ERO FAQ

1. How do I transfer my 941Express Information to Quarterly Express Plus? 

For most users, the 941Express database will migrate automatically.  For those where it doesn't, you can go to the 941Express 2014 (or 2013) DB folder and copy the 941Express.db file from that location to the Quarterly Express Plus DB folder.  Rename the file to QexPlus.db and restart the software.  Keep in mind that this will only migrate the database and transmission history, not the returns.  The returns from 941Express are not compatible.

2.   Why can't I create returns using the new software?

This software must be activated with a license before you can create new returns.  This license should have been delivered in a separate e-mail after the purchase, or prepaid purchase of a license.  If you can't locate the license key, contact us at support@qexplus.com.

3.    Why am I printing blank pages when attempting to print my return?

The software contains a Forms folder that should have the print templates installed.  It is possible that those print templates are missing. Go to the Settings menu and choose the Update Print Forms option.  If this succeeds, then try to print the return again. If not, then try going to the Forms folder under the Program Files folder and moving them to the forms folder under the DB repository directory.

4.  What is the "Sign Return" option and how can I do this as an ERO?

Quarterly Express Plus has 2 ways that a return can be signed as an ERO.  The easiest method is to put your EFIN and Practitioner PIN (5 digit self select) in the e-File Settings dialog .  Now, choose Sign Return and select to use your Practitioner PIN to sign the return.  Next, go to Signature Details and add a 5 digit (self select) taxpayer PIN in the Signature Details dialog along with the Company type and position of the signer.  Now you can finalize the signature on the return.  This action will provide an 8879-EX for your purposes, and will send the electronic information when transmitted with the return as a valid signature.  It is possible also to sign the return with a signature image on the lower portion of the screen if that is desired to the PIN option.  See Signing Returns in the Help System for more detail.

5.  My Quarterly Express Software won't save the license, or any of my data?

The Quarterly Express Plus software uses a repository to save information that will either be located in the default application data directory, or under the main directory of the software that was chosen during installation.  Many times if an Administrator installs the product, the repository may not be available for the user when they try to use the software.  Click on the Settings menu, and select the Set DB (or Repository) Location and if it is in the right location, click on the option to Create Data Directories which will insure that all of the necesary locations exist under the selected location.

A new form can be adjusted to fit smaller screens by choosing the column dividers on the first row, and adjusting them.  By adjusting the columns, it can allow you to see all of the columns on smaller screens and prevent the jumping around.

7.  What is a Name Control and why do I need one?

A Name Control is a 4 character code used by the IRS to confirm the identity of a company.  The older e-file system did not require this code, but the new MEF system does.  This 4 character code is normally made up of the first 4 significant characters in the name.  View our Help for Name Controls for more details.

8.  How do I complete the e-File Settings dialog as an ERO?

An ERO should complete the entire upper portion of the e-file Settings dialog including the payment type for filing fees.  Below the line in the window, an ERO needs to provide their EFIN, Practitioner PIN (PPIN), an their PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number).  It is not necesary to complete the Reporting Agent PIN, Third Party Designee or the ETIN. 

9.  How do I transmit my returns to Lewis Software?

An ERO has 2 options for transmitting returns to Lewis Software. First once you have completed and signed your return you an select the "Transmit to LSA" menu option to send a single return to Lewis Software for processing. 

If you need to send a batch, you go to the batch menu and choose either the "Transmit Multiples by Return" (click the checkbox next to the return) or "Transmit Multiple by Tax Period" (highlight companies and select period and year)

With all 3 options, the payment type chosen in the e-File Settings dialog will be used for filing fees.

10.  Why can't I select the Show Errors button?

Show Errors in Quarterly Express does not behave like Verify Return in 941Express.  Show Errors is continually looking at the return and if there is an issue, it will be available to provide information on the problem.  If you complete you return and Show Errors is not available, then the return is clean and you can proceed.