TaxSlayer's Premium Package allows users who own a signature pad to capture the signatures of the preparer as well as the taxpayer(s) electronically. This feature will apply the taxpayer and preparer signatures to all supported forms. The option to use the signature pad will vary with each state and with each bank.
Topaz Systems Inc. signature pads are supported in the TaxSlayer Premium Program. The pad is connected to the computer through a USB port. A basic signature pad will cost around $100. We have tested two signature pads for compatibility:
Both of these signature pads are compatible with the TaxSlayer Pro Program. There are other models available, but they have not been tested for compatibility and are not guaranteed to work with the program.
To use a signature pad to capture the signature of the preparer on all supported forms, from the Main Menu of the TaxSlayer Program select:
- Configuration
- Firm/ERO/Preparer Setup
- Preparer(s) Menu - Select a preparer from the list.
- Preparer Signature - This option will only appear in the menu when the signature pad is connected to the computer.
- When the signature box appears on the screen, the preparer should sign their name using the signature pad, and select Save.
- The preparer's signature will then 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 (Santa Barbara Tax Products Group, Republic Bank & Trust)
Instructions for capturing the taxpayer(s) signature on a specific form:
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 (If the return is MFJ, select Spouse's Signature)
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad and select Save. (Have the spouse sign their name using the signature pad, and select Save.)
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.
- Enter Cell Phone Number for Bank Notifications (optional)
- When the Bank Consent to Disclosure of Tax Return Information Menu is displayed, select Taxpayer's Signature (If the return is MFJ, you will need to have the spouse sign as well)
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad and select Save. (Have the spouse sign their name using the signature pad, and select Save.)
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.
- Enter Cell Phone Number for Bank Notifications (optional)
- When the Bank Consent to Disclosure of Tax Return Information Menu is displayed, select Taxpayer's Signature (If the return is MFJ, you will need to have the spouse sign as well)
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad and select Save. (Have the spouse sign their name using the signature pad, and select Save.)
- Exit Menu
- When the Practioner PIN Menu is displayed, select Taxpayer's Signature (If the return is MFJ, you will need to have the spouse sign as well)
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad and select Save. (Have the spouse sign their name using the signature pad, and select Save.)
If the return has already been marked electronic:
From the Main Menu of the Tax Return (Form 1040) select:
- Mark Return Electronic
- Signature Authorization.
- When the Practitioner PIN Menu is displayed, select Taxpayer's Signature (If the return is MFJ, you will need to have the spouse sign as well)
- Have the taxpayer sign their name using the signature pad and select Save. (Have the spouse sign their name using the signature pad, and select Save.)
Bank Application
The screen descriptions/navigation may vary depending on the bank partner you have selected in the program. Be sure you completed the steps above for the IRC 7216 Consent Form and Form 8879 - IRS e-file Signature Authorization.
From the Main Menu of the Tax Return (Form 1040) select:
- Exit.
- In the Receipt Menu select Bank Application
- 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, the spouse will also need to sign the return in the same manner.
Currently the business Form 8879 is not supported.
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 on that form.
Additional Information:
