Third-Party Designee
Did you know you can authorize someone to discuss your tax return with the IRS directly on your tax form? Simply check the "Yes" box in the Third Party Designee section of your return and fill out the required information.
Here's what this allows:
The IRS can discuss the processing of your current tax return with your designee, including refund status.
This authorization is limited to the specific tax form you're filing and only covers matters related to processing that return.
Important things to keep in mind:
The authorization only lasts one year from the due date of the return (including extensions), except for Form 709, United States Gift (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return, which expires three years from the filing date.
This option doesn't replace Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative or Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization.
Refer to the instructions for your individual income or business tax return for detailed information about the Third Party Designee.
Tax Information Authorization (Form 8821)
Need to give someone broader access to your tax information? Form 8821 is your tool!
With Form 8821, you can authorize the IRS to:
Discuss your tax matters with a designated third party.
Disclose your confidential tax return information to that party.
This is useful when someone needs access to your tax information for things like background checks or loan applications.
Keep in mind: Form 8821 does not authorize someone to represent you before the IRS.
Oral Authorization
In some cases, you can give the IRS permission to speak with someone about your taxes verbally. For instance, if you bring your return preparer to an IRS interview or include someone in a phone call, you can authorize the IRS to discuss your information with them.
Here's how it works:
The IRS will confirm your identity and the identity of the third party.
You'll need to specify the issues to be discussed and what confidential information can be shared.
Important notes about oral authorization:
It's limited to the specific conversation where you provide it.
The authorization automatically ends when the conversation is over unless stated otherwise.
For ongoing communication, Form 8821 is the way to go!