Order No. 11045 of 2024: The Legitimacy of Using Printed Signatures in Tax Documents

The recent ruling of the Court of Cassation, with order No. 11045 of April 24, 2024, represents an important step forward in understanding the legitimacy of using automated information systems in the management of local taxes. The ruling clarifies in detail how the printed indication of the responsible person's name is equivalent to a handwritten signature, by virtue of Article 1, paragraph 87, of Law No. 549 of 1995.

The Legal Issue

The dispute originated from an act of liquidation and assessment of local taxes, contested by A. (B.) against C. The crucial element on which the Court's attention focused was the method of signing tax documents issued through automated information systems. In particular, the legitimacy of replacing the handwritten signature with the printed indication of the responsible person's name was called into question.

The Meaning of the Ruling

1972 Act of liquidation and assessment - Automated information systems - Signature - Replacement with the printed indication of the responsible person's name - Legitimacy - Reasons - Art. 1, paragraph 87, Law No. 549 of 1995. In terms of acts of liquidation and assessment of regional and local taxes, produced by automated information systems, pursuant to Art. 1, paragraph 87, of Law No. 549 of 1995, the printed indication of the responsible person's name is equated to a handwritten signature, which must be identified, along with the source of the data used, with a specific managerial decision, so that no authorization is needed for the replacement of the handwritten signature with the printed indication of the aforementioned person.

This ruling establishes a fundamental principle: the equivalence of the printed signature to the handwritten signature, provided that specific formalities are respected. It is essential that the name of the responsible person is clearly identified and that the source of the data used is cited. In this way, transparency and accountability in tax management are guaranteed.

Practical and Regulatory Implications

The implications of the decision are significant, both for taxpayers and for local administrations. In fact, the possibility of using automated information systems for managing tax documentation not only simplifies and speeds up processes but also reduces the margin for human error. Furthermore, the Court's decision is part of a broader context of digitalization of public administration, where efficiency and speed of services are increasingly demanded.

In conclusion, order No. 11045 of 2024 represents an important normative clarification that will have a significant impact on tax practices. For taxpayers to benefit from such provisions, it is essential that local administrations promptly and appropriately comply with the guidelines provided by the Court.

Conclusions

In summary, the ruling analyzed provides a clear indication of the validity of using printed signatures in tax documents, provided that the requirements of transparency and accountability are respected. This regulatory evolution not only simplifies tax management but also promotes greater trust in institutions, which is essential for a fair and functional tax system.

Bianucci Law Firm