I would like to know how to e-file in the capacity as a power of attorney (POA) for filing a federal income tax return. The signature line of Form 1040 only permits a signature for the taxpayer or for a paid preparer. As a POA, I would not qualify for either and turbotax when e-filing requires various information from the actual taxpayer and not a POA who may be filing the return. Is e-filing an option if signing in the capacity of a POA?
Please advise. Thank you.
Yes, E-filing is an option for someone filing under the authority of a Power of Attorney.
Prepare and file the return as if you were the taxpayer.
Then, complete and send Form 8453 with Form 2848* to the IRS within 3 business days after your e-file is accepted.
(*Or other POA stating you have authority to file the tax return)
Check Block 2 (Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative (or POA that states the agent is granted authority to sign the return)
Mail Form 8453 to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: Shipping and Receiving, 0254 Receipt and Control Branch
Austin, TX 73344-0254
Thank you. Appreciate the timely response. That seems to be the only way to e-file. Regards.
Thank you. this is good information. I had one like this the other day but did not know they had to file the form and send a copy together with copy of the POA within three days. The person I asked for help simply told me to just continue and that there was no need to do anything else. They may also have not been aware of it.