1. National Technology Committee Update
Chris Hughes
Chairman, NTC
Edited by Howard Riggert
2016 Regional Training

2. Agenda TaxSlayer Desktop TaxSlayer Administration
IRS documentation Changes
Software ordering
Windows 10 Update
Windows Imaging update
Inventory Process update
Use of Tax-Aide computers for non Tax-Aide purposes
Public Wifi usage
2016 Regional Training

3. No use of Desktop TaxSlayer
Desktop TaxSlayer is being positioned as a “backup” for TaxSlayer online.
Its user interface is different from TaxSlayer on-line.
Different training, different and duplicative site setup.
The TaxSlayer desktop taxpayer data remains separate and is not merged with TSO taxpayer data.
The TaxSlayer desktop data remains on the site PCs until explicitly deleted.
Every year that we had significant TaxWise desktop usage the program ended up buying credit protection due to “lost” Taxpayer tax return data.
There will likely be downtime due to TaxSlayer Online issues, but better that, than losing Taxpayer electronic data.
2016 Regional Training

4. TaxSlayer Administration
Different structure compared to TaxWise
NTC template, State level Templates are not relevant concepts and cannot be used with TaxSlayer
NTTC Training templates cannot be done
TS Multi-site administration aimed at District level for setting up multiple sites with
Profiles (list of forms used)
Return Tags
Print Sets
Training on Practice Lab - Brainsharks
2016 Regional Training

5. TaxSlayer Software Ordering
IRS had released the software ordering guidelines
Process is basically the same with minor changes, similar due dates as in the past
Shipments start week of 11/14. Includes a printed manual.
2016 Regional Training

6. IRS Documentation Change
E-file Administrator guide, Pub 3189 will no longer be published
Signature methods merged into Volunteer Resource Guide, Pub 4012
Software Setup info goes to TaxSlayer User Guide
General Information to Site Coordinator handbook (P1084) and Partner Resource Guide (P4396-A)
P1345 Handbook for e-file providers also exists.
2016 Regional Training

7. Windows 10 Update
It is time to start thinking about moving from Win 7 to Windows 10
This season’s preparation will be consumed with the TWO to TSO conversion
Nevertheless, it is time to start thinking…..
Currently 1706 (11%) out of 15,409 systems are Windows 10 (Systems with TIA installed, Inventory Status=OK)
Windows 10 will work on any systems, however, we recommend only Dell Vostro 3500 and more recent.
The most recent Tax-Aide Windows 10 image can be used to upgrade any of those Tax-Aide Systems to Windows 10
2016 Regional Training

8. Windows Imaging
Updated Windows 7 and Windows 10 images are to be available week of 11/14.
New versions use the IRS TY2016 password for log on
The new Windows 10 adds the capability of updating any Tax-Aide computer. – Prior image can only update Tax-Aide program provided systems and some donated systems.
No requirement to go to Windows 10
2016 Regional Training

9. Inventory Process Update
All Split-States to be using the On-line process this tax year. Every District must have someone designated Technology Coordinator, DC if no one else. Notify national via One Support message of added designation
No spreadsheets will be accepted from now on, however, NY3 will collect site/personal equipment counts via spreadsheet
~30,000 assets in the Tax-Aide volunteer split-state inventory
~20,000 laptops – 16,000 working
2016 Regional Training

10. Use of Tax-Aide Computers New Policy
Computers provided by or donated to the Tax-Aide program are owned by Tax-Aide
Requests to use Tax-Aide computers for “good” purposes e.g.
Training of (elderly, homeless) non-computer users
Use by 3rd party non-profits
Personal use
All Computers used for non Tax-Aide purposes must be reimaged before being used within the Tax-Aide program
2016 Regional Training

11. Public Wifi Policy New Policy
Public Wifi can only be used to obtain access to the Internet using a Wisp router, Network Extender or PC.
This includes a prohibition on Internet based printing.
The NTC is NOT totally prohibiting the use of Public Wifi – Use is limited as described above.
2016 Regional Training

12. Library/Building Public Wifi Router
Prohibited
Internet
Personal Systems
Tax-Aide
Printer
Library/Building Public Wifi Router
Tax-Aide Laptops
Public Library Systems
2016 Regional Training

13. Allowed/Encouraged Internet Personal Systems
Library/Building Public Wifi Router
Wisp Router, Extender, PC
Public Library Systems
Tax-Aide Laptops
2016 Regional Training

14. Library/Building Public Wifi Router
Allowed/Encouraged
Internet
Personal Systems
Library/Building Public Wifi Router
Cable
Router, Extender, PC
Public Library Systems
Tax-Aide Laptops
2016 Regional Training

15. Public Wifi Alternatives
Wisp Router
A wireless router that can attach to a wifi network, or a wired connection to obtain internet access. Recommended model (Netis WF $26) and instructions on One Support
Net Extender
A precursor to the Wisp Router. Implements the same function
PC system
Create a Windows Hosted network (Win 7) or Mobile Hotspot (Win 10) and share the internet connection
Instructions on OneSupport
No Additional Verizon HotSpots are required or needed
2016 Regional Training