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Revenue Department Launches New e-Statement of Account
The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue recently launched a new online tool that allows businesses and tax practitioners to get an electronic statement of account (e-SOA). Practitioners no longer have to call or write the department to request a copy, and then wait days for a print version to arrive by mail.
By John Kaschak, CPA | PA Department of Revenue
Getting updated information about a business taxpayer’s state tax account is now easier than ever. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue recently launched a new online tool that allows businesses and tax practitioners to get an electronic statement of account (e-SOA).
Practitioners no longer have to call or write the department to request a copy, and then wait days for a print version to arrive by mail. With the new self-service feature, practitioners can submit a request online through e-TIDES, the department’s business tax system, and a PDF will be available the next business day.
The department worked with tax practitioner organizations – including the PICPA – to test and vet the new tool. After the launch, PICPA member Jason Skrinak of Reinsel Kuntz Lesher LLP said the following in a news release from Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf:
“The best part is the department worked with taxpayers and tax practitioners to develop this new tool. It’s fast and easy to use while providing comprehensive tax information, which is important to keep a client’s account with the department up-to-date.”
The e-SOA provides a summary and details for more than 40 tax types. The information includes the three most recently filed tax periods, nonfiled tax periods, and tax periods with open liabilities, payments or credits, grouped by tax type. Additional sections show tax periods under appeal, unused restricted credits, and W-2 annual reconciliation, if applicable. Detailed account information is below the summary.
This video provides a quick overview of how to register and get the new e-SOA.
To protect security, tax practitioners must be granted access by their client. Step-by-step instructions are online at www.revenue.pa.gov, select e-TIDES, and then Get Assistance.
Many practitioners were asking for this feature, and the department is proud to make it happen. Help us spread to the word. If you know a business or practitioner who would benefit, please share the video and information with them.
John Kaschak, CPA, is deputy secretary for taxation with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.
