panel > Network and Internet > Internet options > Advanced tab. Make sure that the SSL options are not checked

EFIN

On the Setup > Electronic Filing and Account Information (ERO) screen, verify that the correct EFIN has been entered.

e-File Password

Retrieve your e-file password by going to the Drake Software Support website >  Account > E-File Password. When retrieving the password, use the Copybutton to ensure that you are not copying any blank spaces. Remove the password that has been entered on the Setup > Electronic Filing and Account Information (ERO) screen and paste the case-sensitive password.

Large PDF

There is a 128 MB total transmission size limit, but a successful transmission also depends on the speed and other characteristics of your internet connection at the time of transmission.

If you have attached a large PDF (i.e., scanned brokerage statement) this may have contributed to the transmission failure. Each individual PDF attachment must be no larger than 60 MB per Publication 4164.

When either size limitation is exceeded, or the internet connection is not strong or stable, the return will not be transmitted and the "unsent batch" remains on the Transmit/Receive screen. To remove the unsent file from the Transmit/Receive screen, select the file, click Review, select the file again and click Remove.

To e-file the return, you have a few options:

• Transmit the return and attachment again at a different time, when your internet connection is better.

• Try transmitting the federal and state returns separately to decrease the individual transmission size.

  • To transmit returns separately, use the EF screen to specify which return(s) should be transmitted.

  • Be sure to recalculate the return before going back to EF > Select Returns for EF.

• Lower the file size of the attachment file to reduce transmission time. A smaller file size is less exposed to transmission hazards.

  • Re-scan the attachment at a lower (but legible) resolution.

    • For example, scan at 200 DPI rather than 600 DPI, and scan in monochrome, not color (color greatly increases file size). Note the location where you save the new scan file.

  • Reattach the file.

    • In View/Print mode of the return, click Attach PDF. Click Browse and navigate to the location of the new scan file. Select the file and click Open. This replaces the original attached file. Exit the PDF Attachments screen.

  • Recalculate the return before attempting to re-transmit.

• Use a Paper Document Indicator (PDI), and mail the brokerage statement with Form 8453 when the e-filed return is accepted.

  • To do this, go to the EF screen in the return.

  • Under Form 8453 Paper Document Indicators, select Form 8949 (or another applicable form).

  • The software generates a Form 8453 that you can print (it is not transmitted) and mail with the statement to the IRS.

  • Remove the PDF screen and the large optional PDF attachments from the return by pressing Ctrl + D on the PDF Attachments screen.

  • For details, see Drake Tax - 8453 - Paper Document Indicator.