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Signer delegation explained

Learn how Signer Delegation works, including setup, tracking, reminders, client and delegate actions, and limitations for signing returns.

General

General questions	Answers
How do I turn on Signer Delegation?	An Administrator can turn on Signer Delegation for individual and entity returns in Settings E-Sign Options Signer Delegation .
Is there an added cost for using Signer Delegation?	No. There is no added cost for using Signer Delegation.
Will the delegate get signing reminders?	No. Signing reminders are sent to the 1st person to receive the return.
Is there a tracking history for the Signer Delegation?	Yes. Signer delegation is listed in Client Tracking.
Can Signer Delegation be turned off on a return-by-return basis?	Yes. While processing a return, you can edit the signature options in the Delivery section.
If a delegated return is recalled, will the return be recalled from all parties?	Yes. If a return is recalled, the controller will receive a notification, and the access link sent to the delegate will no longer work.
If a corrected return is uploaded and delivered again, will SafeSend remember the Signer Delegation?	No. If a return is recalled and delivered again, the controller will need to delegate the return again.
Can multi-factor authentication (MFA) be used for returns sent with a Signer Delegation?	Yes. When a controller enters a mobile phone number for a delegate, the delegate will receive access codes via text message.

Client experience

Client experience question	Answer
Can the Signer Delegation be canceled?	Yes. A controller can cancel the delegation from the Summary page if needed.
If a delegate declines to eSign, can the controller send the return again for the Signer Delegation? Does it need to be a new delegate, or can it be sent to the original delegate again?	Yes. The controller will be notified that the delegate has declined. The controller can then access the return and delegate it to a new signer or send it back to the signer who declined.
Can the controller delegate signing to multiple people?	No. Signer Delegation only grants the return to be delegated to 1 person.

Delegate experience

Delegate experience question	Answer
Can the taxpayer delegate signing to their spouse?	To be IRS-compliant, the taxpayer and the spouse need to sign a joint return.
Can a delegate decline to sign a return?	Yes. The controller will be notified if the delegate declines to sign.
Will the delegate need to request an access code to eSign?	Yes. The delegate will be directed to the Authorization page to request and enter an access code to eSign the documents.
Can a delegate turn on MFA for themselves when they receive a return for Signer Delegation?	No. The controller is responsible for entering a mobile phone number for the delegate to turn on MFA.
Can the delegate pay vouchers or distribute a K-1?	No. The controller is responsible for paying vouchers and distributing the K-1. The delegate will only receive the e-file forms.

This article applies to:

Product: safesend
Audiences: Staff