Cover Page
A concise cover lists filer identity, contact information, filing period, and the set of attached forms so the recipient can quickly identify package scope and reconcile records.
A standardized e-file package reduces processing time and preserves a reproducible record that meets ESIGN/UETA e-signature tests.
Proper role assignment within the package ensures signatures are legally attributable and that the filing party meets IRS and state reporting obligations.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link or SMS code for signer verification |
| Signature Type | ESIGN-compliant audit trail with timestamp |
| Field Validation | Enforce MM/DD/YYYY dates and numeric amount formats |
| Storage | Encrypted cloud storage with access controls |
Confirm platform compatibility, supported file formats, and authentication methods before sending a Tax MS E-File package.
Provide upon payer request; no fixed IRS submission date
Recipient and IRS due Jan 31 each year
Recipient copy due Jan 31
Paper filings due Feb 28; electronic due Mar 31
Return due Apr 15 (extension to Oct 15 with Form 4868)
A concise cover lists filer identity, contact information, filing period, and the set of attached forms so the recipient can quickly identify package scope and reconcile records.
Delimited or XML data extracts for bulk import into tax processing systems; these files reduce transcription errors and speed automated matching against payer accounts.
Human-readable forms (W-2, 1099, supporting schedules) embedded or attached as PDF/A for long-term preservation and audit review by authorities.
Explicit consent statements, signer identity metadata, and signature timestamps to satisfy ESIGN Act tests and to document authorization of the filing agent.
Pre-submit checks and a summary of validation results (TIN mismatches, missing fields) to reduce rejection risk and streamline corrections before transmission.
A retained acknowledgment or acceptance receipt from the IRS or state gateway proving successful submission and timestamp for statute of limitations purposes.
The interface is simple and easy-to-use for our team; more importantly, it is just as easy for our customers.
The airSlate SignNow team has been exceptional, responsive, the API has been great, and we're extremely happy that we chose airSlate SignNow as a company.
Compile payer/payee data and supporting schedules
Run format checks and TIN/name validation
Collect electronic consents and signatures
Transmit package and retain acceptance 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 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 |
A registered tax preparer or enrolled agent may sign forms on behalf of a client when a valid Power of Attorney (Form 2848) is on file or the document specifically authorizes the preparer to sign. The agent must ensure consent and retain evidence of authority.
A corporate officer such as the CFO may sign company tax filings and information returns where corporate governance authorizes the officer to attest and submit tax records; include title and date to show attribution.
Confirm if the attached legal document requires a notary or witnesses under state law
Decide in-person notarization or RON where permitted
Collect government ID and any KBA checks required
For RON, retain A/V recording per state retention rules
Ensure notary records journal entries for each session
Notary completes acknowledgment or jurat on the document
Obtain witness signatures where state law requires them
Include notary acknowledgement and proof of identity with e-file package
Export the assembled package as a single PDF/A file for long-term preservation and auditor review; PDFs include visible signatures and embedded audit metadata.
Export editable source documents in DOCX for internal editing or record updates while preserving a versioned PDF for the official copy.
Extract structured field data as CSV for bulk reconciliation with payroll or accounting systems and to automate IRS/state submission transforms.
Create a time-stamped ZIP bundle with the package, audit trail, and submission receipt for legal hold and long-term storage.