Fill out Form 8879 (IRS e-file Signature Authorization) online
Form 8879 is the IRS e-file Signature Authorization that allows a taxpayer to authorize an Electronic Return Originator (ERO) to enter their PIN as their electronic signature on an e-filed return. It serves as the taxpayer consent to file their return electronically and replaces the need for a handwritten signature.
How to fill out Form 8879 (IRS e-file Signature Authorization)
Review the completed tax return
Before signing Form 8879, carefully review the completed tax return for accuracy. Verify your income, deductions, credits, and the refund or balance due amount.
Verify the return information on the form
Confirm that the AGI (adjusted gross income), total tax, federal tax withheld, and refund or amount owed shown on Form 8879 match the amounts on your completed return.
Enter your PIN and sign
Select a five-digit self-select PIN (any five numbers except all zeros) to serve as your electronic signature. Enter it on the form, then sign and date. If filing jointly, both spouses must provide PINs and sign.
Provide to your ERO for transmission
Give the signed Form 8879 to your ERO (tax preparer). The ERO enters your PIN, signs, and transmits the return. The ERO retains the signed form; you should keep a copy for your records.
About Form 8879 (IRS e-file Signature Authorization)
Who needs this form
Taxpayers who use a paid preparer or tax software provider to e-file their federal income tax return and need to authorize the ERO to submit the return on their behalf. Both the taxpayer and the ERO must sign this form before the return is transmitted.
Where to submit
Do not file Form 8879 with the IRS. The ERO retains the signed original (or electronic copy) for three years from the return due date or the date the return was filed, whichever is later. The taxpayer should keep a copy for their records.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-24
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Signing the form before reviewing the completed return (the taxpayer must verify the return is accurate before signing)
- Not matching the AGI and total tax amounts on the form with the actual return figures
- ERO transmitting the return before obtaining the signed Form 8879 from the taxpayer
- Failing to retain the signed form for the required three-year period
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Is Form 8879 filed with the IRS?
No. Form 8879 is never sent to the IRS. It is a consent document retained by the ERO (your tax preparer) as proof that you authorized the electronic filing. The ERO must keep the signed form for at least three years. You should also keep a copy for your personal records.
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