| If you receive the ir-File error Invalid Header Record, then you have sent the
wrong file. Don't panic - simply try again, this time sending the IRD the correct file. | |
Background
This FAQ was originally published on 5th April 1999 - just a few days after the introduction of ir-File.
The IRD decided to abandon ir-File in August 2000 because it was having "devastating effects on people's networks."
In February 2001 they introduced ir-File2, claiming "the new, bug-free system could already handle the 50,000 users the Government wanted to have filing online by June 2004, but take-up would be staggered so that help-desk support could keep
up with demand".
Invalid Header Error
Ever since the original introduction of ir-File, the most common error is the
wrong file being transmitted through the ir-File system. If this happens, the error returned refers to an invalid header record. The
solution, in every case, is simple and straightforward. The solution is, without exception, to transmit the correct file to the IRD. The default file created by Ace Payroll is called
EFILEIRD.CSV . There is a facility within Ace Payroll to specify the file name, but either way the file always ends in CSV.
No other files in Ace Payroll end in CSV so it should be clear which file is sent.
Mistakes do happen. If the IRD advises there is an Invalid Header Error, you have sent the wrong file. There is no major problem - simply try again to send the correct file.
IRD Help Desk
We have tried to word this delicately, and are a little lost for words. Possibly the examples speak for themselves without further comment.
|
Case Study 1
On 7th June 2001 a client called the Ace Payroll Help Desk saying they had sent their employee.dta file to the IRD, and they had received back an invalid header error. Clearly, they had sent the wrong file.
They originally called the IRD Help Desk, and were told to go into Microsoft Word, open the file, and change the header record.
Never, ever, open any data files used by Ace Payroll, or any
other accounting software, in a text editor.
Make the slightest change, and you trash your files. | |
| Case Study 2
This call was received by the Ace Payroll Help Desk on 4th July 2001.
It is probably best documented by reproducing the notes our staff member Rob made at the time
| Problem | Client was attempting to import PAY.EXE as their electronic file. | | Symptoms |
Website was freezing and she had to reboot her computer. | | IRD Solution/Advice | - Your computer needs upgrading.
- Upon informing them that it was a new computer.
- It's probably full.
- Upon informing them that it definitely was not full
- Your data is corrupted. You'll need to get an IT expert in.
| | Ace Payroll Solution |
Advise correct filename to import and lead her through the process. | | Total Support Time | 6:56 minutes including hearing story about IRD Helpdesk, and taking through entire process. |
| |
| If you receive the ir-File error Invalid Header Record, then you have sent the
wrong file. Don't panic - simply try again, this time sending the IRD the correct file. | |
IR File Help Desk 0800 473 829 or 0800 IRD TAX |
|
Setting up for IR-File
Payroll giving overview