Extension of time: Original signatures not required through December 31, 2020 September 2020 Tax News

We recently updated our COVID-19 FAQ page to reflect that for paper returns and other documents that must be signed with an original signature by a taxpayer and/or tax representative, we will not require an original signature through December 31, 2020, except for Powers of Attorney (POAs).

For paper returns, we will accept two signature alternative methods:

• An attached document must be included with the filed return that provides a copy of the original signature. The attached document should:
  • Identify what the document signature is for (Example: Corp XX, 2019 Form 100)
  • State “Refer to the attachment for a copy of the original signature” on the signature line
• A paper return with a faxed signature on the signature page

For all other documents, except POAs, filed with us that require an original signature, we will accept documents with photographed or digital copies of required signatures. You can also upload a document with a signature into MyFTB. Please note that only PDF and Excel documents are currently being accepted.

These temporary procedures do not apply to filing a POA. POAs will still require an original signature. Follow the procedure on Submit a power of attorney if you need to submit a POA.