Understanding Client Tax Authorization:
The Basics and the Challenges
Tax authorization forms are critical for tax pros to file on behalf of their clients. Undoubtedly, the traditional process has always been challenging.
Endless Paperwork:
Manual forms, stacks of paperwork
Long Wait Times:
Weeks of waiting for IRS approval leave both you and your clients stuck.
Constant Follow-ups:
Tracking submissions and chasing missing info? A never-ending hassle
TaxBandits eliminates all these by offering a seamless, digital solution that’s fast, accurate, and fully compliant.
How TaxBandits Transforms Tax Authorization Process
With TaxBandits, we’ve redefined the way tax professionals handle client authorizations:
Effortlessly Generate Tax Authorization Forms
Say goodbye to errors and paperwork! TaxBandits automates tax authorization forms for your clients, saving you valuable time and eliminating common mistakes.
It’s fast, simple, and fully digital!
Obtain Client E-Signatures with Ease
Forget about chasing clients for physical signatures. TaxBandits provides a secure, branded portal that makes obtaining client signatures a breeze.
Your clients can sign forms digitally, eliminating delays and back-and-forth communication.
Let TaxBandits Handle Your Filing
Once your forms are signed, leave the heavy lifting to us. TaxBandits takes care of submitting your forms directly to the IRS securely—so you don’t have to deal with paper, postage, or waiting.
This not only speeds up the process but also ensures your submissions are timely and compliant.
See How TaxBandits Simplifies Client Tax Authorizations!
Key Features That Power Your Authorization Process
Upload Option
Easily upload and process forms you’ve already completed, streamlining your workflow.
Automated Client Reminders
Automatically send reminders to clients for missing signatures or document submissions, ensuring
no delays.
Instant Status Updates
Stay informed with real-time updates on your form submissions, keeping you and your clients
in the loop.
Validation Services
Access tools like TIN matching, client business verification, and more, to ensure accurate and compliant filings
Choose the Required Authorization Form and Get Authorized
The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of IRS Forms 8655, 8821, 2848, 8973, and 2678,
including their purpose and who is required to file them.
| Form | Form Name | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Form 8655 | Reporting Agent Authorization | Authorizes a payroll service provider or reporting agent to file specified employment tax returns, make federal tax deposits and payments, and receive duplicate IRS notices on behalf of the employer. |
| Form 8821 | Tax Information Authorization | Grants permission for a third party to access and receive a taxpayer’s confidential IRS information. This form does not authorize the third party to act on the taxpayer’s behalf or to represent them before the IRS. |
| Form 2848 | Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative | Authorizes an attorney, CPA, or enrolled agent to represent a taxpayer before the IRS, including communicating with the IRS and receiving records. Authority to sign tax returns is limited and only allowed in specific circumstances. |
| Form 8973 | CPEO/Customer Reporting Agreement | Used by Certified Professional Employer Organizations (CPEOs) to notify the IRS when a client enters into or terminates a service agreement. This form establishes or ends the joint tax responsibilities between the CPEO and its client. |
| Form 2678 | Employer Appointment of Agent | Allows an employer to formally appoint an agent (such as a Section 3504 agent or PEO) to file employment tax returns and make federal tax deposits in the employer’s name. |
How to File Authorization Forms with TaxBandits?
Create your account and follow these simple steps to file authorization forms effortlessly!
Choose the Right Form
Follow the guided steps to complete the correct IRS form.
Get Client Approval
Invite clients to review and securely
e-sign the form online.
Submit to the IRS
File instantly and track real-time
status updates.
Trusted by Thousands of Tax Pros Already
Real experiences from tax pros who've simplified the authorization process with TaxBandits.
Trusted and loved by users like you.
4.9 rating of 52,784 reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What are tax authorization forms?
Tax authorization forms are official IRS documents that let a business or individual authorize another person or organization to act on their behalf for tax purposes.
These forms allow a trusted agent—like a payroll provider, accountant, or tax preparer—to:
- File tax returns
- Make tax deposits or payments
- Receive IRS notices
- Handle certain payroll or tax-related tasks
What is the difference between Form 8821 and Form 2848?
Form 8821 (Tax Information Authorization) allows a designated party to inspect and receive your confidential tax information, but not to represent you. Form 2848 (Power of Attorney) grants a qualified professional the authority to represent you before the IRS, including speaking on your behalf and signing agreements.
