..re: rouqieman..
The IRS addresses 'professional (tax preparer's) access' issues and other documents
citing actual changes need be looked at doubly hard to see their point(s). ~ Since
they've not addressed the baseline minimals of simple access.. look deeper:
Attention needs placed on the wider circle of changes to IRS access to Professionals..
{The access has changed, and main parts of their topic do affect all other users there.}
Online tools for Professionals and other details are all new to all Professional users.
Note the links at bottom of page with instructions (and these do not suggest portal
access would be limited to Internet Explorer. Someone hasn't updated old section yet.)
https://www.irs.gov/individuals/faqs-about-e-services-and-secure-access
All e-Services users must register and create new accounts using a
two-factor authentication process called Secure Access. To complete this
process, select the e-Services application or product in which you are
trying to access and select either Sign Up or Log In.
Please visit our FAQ page for e-Services and Secure Access. (important)
E-file Transmission
You must have an e-Services username and password and a completed e-file
application before participating.
A2A (two-factor security also factors into all this with new access protocols and rules)
This method uses Automated Enrollment (AE) to enroll and maintain the
A2A Client Application Systems.Ā AE provides a user interface for enrolling
and maintaining A2A Client Application Systems for the IRS A2A Channel.
For more information see the
Automated Enrollment User Guide and how to Become an Authorized e-file Provider.
*requires login credentials
IFA
This transmission method allows users to login to e-Services and upload a file. For more
information see Pub. 4164, Modernized e-file Guide for Software Developers and Transmitters.
*requires login credentials
+=+=+=+
(So I'd not get stuck on section of 'supported IE Browser' to access this info. 'Latest security'
for modern browsers is needed and is likely limited to newer major OS, per usual, can apply.)
For those with a need, a retail purchase of newest pro Tax Preparer Software can be of help.
And that would assume newest operating systems too. As the IRS is secure; 'SSN-free' too.
This access shift is essentially a re-working of access to use their systems. How it may affect
those with home filing of Tax Forms non-electronic may likely be nearer impossible now.
As I file my own taxes, often without software; this spikes my interest ~ not which browsers.
However the system seems rigged in favor of paid professionals and newest tax software;
for those who can afford to access their systems and their gate-keepers, that may be OK.
To the OP: details and most other ones in this wide action by IRS to update should invite you
to call main IRS 'tax help' numbers in your area. See if you can set an in-office appointment.
https://www.irs.gov/individuals/faqs-about-e-services-and-secure-access#exception
"The IRS has created an exception process for first-time e-Services users
who lack all the required information to complete the process online or
who are unsuccessful. Because new users do not have a history with the
IRS e-Services program, they must verify their identities in person at a
Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). New users who cannot pass Secure
Access should call the e-help DeskĀ for a referral to make an appointment
at the TAC. Users should inform the IRS assistor that they are unable
to verify their identity for Secure Access authentication for e-Services.
For the TAC appointment, the user must bring a government-issued
picture ID and Social Security Card or an original or certified embossed
birth certificate. TAC personnel will make note of the authentication.."
In order to sit across a desk from an IRS official and go through your Tax filings, has required
an appointment. Use their 800# system. This scenario has changed, made more difficult, by
Covid-19 safety factors. [Also: The e-Services IRS page cited, was updated two days ago.]
Take care & good luck!🌞🍀
