Form 8815 2012

What is the Form 8815

The Form 8815, officially known as the "Exclusion of Interest from Series EE and I U.S. Savings Bonds Issued After 1989," is a tax form used by individuals in the United States to exclude certain interest earned on qualified U.S. savings bonds from their taxable income. This form is particularly relevant for taxpayers who have used the proceeds from these bonds to pay for qualified higher education expenses. The ability to exclude this interest can significantly reduce a taxpayer's overall tax liability, making it an important consideration during tax season.

How to use the Form 8815

To utilize the Form 8815 effectively, taxpayers must first determine their eligibility based on income limits and qualified expenses. Once eligibility is confirmed, the form must be filled out accurately, detailing the amount of interest earned from the savings bonds and the qualified expenses incurred. It is essential to keep thorough records of the expenses and the bonds, as this information may be needed for verification by the IRS. After completing the form, it should be attached to the taxpayer's annual income tax return.

Steps to complete the Form 8815

Completing the Form 8815 involves several key steps:

1. Gather necessary documentation, including the U.S. savings bonds and proof of qualified education expenses.
2. Review the income limits to ensure eligibility for the exclusion.
3. Fill out the form by entering personal information, the total interest earned, and the qualified expenses.
4. Double-check all entries for accuracy to avoid delays or issues with the IRS.
5. Attach the completed Form 8815 to your tax return before submission.

Legal use of the Form 8815

The legal use of the Form 8815 is governed by IRS regulations. To ensure compliance, taxpayers must adhere to the eligibility criteria outlined by the IRS, including income thresholds and the requirement that the interest from the savings bonds is used for qualified education expenses. Failing to meet these criteria can result in penalties or the disallowance of the exclusion, which could lead to additional tax liabilities.

Filing Deadlines / Important Dates

Taxpayers should be aware of the filing deadlines associated with the Form 8815. Typically, the deadline for submitting tax returns, including any attached forms, is April 15 of the following year. However, if this date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline may be extended. It is advisable to check the IRS website for any updates or changes to deadlines that may occur in a given tax year.

Required Documents

When completing the Form 8815, certain documents are essential:

• U.S. savings bonds showing the interest earned.
• Receipts or statements for qualified education expenses.
• Previous tax returns, if applicable, to verify income levels.

Having these documents ready can streamline the process and ensure accurate reporting on the form.