1. What is KBA (Knowledge-Based Authentication)?

Knowledge-based authentication (KBA) is a way to confirm that you are really you before we accept an electronic signature on your tax return.

KBA and related identity checks use information that should only be known to you and official records—things like your date of birth, address, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. In some cases, it can also include a photo ID and a quick face match.

2. Why am I being asked to verify my identity if I’m a returning client?

We know it can feel repetitive when you’ve worked with us for years. The reason is simple:

• IRS rules: The IRS requires tax professionals who use electronic signatures to follow strict identity verification standards (see IRS Publication 1345).
• Rising identity theft: Tax refund fraud and stolen identities are common. Verifying your identity helps prevent someone else from signing and filing a return in your name.
• Protection for everyone: These checks protect you from unauthorized filings and protect our firm by showing we followed proper procedures if there is ever a dispute.

In other words, this isn’t about doubting you. It’s about keeping your information safe and keeping your tax file compliant with IRS requirements—every single year.

3. How our verification process works

When you e-sign your tax documents through our portal, the system records important details about the signing event and confirms your identity. The process typically includes:

• Capturing a secure image of your signed authorization form (such as Form 8879).
• Recording the date and time of your signature and your device’s IP address.
• Confirming your login to the client portal.
• Verifying personal details such as your name, address, date of birth, and last four digits of your SSN.
• In some cases, capturing a photo of your ID and a quick selfie for a face match.

All of this happens behind the scenes inside a secure system that is designed to meet IRS and industry security standards.

4. Is this like those old credit report quiz questions?

No. Traditional KBA often used credit-report style questions (for example, “Which of these addresses have you lived at?”). Because of past data breaches, that information is more widely available and not as secure.

Modern identity standards favor information and documents that are harder for a criminal to fake, such as:

• Government-issued photo ID
• Biometric checks (comparing your selfie to your ID)
• Verified personal details you gave us directly

5. What you can expect during verification

When we send your return for e-signature, you may be asked to:

• Confirm your name, address, date of birth, and other basic details.
• Enter a code sent to your phone or email.
• Upload or photograph your government ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
• Take a quick selfie so the system can confirm it matches your ID.

The process usually only takes a few minutes. Once completed, you’ll be able to review and electronically sign your tax documents.

6. How this protects you

• Prevents unauthorized returns: It makes it much harder for someone else to file a tax return under your name through our firm.
• Creates a clear audit trail: If the IRS ever questions a filing, we can show exactly when and how you signed.
• Supports identity theft claims: Proper identity verification helps you if you ever need to prove that a filing was—or was not—authorized by you.

7. What we do with your information

Your information is used strictly for identity verification and tax compliance purposes. It is stored in secure systems that follow industry data protection standards.

• We do not sell your personal data.
• We only share what is necessary to file your tax returns and meet compliance requirements.
• Access to your records inside our firm is limited to team members who need it to do their job.

8. Common questions

“I’ve filed with you for years. Do I have to do this every time?”

Strong identity checks are part of modern e-file standards. From time to time, we may be required to re-verify your identity, even as a long-time client. This keeps your file up to date and your account better protected.

“Will this affect my credit score?”

No. Our identity verification process does not pull a credit report or place an inquiry on your credit file.

“What if I’m not comfortable uploading an ID or selfie?”

If you’re uncomfortable, contact our office. In some situations, we may be able to use an alternative process, which may include in-person verification or paper signatures. Those options can be slower, but we will walk you through them if needed.

9. Your IRS online account (extra protection)

10. If you have questions

If anything in the verification process looks unusual or you’re unsure how to proceed, contact our office before entering information. We would rather answer a quick question than have you complete a step you’re not comfortable with.