How to E-File as a Power of Attorney for Incapacitated Person

[jpb44]

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.

[ToddL99]

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

[jpb44]

Thank you.  Appreciate the timely response.  That seems to be the only way to e-file.  Regards.

[cdorr]

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.