Can We Accept a Copy Of the Tax Return That Is Signed With a Stylus On a Phone or Pad?

Yes. According to the guidance under "Using the tax return" in the Application and Verification Guide volume, Chapter 4 of the FSA Handbook:

"You can accept a paper or electronic copy of the return as long as it contains a signature. Acceptable examples would include, but are not limited to:

1. A signed paper return that the student either mailed or brought to the school.
2. A signed paper return that the student faxed or scanned and emailed.
3. An electronic copy that the student signed with a stylus or finger.
4. An electronic copy that we consider signed because it has an image of the student’s signature attached.

However, a signature on Form 8879, the IRS e-file Signature Authorization, is not an acceptable substitute for a signature on the tax return."

See also AskRegs Knowledgebase Q&A, Whose Signature Is Required on a Copy of the Tax Return That Is Accepted In Place of a Tax Transcript?

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