Signed SA Returns

Signed SA Returns

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I always print a copy of the TR, ask client to sign and then keep signed copy on my file, whilst submitting electronic version to HMRC.

Do I need to keep a signed paper copy, or can client confirm by email they are happy with return if I send it by email or sign electronically?

As client pointed out to me, seems a lot of paper wastage?

Thanks

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By MJShone
10th Jan 2012 15:25

Someone will correct me if I'm wrong but...

...electonic confirmation is fine as long as you can show that the version submitted was the version approved by the client. The easiest way to do that is for the client to e mail you quoting the IR Mark on the return they're approving. The whole thing could, in fact, be done electroniclally - some clients prefer an e mail copy of their return to a paper copy. You e mail them the return and perhaps even include in the e mail a draft reply which they can copy and paste back to you if they're happy for you to submit that return. (This should avoid the possibility of the client mistyping the IR Mark.)

I can't remember off the top of my head whether the Revenue requires agents to be able to show that the version submitted was the version approved by the client. In any case, from a risk managment point of view, I think you'd want to be able to show that anyway.

If you want to do it on paper, why not just send a full copy for the client to keep and an additional copy of the signature page only (which ought to have the IR Mark printed on it anyway) for them to send back?

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By anon2000
10th Jan 2012 15:45

Thanks for this, I have to admit I'm one of those who like paper returns, but probably need to get with it and start emailing!

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By ACDWebb
10th Jan 2012 16:32

HMRC just say

the client has confirmed the return is correct but does not say how. So as MJShone says a letter, or email that says "I approve the tax return showing IR Mark............" should be fine

Thanks (1)
Kevin Salter
By Kevin Salter
11th Jan 2012 07:42

Portal

It will not be long before sending unencrypted emails or attachments containing personal information is banned - so look to put in place a client secure portal. The returns can then be approved electronically too, and it saves tons of paper and is much quicker and easier than email.  My FREE guide to the Paperless Office with many other tips and recommendations available here...

http://bit.ly/tQ1BUl

 

 

 

 

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