The IRS has approved the use of an electronic signature pad by Electronic Return Originators (EROs) to have taxpayers sign Forms 8879 and 8878.

Taxpayers must be present in the ERO’s office where the electronic signature pad is located to sign using the signature pad. The ERO must retain the forms with the taxpayers’ signatures and provide a copy to the taxpayer upon request.

This policy change has been updated in the Web version of Publication 1345 information titled; Authorized IRS e-file Providers e-filing Individual Income Tax Returns at IRS.gov. You will find it specifically on the IRS e-file Signature Authorization link under Signing an Electronic Tax Return.