I have set Options to lock client files after EF acceptance, but I can still edit them.
You have checked the option Lock client data file after EF acceptance at Setup > Options > EF.
After setting the option, when you open a return that has been e-filed and accepted, you see a warning message with Yes, No, and Cancel options:
![](https://drakesoftware.com/Site/Uploads/Images/12280%20image%201.jpg)
When you click Yes to proceed, the return opens normally.
The current return may vary from the originally e-filed return if tax law changes have been implemented by software updates. To review a return as it was e-filed, go to View/Print mode > Documents > Archive Manager and restore the "Selected for EF" archive. Alternatively, go to Drake Documents and review the PDF copy of the return (if you saved a PDF at the time of filing - Recommended).
When the option Lock client data file after EF acceptance is set, a preparer opening an accepted return:
- can view it and enter data if the preparer's security rights permit it. The displayed message serves only as a warning.
- can only view it if the preparer's security rights exclude Unlock Client Files. The displayed message offers only the option of viewing the return. Data entry is disabled.
For example, a preparer whose security excludes Unlock Client Files
![](https://drakesoftware.com/Site/Uploads/Images/12280%20image%202.jpg)
sees this message when attempting to open an accepted return
![](https://drakesoftware.com/Site/Uploads/Images/12280%20image%203.jpg)
and sees grey data entries fields that are "read only"
![](https://drakesoftware.com/Site/Uploads/Images/12280%20image%204.jpg)
An administrator and preparers with adequate security can open and edit the return. This message is displayed which allows you to open and edit the return:
![](https://drakesoftware.com/Site/Uploads/Images/12280%20image%201.jpg)
Locked accepted returns can also be opened from the Tools menu. The menu selection Tools > File Maintenance > Unlock Client Files does not eliminate the warning message or change the locked status of a return. It simply opens the return to the warning message. A preparer with inadequate security finds this menu selection disabled.
See Related Links below for more information about preparer security rights.