Brokerage request template

Broker client authority signing request template

A client authority that lets a broker act and deal with third parties on a client's behalf for a defined matter or transaction.

Send a broker client authority request Browse all templates

What is a broker client authority?

A broker client authority is a signed document in which a client gives a broker permission to act on their behalf, request information, and deal with insurers, lenders, or other third parties for a specific matter. It records the scope of what the broker can do, the period it applies for, and the client's consent to share relevant personal and financial information. Without it, many providers will refuse to discuss a client's affairs with the broker at all.

For a brokerage, a clean signed authority is the foundation that lets work proceed without delay and protects the firm if a client later questions whether the broker had permission to act. It also supports privacy obligations by capturing consent in writing. Keeping the signed version on file means the brokerage can prove its mandate quickly if an insurer, lender, or regulator asks.

When to use a broker client authority

Onboarding a new client before approaching insurers or lenders on their behalf
Renewing an authority that has lapsed or expired
Adding a new product line or matter not covered by an existing authority
Confirming consent to collect and share a client's information with third parties

What to include in a broker client authority

Parties: full legal names of the client and the brokerage acting on their behalf.
Scope of authority: the specific matters, products, or transactions the broker may act on.
Information consent: permission to request, collect, and share relevant personal data.
Duration: the start date and when the authority expires or can be revoked.
Signatures: client sign-off, dated, confirming they understand and grant the authority.

Pros and cons of sending a broker client authority as a signing request

Pros

Every client gets a private link, so authorities never sit in shared inboxes
Track opens, previews, and signatures so you know exactly where it stands
Automatic reminders chase the client without you having to follow up manually
A completion receipt gives you dated proof the authority was granted

Cons and things to watch

A signing tool records consent but does not verify the scope is right for your matter
An overly broad authority can create privacy or liability exposure if misused
If the client's circumstances change, an old authority may no longer reflect reality
Tracking does not replace checking the client genuinely understood what they signed

How to send a broker client authority with Cosign

Upload your authority document and use preview to confirm the scope and client details are correct before sending.
Add the client as the signer and personalise the message explaining why their authority is needed.
Set a 14-day expiry and add password protection if the authority contains sensitive financial details.
Send the private link, watch status as the client opens and signs, then keep the completion receipt on file.

Broker client authority request details

Email subject

Client authority signing request

Default message

Please sign this authority so we can proceed on your behalf.

Signer setup

Client

Suggested expiry

14 days

Button label

Sign authority

Best fit

Brokerage teams

Broker client authority FAQs

Is an electronically signed broker authority legally valid in Australia?

In Australia, electronic signatures are generally recognised under electronic transactions legislation when the signer's identity and intent can be shown and the method is reliable. Validity can depend on the document type and the parties involved, so check requirements for your specific situation. This is general information, not legal advice.

How long should a broker client authority last?

Many brokerages set authorities to cover a specific transaction or a fixed period such as 12 months, after which a fresh authority is obtained. The right duration depends on your engagement and any provider requirements. Review and renew before the authority lapses.

Is the document kept private when I send it through Cosign?

Yes. Each authority is sent as a private link to the named client and is not published or indexed by search engines. Only people with the link can view the document.

Can I see whether the client has read the authority before signing?

Yes. Cosign tracks opens and previews as well as the signature itself, so you can see whether the client has viewed the document. You can send reminders if they have not yet signed.

What happens if the client declines or the link expires?

If the client declines, the status updates so you can follow up or discuss their concerns. If the link expires before signing, you can issue a new request with a fresh expiry rather than reopening the old one.