What This Form Is

Form 3531, Request for Signature or Missing Information to Complete Return, is attached to your own paper return when the IRS mails it back to you. The IRS couldn't process the return as it arrived. The checked boxes on Form 3531 tell you what's missing.

The most common reason is a missing or invalid signature. A valid signature is an original signature in the Sign Here area, below the jurat (the penalties of perjury statement). Other checked boxes can request a missing Social Security number, support for withholding, a missing page, or missing forms and schedules. The IRS also uses Form 3531 to return a return that was sent to the wrong place.

What to Do

  • Read every checked box. Fix all of them, not just the signature.
  • Sign the return itself in the Sign Here area. Signing only Form 3531, or signing somewhere else on the return, doesn't count. The IRS will send it back a second time.
  • On a joint return, both spouses sign.
  • Attach any missing forms, schedules, or documents requested.
  • Mail the return back as instructed. Keep a copy and proof of mailing.

Why Speed Matters

The IRS marks the return "Returned for Signature" with a date before mailing it back. If your return shows a balance due and the IRS receives it back within 30 days of that date, the IRS uses the date it sent the return back as the received date. If it comes back later than 30 days, the IRS uses the later date it received the return. A later received date can mean a later filing date on your account.

If your return shows a refund, the IRS uses the latest received date. Your refund can't be processed until the return is complete.

If You Don't Send It Back

The IRS can't process an incomplete or unsigned return, and an unsigned return isn't a valid return. If you don't understand what a checked box asks for, contact the IRS or get help before you mail anything.

If your return came back with Form 3531 and you need help getting it filed correctly, call us at (813) 229-7100.