SafeSend Returns®

CDS is pleased to offer SafeSend Returns® to our clients as a secure, electronic tax return delivery system. The client-friendly interface guides you through a guided process that includes on-screen review of your return, collecting IRS-compliant e-signatures on e-file authorization forms, and options for making tax payments. Then, SafeSend Returns automatically sends the form(s) back to CDS.

Below are helpful video tutorials and frequently asked questions for individual and business returns. For more information and additional help on SafeSend Returns, please contact us at (888) 388-1040.

What are the benefits to you?

Receive your tax returns securely without the need to setup an account or remember a password.
Accessible across all platforms: computer, smartphone, or tablet
Electronically sign your federal and state e-file authorization (Form 8879), no printing or mailing necessary
Receive payment reminder e-mails
Download a copy of your tax return
For Businesses: conveniently distribute your K-1s electronically.

How it works for Individual Returns

Once your tax return is complete, you will receive an email from Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing with a “from” address of [email protected]. Add this email to your safe list to prevent it from being categorized as spam or junk.
The email will contain a safe link for you to access your tax return.
After clicking on the link, you will be asked to enter the last four digits of your Social Security number to review your return.
SafeSend will email or text you an access code to further verify your identity. For emailed codes, check your spam or junk folders if you do not receive the email in our inbox. You must enter the code within 20 minutes of receipt. If you do not enter the code within 20 minutes, you can request another.
When you are ready to sign your e-file authorization form(s), you will be asked a series of simple questions to verify your identity.
Once you have signed the e-File Authorization Form(s), CDS will be notified and will complete the rest of the e-filing process.

How it works for Business Returns

You will receive an email from Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing at [email protected]. Add this email to your safe list to prevent it from being categorized as spam or junk.
Click on the safe link to access your tax return.
Select “request access code.” Then enter the access code you receive via email into the required field.
Review and download your documents and distribute K1s (if applicable).
After printing and signing your E-File form(s) (i.e Form 8879) submit them through SafeSend returns or mail them in.
Once you have signed the E-File Authorization Form(s), CDS will be notified and will complete the rest of the e-filing process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I receive a notification when my return is ready to sign?

Yes. Email notifications will be sent from CDS at [email protected]. We recommend adding this email address to your safe list to prevent the email from getting filtered to spam/junk. This email will include information on how to access your return.

Is there a SafeSend App?

There is currently no SafeSend Returns app available, but the signature process can be completed on any computer, smartphone, or tablet via a web browser. The recommended browser to use is Google Chrome.

What if I don't receive an email with my access code?

Check your spam/junk email folder. You can also search your email for [email protected]. Some email clients hide items they’ve labeled spam or junk, making certain emails difficult to find. If you do not receive your code within the 20-minute time limit, please request another code.

Can I sign my dependent's return electronically?

We will deliver your dependent’s return via SafeSend Returns, however, due to the knowledge-based identification requirements of the IRS, a minor dependent may not qualify, so you will need to manually sign and return your dependent’s e-file authorization form.

Will I have the option to download and print my
return to retain for my records?

Yes. You can download and print your return from a computer. If you’re using a smartphone or tablet, you can review and e-sign your return package but may not be able to print it. Please use a laptop or desktop computer for the best printing experience.

I’d rather print and sign my e-file authorization
form(s). Can I do that?

Signing electronically is a way to save you time and provide extra convenience. However, if you prefer to print and sign your e-file form(s), you can mail or drop off at CDS.

Can I set up reminders for my quarterly estimated payment?

During the process, you will be given the opportunity to set a reminder schedule for estimated payments. Choose the timing that works best for you.

How will I verify or confirm my identity to be able to sign my personal tax return?

You will be required to answer knowledge-based authentication questions before being allowed to sign. Questions are pulled from your public records originating with government and credit sources. Example question topics could include where you lived in a specific year or when you bought a vehicle or piece of property. This is an IRS requirement. If you are unable to answer the questions after three attempts, you can instead print, sign, and return your e-file authorization form(s) to CDS.

Is SafeSend Returns different from e-filing?

Yes. SafeSend Returns allows you to electronically sign your e-file authorization form(s), allowing us to e-file your tax return. However, it does NOT actually file your return with the IRS. Once you’ve signed through SafeSend Returns, CDS is automatically notified and will complete the filing process for you, including submission to the IRS.

Will it work with any internet browser?

For the best experience, we recommend using Google Chrome. It will also work with Safari, Firefox and many other browsers.

How will my spouse and I sign a joint return?

For spouses filing jointly, there are three ways to sign via SafeSend Returns:

If both spouses have an email address on file, both will receive an email with a link to view the return and sign the e-file authorization form(s). First, one spouse will receive the link with identity verification questions specific to them. They will sign the e-File Authorization Form(s) and input the spouse’s email address, which will send an email link to the second spouse. The second spouse will answer identity verification questions specific to them and then sign the form(s). Once the second spouse electronically signs the e-File Authorization Form(s), CDS will be notified that signing is complete.
If only one spouse has an email address on file, that spouse will first receive the link with identity verification questions specific to them. They will sign the e-File Authorization Form(s) and then enter an email address for the second spouse. The second spouse will then receive the email link with identity verification questions specific to them.
Once the second spouse electronically signs the e-File Authorization Form(s), CDS will be notified that signing is complete.
If a couple shares an email address, the taxpayer will first receive a link with identity verification questions specific to them. After the primary signer signs the e-File Authorization Form(s), they will then enter the shared email address again. A new link will be sent with identity verification questions specific to the second spouse. Once the second spouse electronically signs the e-File Authorization Form(s), CDS will be notified that signing is complete.

Will I receive confirmation that my individual e-file authorization form(s) were submitted successfully?

Yes. Once you sign your e-File Authorization Form(s), you will receive an email confirming successful submission to CDS. The email also will include a link to download a copy of your tax return to keep for your records.

Will I need to print and mail anything to the
government?

In some circumstances, you may need to print and mail information to certain government authorities. Some common examples include tax due and estimate payment vouchers, and local (city) income tax returns. If forms need to be printed and mailed, you will receive clear instructions on what you need to do. If you prefer not to mail payments, you’ll be provided with online links within SafeSend Returns to make your tax payments electronically.

How do I track my refund?

If you are scheduled to receive a refund from the IRS and/or state(s), you can use these tools to track your refund:

IRS Where’s My Refund?
State of Minnesota Where’s My Refund?

TAX PLANNING & PREPARATION

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions about SafeSend Returns?

Call us toll-free at