Client Details
Full legal name, DBA if applicable, DOB or formation date, and mailing address to match tax records and identity verification.
A well-designed Tax Services Request Form reduces processing errors, clarifies the scope of work, and creates an auditable engagement record. It supports compliant e-signing under ESIGN and UETA and streamlines information exchange with preparers and payers.
Common signers and users range from individuals to corporate finance teams; responsibilities vary by role.
The form acts as a single source of truth for preparers, reducing follow-ups and improving timeliness.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link | SMS code | KBA for high-risk filings |
| Conditional Fields | Show additional consent for third-party authorization |
| Notifications | Auto reminders at 3 and 7 days before due dates |
| Storage | Encrypted storage with versioning and audit trail |
The form can be distributed by email, secure link, or integrated systems; platform choice affects authentication options.
Choose a platform that provides an audit trail, encrypted storage, and the authentications needed for your regulatory environment.
Full legal name, DBA if applicable, DOB or formation date, and mailing address to match tax records and identity verification.
SSN or EIN entered accurately without dashes; used for payer reporting and backup withholding checks.
List specific filings or advisory tasks, deadlines, and any deliverables to avoid scope creep during engagement.
State fees, preparer fees, and payment terms (flat fee or hourly) plus billing contact and accepted payment methods.
Explicit authorization for preparer to file returns and sign on client’s behalf where permitted by IRS forms and power of attorney rules.
Space to attach prior-year returns, income statements, receipts, and any third-party authorization documents required for filings.
Provide on request; no IRS filing deadline
Recipient and IRS due Jan 31 each year
Paper to IRS Feb 28, electronic Mar 31
Form 1040 due April 15 (extension to Oct 15 possible)
Due April 15 with automatic extension to Oct 15
Firm confirms receipt and lists missing items for the client to provide.
Preparers accept scope and send engagement letter for signature and e-consent.
Draft return or forms reviewed internally and sent to client for final approval.
Return or information return transmitted to IRS/state and filing confirmation archived.
| Document Type | Tax Services Request Form | Engagement Letter |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | request services | formalize terms |
| Timing | before service begins | at or before engagement |
| Required Signature | client authorization | client and preparer |
| Typical Attachments | w-2/1099s | fee schedule, sow |
| 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, no credit card | Yes, trial available | Yes, trial available | Yes, trial available | Yes, trial available |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes (BAA available) | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No envelope cap | 100 envelopes/user/year limit | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |