You can sign your tax return electronically by using a Self-select personal identification number (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 PIN, consisting of any five numbers of your choosing (except all zeros).

If you're filing a joint return, you and your spouse each use your own PINs. 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

If you have an identity protection PIN (IP PIN) (via a CP01A or the Get an IP PIN Tool), enter it when prompted by your software. It will serve to verify your identity instead of your prior-year 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.

Refer to “Requirements for an electronic return signature” in Publication 17 for more details on signing your return electronically.