The IRS 8879 form is a declaration for an e-filed return, allowing taxpayers to authorize the electronic submission of their income tax returns by their tax preparer. This important form serves as a safeguard, ensuring that taxpayers review and approve their tax information before it is filed. Completing this form is a crucial step in the e-filing process; start by filling it out today by clicking the button below.
The IRS 8879 form plays a vital role in the electronic filing process for taxpayers and tax professionals alike. Designed as an e-signature authorization form, it streamlines the submission of individual income tax returns. By signing this form, taxpayers give their tax preparers permission to file their returns electronically on their behalf. This form contains key details, including the taxpayer's name, Social Security number, and other essential information. Once completed, it allows for a quick and efficient filing experience, reducing the need for paper filings and helping to ensure that returns are submitted accurately and on time. Understanding the IRS 8879 form is crucial for anyone navigating the complexities of tax season, as it not only facilitates compliance but also safeguards taxpayer data during the electronic submission process. Whether someone is filing their own taxes or working with a professional, recognizing the importance of this form can enhance the experience and ensure a smoother tax filing journey.
Form 8879
(Rev. January 2021)
Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service
IRS e-file Signature Authorization
▶ ERO must obtain and retain completed Form 8879.
▶Go to www.irs.gov/Form8879 for the latest information.
OMB No. 1545-0074
Submission Identification Number (SID)
▲
Taxpayer’s name
Social security number
Spouse’s name
Spouse’s social security number
Part I
Tax Return Information — Tax Year Ending December 31,
(Enter
year you are authorizing.)
Enter whole dollars only on lines 1 through 5.
Note: Form 1040-SS filers use line 4 only. Leave lines 1, 2, 3, and 5 blank.
1
Adjusted gross income
.
. .
. . .
2
Total tax
3
Federal income tax withheld from Form(s) W-2 and Form(s) 1099
4
Amount you want refunded to you
5
Amount you owe
Part II Taxpayer Declaration and Signature Authorization (Be sure you get and keep a copy of your return)
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined a copy of the income tax return (original or amended) I am now authorizing, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. I further declare that the amounts in Part I above are the amounts from the income tax return (original or amended) I am now authorizing. I consent to allow my intermediate service provider, transmitter, or electronic return originator (ERO) to send my return to the IRS and to receive from the IRS (a) an acknowledgement of receipt or reason for rejection of the transmission, (b) the reason for any delay in processing the return or refund, and (c) the date of any refund. If applicable, I authorize the U.S. Treasury and its designated Financial Agent to initiate an ACH electronic funds withdrawal (direct debit) entry to the financial institution account indicated in the tax preparation software for payment of my federal taxes owed on this return and/or a payment of estimated tax, and the financial institution to debit the entry to this account. This authorization is to remain in full force and effect until I notify the U.S. Treasury Financial Agent to terminate the authorization. To revoke (cancel) a payment, I must contact the U.S. Treasury Financial Agent at 1-888-353-4537. Payment cancellation requests must be received no later than 2 business days prior to the payment (settlement) date. I also authorize the financial institutions involved in the processing of the electronic payment of taxes to receive confidential information necessary to answer inquiries and resolve issues related to the payment. I further acknowledge that the personal identification number (PIN) below is my signature for the income tax return (original or amended) I am now authorizing and, if applicable, my Electronic Funds Withdrawal Consent.
Taxpayer’s PIN: check one box only
I authorize
to enter or generate my PIN
Enter five digits, but
ERO firm name
don’t enter all zeros
signature on the income tax return (original or amended) I am now authorizing.
as my
I will enter my PIN as my signature on the income tax return (original or amended) I am now authorizing. Check this box only if you are entering your own PIN and your return is filed using the Practitioner PIN method. The ERO must complete Part III below.
Your signature ▶
Date ▶
Spouse’s PIN: check one box only
Spouse’s signature ▶
Practitioner PIN Method Returns Only—continue below
Part III Certification and Authentication — Practitioner PIN Method Only
ERO’s EFIN/PIN. Enter your six-digit EFIN followed by your five-digit self-selected PIN.
Don’t enter all zeros
I certify that the above numeric entry is my PIN, which is my signature for the electronic individual income tax return (original or amended) I am now authorized to file for tax year indicated above for the taxpayer(s) indicated above. I confirm that I am submitting this return in accordance with the requirements of the Practitioner PIN method and Pub. 1345, Handbook for Authorized IRS e-file Providers of Individual Income Tax Returns.
ERO’s signature ▶
ERO Must Retain This Form — See Instructions
Don’t Submit This Form to the IRS Unless Requested To Do So
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see your tax return instructions.
Cat. No. 32778X
Form 8879 (Rev. 01-2021)
Page 2
General Instructions
Section references are to the Internal Revenue Code unless otherwise noted.
Future developments. For the latest information about developments related to Form 8879 and its instructions, such as legislation enacted after they were published, go to www.irs.gov/Form8879.
What's New. Form 8879 is used to authorize the electronic filing (e-file) of original and amended returns. Use this Form 8879 (Rev. January 2021) to authorize e-file of your Form 1040, 1040-SR, 1040-NR, 1040-SS, or 1040- X, for tax years beginning with 2019.
Purpose of Form
Form 8879 is the declaration document and signature authorization for an e-filed return filed by an electronic return originator (ERO). Complete Form 8879 when the Practitioner PIN method is used or when the taxpayer authorizes the ERO to enter or generate the taxpayer’s personal identification number (PIN) on his or her e-filed individual income tax return.
!
Don’t send this form to the IRS.
The ERO must retain Form 8879.
CAUTION
When and How To Complete
Use this chart to determine when and how to complete Form 8879.
IF the ERO is . . .
THEN . . .
Not using the Practitioner
Don’t complete
PIN method and the
Form 8879.
taxpayer enters his or her
own PIN
Complete Form
PIN method and is
8879, Parts I and II.
authorized to enter or
generate the taxpayer’s
PIN
Using the Practitioner PIN
Complete Form 8879,
method and is authorized
Parts I, II, and III.
to enter or generate the
taxpayer’s PIN
method and the taxpayer
enters his or her own PIN
ERO Responsibilities
The ERO must:
1.Enter the name(s) and social security number(s) of the taxpayer(s) at the top of the form.
2.Complete Part I using the amounts (zeros may be entered when appropriate) from the taxpayer’s tax return. Form 1040-SS filers leave lines 1 through 3 and line 5 blank.
3.Enter or generate, if authorized by the taxpayer, the taxpayer’s PIN and enter it in the boxes provided in Part II.
4.Enter on the authorization line in Part II the ERO firm name (not the name of the individual preparing the return) if the ERO is authorized to enter the taxpayer’s PIN.
5.Provide the taxpayer(s) Form 8879 by hand delivery, U.S. mail, private delivery service, email, Internet website, or fax.
6.Enter the 20-digit Submission Identification Number (SID) assigned to the tax return, or associate Form 9325, Acknowledgement and General Information for Taxpayers Who File Returns Electronically, with Form 8879 after filing. If Form 9325 is used to provide the SID, it isn’t required to be physically attached to Form 8879. However, it must be kept in accordance with published retention requirements for Form 8879. See Pub. 4164, Modernized e-File (MeF) Guide for Software Developers and Transmitters, for more details.
You must receive the completed ▲! and signed Form 8879 from the
taxpayer before the electronic CAUTION return is transmitted (or released
for transmission).
For additional information, see Pub. 1345.
Taxpayer Responsibilities
Taxpayers must:
1.Verify the accuracy of the prepared income tax return, including direct deposit information.
2.Check the appropriate box in Part II to authorize the ERO to enter or generate your PIN or to do it yourself.
3.Indicate or verify your PIN when authorizing the ERO to enter or generate it (the PIN must be five digits other than all zeros).
4.Sign and date Form 8879. Taxpayers must sign Form 8879 by handwritten signature, or electronic signature if supported by computer software.
5.Return the completed Form 8879 to the ERO by hand delivery, U.S. mail, private delivery service, email, Internet website, or fax.
Your return won’t be transmitted to the IRS until the ERO receives your signed Form 8879.
Refund information. You can check on the status of your refund if it has been at least 72 hours since the IRS acknowledged receipt of your e-filed return. But if you filed Form 8379 with your return, allow 11 weeks. To check the status of your refund, do one of the following.
•Go to www.irs.gov/Refunds.
•Call 1-800-829-4477 for automated refund information and follow the recorded instructions.
•Call 1-800-829-1954.
Important Notes for EROs
•Don’t send Form 8879 to the IRS unless requested to do so. Retain the completed Form 8879 for 3 years from the return due date or IRS received date, whichever is later. Form 8879 may be retained electronically in accordance with the recordkeeping guidelines in Rev. Proc. 97-22, which is on page 9 of Internal Revenue Bulletin 1997-13 at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-irbs/irb97-13.pdf.
•Confirm the identity of the taxpayer(s).
•Complete Part III only if you are filing the return using the Practitioner PIN method. You aren’t required to enter the taxpayer’s date of birth, prior year adjusted gross income, or PIN in the Authentication Record of the electronically filed return.
•If you aren’t using the Practitioner PIN method, enter the taxpayer(s) date of birth and either the adjusted gross income or the PIN, or both, from the taxpayer’s prior year originally filed return in the Authentication Record of the taxpayer’s electronically filed return. Don’t use an amount from an amended return or a math error correction made by the IRS.
•Enter the taxpayer’s PIN(s) on the input screen only if the taxpayer has authorized you to do so. If married filing jointly, it is acceptable for one spouse to authorize you to enter his or her PIN, and for the other spouse to enter his or her own PIN. It isn’t acceptable for a taxpayer to select or enter the PIN of an absent spouse.
•Taxpayers must use a PIN to sign their
e-filed individual income tax return transmitted by an ERO.
•Provide the taxpayer with a copy of the signed Form 8879 for his or her records upon request.
•Provide the taxpayer with a corrected copy of Form 8879 if changes are made to the return (for example, based on taxpayer review).
•EROs can sign the form using a rubber stamp, mechanical device (such as a signature pen), or computer software program. See Notice 2007-79, 2007-42 I.R.B. 809, available at www.irs.gov/ irb/2007-42_IRB/ar10.html, for more information.
•Go to www.irs.gov/Efile for the latest information.
Completing the IRS 8879 form is an essential step in the e-filing process for your tax return. After filling out this form, it will allow you to authorize your tax preparer to electronically file your return on your behalf. Follow these steps carefully to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
Following these steps will help ensure that your IRS 8879 form is correctly filled out and ready for your tax preparer, facilitating a smooth e-filing process for your tax return.
What is the IRS Form 8879?
The IRS Form 8879, also known as the E-File Signature Authorization, is a document that allows taxpayers to electronically sign their tax returns. By using this form, individuals give their consent for their tax preparer to submit the return electronically on their behalf. This simplifies the process and can expedite refunds.
Who needs to use Form 8879?
Form 8879 is typically used by individuals who have their taxes prepared by a professional. If you are filing your taxes electronically through a tax preparer and wish to use their services, you will likely need to complete and sign this form. It's important for anyone who wants to file their return electronically but does not file it themselves.
How do I fill out Form 8879?
Filling out Form 8879 is relatively straightforward. First, you need to provide basic identification information such as your name, Social Security number, and the total income from your return. Your tax preparer will also need their information on the form. Once all sections are complete, you need to sign and date the form to authorize the e-filing.
Is my information safe when using Form 8879?
Yes, your information is protected. Form 8879 is used only between you and your tax preparer to authorize the electronic submission of your return. Tax professionals are required to adhere to strict privacy guidelines to keep your data secure. Always ensure you are working with a trusted and licensed professional.
What happens after I submit Form 8879?
After you submit Form 8879 to your tax preparer and they e-file your return, you should receive confirmation of receipt from the IRS. This document is essential for your records, as it serves as proof that you authorized electronic filing. Keep it in a safe place along with your other tax documents.
Can I revoke my signature on Form 8879?
Yes, you have the right to revoke your signature at any time before your return is filed. If you change your mind, simply contact your tax preparer and inform them that you no longer wish to authorize the e-filing. It’s advisable to do this as soon as possible to prevent any unauthorized submissions.
Do I need to provide additional documentation along with Form 8879?
Generally, no additional documentation is needed solely for Form 8879. However, your tax preparer may request supporting documents to prepare your tax return effectively. Always provide any financial records they ask for to ensure your return is accurately filed.
The IRS 8879 form is important for e-filing your federal tax return. One common mistake is not signing the form. Both spouses must sign if filing jointly. A missing signature can delay the processing of your return and potentially lead to penalties.
Another frequent error occurs with the Social Security Number (SSN). People sometimes transpose numbers or forget to include the entire SSN. It’s crucial to double-check this information, as an incorrect SSN can cause complications and delays in your tax return processing.
Also, many individuals fail to review the information entered. Inaccuracies can stem from simple typos or misunderstanding line items. Before submitting, carefully read through the form. A thorough review can prevent unnecessary issues with the IRS later.
Finally, some taxpayers overlook the importance of keeping a copy of the signed IRS 8879 form. This document serves as proof that you authorized the electronic filing. Without a copy, you may face difficulties if any questions arise regarding your submission.
The IRS Form 8879, known as the "IRS e-file Signature Authorization," is an essential document for electronically filing tax returns. It allows taxpayers to authorize their tax preparers to submit their tax returns electronically. However, several other forms and documents are often needed in conjunction with the IRS 8879. Below is a list detailing these commonly used documents.
Being informed about these documents is crucial for ensuring a smooth tax filing process. Each one plays a unique role in helping accurately report your financial situation and comply with IRS requirements. Make sure to gather all relevant forms before proceeding with the electronic filing of your return.
The IRS Form 8879 is used for e-filing tax returns. It authorizes a third party to file a taxpayer’s return electronically. Several other forms and documents serve similar purposes in the tax filing process. Here are six documents that share similarities with Form 8879:
When filling out the IRS 8879 form, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do during this process.
Misconception 1: The IRS 8879 form is only for self-employed individuals.
This form is actually used by any taxpayer who files their federal tax return electronically through a tax professional. It can be beneficial for both individuals and business owners.
Misconception 2: Signing IRS form 8879 means I am authorizing my tax preparer to prepare my return.
This form merely authorizes your tax preparer to e-file your return on your behalf. It does not grant them permission to make changes or decisions outside of that scope.
Misconception 3: I have to file form 8879 every year, regardless of my situation.
You only need to complete this form if you are filing electronically through a tax professional. If you choose to file on paper or have a different arrangement, it may not be required.
Misconception 4: The IRS 8879 form is submitted directly to the IRS as part of my tax return.
In reality, this form remains with your tax preparer and is not sent to the IRS. Its main purpose is to confirm your consent for the e-filing process.
The IRS 8879 form is an important document for taxpayers who are e-filing their tax returns through a tax practitioner. Here are some key takeaways to consider when filling out and using this form:
Dd Form 1750 - Two copies of the form may be maintained for reference.
Medication Error Form - The form should be treated with the utmost seriousness and care.