Form 2827 – Power of Attorney
Request DocumentJurisdiction: Country: United States | Province or State: Missouri
If you are completing Form 2827 – Power of Attorney, you are giving someone authority to act for you in tax matters with the Missouri Department of Revenue. This document allows another person to communicate, receive information, and handle certain issues on your behalf.
Form 2827 – Power of Attorney is commonly used when you cannot deal directly with a tax issue yourself. That may be because you are busy, out of state, dealing with a business matter, or simply prefer a professional to manage it.
This form does not transfer ownership of property or give broad control over your life. It is limited to tax matters handled by the Missouri Department of Revenue. The authority you grant depends on what you write in the form.
Understanding what this document does before you sign it helps prevent confusion. You are formally authorizing another person to represent you in specific tax matters, and the Department will rely on what the form says.
What is Form 2827 – Power of Attorney?
Clear definition
Form 2827 – Power of Attorney is a written authorization that lets you appoint a representative to act for you in matters involving the Missouri Department of Revenue. It is designed for state tax issues.
By signing this form, you allow the named representative to receive confidential tax information and communicate directly with the Department. The authority can include discussing assessments, resolving notices, and handling audits, depending on how the form is completed.
This document focuses on tax administration. It does not cover medical decisions, banking outside of tax matters, or general legal authority.
Who typically uses this form?
Individuals often use this form when they receive a tax notice or are under review. Business owners also use it when dealing with sales tax, withholding tax, or other state tax obligations.
Common representatives include certified public accountants, attorneys, enrolled agents, or trusted individuals familiar with the taxpayer’s situation. Businesses may authorize an internal employee to handle communication with the Department.
Anyone who wants another person to access their Missouri tax records and speak to the Department on their behalf may use this form.
Why might you need this form?
You might need this form if the Department will not discuss your tax account with someone else without written authorization. Tax information is confidential. Agencies generally require a signed power of attorney before sharing details.
You may also need it if you want a professional to negotiate a payment arrangement, respond to an audit, or review past filings for accuracy.
In some situations, the Department sends notices with short response deadlines. If you are unavailable or unsure how to respond, appointing a representative can help ensure communication continues without delay.
Typical real-life scenarios
- You receive a letter about unpaid individual income tax from several years ago. You want your accountant to review the notice, confirm the numbers, and contact the Department directly. Filing this form allows that communication to happen.
- Your business is selected for a sales tax audit. You authorize your attorney to represent the company during the audit process. The form lets the attorney request records, attend meetings, and discuss findings with the auditor.
- You are moving out of Missouri, but still have outstanding tax matters. You appoint a trusted family member to receive correspondence and handle follow-up questions while you relocate.
- You operate multiple businesses and prefer one designated manager to handle all state tax communications. Completing the form makes it clear to the Department who is authorized to speak for each entity.
When would you use Form 2827 – Power of Attorney?
You would use this form whenever you want someone else to interact with the Missouri Department of Revenue about your tax matters. This includes situations involving individual income tax, corporate tax, sales and use tax, withholding tax, or other state-administered taxes.
It is commonly used when responding to audits, assessments, collection activity, refund issues, or account adjustments. If the Department needs clarification about filings or payments, your representative can respond once properly authorized.
Businesses often use the form during routine operations. For example, a company may designate its accountant to regularly communicate with the Department regarding compliance and reporting.
You may also use it for a limited purpose. For instance, you can authorize someone to handle a specific tax year or a single issue rather than granting broad authority for all tax periods.
Legal characteristics of Form 2827 – Power of Attorney
This form becomes effective when it is properly completed and signed by the taxpayer or an authorized business officer. The Department typically relies on the written information in the document to determine the scope of authority.
The form generally requires clear identification of the taxpayer, the representative, and the specific tax types or periods covered. Incomplete information can delay processing or lead to rejection.
Signatures matter. If a business is involved, the person signing must have authority to bind the entity. If the wrong person signs, the Department may not accept the form.
Different states have different power of attorney forms for tax matters. This document is specific to Missouri state taxes and is separate from federal tax authorization forms or general financial powers of attorney.
It is important to understand what this form does not do. It does not transfer ownership of property, allow the representative to sign unrelated contracts, or give control over non-tax financial decisions. Its authority is limited to matters with the Missouri Department of Revenue as described in the document.
Is it legally binding?
Yes, Form 2827 – Power of Attorney is legally binding once properly signed and accepted for use. It creates a formal agency relationship between you and the representative for the tax matters described.
The Department treats the named representative as authorized to receive confidential information and act within the scope defined. That means communications sent to the representative may be considered valid notice to you, depending on the circumstances.
The authority continues according to the terms written in the form. It may remain in effect until revoked or until the matter is resolved, depending on how it is structured. If you later wish to change representatives, a new filing or written revocation is commonly required.
How to fill out Form 2827 – Power of Attorney
Step 1 – Identify the taxpayer
Enter the full legal name of the individual or business granting authority. Provide the correct identifying number, such as a Social Security number or federal employer identification number, as required by the form. Include the current mailing address and contact details to ensure the Department can match the form to the correct account.
If the form applies to a business, use the exact registered business name. Consistency with prior tax filings helps prevent delays.
Step 2 – Name the representative
Write the full name of the person you are appointing. Include their mailing address, telephone number, and any professional designation if requested in the form.
Be precise. If you intend to authorize more than one representative, list each one clearly in the space provided. The Department will rely only on the names written in the document.
Step 3 – Describe the tax matters covered
Specify the type of tax involved, such as individual income tax or sales tax. Indicate the relevant tax periods, years, or specific issues.
This section defines the scope of authority. If you leave it broad, the representative may be able to address multiple matters. If you limit it to certain years or topics, its authority will be restricted to those areas.
Clear descriptions reduce confusion. The Department looks to this section to determine what your representative can discuss or resolve.
Step 4 – Review any additional authority or restrictions
Some versions of the form allow you to grant or limit specific powers. For example, you may be able to indicate whether the representative can receive refund checks or only access information.
Read each option carefully and complete any relevant boxes or lines. Leaving sections blank may result in default limitations or broader authority than you intended, depending on how the form is structured.
If you want to limit authority to information only, ensure that is clearly stated in the appropriate section.
Step 5 – Sign and date the form
The taxpayer must sign and date the document. For businesses, an authorized officer, partner, member, or other permitted individual signs on behalf of the entity.
Print the signer’s name and title if required. The signature confirms that you understand and agree to grant the described authority.
Unsigned or undated forms are commonly rejected or returned for correction.
Step 6 – Have the representative complete their declaration, if required
Some power of attorney forms include a declaration or acceptance section for the representative. If present, the representative signs to confirm they are authorized and willing to act in that capacity.
Ensure all required signatures appear before submission. Missing representative information can delay recognition of the authority.
Step 7 – Submit the completed form to the Missouri Department of Revenue
Follow the submission instructions provided with the form. This may involve mailing or otherwise delivering the completed document to the appropriate department office.
Keep a copy for your records. Having a copy helps if there is any question about the scope of authority or the date the form was signed.
Legal terms you might encounter in Form 2827 – Power of Attorney
- Taxpayer: This is the individual or business granting authority to someone else. On this document, the taxpayer’s legal name must match what the Missouri Department of Revenue has on file. If you are filing for a business, you must use the registered business name and the correct identification number.
- Representative: The representative is the person you authorize to act on your behalf. This can be an attorney, accountant, enrolled agent, family member, or another trusted person. The form requires their full name, address, and contact information so the department knows who may receive your tax information.
- Tax Matters: This refers to the specific issues or types of taxes your representative can handle. You must clearly identify the tax type, such as income tax or sales tax, and often the specific years or periods involved. If you leave this section vague, the authority may be limited or rejected.
- Tax Period: A tax period is the year or filing cycle covered by the authorization. You may list specific years or date ranges. The department will only allow your representative to act for the periods you clearly state.
- Declaration of Representative: This is a statement signed by the representative confirming they are authorized and eligible to represent you. It often includes a professional designation and signature. Without this declaration, the department may not recognize the authorization.
- Revocation: Revocation means canceling a prior power of attorney. Some versions of the form include language explaining that filing a new authorization may automatically revoke earlier ones for the same matters and periods. You should review this section carefully if you already have a representative on file.
- Authorization: Authorization is the legal permission you grant. This document defines exactly what actions the representative may take, such as receiving confidential information, signing agreements, or appearing at hearings. The scope depends entirely on what you list.
- Signature Authority: Signature authority refers to whether your representative may sign certain documents for you. Some powers of attorney allow signing returns only in limited situations. You should check this section to understand what signing rights you are granting.
- Confidential Information: This includes your tax records, account balances, notices, and correspondence. By signing the form, you permit the department to share this protected information with your representative. That access applies only to the matters and periods listed.
- Principal: The principal is the person granting the power. In this form, you are the principal if you are the taxpayer. If the taxpayer is a business, an authorized officer or partner signs as the principal on behalf of the entity.
FAQs
Does this form automatically revoke my previous power of attorney?
It may, depending on how you complete it and what tax matters and periods you list. When you submit Form 2827 – Power of Attorney for the same tax types and years as an earlier authorization, the department may treat the new filing as a replacement. If you want multiple representatives to remain active, make sure they are all listed clearly on this document before signing.
When does this document become effective?
This document generally becomes effective once it is properly completed, signed, and accepted by the department. There is no separate effective date field in most cases, so the date you sign is important. The department will not honor it until they receive and processes it.
Can I limit what my representative is allowed to do?
Yes. You control the scope of authority by carefully describing the tax matters and periods covered. If you only want your representative to discuss a specific audit or a single tax year, write that clearly in the tax matters section and avoid broad language that could expand their authority.
What happens if I forget to list a tax year or tax type?
The department will only allow your representative to act for the periods and tax types written on the form. If something is missing, your representative will not be able to access that information. You would need to submit an updated or new Form 2827 – Power of Attorney to add the missing details.
Does my representative need to sign this document?
Yes. The representative must complete and sign the declaration section. This confirms their identity and eligibility to represent you. If this section is incomplete, the department may reject the filing or delay recognizing your representative.
What if my name or business name does not exactly match state records?
The name on this document must match the department’s records. If there is a mismatch, such as a missing middle initial or an outdated business name, processing may be delayed. Before submitting, confirm that the name and identification number match your most recent tax notice or filing.
Can more than one representative be listed?
Yes, you can list multiple representatives if the form provides space. Be sure to include complete contact information for each person. If you want them to act independently, check whether the form requires you to indicate that they may act separately.
Will the department notify me when this form is accepted?
You may not receive a separate confirmation notice in every case. A practical way to confirm acceptance is to contact the department or have your representative verify that they can access your account. Keep a copy of the signed Form 2827 – Power of Attorney in case you need to reference the submission date.
Checklist: Before, During, and After Form 2827 – Power of Attorney
Before
- Confirm the exact legal name and identification number of the taxpayer.
- Review recent tax notices to identify correct tax types and periods.
- Decide who you trust to act as your representative.
- Verify the representative’s full legal name and contact details.
- Gather any prior power of attorney documents to check for overlap.
- Clarify whether you want to limit authority to specific matters.
- Make sure the person signing for a business has proper authority.
- Set aside time to review the entire form carefully before signing.
During
- Write the taxpayer’s name exactly as it appears on state records.
- Enter the correct Social Security number or business identification number.
- Clearly list each tax type and the specific year or period covered.
- Double-check the spelling of the representative’s name and address.
- Review the authority section to understand what rights you are granting.
- Read any revocation language to avoid canceling prior authorizations unintentionally.
- Sign and date the form in the correct place.
- Ensure the representative completes and signs their declaration.
After
- Make a complete copy of the signed document for your records.
- Provide a copy to your representative.
- Submit the form using the method required by the department.
- Note the date you sent or delivered the form.
- Follow up to confirm the department has processed it.
- Keep the form with your tax records for the listed years.
- Update internal records if you are a business granting authority.
- Monitor correspondence to ensure your representative is receiving notices.
Common mistakes to avoid with Form 2827 – Power of Attorney
- Mistake: Listing “all taxes” without specifying periods, which happens when you rush through the tax matters section; this can cause processing delays or limited authority, so do not forget to clearly state each tax type and year.
- Mistake: Using a nickname or outdated business name because it seems minor; mismatched records can lead to rejection, so do not forget to match the exact legal name on file.
- Mistake: Forgetting the representative’s signature in the declaration section, often overlooked at the end; this can invalidate the form, so do not forget to confirm that both parties have signed.
- Mistake: Granting broader authority than intended by not reading the authorization language carefully; this may allow access beyond your expectations, so do not forget to review the scope line by line.
- Mistake: Failing to specify tax periods, which happens when you assume “current year” is enough; this limits what your representative can discuss, so do not forget to write exact years or date ranges.
- Mistake: Not keeping a copy after submission, often because you assume the department will store it safely; this leaves you without proof of authority, so do not forget to save a complete, signed copy.
- Mistake: Assuming a new filing will automatically add a representative without affecting prior ones; this can unintentionally revoke earlier authorizations, so do not forget to check the revocation language carefully.
- Mistake: Allowing someone without proper business authority to sign for a company; this can result in rejection, so do not forget to confirm the signer’s official role and authority.
What to do after filling out Form 2827 – Power of Attorney
Once you complete the form, your job is not finished. You need to make sure it is properly delivered, accepted, and reflected in your records.
- Step 1: Review every page one more time before sending it. Confirm names, identification numbers, tax types, periods, and signatures.
- Step 2: Make at least one clear copy of the fully signed document. If possible, save a scanned digital copy as well.
- Step 3: Provide a copy to your representative so they know exactly what authority you granted.
- Step 4: Submit the form using the approved submission method, such as mailing or faxing it to the appropriate department office.
- Step 5: Record the date of submission and how it was sent. Keep any proof of mailing or confirmation page.
- Step 6: Allow processing time, then follow up. Your representative can attempt to access your account or speak with the department to confirm recognition.
- Step 7: Watch your mail and account notices. You should see correspondence directed to your representative if the authorization is active.
- Step 8: Store the signed copy with your tax records for the years listed on the form.
- Step 9: If your situation changes, such as ending the relationship with your representative, submit a written revocation or a new power of attorney to update the record.
- Step 10: For businesses, update internal compliance or accounting files so staff know who is authorized to communicate with the department.
Staying organized protects you. A properly filed power of attorney ensures that the right person can speak on your behalf, access your information, and respond quickly to tax matters. Careful follow-up prevents confusion and avoids delays when time-sensitive issues arise.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. You should consult a legal professional.

