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Resolution

There are a few common solutions for getting "PDF error" as the transmission status on the ELF site.

Solution 1: Recalculate and resubmit return.

Solution 2: Delete all PDF(s) attached and re-attach.

See Additional Information (below) for information on attaching PDFs to returns.

Notes:

• This solution should be used if the return was exported from a different computer than the computer that had the PDF files attached.
• When attaching PDFs to a return, the return just keeps track of the PDF Path entered until the file is exported to the Electronic Filing Status System. During the export process, the PDF is able to be viewed to verify the correct PDF is being attached and then is attached to the file that is submitted to the taxing authority.
• With Attachment Name field, please describe the PDF using only alphanumeric characters with no special characters (Examples N/A: - . , ~ ! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ) _ + = { } [ ]).

Solution 3: Uppercase may be enabled and needs to be disabled.

1. Go to the General > Return Options worksheet.
   • Select Section 1 - Processing Options or 1 - Miscellaneous Options (For 1041 returns)
     • Use the table below to determine the proper field for the return type.

       • Return Type		Line	Input
         Exempt Organization	Form 990	Line  7 - Print in upper case	Use the drop-down to select No.
         Individual	Form 1040	Line  11 - Print in upper case	Use the drop-down to select No.
         Fiduciary	Form 1041	Line  14 - Entire return in upper case	Use the drop-down to select No.
         Partnership	Form 1065	Line  50 - Upper case	Use the drop-down to select No.
         Corporation	Form 1120	Line 34 - Upper Case	Use the drop-down to select No.
         S Corporation	Form 1120S	Line  58 - In upper case	Use the drop-down to select No.

2. Calculate the return.

Solution 4: Delete Blank Active Sections.

1. Go to the General > Electronic Filing worksheet.
2. Verify active PDF sections have information entered on them.
   • Note: Active sections show with blue text for the name. Non-active sections show with black text.
3. If a section is showing as active (Blue text), however, no information is entered in, do the following:
4. Select the active section that is blank.
5. Right-click and go to Delete > Delete Section.
6. On the confirmation screen, click Yes to delete the blank section. 
7. Calculate the return.
8. Re-submit the return for electronic filing. 

Additional Information

• What are the requirements and limitations for PDF attachments in CCH Axcess™ Tax and CCH® ProSystem fx® Tax?
• For steps on attaching a PDF to a return, see our solution on how to attach a PDF document to an electronically filed return using worksheet view.