SEC. 1. GENERAL

.01 Bisynchronous electronic filing of Form 1042-S information returns is offered as an alternative to magnetic media (tape, tape cartridge, or diskette) or paper filing, but is not a requirement. This method uses IBM 3780 communications protocols and is used primarily by mainframe filers. Electronic filing will fulfill the magnetic media requirements for those payers who are required to file magnetically. It may also be used by payers who are under the filing threshold.

.02 Electronic filing of information returns is not affiliated with the Form 1040 electronic filing program. These two programs are totally independent, and separate approval to participate in each of them must be obtained. All inquiries concerning the electronic filing of information returns should be directed to IRS/MCC. IRS/MCC personnel cannot answer questions or assist taxpayers in the filing of Form 1040 tax returns. Filers with questions of this nature will be directed to the Taxpayer Service toll free number (1-800-829-1040) for assistance.

.03 Filers participating in the electronic filing program for information returns will submit their returns to IRS/MCC by way of modems, and not through magnetic media or paper filing.

.04 If a request for extension is approved, transmitters who file electronically will be granted an extension of 30 days to file. Part A. Sec. 11 explains procedures for requesting extensions of time. Filers are encouraged to file their data as soon as possible.

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.05 The formats of the ‘‘T,’’ ‘‘Q,’’ ‘‘W,’’ and ‘‘Y,’’ Records are the same for electronically filed records as they are for 5 ¹ ⁄4- and 3 ¹ ⁄2-inch diskettes, tapes and tape cartridges. For electronically filed documents, each transmission is considered a separate file; therefore, each transmission must have an End of Transmission (EOT) ‘‘Y’’ Record.