Paid preparer and taxpayer signature

copley5
copley5 Member Posts: 2 Newcomer
in General

As a paid preparer using what is the process for obtaining taxpayer signature for e-filing? I see where to enter my PTIN and EFIN, but how will I get taxpayer signature/approval for e-filing?

Best Answer

  • KristineS
    KristineS FreeTaxUSA Agent Posts: 276 image
    Answer ✓

    Hi copley5,

    If you are a Paid Preparer, the FreeTaxUSA software will provide you a Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization that your client can sign to authorize e-filing of their tax return. Paid preparers keep Form 8879. It's not sent to the IRS.

    We also recommend you use the Practitioner PIN method to sign your client's return, since fewer returns are rejected using that method.

    The Practitioner PIN method doesn't require your client's prior year AGI or PIN. It does require your client to sign Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization  before you e-file the return. You'll determine what works best for you and your client as to the method of getting their signature. We'll provide Form 8879  for you if you choose this method.

    The Taxpayer PIN method requires your client's prior year adjusted gross income (AGI) or prior year PIN. If the prior year AGI or PIN doesn't match the IRS records, the return will be rejected. This is one of the most common reasons for the IRS to reject a return.

    Either method will require you to enter a Preparer's PIN.

Answers

  • copley5
    copley5 Member Posts: 2 Newcomer

    Thank you so much KristineS!

  • Toma
    Toma Member Posts: 1 Newcomer

    If we choose to enter the prior year AGI for newly married couple, whose AGI amount are we supposed to enter? 2025 is the first year for them to do the joint filing. Thank you.

  • Taylor
    Taylor FreeTaxUSA Agent Posts: 63 image
    Hello Toma,

    You can enter both AGIs. In the software, indicate that you both filed a 2024 return, separately. The software will ask if you have access to the 2024 returns, select Yes. It will then allow you to enter two separate Prior Year AGIs.

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