I'm a retired CPA and no longer do any paid work. However, I do prepare a few returns for friends/relatives and have always signed them. They do not pay me. I just want to keep them out of trouble.
So this tax season can I still sign them or should I leave them unsigned. I don't want to go through whatever the IRS is now requiring. Do I still use my old ID #?
Nancy
The signature block is for paid preparers. If you are not a paid preparer for that return, you should not enter anything there.
And if your PTIN is not up to date, which among other things means you have filed a Form W-12 or an on-line PTIN application, AND paid the $64.25 annual fee, then starting today you cannot list yourself as a paid preparer or prepare a tax return for money.
If the client wishes to allow you to discuss the return with the IRS (in a very limited way) and you are willing, there's another box for you to enter your name and a five digit PIN.
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Ask the community — no account required