According to the online SS-4 instructions, it says third parties (like us) may request EINs via the internet on
behalf of their clients. And it says that a copy of the Form SS-4, signed by the customer, must be maintained in our business files along with a signed statement authorizing us to file the online application.

The online SS-4 prints "not required" under the signature line, making it (sometimes) difficult to convince a client to sign the form.

1) If you are a TPA and filing for online trust ID#s for your new clients' plans, are you having success in obtaining the signed SS-4 for your own files?

2) What kind of a signed statement are you getting to authorize your firm to complete the online SS-4 for your clients' plans? Do you just add wording to your engagement agreement? Or are using a Form 2848?

Any comments?

We get an SS-4 signed before going online (and this version doesn't have "not required" on it). Never had it questioned.

We use an 8821.

Would anyone else care to divulge their methods?

I could tell you, but then I'd have to kill you.

Ha - this is topic is not worth that price! Thanks anyway!