I am ready to file; however the message we need to sign the returns is preventing us from filing

You must complete all 3 steps in the FILE tab ... step 1 pay TT fees.  Step 2 ... choose how to get the refund or pay balance due. Step 3 ... e-sign the return.  What exactly is stopping you from completing step 3 ?  

If you do submit it, is it rejecting?  Why?  A common reason is for the prior year AGI.   If it does try entering 0 for the AGI.  

have you possibly selected mailing in the return rather than e-file?