SafeSend Returns®

You will be required to answer knowledge-based authentication questions before being allowed to sign. Questions are pulled from your public records originating with government and credit sources. Example question topics could include where you lived in a specific year or when you bought a vehicle or piece of property. This is an IRS requirement. If you are unable to answer the questions after three attempts, you can instead print, sign, and return your e-file authorization form(s) to CDS.

Yes. SafeSend Returns allows you to electronically sign your e-file authorization form(s), allowing us to e-file your tax return. However, it does NOT actually file your return with the IRS. Once you’ve signed through SafeSend Returns, CDS is automatically notified and will complete the filing process for you, including submission to the IRS.

For the best experience, we recommend using Google Chrome. It will also work with Safari, Firefox and many other browsers.

For spouses filing jointly, there are three ways to sign via SafeSend Returns:

• If both spouses have an email address on file, both will receive an email with a link to view the return and sign the e-file authorization form(s). First, one spouse will receive the link with identity verification questions specific to them. They will sign the e-File Authorization Form(s) and input the spouse’s email address, which will send an email link to the second spouse. The second spouse will answer identity verification questions specific to them and then sign the form(s). Once the second spouse electronically signs the e-File Authorization Form(s), CDS will be notified that signing is complete.
• If only one spouse has an email address on file, that spouse will first receive the link with identity verification questions specific to them. They will sign the e-File Authorization Form(s) and then enter an email address for the second spouse. The second spouse will then receive the email link with identity verification questions specific to them.
• Once the second spouse electronically signs the e-File Authorization Form(s), CDS will be notified that signing is complete.
• If a couple shares an email address, the taxpayer will first receive a link with identity verification questions specific to them. After the primary signer signs the e-File Authorization Form(s), they will then enter the shared email address again. A new link will be sent with identity verification questions specific to the second spouse. Once the second spouse electronically signs the e-File Authorization Form(s), CDS will be notified that signing is complete.

Yes. Once you sign your e-File Authorization Form(s), you will receive an email confirming successful submission to CDS. The email also will include a link to download a copy of your tax return to keep for your records.

In some circumstances, you may need to print and mail information to certain government authorities. Some common examples include tax due and estimate payment vouchers, and local (city) income tax returns. If forms need to be printed and mailed, you will receive clear instructions on what you need to do. If you prefer not to mail payments, you’ll be provided with online links within SafeSend Returns to make your tax payments electronically.

If you are scheduled to receive a refund from the IRS and/or state(s), you can use these tools to track your refund:

• IRS Where’s My Refund?
• State of Minnesota Where’s My Refund?