What should you do if your state says you didn’t file a tax return?

The Best Strategy Is To Be Proactive

eFile your return and keep the receipt that shows it was processed.

If you mailed, either mail with return receipt requested (state) or special delivery (IRS) and keep the proof that it was delivered. And if you don’t have the records, check to make sure that the state actually received them. Some states have a form you can file to get a copy of your transcript.

It’s rare, but sometimes taxpayers will get calls about unfiled tax returns and the tax dept. actually had them. The state tax authority can be wrong.

If nothing else, get your returns filed as soon as possible and try to prove that they had already been filed once.

Prove You Filed Your Federal Tax Return

I strongly recommend you efile your federal tax return. You (or your tax professional) will receive proof that the return was efiled. Make sure you keep that. If you mail the return, it’s harder to get proof of that filing. The IRS doesn’t reliably accept return receipt requested mail. Often, they just refuse delivery. About the only method left with the USPS is to send it via special delivery.

What Info Does the IRS Have About You?
There are several ways that you can find out what tax information the IRS has about you. Sometimes you know you filed but can’t find a copy of your return. Here’s how to get the info that the IRS has.

Tax Return Transcript. The tax return transcript will show most line items, along with forms and schedules. You can get the transcript for the current and three prior tax years. This transcript may be required by lenders. Go to IRS.gov to order the transcript online or use Form 4506-T to order by mail.

Tax Account Transcript. This transcript will show basic data such as taxable income, filing status, and payment types. You can request this for the current year and 9 prior years by going to IRS.gov and “Get Transcript Online.” If you order by mail, you can get current and 3 prior years. You’ll need Form 4506-T.
Record of Account Transcript. This combines both the tax return and tax account transcripts together. You can get both the current and 3 prior years using Get Transcript Online or Form 4506-T.

Wage and Income Transcript. This shows income that has been reported such as Form W-2, 1099, and more. There is a limit to how many documents that can be shown. If you request the transcript and you have too many documents, you’ll be told that the request cannot be processed.

Verification of Non-filing Letter. If applicable, this will state that the IRS has no record of a processed Form 1040-series tax return. The letter is available after 6/15 for the current year. Again, use Get Transcript Online or Form 4506-T.

Get Help

We are here to help! If you need assistance or representation, give us a call at (402) 932-8815 and discover how much easier the process is with a pro by your side.

Sincerely,

W.E. Stevens PC