Lacerte E-Sign

[Kathryn S]

We just sent and received back a DocuSign request from a client marked "Do Not File."  Does anyone know why this appeared or had this happen to their clients?

How can I be sure this does not occur again?

Thanks

[Karl]

That watermark is idiot-insurance so that clients don't later look at their copy of the returns, panic and think that if they [the client] have them that the IRS doesn't, and then mail them in to the IRS.

Laugh all you want, but it's truly amazing the panic clients can get themselves into not understanding how this all works. I get a few "don't file yet! I found one more form! is it too late?!?" when I haven't even sent the DocuSign. And also a few "When are we filing?" after I've sent them confirmations of successful e-file.

For clients that complain about the watermark, tell them it's put on by your software.

FWIW, I put a PDF of the Client Copy no watermark in TaxDome for them with SSNs redacted (because clients are not careful with their own PII once it's in their downloads folder). That way they have a "pretty" one if it's so desperately needed.

[Kathryn S]

Thanks for your reply. I know that the client copy which accompanies the E-Sign forms is marked that but was surprised that the 8879 I needed signed was also marked that way.

[Karl]

Maybe the client might think they need to send it into the IRS, or maybe the IRS wants idiot-insurance against some preparers who might think it needs to be sent in. *shrug*

[StknCPA]

I thought that, at least at one point in the past, Lacerte adds the DO NOT FILE watermark to the client copy if you check the box to block their social security number on their copy. Weren't people filing tax returns that had the Social Security ***-**'ed out? And 1040-V, etc.?

I thought it was also the case that Lacerte will remove that that watermark if you allow the complete social security number to print. But, I haven't gone back to check this.

You probably don't want that, either.