TSM Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Tax System Modernization (TSM) program?

The TSM program is a major effort we are undertaking to improve operations, taxpayer service, and voluntary compliance with tax laws. New features will be rolled out each year until all tax types are upgraded by the year 2020. For more information, see Tax System Modernization Program.

How is Hawaii Tax Online changing?

As of August 14, 2017, the visual appearance and navigation functions of Hawaii Tax Online have changed to improve usability and support for different devices. Every page links to documents and videos designed to help users learn the new interface. Hawaii Tax Online have also gained support for Corporate Income, Franchise, Public Service Company, and Withholding tax types. For details about these changes to Hawaii Tax Online, go to Hawaii Tax Online Changes. For details about the forms supported through e-filing, go to State E-File.

How can existing Hawaii Tax Online users access the newly supported tax types?

Taxpayer logonss created through the registration process on Hawaii Tax Online automatically have access to all supported tax accounts under the taxpayer. Usernames associated with verified practitioners and tax matters representatives will continue receiving access to tax accounts only after a successful request. Other third-party accounts will be asked to register as verified practitioners or tax matter representatives.

Does Hawaii Tax Online charge any fees?

Hawaii Tax Online does not charge any fees for signing up, filing returns, or submitting payments via electronic check (ACH debit). If you submit credit card payments, fees will be automatically added by our credit card processing vendor.

How can I file Corporate Income tax returns electronically?

We will support e-filing Corporate Income tax returns through the IRS Modernized e-Filing program. You will be able to file federal and state returns together when vendors release approved tax preparation software in early 2018

What is a Hawaii Tax ID?

Department of Taxation forms and publications use the term “Hawaii Tax ID” to refer to the unique account identification number assigned to each tax account.

Why are Hawaii Tax ID numbers changing?

The process of upgrading existing Corporate Income; Franchise; General Excise (GE); Public Service Company; Rental Motor Vehicle, Tour Vehicle and Car-Sharing Vehicle Surcharge (RV); Seller’s Collection; Transient Accommodations (TA); and Use tax accounts to a new integrated tax system requires the assignment of new Hawaii Tax ID numbers. To avoid inconveniencing you, we will continue to support processing of returns and payments received with old Hawaii Tax ID numbers.

How is the Hawaii Tax ID format changing?

Our old system assigned a Hawaii Tax ID starting with the letter W followed by 10 digits. Tax accounts that have been upgraded will be distinguished by a new Hawaii Tax ID starting with a two-letter account type identifier and 12 digits. See Hawaii Tax ID Number Changes for more information.

Where can I look up my Hawaii Tax ID?

Use this search engine to find the latest Hawaii Tax ID numbers for Cigarette and Tobacco, Fuel, General Excise, Seller’s Collection, Transient Accommodations, Use, and Withholding tax accounts. While Hawaii Tax ID numbers have changed for Corporate Income, Franchise, and Public Service Company tax accounts, existing Federal Employer I.D. Numbers (FEIN) will continue to serve as the primary identifier for these accounts.

When must new Hawaii Tax ID numbers be used?

You should begin using your new Hawaii Tax ID numbers immediately, but we will continue to process forms and W-2s received with old Hawaii Tax ID numbers.

Can I continue to display my old license or certificate?

Taxpayers are expected to replace GE licenses, RV certificates, and TA certificates issued before August 2016. Old licenses and certificates lack security features built into the new format.

What if I didn’t receive a license or certificate in the mail?

If you don’t receive a license or certificate in the mail, misplace it, or need a new copy for any reason, you can sign up for Hawaii Tax Online to print a valid copy of your GE license, RV certificate, or TA certificate yourself.

What if I no longer use or need my tax license or certificate?

Please cancel unneeded tax licenses and certificates. You may cancel through Hawaii Tax Online or complete and mail Form GEW-TA-RV-1, Notification of Cancellation of Tax Licenses and Tax Permits. A copy of this form is available online.

If I only have a new Hawaii Tax ID, how do I fill out forms designed for the old Hawaii Tax ID format?

Since some existing forms may not support the new Hawaii Tax ID number format right away, we encourage using Hawaii Tax Online to file electronically. We will also accept new Hawaii Tax ID numbers written on forms designed for the old Hawaii Tax ID format.