Table of contents:
What is Intuit eSignature?
In 2014, the IRS issued signature guidance for Form 8879 (Publication 1345, page 8). In response, Intuit partnered with DocuSign, the most widely used electronic signature solution, to bring you Intuit eSignature. This time-saving add-on gives you the ability to request digital signatures from clients. Documents can be viewed, signed, and returned from any location, without the need to visit your office.
Is eSignature available for all return types?
Intuit eSignature is available for most return types. Lacerte supports eSignature for individual, corporate, partnership, S-corporate, fiduciary, and exempt organization returns. ProSeries and ProConnect support eSignature for all individual and business returns.
How does eSignature work?
Intuit eSignature is integrated into your software. When the return is complete, select the eSignature option within Lacerte, ProSeries, or ProConnect to send a link to the encrypted documents requiring a signature. Clients can access DocuSign from any supported mobile or desktop device. After your client has signed the documents, they're digitally stored, filed, and accessible for future use by all signing parties.
Does eSignature cost extra?
Yes, Intuit eSignature will cost per folder. A folder is a request for a client that contains all the signature forms in the return, plus any other documents you choose to send in a single request. You can pay $3.19 per folder, or save by paying for a bundle. Refer to eSignature pricing for details.
Do I have to use eSignature?
No, Intuit eSignature is optional and available as an add-on.
If the client signs in person, does that use an eSignature credit?
Yes, an eSignature credit is used when they use eSignature to sign in person or out of the office on their mobile device or computer.
Can eSignature be used for state documents?
Some states support electronic signatures for e-file Signature Authorization Forms (8879 equivalent). Refer to State information for eSignature for details.
Can I void an eSignature request that my customer has signed and returned?
No, eSignature requests can't be voided if they've been signed and returned. However, once they've been signed and returned, a new signature request can be sent.
When will eSignature be available in my program?
Intuit eSignature isn't typically available in the early releases of Lacerte, ProConnect, or ProSeries; generally, it becomes available around the time e-file opens in January.
How secure is Intuit eSignature?
eSignature maintains a detailed audit trail of the form, including when it was sent, opened, and signed. Intuit eSignature is encrypted with the highest standard of global information security and operations (AES-256 standard and 256-bit SSL document transmission). The client is verified with Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) for 8879 and 8878 signatures. For other signatures, you'll have the option to use KBA or an alternative authentication method.
How will eSignature work for a Married Filing Joint (MFJ) individual return?
You'll be required to enter an email address for both taxpayer and spouse. An email will be sent to both parties to sign Form 8879 with DocuSign. Once all parties have signed, the eSignature status will change to completed. You will only be charged for one eSignature request.
When will eSignature credits expire?
Any purchased credits will need to be used by December 31, 2024 and any unused credits will be lost. Your eSignature credits aren't refundable or transferable and can't be carried to the next year. Don't buy more than you need to use for the calendar year.
What year tax programs can I use eSignatures with?
Purchased eSignatures units that are bought from the current year software can be used in any year that supports e-filing returns. Currently, this would be tax year 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Does the IRS allow eSignatures?
Our eSignature solution is IRS-approved and will integrate seamlessly into your tax product to provide you with an easier, time-saving way to quickly get Form 8879 and Form 8878 signatures back from clients.
Can I use eSignature with foreign addresses?
While eSignature will allow requests to be sent to taxpayers with foreign addresses, the feature uses a Knowledge Based Authentication (KBA) service, like what you'd see when checking your credit report online. Foreign addresses may cause complications for the taxpayer in authenticating their information.
