What is Form 8655?
Form 8655, also known as Reporting Agent Authorization, is a crucial document that allows a third party, such as an accountant or payroll service, to manage your tax filings and payments. By completing this form, you grant your chosen representative the authority to sign and file specific tax returns, make electronic deposits, and receive essential tax information from the IRS. This process helps businesses streamline their tax management by allowing a trusted agent to handle these important tasks on their behalf.
What is Form 8655 used for?
Form 8655 is essential for allowing a reporting agent to manage certain tax responsibilities. Here’s what it’s used for:
- Sign and file certain returns: Authorizes a reporting agent to electronically sign and submit specific tax forms.
- Make deposits and payments: Permits the reporting agent to handle electronic payments for certain tax returns.
- Receive duplicate copies: Gives the reporting agent access to duplicate tax information and notices.
- Provide penalty relief information: Allows the agent to assist in providing information for penalty relief related to their authority.
How to fill out Form 8655?
- 1
Choose a company as your Reporting Agent for payroll services.
- 2
Fill out Form 8655 to authorize the chosen agent to file and sign specific tax returns.
- 3
List the tax returns the agent is allowed to file and make deposits for.
- 4
Enter the start dates for each authorized action, such as year for annual forms or month and year for quarterly forms.
- 5
Download the completed form for submission to the IRS.
Who is required to fill out Form 8655?
Businesses and individuals looking to appoint a third party for managing federal tax returns and payments are responsible for completing Form 8655. This includes employers making payroll tax deposits and those needing duplicate tax information from the IRS.
After completion, the IRS and the designated reporting agent utilize Form 8655 for accurate tax reporting and payment processing. The reporting agent is authorized to sign tax returns, make payments, and receive tax information copies.
When is Form 8655 not required?
Form 8655 is not required for individuals filing personal tax returns. Businesses without a need to authorize a reporting agent for signing and filing tax forms, especially those with simple tax obligations, do not need this form. Additionally, if a business does not make deposits or payments for specific returns, it may also skip Form 8655.
When is Form 8655 due?
The deadline for Form 8655 is not set. This form is used to authorize reporting agents to file tax returns and make deposits for a business. It takes effect from the period specified on the form. To grant or revoke reporting agent authority, ensure the form is signed and submitted to the IRS.
How to get a blank Form 8655?
To get a blank Form 8655, simply visit our website. The Internal Revenue Service issues this form, and we have a blank version pre-loaded in our editor for you to fill out. Remember, our platform assists with filling and downloading forms but does not support filing.
How to sign Form 8655 online?
To sign Form 8655, Reporting Agent Authorization, you can use an electronic signature that aligns with IRS guidelines found in Publication 1474. This includes methods like checkbox options or other approved electronic techniques, but not handwritten signatures. After filling out the form with PDF Guru, remember to download it for your records. Always check for the latest updates to ensure compliance, as PDF Guru does not support form submission.
Where to file Form 8655?
To submit Form 8655, you can either mail it or fax it. For mailing, send the completed form to the Accounts Management Service Center.
If you choose to fax, limit each transmission to 25 forms. Check the IRS website for the correct fax number and additional filing instructions.