TaxSlayer Pro's Premium Package allows users who own a signature pad to capture the preparer and taxpayer signatures electronically and apply them to all the forms that support an electronic signature. The forms that support an electronic signature vary with each state and with each bank.
Certain models of Topaz Systems and Scriptel signature pads are supported in TaxSlayer Pro. The signature pads are connected to the computer through a USB port. We have tested two signature pads for compatibility, and if you shop around should be able to purchase either of them in new or refurbished condition for around $120:
There are many other signature pad models, but they haven't been tested for compatibility and so aren't guaranteed to work with the program.
Preparer signature
To capture the preparer's signature, from the Quick Menu of TaxSlayer Pro select:
- Configuration
- Firm/ERO/Preparer Setup
- Preparer(s) Menu - Select a preparer from the list.
- Preparer Signature - (This menu option only appears when the signature pad is connected to the computer. If you don't see it, verify whether the pad is connected.)
- In the signature box, the preparer should sign their name using the signature pad, then select Save.
The preparer's signature will now appear on all supported forms.
The taxpayer(s) signatures can be captured to print on the following forms:
- Form 8878
- Form 8879
- IRC 7216 Consent Form
- Bank Application
Taxpayer signature
Here are instructions for capturing the taxpayer signature on specific forms.
Form 8878 - IRS e-file Signature Authorization for Form 4868 or Form 2350
From the Electronic Extension Edit Menu:
- Select Send Extension Electronically? - Change this option to 'YES'
- Select Form 4868 Electronic Payment - Fill in all required information.
- Select Taxpayer's Signature - Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad, then click Save.
If the return is being filed MFJ, also have the spouse sign their name.
IRC 7216 Consent Form
From the Main Menu of the tax return (Form 1040):
- Select Mark Return Electronic - You will be prompted to Select the E-File Type.
- If queried, enter the taxpayer's cell phone number for bank notifications.
- In the Bank Consent to Disclosure of Tax Return Information Menu, select Taxpayer's Signature.
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad, then click Save.
If the return is being filed MFJ, also have the spouse sign their name.
Form 8879 - IRS e-file Signature Authorization
From the Main Menu of the tax return (Form 1040):
- Select Mark Return Electronic - You will be prompted to Select the E-File Type.
- If queried, enter the taxpayer's cell phone number for bank notifications.
- In the Bank Consent to Disclosure of Tax Return Information Menu, select Taxpayer's Signature.
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad, then click Save.
If the return is being filed MFJ, also have the spouse sign their name.
- In the Practitioner PIN Menu, select Taxpayer's Signature.
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad, then click Save.
If the return is being filed MFJ, also have the spouse sign their name.
If the return has already been marked electronic:
From the Main Menu of the tax return (Form 1040):
- Select Mark Return Electronic
- Select Signature Authorization
- In the Practitioner PIN Menu, select Taxpayer's Signature
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad, then click Save.
If the return is being filed MFJ, also have the spouse sign their name.
Bank Application
The screen descriptions and navigation may vary depending on the bank partner you are using. Be sure you completed the steps above for the IRC 7216 Consent Form and Form 8879.
From the Main Menu of the tax return (Form 1040):
- Select Exit to exit the return to the Receipt Menu.
- In the Receipt Menu, select Bank Application
- Select Sign the Application
- Select Taxpayer's Signature.
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad and select Save.
If the return is being filed MFJ, also have the spouse sign their name.
Business Returns
Currently the IRS doesn't support electronic signatures on business e-file signature authorization forms 8879-C, 8879-EO, 8879-F, 8879-PE, and 8879-S.
Note: If an electronic signature is not accepted on a particular form by either the state, the bank, or the IRS, there will not be an option to add an electronic signature in the program.
Additional Information: