IRS requires the ERO to transmit the return for e-filing within three days of receiving the signed Form 8879 but what if client signature date is already 3 days late?

[LSTAX]

Does the 8879 have to be filed within 3 days of the client signature date too or just the date I receive the form.  For instance client signs date 3/15/xx then returns the form to me on 4/1/xx. I have until 4/4 to e-file but I will be entering the signature date as 3/15.  Is this a problem?

[IRonMaN · Accepted solution]

Not a problem.  Once it is in your hands is when the clock starts ticking.  Just because someone signs it, sits on it for two weeks and then mails it back, is out of your control.  Besides, when was the last time the IRS stopped by your office to compare dates?  It's April 16th, time to worry less instead of more.

[LSTAX]

agreed - worry time should be over, but this question has worried me.  Once I entered a stale date and the client never got their refund - as of yet.  They got one of those identify verification letters.  They were a split RDP return which often get caught in limbo but I thought maybe saying they signed with an old date flagged it. Do you make a note when you received the 8879 and do you enter the signature date or use the computer date? Thanks

[IRonMaN]

I typically transmit all of my returns in the evening each day.  Every once in awhile they don't get done until the following morning.   So for the most part, they go out the day I get the form with the occasional one day delay.  I always enter the date that I transmit them as the 8879 date.  CAGMC for the occasional one day delay. :cop:

[LSTAX]

what is CAGMC? Thx

[IRonMaN]

Come and get me coppers :smile:

[LSTAX]

ha! guess I will stop making them send me the form with a fresh date.

[IRonMaN]

Good plan :+1: