8379 Injured Spouse Instructions 2019-2025 Form

What is the 8379 Injured Spouse Form?

The 8379 Injured Spouse Form is a tax document used by individuals who are married and wish to request their share of a joint tax refund that may be withheld due to their spouse's tax obligations. This form is particularly relevant when one spouse has outstanding debts, such as student loans or unpaid child support, which could result in the entire refund being applied to those debts. By filing this form, the injured spouse can ensure that their portion of the refund is protected.

Steps to Complete the 8379 Injured Spouse Form

Completing the 8379 Injured Spouse Form involves several key steps:

1. Gather necessary information: Collect your and your spouse's tax information, including Social Security numbers, filing status, and income details.
2. Fill out the form: Provide accurate information in the designated sections, ensuring all required fields are completed.
3. Calculate the refund: Determine the amount of the refund you are entitled to and how it will be divided.
4. Sign and date: Both spouses must sign the form to validate the request.
5. Submit the form: File the form either electronically or by mail, depending on your preference and the submission guidelines.

How to Obtain the 8379 Injured Spouse Form

The 8379 Injured Spouse Form can be obtained directly from the IRS website or through tax preparation software. It is essential to ensure that you are using the correct version of the form for the tax year you are filing. Additionally, local libraries and tax assistance centers may provide printed copies of the form for convenience.

Eligibility Criteria for the 8379 Injured Spouse Form

To qualify for filing the 8379 Injured Spouse Form, you must meet specific criteria:

• You must have filed a joint tax return with your spouse.
• Your spouse must have a debt that could result in the withholding of your tax refund.
• You must not be legally responsible for the debt that is causing the refund offset.
• Your income must be derived from sources that are not subject to the debt in question.

Filing Deadlines for the 8379 Injured Spouse Form

The deadline for filing the 8379 Injured Spouse Form typically aligns with the tax return filing deadline. For most taxpayers, this is April 15 of the following year. However, if you are filing for a prior tax year, you may have additional time. It is crucial to submit the form within the specified timeframe to ensure your claim is processed efficiently.

Form Submission Methods for the 8379 Injured Spouse Form

The 8379 Injured Spouse Form can be submitted through various methods:

• Electronically: If you are using tax software, you can file the form electronically along with your tax return.
• By mail: Print the completed form and send it to the appropriate IRS address based on your location.
• In-person: You may also visit a local IRS office to submit the form directly.