Development of CADE was first discussed in 2000 in the IRS Modernization Plan, with an original operational date of November 1, 2006. Programming and development began in 2003, but actual processing on the system was delayed until 2005. The system initially processed only 1040EZtax returns, the simplest type of electronic tax returns. In 2006, the capacity was increased for the system to begin processing a limited number of more complex 1040 forms and other support forms. In 2007, the system began to process Schedule C forms and other more complex tax forms. Because the system is unable to handle the full load of IRS tax returns, a hybrid approach is used by the IRS, where the majority of tax returns are still processed with the existing, older system. Current loads and tax returns processed by CADE are used for testing purposes to verify system functionality. The CADE system, although beset by regular setbacks, such as funding, was previously expected to be fully operational by 2012, but is now targeted for 2018-2020. Basic CADE functionality includes:
Ability to change client addresses manually
Process Married Filing Jointly & Separately without dependents returns
Process “Clean” Dependents returns
Process Head-of-Household without Dependents or with “Clean” Dependents returns
Ability to interface with and update Census Bureau statistics
Process 1040 Schedules C, E & F w/o EIN supporting forms, including Sch. SE
Process 1040 Schedule D and supporting forms
Benefits
Benefits to the Public
CADE will increase the speed of tax return processing. Under the current system, processing tax returns can take as long as one week and taxpayers have to wait between 14–35 days for the IRS to deposit their refund or mail them a check. Using CADE, tax returns will be generally completed within 24 hours and deposits issued within 48–72 hours. Check mailing times have not yet been determined, but there is expected to be at least a one-week wait.
Benefits to the IRS
The purpose of CADE is to replace the current IRS processing and database system that the IRS has been using since 1969. CADE should provide superior security and advanced processing techniques. CADE will be capable of superior security and fraud protection mechanisms with automated detection of tax return errors and inconsistencies. This will be done in part by interfacing with other government systems to verify information. CADE will also provide superior in-house functionality for the IRS to access information, reports, compliance issues, notices, and revenue accounting. The system also provides superior internal security by logging information accessed by IRS employees.
Compatibility
CADE is planned to eventually interface with the following IRS and governmental database systems for enhanced tracking and reporting:
CADE is expected to impact the tax preparation and tax bank product industry in a significant way. By enabling deposits to be made within 72 hours, the new system will render refund anticipation loans obsolete. It is also expected to greatly increase the demand for e-file. The only setback will be for taxpayers who do not have established bank accounts to receive direct deposit. The wait time for checks by mail will still be a minimum of one week.
