eSignature resource library

*Terms, conditions, pricing, subscriptions, packages, features, service and support options are subject to change at any time without notice.

Based on a survey of Intuit Accountants Tax Pros who used used eSignature to complete client TY2022 returns. Survey compiled 10/2023-01/2024. eSignature sold separately.

The ability to add eSignature fields to all forms and documents, including business forms, has been enabled and is designed to be used at the preparer’s discretion. Per the current IRS Guidelines, electronic signatures are accepted for the Individual and Business Modules. Please review IRS Publication 4163 for more detail.

Knowledge based authentication, also known as KBA, is an identity verification measure that requires end users to establish their identities through the use of specific security questions. The e-signature option is only available to taxpayers e-filing their tax returns through an Electronic Return Originator (ERO), who uses software that provides identity verification and e-signature functionality. To meet e-signature requirements, the ERO must be able to record the taxpayer’s name, social security number, address and date of birth electronically for identity verification purposes. As part of identity verification, the software may create what is known as a “soft inquiry” in the credit reporting industry. A soft inquiry is not a credit check, although it is conducted by a credit reporting company that uses information from the taxpayer’s credit report to generate knowledge-based authentication questions. Typically, the knowledge-based authentication questions address the taxpayer’s personal and financial history. These are usually multiple-choice questions such as the name of their mortgage lender, type of car financed, a former address or phone number. The taxpayer is expected to answer the questions correctly. Taxpayers who cannot complete the identity verification check cannot use e-signature. Ordinarily, knowledge based authentication is not mandatory for envelopes which do not contain Form 8878 or 8879 or their state equivalents.

The IRS accepts electronic signatures on forms 8878 and 8879. eSignatures can be used for a wide range of online documents apart from IRS forms such as engagement letters, contracts, invoices, NDAs, and bank documents. Please keep updated and compliant on what forms you can and cannot use in connection with the preparation of federal tax returns with the IRS. Most states also accept electronic signatures on forms 8878 and 8879 or their equivalent.

Offer of Unlimited eSignature for tax year 2024 for $1,699. Product must be purchased by 5 PM CT on March 31, 2025. Offers valid only for new eSignature Unlimited customers. The purchase of 2024 eSignatures is applicable for usage in tax year 2024 Lacerte/ProSeries/ProConnect Tax product only, unused eSignature envelopes may be used through December 31, 2025. Validity does not apply to usage in other product years. Terms, conditions, pricing, features, service and support options are subject to change without notice. For more information, please visit https://proconnect.intuit.com/esignature/.

Offer of Unlimited eSignature for tax year 2024 for $1,439 (20% off). Product must be purchased by 5 PM CT on March 31, 2024. Offers valid only for new eSignature Unlimited customers. The purchase of 2024 eSignatures is applicable for usage in tax year 2024 Lacerte/ProSeries/ProConnect Tax product only, unused eSignature envelopes may be used through December 31, 2025. Validity does not apply to usage in other product years. Terms, conditions, pricing, features, service and support options are subject to change without notice. For more information, please visit https://proconnect.intuit.com/esignature/.