Fill out 8821 (Tax Information Authorization) online
Form 8821 authorizes a designated individual or organization to receive and inspect your confidential tax information from the IRS. Unlike Form 2848, it does not grant the appointee the authority to represent you or take action on your behalf.
How to fill out 8821 (Tax Information Authorization)
Enter taxpayer information
Provide your name, address, taxpayer identification number (SSN or EIN), daytime phone number, and plan number if applicable.
Designate the appointee
Enter the name, address, CAF number (if known), telephone number, and fax number of the person or organization you are authorizing to receive your tax information.
Specify the tax information
List each tax form type (e.g., 1040, 941), the tax period(s) or year(s), and the specific tax information the appointee is authorized to access.
Sign and date
Sign and date the form. If you are filing on behalf of a business entity, include your title. The appointee does not sign this form.
About 8821 (Tax Information Authorization)
Who needs this form
Taxpayers who want to allow a third party (such as a family member, financial advisor, or mortgage lender) to access their tax records without granting full power of attorney.
Where to submit
Submit to the IRS by fax to the CAF unit listed in the form instructions for your state, or mail to the appropriate IRS address. Can also be submitted electronically through the IRS Tax Pro Account.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-16
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Confusing Form 8821 with Form 2848 (which grants power of attorney, not just information access)
- Not specifying the correct tax form type and year(s) on Line 3
- Forgetting to sign and date the form
- Not revoking prior authorizations when they are no longer needed
Frequently asked questions
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Can the person I designate on Form 8821 represent me before the IRS?
No. Form 8821 only authorizes someone to view and receive your tax information. They cannot represent you, sign documents, or take any action on your behalf with the IRS. For that, you need Form 2848 (Power of Attorney).
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