Below are solutions to frequently asked questions about entering Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative, and Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization, in Lacerte.
Table of contents:
| ‣ How do I generate Form 2848? |
| ‣ Where do I file Form 2848? |
| ↳ Filing online |
| ↳ Paper filing or faxing |
| ‣ How do I generate Form 8821? |
| ‣ Where do I file Form 8821? |
| ↳ Filing online |
| ↳ Paper filing or faxing |
How do I generate Form 2848?
- Go to Screen 65.2, Power of Att. (2848)/Tax Info. Auth. (8821).
- Enter a 1 in the Print with complete return: 1=Form 2848, 2=Form 8821 field.
- Use the Name dropdown menu to select a preparer as the representative and autofill their information, or enter the representative's information in the applicable fields.
- Mark any other applicable checkboxes.
To create a 2848 for the spouse that's identical to the taxpayer's form:
- Click the Add button on the left side of the screen.
- Enter a 1 in the Print with complete return: 1=Form 2848, 2=Form 8821 field.
- Mark the checkbox labeled Duplicate Form 2848/8821 for spouse (see note above).
- Leave rest of the screen blank.
Where do I file Form 2848?
Unless you checked the box on line 4, you can file the power of attorney online, by fax, or by mail. The 2848 isn't included in your e-filed return, although in certain situations you may be required to attach a copy of the form as a PDF in order to e-file a deceased client's tax return.
Filing online
Most people can submit their 2848 online using the IRS Submit Forms 2848 and 8821 Online website.
Paper filing or faxing
Lacerte can generate filing instructions that show the address or fax number where the form should be sent. To enable these:
- Go to Screen 5.1, Invoice, Letter, Filing Instr.
- Scroll down to the Filing Instructions section.
- Mark the checkbox labeled Power of Attorney (2848).
To file via fax or mail, you must send the original signed form to the IRS. Electronic signatures, including digital recreations of a signature, are only accepted when filing online. See the IRS Instructions for Form 2848 for more detail.
How do I generate Form 8821?
- Go to Screen 65.2, Power of Att. (2848)/Tax Info. Auth. (8821).
- Enter a 2 in the Print with complete return: 1=Form 2848, 2=Form 8821 field.
- Use the Name dropdown menu to select a preparer as the representative and autofill their information, or enter the representative's information in the applicable fields.
- Mark any other applicable checkboxes.
Where do I file Form 8821?
Filing online
Most people can submit their 2848 online using the IRS Submit Forms 2848 and 8821 Online website.
Paper filing or faxing
Lacerte can generate filing instructions that show the address or fax number where the form should be sent. To enable these:
- Go to Screen 5.1, Invoice, Letter, Filing Instr.
- Scroll down to the Filing Instructions section.
- Mark the checkbox labeled Tax Information Authorization (8821).
