Final answer:
The listing agreement is the document that authorizes a listing agent to accept a deposit on behalf of a property owner.
Step-by-step explanation:
The document that gives the listing agent the authority to accept a deposit is typically a listing agreement. A listing agreement is a contract between a property owner and a real estate broker that authorizes the broker to represent the seller and to act on their behalf when engaging in transactions regarding the property.
This document sets out the terms of the agreement, including the duties and obligations of both parties, the commission to be paid, and the duration of the agreement. While the broker may receive the deposit, the acceptance of an offer to purchase is typically the prerogative of the property owner. However, the broker may hold the deposit in escrow until the transaction progresses to the point where the deposit is handled according to the terms of the purchase agreement.