Which IRS and Tax Forms May Require a Notary?

Tax season can already feel overwhelming, and the last thing you want is to miss a crucial step in filing your paperwork. While most IRS forms only require your signature, some IRS and tax-related documents may require notarization to be valid.

Knowing which forms need a notary helps you avoid delays, rejections, and costly mistakes.

Do All IRS Forms Require a Notary?

No. Most IRS forms only require your signature under “penalty of perjury,” which doesn’t require notarization.

However, certain special circumstances and forms do require notarization—especially when identity verification or legal authority is involved.

 IRS and Tax Forms That May Require a Notary

Here are the most common examples:

1. Form 56 – Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship

   • Used when an executor, trustee, or fiduciary takes responsibility for someone’s tax matters.

   • Sometimes requires notarization to confirm authority.

2. Form 2848 – Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative

   • Allows someone else (like an accountant or attorney) to act on your behalf with the IRS.

   • Depending on your state, this may require notarization.

3. Form 433-A/B – Collection Information Statement

   • Provides financial information when setting up a payment plan with the IRS.

   • May require notarization in certain situations.

4. Form 8857 – Request for Innocent Spouse Relief

   • Used when one spouse requests relief from joint tax liability.

   • Some cases require a notarized signature for authenticity.

5. Form W-7 – Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

   • Requires proof of identity. If you submit copies of identification documents, they must often be notarized or certified.

6. State Tax Documents

   • While not federal IRS forms, many state revenue agencies require notarization for certain tax protests, affidavits, or appeals.

 Why Does the IRS Sometimes Require Notarization?

• Identity Verification – To confirm the person signing is who they claim to be.

• Legal Authority – For fiduciaries, executors, or powers of attorney handling taxes.

• Fraud Prevention – To protect sensitive financial information.

• Acceptance by Courts or Agencies – Some documents may later be used in legal proceedings.

Final Thoughts

Most IRS forms don’t require notarization, but for those that do, having the proper notary seal ensures your paperwork won’t be delayed or rejected.

 At Looking Glass Notary, we help clients notarize IRS and tax-related documents quickly, securely, and correctly so you can focus on filing with confidence.