Stage 5: Signature and authorization
Why your approval is a separate step, what you are authorizing, and why you should read before you sign.
Tax season · Version 1 · 2 min read · Reviewed by Meridian Review Team · Sep 15, 2026
What this stage means
Before a return can be sent, you give your approval. This is called your signature or authorization, depending on the form.
What you are doing
You are confirming that you reviewed the return and that you authorize it to be filed.
Before you sign
- Read the return summary your preparer gives you.
- Ask about anything that does not match what you expected.
- Check your name and the tax year.
Prepared is not signed
A return can be fully prepared and still waiting on you. It cannot move on until the required approval is recorded.
What happens next
After your approval is recorded, your preparer can transmit the return. See the next stage.