Sign clients copy of return

[Brian EA]

Is it a requirement to sign the clients copy of the tax return?

thanks

brian

[Chief]

Signing Copy of Clients Return

If the return is mailed I always sign the return. For the client's copy I dont see it as a requirement but as a matter of courtesy. I personally Sign one copy that client retains and also the copy of 8879 that the client retains.
Further more if the client wants to mail a check I give him a stamped addressed envelop along with the 1040V. For the 1040 ES payments that are made by client writing individuals checks I include stamped addressed envelops.
This kind of personal service I feel is what keeps clients coming back.

[OldJack]

I sign the IRS copy, the taxpayer copy, and my file copy. Then there is little doubt later as to if the tax return was signed by the preparer.

[Gretel]

I thought it was a requirement to sign the taxpayer's copy if it is a paid return. Am I wrong?

[OldJack]

I thought it was a requirement to sign the taxpayer's copy if it is a paid return. Am I wrong?

I believe you are only required to sign the IRS filing copy.

[Jiggers]

Signing returns

You are only required to sign the copy of the one going to the IRS.

However, I sign all copies and date. That way I know that I reviewed the return and there is no way that any returns got out of here without my review.

[Chief]

Jiggers

You are the kind of preparer I would go to.

[erchess]

This is slightly off topic but

I label the copy as a copy. I once had software that took care of this. I usually have a very neat stamp that I enjoy using. If I have forgotten to bring my stamp I use a pen, preferably a red pen. I was taught that if the client should ever mail in their copy of a return which had been previously filed, there could be problems for them unless the copy was clearly labeled as a copy.

I sign client copies as a courtesy but not because I believe it to be required. I'm proud of my name and the fact that I am an EA.

[OldJack]

I agree with erchess, I stamp "Taxpayer Copy" in the taxpayers signature box so they don't sign the thing and send it in.

[Chief]

Sign in Return

Now that is a fine idea. I plan to order such a stamp.

[S T]

Software

My tax software allows me to do a "Watermark" so it prints "Client Copy Do Not File" on the return.

Sandy

[Skate1968]

I sign client copy. And I'll write 'copy' in red magic marker.

[oceanlovin'ea]

Don't sign

actual returns since I electronically file. I stamp their copy with a red stamp.

I don't know if I should sign the return.

Linda F

[Joe Btfsplk]

Printed signature

actual returns since I electronically file. I stamp their copy with a red stamp.

I don't know if I should sign the return.

Linda F

You no longer need to sign Forms 1040, 1120, 1120S or 1065. I just print my signature in Script and have it print on every return. I only sign Form 8879s and 8453s for the few returns I file electronically. I don't even have to do that for efiled 1099s or W-2s.