IRS IRIS Taxpayer Portal vs TaxZerone

The IRS IRIS Taxpayer Portal is a free web service for filing information returns through the portal or Application to Application (A2A). Portal users can enter data manually or upload CSV files, manage issuer information, keep filing records, download payee copies, submit corrections, and request automatic extensions. Portal access requires an IRIS Transmitter Control Code, a five-digit code used only for IRIS. A2A is an option for filers using third-party or their own software; it can submit thousands of returns, with uploads up to 100 MB at a time. Setting it up requires an A2A TCC, API Client ID, schema package, and successful Assurance Testing System transmissions. CSV formatting guidance and templates are available in the portal. IRIS accepts information returns for tax year 2022 and later. Starting with tax year 2023, filers with 10 or more information returns must file electronically; Forms W-2 are filed with the Social Security Administration. PDF downloads may take up to 10 minutes to appear in portal notifications, and company firewalls may block external downloads.

TaxZerone is an IRS-authorized e-file service for businesses, individuals, and nonprofit organizations submitting supported federal forms. Coverage includes business, employment, exempt organization, information return, excise, extension, and essential forms. The filing workflow is to select a form, enter information, and transmit it to the IRS; the system checks for errors and missing information against IRS rules. Users can bulk upload return information and assign separate permissions for creating, reviewing, and approving filings. Tax professionals can manage multiple businesses, monitor client filing status, and access documents from a dashboard. Free filing is available for select forms, including W-9 requests, Form 94x PIN requests, and Form 2290 VIN corrections. Federal information returns cost $2.49 per form for 1 to 25 forms, with volume pricing down to $0.59 per form for 1,000 or more. The Form 2290 app is available for Android, iPhone, and iPad; platforms also include web, iOS, and API. Its REST API uses OAuth 2.0 and JSON and includes a sandbox.