# Step 2: Preflight check to detect existing AvaTax configuration

Source: https://developer.avalara.com/ai-onboarding/evv8957965766573/

# Step 2: Preflight check to detect existing AvaTax configuration

Identify existing AvaTax configurations and determine the next steps for onboarding.

This step checks if the existing AvaTax configuration is present. It also determines how onboarding proceeds.

## When this step occurs

This step occurs after the user enters the Avalara Setup Center and before any new AvaTax configuration is created.

## What the AI agent does

During this step, the AI agent:

-   Checks AvaTax to identify existing companies and associated nexus declarations.

-   Determines whether the existing configuration can be reused.

-   Presents configuration options based on the results.

If existing AvaTax companies are detected, the AI agent provides the following options:

-   **Option 1: Map existing AvaTax companies**

    The AI agent presents existing AvaTax companies alongside detected ERP entities and allows the user to define mappings. These mappings are saved in the connector configuration.

-   **Option 2: Start fresh**

    The AI agent ignores existing AvaTax companies and prepares to create new companies based on ERP analysis.

Note

Mapping existing companies updates only the connector application’s internal configuration, including which AvaTax company ID is associated with each ERP entity. No AvaTax companies or nexus declarations are modified at this stage.

## Outcome of this step

After the preflight check is complete:

-   If existing companies are mapped, onboarding continues using the selected mappings.

-   If the user chooses to start fresh, onboarding proceeds to company creation in the next step.