eBIRForms 7.9.6 Data Transfer Guide
Complete step-by-step guide to migrate your tax data from eBIRForms 7.9.5 to 7.9.6, including backup, folder copying, and branch code updates
What you'll learn in this eBIRForms data transfer guide
This eBIRForms 7.9.6 data transfer guide for Filipino taxpayers walks you through backing up your old version, installing the new version, copying essential folders, and updating branch codes to ensure your tax data migrates successfully.
For your BIR tax filing needs, also see our eBIRForms Filing Proof Guide, Digital Tax Filing with eBIRForms Guide, and BIR Tax Deadlines 2026 Guide.
Backup Your Old eBIRForms 7.9.5 Folder
Navigate to Your eBIRForms 7.9.5 Folder
Find the folder where your current eBIRForms 7.9.5 is installed
Rename the Folder
Right-click and rename it to "eBIRForms_7.9.5_Backup" or "eBIRForms_Old"
Save the Changes
Press Enter to save the new name. This is your backup safety net
Download and Install eBIRForms 7.9.6
Visit the BIR Website
Go to bir.gov.ph and navigate to the eBIRForms download section
Download Version 7.9.6
Download the latest eBIRForms installer from the official source
Install in a New Location
Run the installer and choose the default path. Install in a NEW folder, not over the old one
⚠️ Important Notes
Ensure you have administrator privileges, close other applications during installation, and always install in a new folder to avoid conflicts
Copy Essential Folders from Old Version
Five Critical Folders to Copy:
Open Your Old Backup Folder
Navigate to your renamed eBIRForms 7.9.5 backup folder
Select All Five Folders
Highlight Profile, Logfile, Savefile, Success, and Temp folders
Copy and Paste to New Version
Copy (Ctrl+C) and paste (Ctrl+V) into your new eBIRForms 7.9.6 folder. Choose "Replace" when prompted
Access the Profile Folder
Open New eBIRForms 7.9.6 Folder
Navigate to your newly installed eBIRForms 7.9.6 directory
Open Profile Subfolder
You will see XML files named after your TIN (e.g., 000123456789.xml)
Rename TIN Files with Updated Branch Code
🚨 Critical Step - Branch Code Update Required
eBIRForms 7.9.6 uses 5-digit branch codes (vs 3-digit in older versions). You MUST add "00" to your branch code or your old data will not appear in the new version
Understanding Branch Codes:
Identify Your Branch Code
Look at your TIN filename. The branch code is the number after the hyphen
Add Two Zeros (00)
Append "00" to the end of your branch code
Rename the File
Rename the TIN file with the updated 5-digit branch code
💡 Multiple TIN Files?
If you have multiple TIN files (for different businesses or branches), repeat this process for each file in the Profile folder
Verification Checklist
✅ Data Verification
✅ Functionality Test
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Backup
Never skip renaming your old eBIRForms 7.9.5 folder. Always keep a backup before migration
Forgetting to Copy All Folders
All five folders (Profile, Logfile, Savefile, Success, Temp) must be copied. Missing any folder will result in data loss
Not Updating Branch Codes
Failing to add "00" to your branch code is the most common error. Your old data will not appear in the new version without this step
Overwriting Instead of Replacing
When pasting folders into the new version, choose "Replace" when prompted. Don't manually delete folders first
Installing in the Same Folder
Always install eBIRForms 7.9.6 in a new folder. Installing over the old version can cause conflicts
Tips for Successful Migration
💡 Best Practices
🔧 Troubleshooting
If your data doesn't appear after migration:
👥 Multiple Users
If multiple users share the same computer, ensure each user's Profile folder is updated with their respective TIN files
Conclusion
Transferring data to eBIRForms 7.9.6 is a straightforward process when following these steps carefully. The key to success is:
The branch code update is the most critical step because eBIRForms 7.9.6 requires 5-digit branch codes instead of the 3-digit format used in previous versions. This ensures your old data and filings will appear and function correctly in the new software.
By completing this migration, you'll have access to all your previous tax filings, saved forms, and TIN profiles in the latest eBIRForms version, ensuring seamless tax filing continuity for your business.