AI Prep Instructions
AI Prep Instructions
Bulk Import Clients – Lacerte for AI Prep
This guide walks you through the one-time setup to bulk export client information from Lacerte into your AI Prep workspace.
⚠️ Important Before You Begin
Before starting this process, you must complete the Roll Forward of all tax returns from 2024 to 2025 inside Lacerte.
Failure to complete this step may result in incomplete client data.
Additionally, please review Client IDs.
The entity Client ID in Truss should exactly match the Lacerte Client Number
Case-sensitive matching if letters are used
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Confirm Your Lacerte Data Path
Open Lacerte
Navigate to:
Settings → Options → Setup → Data PathConfirm the file path where Lacerte is saving your tax data files.
Make note of this location — you’ll need it in the next step.
Step 2: Locate the Data Folder in File Explorer
Open File Explorer
Navigate to the data path confirmed in Step 1
For most firms, the default path is:
C:\LACERTE\25TAX
Step 3: Compress the IDATA Folder
Inside the 25TAX folder, locate the IDATA folder
Right-click on the IDATA folder
Select “Compress to ZIP File”
This will create a compressed (.zip) file containing your client data.
Step 4: Securely Share the ZIP File
Upload the newly created ZIP file using the secure Truss upload link provided to your firm.
If you do not have the secure upload link, please contact support.
Step 5: Confirmation from Truss
Once the file is received and processed:
Truss will import your client data into AI Prep
You will be notified when your account is ready to begin submissions
✅ What Happens Next?
After confirmation:
Your client list will appear in AI Prep
You can begin submitting returns
No additional bulk export will be required for this tax year
If you encounter any issues during this process, please contact Support and include:
A screenshot of your Lacerte Data Path
Any error messages received
Confirmation that Roll Forward has been completed
We’re here to help ensure a smooth transition into AI Prep.