Document Title
Use a clear title such as Tax E-file Permission Form and reference the tax year(s) covered to avoid ambiguity about the filing period and scope of authorization.
A clear permission form creates an auditable record of consent that supports compliance with the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and state UETA laws, establishes signer intent and attribution, and reduces disputes about who authorized the electronic filing.
Use a clear title such as Tax E-file Permission Form and reference the tax year(s) covered to avoid ambiguity about the filing period and scope of authorization.
Full legal name, Social Security number or EIN (partial masking permitted), mailing address, and birthdate as needed to match IRS records and confirm signer identity for attribution.
Preparer's name, firm, PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number), contact information, and the specific returns or forms the preparer is authorized to file.
Explicit statement whether authorization covers e-filing only, e-filing plus direct deposit instructions, signature consent, or ongoing representation for multiple returns or years.
Specify acceptable signing methods (typed, drawn, or digital signature), authentication level (email, SMS, KBA), and whether notarization or witness is required.
State how long the authorization will be retained, how a taxpayer may revoke consent, and where records will be stored for audit and compliance purposes.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Prepare form | Upload PDF/DOCX and auto-detect fields where supported |
| Authentication | Set email or SMS, enable KBA for higher assurance |
| Routing | Define signer order and reminders |
| Retention | Enable automatic archiving and export to secure storage |
Verify that your eSignature platform supports required file formats, audit trails, and the chosen signer authentication methods before processing authorizations.
Obtain signed permission prior to electronic transmission.
Meet filing deadlines (e.g., Form 1040 April 15) to avoid penalties.
For extensions, retain authorization covering the extended filing date.
Get separate or clearly multi-year consent when needed.
Document revocations received before submission to withhold filing.
Complete taxpayer and preparer information and attach supporting documents.
Taxpayer signs electronically with chosen authentication and date.
Verify TINs, bank routing, and payer details before e-filing.
Submit to IRS/state and retain acceptance or rejection receipt.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/yr | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |