You can sign your tax return electronically by using a Self-Select PIN, which serves as your digital signature when using tax preparation software, or a Practitioner PIN when using an Electronic Return Originator (ERO).

Self-Select PIN - Use the Self-Select PIN method when you're using tax preparation software. The Self-Select PIN allows you to electronically sign your individual income tax return by selecting a five-digit personal identification number (PIN). The PIN can be any five numbers (except all zeros) that you choose to enter as your electronic signature PIN.

If you're filing a joint return, you and your spouse use your own PIN. As part of the authentication process, you each also enter your date of birth and either your:

• Original prior year adjusted gross income (AGI) or
• Prior year PIN

Practitioner PIN - The Practitioner PIN is a method that paid preparers use and doesn't require a prior AGI amount or prior year PIN. When using an ERO, you must always complete and sign an authorization form such as the Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization. Under this method, you authorize your tax practitioner to enter or generate your PIN.