PINs

[ILLMAS]

http://www.irs.gov/efile/article/0,,id=211143,00.html

I recommend reading this for those who use the same PIN for all your tax returns.

[Jack from Ohio]

Is it acceptable for the ERO to choose the same PIN for multiple clients?

Yes, it is acceptable to assign the same PIN for multiple clients

[ILLMAS]

If an ERO creates or automatically generates a PIN you must give a copy of the form 8879 to them. Do you give a copy to your clients? I create the PIN based on the day the TP signs the form, but never give them a copy, I just retain it for my records.

[Catherine]

If an ERO creates or automatically generates a PIN you must give a copy of the form 8879 to them. Do you give a copy to your clients? I create the PIN based on the day the TP signs the form, but never give them a copy, I just retain it for my records.

I've never given a client a "to keep" copy of the 8879 -- I'm supposed to keep it, in my files (and readily accessible), for three years. With MA's new confidential information rules, I can't even give clients a copy of their own TAX return with their SSN's on it (just X's) - and what use would an 8879 full of X's be to anyone?

[Margaret CPA in OH]

Are you serious that MA prevents a preparer from giving a client a copy of their own tax return with their ssn's? If they are mailing a return, is it allowable to have the ssn's on it (she asked almost facetiously)? I have one client in MA so I guess I better brush up on this, uh, sensible regulation. I hope it is readily found on the MA website.

[Kea]

I've always* given a copy of the 8879 to the client after they (and I) signed it And, yes, it's the copy with the full SSN on it.

* at least the last couple of years. Previously my remote signers may or may not have had a copy with my signature.

[grandmabee]

I've always* given a copy of the 8879 to the client after they (and I) signed it And, yes, it's the copy with the full SSN on it.

* at least the last couple of years. Previously my remote signers may or may not have had a copy with my signature.

I give all my clients a copy of the 8879 complete with my signature but not theirs. I keep the original with my file and with their signatures. I consider the 8879 part of return. so when I give them a complete copy of the return its included

[mcb39]

I give all my clients a copy of the 8879 complete with my signature but not theirs. I keep the original with my file and with their signatures. I consider the 8879 part of return. so when I give them a complete copy of the return its included

Exactly the same here.

[Lion EA]

Me, too.

[Terry D EA]

Me Too!

[Janitor Bob]

I make tasty little treats by freezing cool-ade in an ice cube tray with a toothpick in it. I give my clients those instead of a copy of the 8879

[chuck]

I give them a copy but remove my efin #