SEC. 1. GENERAL — Internal Revenue Bulletin 1996-2

.01 Asynchronous electronic filing of Form 1042–S originals, corrections, and replacements of information returns is offered as an alternative to magnetic media (tape, tape cartridge, or diskette) or paper filing, but is not a requirement. Electronic filing using the Information Reporting Program Bulletin Board System (IRP–BBS) will fulfill the magnetic media requirements for those filers who are required to file magnetically. It may also be used by those payers who are under the filing threshold requirement, but would prefer to file their information returns this way. If the original file was sent magnetically, but was returned for replacement, the replacement may be transmitted electronically. Also, if the original file was submitted via magnetic media, any corrections may be transmitted electronically.

.02 The electronic filing of information returns is not affiliated with the Form 1040 electronic filing program. These two programs are totally independent, and filers must obtain separate approval to participate in each of them. 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.

.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.