September 19, 2017
On Sept. 14, 2017, the IRS released a revised version of Publication 5165, entitled “Guide for Electronically Filing Affordable Care (ACA) Information Returns for Software Developers and Transmitters,” for tax year 2017 (processing year 2018). This publication outlines the communication procedures, transmission formats, business rules and validation procedures for returns transmitted electronically through the Affordable Care Act Information Return System (AIR). Employers who plan to electronically file Forms 1094-B, 1095-B, 1094-C or 1095-C should review the latest guidance and make any necessary adjustments to their filing process.
Employers filing electronically must use AIR, and the only acceptable format will be XML. The individual responsible for electronically filing the employer’s forms will be required to register with the IRS e-Services and will receive a PIN, which will be used to sign the Terms of Agreement and electronically filed forms.
Publication 5165 »