File Cigarette Tax Electronically

There are two ways that you can file your return in e-Services:

• Key in your return data
• Import a file containing return information using our predefined templates available at Cigarette Tax File Formats.

Template Instructions and Rules

If you choose to enter your return information into our Excel templates, you must follow the rules provided.

Enter Data into Template

1. Enter the data into the file. You must follow the schema rules for each field.
2. Delete any empty rows, including header rows.

DO NOT:

• Skip any rows or columns when entering or loading your return data
• Include any special characters, such as underlines, parentheses, minus signs or dollar signs.

This will cause your return to error when it is loaded into our systems.

Convert Spreadsheets

Files that are imported into e-Services must be in a Text (.txt) file format. After you have entered your information into the spreadsheet, you must save it as a Comma Delimited (.csv) file and then convert it into a .txt  file using Notepad.

To do this:

1. Save the file as a .csv file. Select File>Save As. In the Save as type: drop down, select CVS (Comma delimited) and select Save.
2. Close the Excel file.
3. Open the .csv  file in Notepad. Find the file, right click on the file name and select the Open with>Notepad.
4. Rename the file and select Save to save it as a .txt file.

Remember to keep a copy of the spreadsheet in case you need to file an amended return in the future.

Import Data

To import your data, log in to e-Services and select Returns and Periods for your Cigarette Tax account. Select the File Return link for the appropriate filing period and select Import Your Data.