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For IndividualsFor use in preparing Returns Publication 17 - Introductory Material
What's NewThis section summarizes important tax changes that took effect in 2021. Most of these changes are discussed in more detail throughout this publication. Future developments. For the latest information about the tax law topics covered in this publication, such as legislation enacted after it was published, go to IRS.gov/Pub17. Due date of return. File Form 1040 or 1040-SR by April 18, 2022. The due date is April 18, instead of April 15, because of the Emancipation Day holiday in the District of Columbia—even if you don’t live in the District of Columbia. If you live in Maine or Massachusetts, you have until April 19, 2022. That is because of the Patriots' Day holiday in those states. See chapter 1, later. Who must file. Generally, the amount of income you can receive before you must file a return has been increased. For more information, see chapter 1, later. Tuition and fees deduction not available. The tuition and fees deduction is not available after 2020. Instead, the income limitations for the lifetime learning credit have been increased. See Form 8863 and its instructions. Economic impact payment—EIP 3. Any economic impact payment you received is not taxable for federal income tax purposes, but will reduce your recovery rebate credit. 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. This credit is figured like last year's economic impact payment, EIP 3, except eligibility and the amount of the credit are based on your tax year 2021 information. See the instructions for Form 1040, line 30, and the Recovery Rebate Credit Worksheet to figure your credit amount. Who must file. Generally, the amount of income you can receive before you must file a return has been increased. For more information, see the Instructions for Form 1040. Standard deduction amount increased. For 2021, the standard deduction amount has been increased for all filers. The amounts are:
See chapter 10, later. .  Virtual currency. If, in 2021, you engaged in a transaction involving virtual currency, you will need to answer “Yes” to the question on page 1 of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. See Virtual Currency in the Instructions for Form 1040 for information on transactions involving virtual currency. Do not leave this field blank. The question must be answered by all taxpayers, not just taxpayers who engaged in a transaction involving virtual currency. Credits for sick and family leave for certain self-employed individuals. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) helped self-employed individuals affected by coronavirus by providing paid sick leave and paid family leave credits equivalent to those that employers are required to provide their employees for qualified sick leave wages and qualified family leave wages. The COVID-related Tax Relief Act of 2020 extended the period during which individuals can claim these credits. For more information, see the Instructions for Form 7202 and Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 13b. Extension and expansion of credit for qualified sick and family leave wages. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (the ARP), enacted on March 11, 2021, provides that certain self-employed individuals can claim credits for up to 10 days of “paid sick leave,” and up to 60 days of “paid family leave,” if they are unable to work or telework due to circumstances related to coronavirus. Self-employed individuals may claim these credits for the period beginning on April 1, 2021, and ending September 30, 2021. For more information, see the Instructions for Form 7202 and Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 13h. Form 9000, Alternative Media Preference. Beginning in 2021, taxpayers with print disabilities can use Form 9000 to elect to receive notices from the IRS in an alternative format including braille, large print, audio, and electronic. You can attach Form 9000 to your Form 1040 or 1040-SR or you can mail it separately. For more information, see Form 9000. All taxpayers now eligible for Identity Protection PIN. Beginning in 2021, the IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) Opt-In Program has been expanded to all taxpayers who can properly verify their identity. An IP PIN helps prevent your social security number from being used to file a fraudulent federal income tax return. You can use the Get An IP PIN tool on IRS.gov to request an IP PIN, file Form 15227 if your income is $72,000 or less, or make an appointment to visit a Taxpayer Assistance Center. Direct deposit now available for returns filed late. You can now receive a direct deposit of your refund even if you file your 2021 return after November 30, 2022. Expanded dependent care assistance. The ARP expanded the child and dependent care tax credit for 2021 by making it refundable for certain taxpayers and making it larger. For 2021, the dollar limit on qualifying expenses increases to $8,000 for one qualifying person and $16,000 for two or more qualifying persons. The rules for calculating the credit have also changed; the percentage of qualifying expenses eligible for the credit has increased, along with the income limit at which the credit begins phasing out. Additionally, for taxpayers who receive dependent care benefits from their employer, the dollar limit of the exclusion amount increases for 2021. For more information, see the Instructions for Form 2441 and Pub. 503. Child tax credit. Under the ARP, the child tax credit has been enhanced for 2021. The child tax credit has been extended to qualifying children under age 18. Depending on modified adjusted gross income, you may receive an enhanced credit amount of up to $3,600 for a qualifying child under age 6 and up to $3,000 for a qualifying child over age 5 and under age 18. The enhanced credit amount begins to phase out where modified adjusted gross income exceeds $150,000 in the case of a joint return or surviving spouse, $112,500 in the case of a head of household, and $75,000 in all other cases.If you (or your spouse if filing jointly) lived in the United States for more than half the year, the child tax credit will be fully refundable even if you don't have earned income. If you don't meet this residency requirement, your child tax credit will be a combination of a nonrefundable child tax credit and a refundable additional child tax credit, as was the case in 2020. The credit for other dependents has not been enhanced and is figured as it was in 2020. . Schedule 8812 (Form 1040). The Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) and its instructions have been revised to be the single source for figuring and reporting the child tax credits and credit for other dependents. The instructions now include all applicable worksheets for figuring these credits. As a result, Pub. 972, Child Tax Credit, won’t be revised. For prior-year versions of Pub. 972, go to IRS.gov/Pub972. Letter 6419. If you received advance child tax credit payments during 2021, you will receive Letter 6419. Keep this notice for your records. You will use the information from this notice to figure the amount of child tax credit to claim on your 2021 tax return or the amount of additional tax you must report on Schedule 2 (Form 1040). Additional tax on excess advance child tax credit payments. If you received advance child tax credit payments during 2021 and the credits you figure using Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) are less than what you received, you may owe an additional tax. Complete Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) to determine if you must report an additional tax on Schedule 2 (Form 1040). Premium tax credit (PTC). The ARP expanded the PTC by eliminating the limitation that a taxpayer's household income may not exceed 400% of the federal poverty line and generally increases the credit amounts. In addition, in 2021, if you receive unemployment compensation, you are generally eligible to claim the PTC if you meet the other requirements. For more information, see Pub. 974 and Form 8962 and its instructions. Changes to the earned income credit (EIC). For 2021, the following changes have been made to the EIC.
File Schedule EIC (Form 1040) if you have a qualifying child. If you have at least one child who meets the conditions to be your qualifying child for purposes of claiming the EIC, complete and attach Schedule EIC to your Form 1040 or 1040-SR even if that child doesn't have a valid SSN. For more information, including how to complete Schedule EIC if your qualifying child doesn't have a valid SSN, see the instructions for Form 1040, line 27a, and Schedule EIC. Forgiveness of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The forgiveness of a PPP loan creates tax-exempt income, so you don't need to report the income on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, but you do need to report certain information related to your PPP loan. To find out how to report information related to your PPP loan, see Forgiveness of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans under Income in the Instructions for Form 1040. Identity verification. The IRS launched an improved identity verification and sign-in process that enables more people to securely access and use IRS online tools and applications. To provide verification services, the IRS is using ID.me, a trusted technology provider. The new process is one more step the IRS is taking to ensure that taxpayer information is provided only to the person who legally has a right to the data. Taxpayers using the new mobile-friendly verification procedure can gain entry to existing IRS online services such as the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, On-line Account, Get Transcript Online, Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), and Online Payment Agreement. Additional IRS applications will transition to the new method over the next year. Each online service will also provide information that will instruct taxpayers on the steps they need to follow for access to the service. You can also see IR-2021-228 for more information. Personal protective equipment (PPE). Amounts paid for PPE, such as masks, hand sanitizer, and sanitizing wipes, for the primary purpose of preventing the spread of coronavirus, are qualified medical expenses. If the amounts were paid or reimbursed under a health flexible spending account, Archer medical savings account, health reimbursement arrangement, or any other health plan, the amounts are not deductible on Schedule A (Form 1040). Standard mileage rates. The standard mileage rate allowed for operating expenses for a car when you use it for medical reasons decreased to 16 cents a mile. The 2021 rate for use of your vehicle to do volunteer work for certain charitable organizations remains at 14 cents a mile and the rate for business use of a vehicle is 56 cents a mile. Modified AGI limit for traditional IRA contributions. For 2021, if you are covered by a retirement plan at work, your deduction for contributions to a traditional IRA is reduced (phased out) if your modified AGI is:
If you either live with your spouse or file a joint return, and your spouse is covered by a retirement plan at work but you aren’t, your deduction is phased out if your modified AGI is more than $198,000 but less than $208,000. If your modified AGI is $206,000 or more, you can’t take a deduction for contributions to a traditional IRA. See How Much Can You Deduct in chapter 9, later. Modified AGI limit for Roth IRA contributions. For 2021, your Roth IRA contribution limit is reduced (phased out) in the following situations.
2022 modified AGI limits. You can find information about the 2022 contribution and AGI limits in Pub. 590-A. Form 1040-X continuous-use form and instructions. Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, and its instructions have been converted from an annual revision to continuous use beginning in tax year 2021. Both the form and instructions will be updated as required. For the most recent version, go to IRS.gov/Form1040X. Section discussions and charts that were updated annually have been removed, or replaced with references to relevant forms, schedules, instructions, and publications. See the forms, schedules, instructions, and publications for the year of the tax return you are amending for guidance on specific topics. Business meals. Section 210 of the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020 provides for the temporary allowance of a 100% business meal deduction for food or beverages provided by a restaurant and paid or incurred after December 31, 2020, and before January 1, 2023. Tax law changes for 2022. When you figure how much income tax you want withheld from your pay and when you figure your estimated tax, consider tax law changes effective in 2022. For more information, see Pub. 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax. Form 8915-F replaces Form 8915-E. Form 8915-F replaces Form 8915-E for reporting qualified 2020 disaster distributions and repayments of those distributions made in 2021 and 2022, as applicable, unlike in previous disaster years where distributions and repayments would be reported on the applicable Form 8915 for that year's disasters. For example, Form 8915-D, Qualified 2019 Disaster Retirement Plan Distributions and Repayments, would be used to report qualified 2019 disaster distributions and repayments. For more information, see the Instructions for Form 8915-F. Qualified business income deduction. The simplified worksheet for figuring your qualified business income deduction is now Form 8995, Qualified Business Income Deduction Simplified Computation. If you don't meet the requirements to file Form 8995, use Form 8995-A, Qualified Business Income Deduction. For more information, see each form's instructions. Alternative minimum tax (AMT) exemption amount increased. The AMT exemption amount is increased to $73,600 ($114,600 if married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er); $57,300 if married filing separately). The income levels at which the AMT exemption begins to phase out have increased to $523,600 ($1,047,200 if married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er)). Adoption credit. The adoption credit and the exclusion for employer-provided adoption benefits have both increased to $14,440 per eligible child in 2020. The amount begins to phase out if you have modified AGI in excess of $216,660 and is completely phased out if your modified AGI is $256,660 or more. RemindersListed below are important reminders and other items that may help you file your 2021 tax return. Many of these items are explained in more detail later in this publication. Publication 17 changes. We removed the following 2019 chapters from this publication: 6, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 33, 34, 35, and 36. You can find most of the information previously found in those chapters in the primary publication. Please see Publication 17 changes, later. Special rules for eligible gains invested in Qualified Opportunity Funds. If you have an eligible gain, you can invest that gain into a Qualified Opportunity Fund (QOF) and elect to defer part or all of the gain that is otherwise includible in income. The gain is deferred until the date you sell or exchange the investment or December 31, 2026, whichever is earlier. You may also be able to permanently exclude gain from the sale or exchange of an investment in a QOF if the investment is held for at least 10 years. For information about what types of gains entitle you to elect these special rules, see the Instructions for Schedule D (Form 1040). For information on how to elect to use these special rules, see the Instructions for Form 8949. Secure your tax records from identity theft. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information, such as your name, SSN, or other identifying information, without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes. An identity thief may use your SSN to get a job or may file a tax return using your SSN to receive a refund. For more information about identity theft and how to reduce your risk from it, see chapter 1, later. Taxpayer identification numbers. You must provide the taxpayer identification number for each person for whom you claim certain tax benefits. This applies even if the person was born in 2021. Generally, this number is the person's SSN. See chapter 1, later. Foreign-source income. If you are a U.S. citizen with income from sources outside the United States (foreign income), you must report all such income on your tax return unless it is exempt by law or a tax treaty. This is true whether you live inside or outside the United States and whether or not you receive a Form W-2 or Form 1099 from the foreign payer. This applies to earned income (such as wages and tips) as well as unearned income (such as interest, dividends, capital gains, pensions, rents, and royalties). If you live outside the United States, you may be able to exclude part or all of your foreign earned income. For details, see Pub. 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad. Foreign financial assets. If you had foreign financial assets in 2021, you may have to file Form 8938 with your return. See Form 8938 and its instructions or visit IRS.gov/Form8938 for details. Automatic 6-month extension to file tax return. You can get an automatic 6-month extension of time to file your tax return. See chapter 1, later. Payment of taxes. You can pay your taxes by making electronic payments online; from a mobile device using the IRS2Go app; or in cash, or by check or money order. Paying electronically is quick, easy, and faster than mailing in a check or money order. See chapter 1, later. Faster ways to file your return. The IRS offers fast, accurate ways to file your tax return information without filing a paper tax return. You can use IRS e-file (electronic filing). See chapter 1, later. Free electronic filing. You may be able to file your 2021 taxes online for free. See chapter 1, later. Change of address. If you change your address, notify the IRS. See chapter 1, later. Refund on a late-filed return. If you were due a refund but you did not file a return, you must generally file your return within 3 years from the date the return was due (including extensions) to get that refund. See chapter 1, later. Frivolous tax returns. The IRS has published a list of positions that are identified as frivolous. The penalty for filing a frivolous tax return is $5,000. See chapter 1, later. Filing erroneous claim for refund or credit. You may have to pay a penalty if you file an erroneous claim for refund or credit. See chapter 1, later. Access your online account. You must authenticate your identity. To securely log into your federal tax account, go to IRS.gov/Account. View the amount you owe, review 24 months of payment history, access online payment options, and create or modify an online payment agreement. You can also access your tax records online. Health care coverage. If you need health care coverage, go to HealthCare.gov to learn about health insurance options for you and your family, how to buy health insurance, and how you might qualify to get financial assistance to buy health insurance. Disclosure, Privacy Act, and paperwork reduction information. The IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998, the Privacy Act of 1974, and the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 require that when we ask you for information, we must first tell you what our legal right is to ask for the information, why we are asking for it, how it will be used, what could happen if we do not receive it, and whether your response is voluntary, required to obtain a benefit, or mandatory under the law. A complete statement on this subject can be found in your tax form instructions. Preparer e-file mandate. Most paid preparers must e-file returns they prepare and file. Your preparer may make you aware of this requirement and the options available to you. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. If you want to confidentially report misconduct, waste, fraud, or abuse by an IRS employee, you can call 800-366-4484 (call 800-877-8339 if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, and are using TTY/TDD equipment). You can remain anonymous. Photographs of missing children. The IRS is a proud partner with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children® (NCMEC). Photographs of missing children selected by the Center may appear in this publication on pages that would otherwise be blank. You can help bring these children home by looking at the photographs and calling 1-800-THE-LOST (800-843-5678) if you recognize a child. Publication 17 Changes
IntroductionThis publication covers the general rules for filing a federal income tax return. It supplements the information contained in your tax form instructions. It explains the tax law to make sure you pay only the tax you owe and no more. How this publication is arranged. Pub. 17 closely follows Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, and Form 1040-SR, U.S. Tax Return for Seniors, and their three Schedules 1 through 3. Pub. 17 is divided into four parts. Each part is further divided into chapters, most of which generally discuss one line of the form or one line of one of the three schedules. The introduction at the beginning of each part lists the schedule(s) discussed in that part. The table of contents inside the front cover, the introduction to each part, and the index in the back of the publication are useful tools to help you find the information you need. What is in this publication. This publication begins with the rules for filing a tax return. It explains:
It will help you identify which filing status you qualify for, whether you can claim any dependents, and whether the income you receive is taxable. The publication goes on to explain the standard deduction, the kinds of expenses you may be able to deduct, and the various kinds of credits you may be able to take to reduce your tax. Throughout this publication are examples showing how the tax law applies in typical situations. Also throughout this publication are flowcharts and tables that present tax information in an easy-to-understand manner. Many of the subjects discussed in this publication are discussed in greater detail in other IRS publications. References to those other publications are provided for your information. Icons. Small graphic symbols, or icons, are used to draw your attention to special information. See Table 1 for an explanation of each icon used in this publication. What is not covered in this publication. Some material that you may find helpful is not included in this publication but can be found in your tax form instructions booklet. This includes lists of:
If you operate your own business or have other self-employment income, such as from babysitting or selling crafts, see the following publications for more information.
Help from the IRS. There are many ways you can get help from the IRS. These are explained under How To Get Tax Help at the end of this publication. Comments and suggestions. We welcome your comments about this publication and suggestions for future editions. You can send us comments through IRS.gov/FormComments. Or, you can write to the Internal Revenue Service, Tax Forms and Publications, 1111 Constitution Ave. NW, IR-6526, Washington, DC 20224. Although we can’t respond individually to each comment received, we do appreciate your feedback and will consider your comments and suggestions as we revise our tax forms, instructions, and publications. Don’t send tax questions, tax returns, or payments to the above address. Getting answers to your tax questions. If you have a tax question not answered by this publication or the How To Get Tax Help section at the end of this publication, go to the IRS Interactive Tax Assistant page at IRS.gov/Help/ITA where you can find topics by using the search feature or viewing the categories listed. Getting tax forms, instructions, and publications. Go to IRS.gov/Forms to download current and prior-year forms, instructions, and publications. Ordering tax forms, instructions, and publications. Go to IRS.gov/OrderForms to order current forms, instructions, and publications; call 800-829-3676 to order prior-year forms and instructions. The IRS will process your order for forms and publications as soon as possible. Don’t resubmit requests you’ve already sent us. You can get forms and publications faster online. IRS mission. Provide America's taxpayers top-quality service by helping them understand and meet their tax responsibilities and enforce the law with integrity and fairness to all. Table 1. Legend of Icons
Part One - The Income Tax ReturnThe four chapters in this part provide basic information on the tax system. They take you through the first steps of filling out a tax return. They also provide information about dependents, and discuss recordkeeping requirements, IRS e-file (electronic filing), certain penalties, and the two methods used to pay tax during the year: withholding and estimated tax. The Form 1040 and 1040-SR schedules that are discussed in these chapters are:
1. Filing InformationWhat's NewDue date of return. File Form 1040 or 1040-SR by April 18, 2022. The due date is April 18, instead of April 15, because of the Emancipation Day holiday in the District of Columbia—even if you don't live in the District of Columbia. If you live in Maine or Massachusetts, you have until April 19, 2022. That is because of the Patriots' Day holiday in those states. Who must file. Generally, the amount of income you can receive before you must file a return has been increased. See Table 1-1, Table 1-2, and Table 1-3 for the specific amounts. RemindersFile online. Rather than filing a return on paper, you may be able to file electronically using IRS e-file. For more information, see Why Should I File Electronically, later. Access your online account (individual taxpayers only). Go to IRS.gov/Account to securely access information about your federal tax account.
Change of address. If you change your address, you should notify the IRS. You can use Form 8822 to notify the IRS of the change. See Change of Address, later, under What Happens After I File. Enter your social security number. You must enter your social security number (SSN) in the spaces provided on your tax return. If you file a joint return, enter the SSNs in the same order as the names. Direct deposit of refund. Instead of getting a paper check, you may be able to have your refund deposited directly into your account at a bank or other financial institution. See Direct Deposit under Refunds, later. If you choose direct deposit of your refund, you may be able to split the refund among two or three accounts. Pay online or by phone. If you owe additional tax, you may be able to pay online or by phone. See How To Pay, later. Installment agreement. If you can’t pay the full amount due with your return, you may ask to make monthly installment payments. See Installment Agreement, later, under Amount You Owe. You may be able to apply online for a payment agreement if you owe federal tax, interest, and penalties. Automatic 6-month extension. You can get an automatic 6-month extension to file your tax return if, no later than the date your return is due, you file Form 4868. See Automatic Extension, later. Service in combat zone. You are allowed extra time to take care of your tax matters if you are a member of the Armed Forces who served in a combat zone, or if you served in a combat zone in support of the Armed Forces. See Individuals Serving in Combat Zone, later, under When Do I Have To File. Adoption taxpayer identification number. If a child has been placed in your home for purposes of legal adoption and you won't be able to get a social security number for the child in time to file your return, you may be able to get an adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN). For more information, see Social Security Number (SSN), later. Taxpayer identification number for aliens. If you or your dependent is a nonresident or resident alien who doesn't have and isn't eligible to get a social security number, file Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, with the IRS. For more information, see Social Security Number (SSN), later. Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) renewal. Some ITINs must be renewed. If you haven't used your ITIN on a U.S. tax return at least once for tax years 2018, 2019, or 2020, it expired at the end of 2021 and must be renewed if you need to file a U.S. federal tax return in 2022. You don't need to renew your ITIN if you don't need to file a federal tax return. You can find more information at IRS.gov/ITIN. . Frivolous tax submissions. The IRS has published a list of positions that are identified as frivolous. The penalty for filing a frivolous tax return is $5,000. Also, the $5,000 penalty will apply to other specified frivolous submissions. For more information, see Civil Penalties, later. IntroductionThis chapter discusses the following topics.
Do I Have To File a Return?You must file a federal income tax return if you are a citizen or resident of the United States or a resident of Puerto Rico and you meet the filing requirements for any of the following categories that apply to you.
The filing requirements for each category are explained in this chapter. The filing requirements apply even if you don't owe tax. . . Individuals—In GeneralIf you are a U.S. citizen or resident, whether you must file a return depends on three factors.
To find out whether you must file, see Table 1-1, Table 1-2, and Table 1-3. Even if no table shows that you must file, you may need to file to get money back. See Who Should File, later. Gross income. This includes all income you receive in the form of money, goods, property, and services that isn't exempt from tax. It also includes income from sources outside the United States or from the sale of your main home (even if you can exclude all or part of it). Include part of your social security benefits if:
If either (1) or (2) applies, see the Instructions for Form 1040 or Pub. 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits, to figure the social security benefits you must include in gross income. Common types of income are discussed in Part Two of this publication. Community property states. Community property states include Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. If you and your spouse lived in a community property state, you must usually follow state law to determine what is community property and what is separate income. For details, see Form 8958 and Pub. 555. Nevada, Washington, and California domestic partners. A registered domestic partner in Nevada, Washington, or California must generally report half the combined community income of the individual and his or her domestic partner. See Pub. 555. Self-employed individuals. If you are self-employed, your gross income includes the amount on line 7 of Schedule C (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Business; and line 9 of Schedule F (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Farming. See Self-Employed Persons, later, for more information about your filing requirements. . Filing status. Your filing status depends on whether you are single or married and on your family situation. Your filing status is determined on the last day of your tax year, which is December 31 for most taxpayers. See chapter 2 for an explanation of each filing status. Age. If you are 65 or older at the end of the year, you can generally have a higher amount of gross income than other taxpayers before you must file. See Table 1-1. You are considered 65 on the day before your 65th birthday. For example, if your 65th birthday is on January 1, 2022, you are considered 65 for 2021. Table 1-1. 2021 Filing Requirements for Most Taxpayers
Surviving Spouses, Executors, Administrators, and Legal RepresentativesYou must file a final return for a decedent (a person who died) if both of the following are true.
For more information on rules for filing a decedent's final return, see Pub. 559. U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Living AbroadTo determine whether you must file a return, include in your gross income any income you received abroad, including any income you can exclude under the foreign earned income exclusion. For information on special tax rules that may apply to you, see Pub. 54. It is available online and at most U.S. embassies and consulates. See How To Get Tax Help in the back of this publication. Residents of Puerto RicoIf you are a U.S. citizen and also a bona fide resident of Puerto Rico, you must generally file a U.S. income tax return for any year in which you meet the income requirements. This is in addition to any legal requirement you may have to file an income tax return with Puerto Rico. If you are a bona fide resident of Puerto Rico for the entire year, your U.S. gross income doesn't include income from sources within Individuals With Income From U.S. PossessionsIf you had income from Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, special rules may apply when determining whether you must file a U.S. federal income tax return. In addition, you may have to file a return with the individual island government. See Pub. 570 for more information. DependentsIf you are a dependent (one who meets the dependency tests in chapter 3), see Table 1-2 to find out whether you must file a return. You must also file if your situation is described in Table 1-3. Responsibility of parent. Generally, a child is responsible for filing his or her own tax return and for paying any tax on the return. If a dependent child must file an income tax return but can’t file due to age or any other reason, then a parent, guardian, or other legally responsible person must file it for the child. If the child can’t sign the return, the parent or guardian must sign the child's name followed by the words “By (your signature), parent for minor child.” Child's earnings. Amounts a child earns by performing services are included in his or her gross income and not the gross income of the parent. This is true even if under local law the child's parent has the right to the earnings and may actually have received them. But if the child doesn't pay the tax due on this income, the parent is liable for the tax. Certain Children Under Age 19 or Full-Time StudentsIf a child's only income is interest and dividends (including capital gain distributions and Alaska Permanent Fund dividends), the child was under age 19 at the end of 2021 or was a full-time student under age 24 at the end of 2021, and certain other conditions are met, a parent can elect to include the child's income on the parent's return. If this election is made, the child doesn't have to file a return. See Parent's Election To Report Child's Interest and Dividends in Pub. 929, Tax Rules for Children and Dependents. Self-Employed PersonsYou are self-employed if you:
Self-employment can include work in addition to your regular full-time business activities, such as certain part-time work you do at home or in addition to your regular job. You must file a return if your gross income is at least as much as the filing requirement amount for your filing status and age (shown in Table 1-1). Also, you must file Form 1040 or 1040-SR and Schedule SE (Form 1040), Self-Employment Tax, if:
Use Schedule SE (Form 1040) to figure your self-employment tax. Self-employment tax is comparable to the social security and Medicare tax withheld from an employee's wages. For more information about this tax, see Pub. 334, Tax Guide for Small Business. Employees of foreign governments or international organizations. If you are a U.S. citizen who works in the United States for an international organization, a foreign government, or a wholly owned instrumentality of a foreign government, and your employer isn't required to withhold social security and Medicare taxes from your wages, you must include your earnings from services performed in the United States when figuring your net earnings from self-employment. Ministers. You must include income from services you performed as a minister when figuring your net earnings from self-employment, unless you have an exemption from self-employment tax. This also applies to Christian Science practitioners and members of a religious order who have not taken a vow of poverty. For more information, see Pub. 517. Table 1-2. 2021 Filing Requirements for Dependents
AliensYour status as an alien (resident, nonresident, or dual-status) determines whether and how you must file an income tax return. The rules used to determine your alien status are discussed in Pub. 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens. Resident alien. If you are a resident alien for the entire year, you must file a tax return following the same rules that apply to U.S. citizens. Use the forms discussed in this publication. Nonresident alien. If you are a nonresident alien, the rules and tax forms that apply to you are different from those that apply to U.S. citizens and resident aliens. See Pub. 519 to find out if U.S. income tax laws apply to you and which forms you should file. Dual-status taxpayer. If you are a resident alien for part of the tax year and a nonresident alien for the rest of the year, you are a dual-status taxpayer. Different rules apply for each part of the year. For information on dual-status taxpayers, see Pub. 519. Table 1-3. Other Situations When You Must File a 2021 Return
Who Should FileEven if you don't have to file, you should file a federal income tax return to get money back if any of the following conditions apply.
Form 1040 or 1040-SRUse Form 1040 or 1040-SR to file your return. (But also see Why Should I File Electronically, later.) You can use Form 1040 or 1040-SR to report all types of income, deductions, and credits. Why Should I File Electronically?Electronic FilingIf your adjusted gross income (AGI) is less than a certain amount, you are eligible for Free File, a free tax software service offered by IRS partners, to prepare and e-file your return for free. If your income is over the amount, you are still eligible for Free File Fillable Forms, an electronic version of IRS paper forms. Table 1-4 lists the free ways to electronically file your return. . If your return is filed with IRS e-file, you will receive an acknowledgment that your return was received and accepted. If you owe tax, you can e-file and pay electronically. The IRS has processed more than one billion e-filed returns safely and securely. Using e-file doesn't affect your chances of an IRS examination of your return. Requirements for an electronic return signature. To file your return electronically, you must sign the return electronically using a personal identification number (PIN). If you are filing online, you must use a Self-Select PIN. For 2021, if we issued you an identity protection personal identification number (IP PIN) (as described in more detail below), all six digits of your IP PIN must appear in the IP PIN spaces provided next to the space for your occupation for your electronic signature to be complete. Failure to include an issued IP PIN on the electronic return will result in an invalid signature and a rejected return. If you are filing a joint return and both taxpayers were issued an IP PIN, enter both IP PINs in the spaces provided. If you are filing electronically using a tax practitioner, you can use a Self-Select PIN or a Practitioner PIN. Self-Select PIN. The Self-Select PIN method allows you to create your own PIN. If you are married filing jointly, you and your spouse will each need to create a PIN and enter these PINs as your electronic signatures. A PIN is any combination of five digits you choose except five zeros. If you use a PIN, there is nothing to sign and nothing to mail—not even your Forms W-2. Your electronic return is considered a valid signed return only when it includes your PIN; last name; date of birth; IP PIN, if applicable; and AGI from your originally filed 2020 federal income tax return, if applicable. If you're filing jointly, your electronic return must also include your spouse's PIN; last name; date of birth; IP PIN, if applicable; and AGI, if applicable, in order to be considered validly signed. Don't use AGI from an amended return (Form 1040-X) or a math error correction made by the IRS. AGI is the amount shown on your 2020 Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR, line 11. If you don't have your 2020 income tax return, you can request a transcript by using our automated self-service tool. Go to IRS.gov/Transcript. (If you filed electronically last year, you, and your spouse if filing jointly, may use your prior year PIN to verify your identity instead of your prior year AGI. The prior year PIN is the five-digit PIN you used to electronically sign your 2020 return.) You will also be prompted to enter your date of birth. Table 1-4. Free Ways To e-file
. Practitioner PIN. The Practitioner PIN method allows you to authorize your tax practitioner to enter or generate your PIN. Your electronic return is considered a validly signed return only when it includes your PIN; last name; date of birth; and IP PIN, if applicable. If you’re filing jointly, your electronic return must also include your spouse’s PIN; last name; date of birth; and IP PIN, if applicable, in order to be considered a validly signed return. The practitioner can provide you with details. Form 8453. You must send in a paper Form 8453 if you have to attach certain forms or other documents that can’t be electronically filed. For details, see Form 8453. For more details, visit IRS.gov/efile. Identity Protection PIN. If the IRS gave you an identity protection personal identification number (IP PIN), enter it in the spaces provided on your tax form. If the IRS hasn’t given you this type of number, leave these spaces blank. For more information, see the Instructions for Form 1040. . Power of attorney. If an agent is signing your return for you, a power of attorney (POA) must be filed. Attach the POA to Form 8453 and file it using that form's instructions. See Signatures, later, for more information on POAs. State returns. In most states, you can file an electronic state return simultaneously with your federal return. For more information, check with your local IRS office, state tax agency, tax professional, or the IRS website at IRS.gov/efile. Refunds. You can have a refund check mailed to you, or you can have your refund deposited directly to your checking or savings account or split among two or three accounts. With e-file, your refund will be issued faster than if you filed on paper. As with a paper return, you may not get all of your refund if you owe certain past-due amounts, such as federal tax, state income tax, state unemployment compensation debts, child support, spousal support, or certain other federal nontax debts, such as student loans. See Offset against debts under Refunds, later. Refund inquiries. Information about your return will generally be available within 24 hours after the IRS receives your e-filed return. See Refund Information, later. Amount you owe. To avoid late-payment penalties and interest, pay your taxes in full by April 18, 2022 (for most people). See How To Pay, later, for information on how to pay the amount you owe. Using Your Personal Computer. IRS-approved tax preparation software is available for online use on the Internet, for download from the Internet, and in retail stores. For information, visit IRS.gov/efile. Through Employers and Financial InstitutionsSome businesses offer free e-file to their employees, members, or customers. Others offer it for a fee. Ask your employer or financial institution if they offer IRS e-file as an employee, member, or customer benefit. Free Help With Your ReturnThe Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who generally make $58,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and limited-English-speaking taxpayers who need help preparing their own tax returns. The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program offers free tax help for all taxpayers, particularly those who are 60 years of age and older. TCE volunteers specialize in answering questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors. You can go to IRS.gov to see your options for preparing and filing your return, which include the following.
Using a Tax ProfessionalMany tax professionals electronically file tax returns for their clients. You may personally enter your PIN or complete Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization, to authorize the tax professional to enter your PIN on your return. Note.Tax professionals may charge a fee for IRS e-file. Fees can vary depending on the professional and the specific services rendered. When Do I Have To File?April 18, 2022, is the due date for filing your 2021 income tax return if you use the calendar year. The due date is April 18, instead of April 15, because of the Emancipation Day holiday in the District of Columbia—even if you don't live in the District of Columbia. If you live in Maine or Massachusetts, you have until April 19, 2022. That is because of the Patriots' Day holiday in those states. For a quick view of due dates for filing a return with or without an extension of time to file (discussed later), see Table 1-5. Table 1-5. When To File Your 2021 Return
If you use a fiscal year (a year ending on the last day of any month except December, or a 52-53-week year), your income tax return is due by the 15th day of the 4th month after the close of your fiscal year. When the due date for doing any act for tax purposes—filing a return, paying taxes, etc.—falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the due date is delayed until the next business day. Filing paper returns on time. Your paper return is filed on time if it is mailed in an envelope that is properly addressed, has enough postage, and is postmarked by the due date. If you send your return by registered mail, the date of the registration is the postmark date. The registration is evidence that the return was delivered. If you send a return by certified mail and have your receipt postmarked by a postal employee, the date on the receipt is the postmark date. The postmarked certified mail receipt is evidence that the return was delivered. Private delivery services. If you choose to mail your return, you can use certain private delivery services designated by the IRS to meet the “timely mailing treated as timely filing/paying” rule for tax returns and payments. These private delivery services include only the following.
To check for any updates to the list of designated private delivery services, go to IRS.gov/PDS. For the IRS mailing addresses to use if you’re using a private delivery service, go to IRS.gov/PDSStreetAddresses. The private delivery service can tell you how to get written proof of the mailing date. Filing electronic returns on time. If you use IRS e-file, your return is considered filed on time if the authorized electronic return transmitter postmarks the transmission by the due date. An authorized electronic return transmitter is a participant in the IRS e-file program that transmits electronic tax return information directly to the IRS. The electronic postmark is a record of when the authorized electronic return transmitter received the transmission of your electronically filed return on its host system. The date and time in your time zone controls whether your electronically filed return is timely. Filing late. If you don't file your return by the due date, you may have to pay a failure-to-file penalty and interest. For more information, see Penalties, later. Also see Interest under Amount You Owe, later. If you were due a refund but you didn't file a return, you must generally file within 3 years from the date the return was due (including extensions) to get that refund. Nonresident alien. If you are a nonresident alien and earn wages subject to U.S. income tax withholding, your 2021 U.S. income tax return (Form 1040-NR) is due by:
If you don't earn wages subject to U.S. income tax withholding, your return is due by:
See Pub. 519 for more filing information. Filing for a decedent. If you must file a final income tax return for a taxpayer who died during the year (a decedent), the return is due by the 15th day of the 4th month after the end of the decedent's normal tax year. See Pub. 559. Extensions of Time To FileYou may be able to get an extension of time to file your return. There are three types of situations where you may qualify for an extension.
Automatic ExtensionIf you can’t file your 2021 return by the due date, you may be able to get an automatic 6-month extension of time to file. Example. If your return is due on April 18, 2022, you will have until October 17, 2022, to file. . How to get the automatic extension. You can get the automatic extension by:
E-file options. There are two ways you can use e-file to get an extension of time to file. Complete Form 4868 to use as a worksheet. If you think you may owe tax when you file your return, use Part II of the form to estimate your balance due. If you e-file Form 4868 to the IRS, don't send a paper Form 4868. E-file using your personal computer or a tax professional. You can use a tax software package with your personal computer or a tax professional to file Form 4868 electronically. Free File and Free File Fillable Forms, both available at IRS.gov, allow you to prepare and e-file Form 4868 for free. You will need to provide certain information from your 2020 tax return. If you wish to make a payment by direct transfer from your bank account, see Pay online under How To Pay, later, in this chapter.
E-file and pay by credit or debit card or by direct transfer from your bank account. You can get an extension by paying part or all of your estimate of tax due by using a credit or debit card or by direct transfer from your bank account. You can do this by phone or over the Internet. You don't file Form 4868. See Pay online under How To Pay, later, in this chapter. Filing a paper Form 4868. You can get an extension of time to file by filing a paper Form 4868. If you are a fiscal year taxpayer, you must file a paper Form 4868. Mail it to the address shown in the form instructions. If you want to make a payment with the form, make your check or money order payable to “United States Treasury.” Write your SSN, daytime phone number, and “2021 Form 4868” on your check or money order. When to file. You must request the automatic extension by the due date for your return. You can file your return any time before the 6-month extension period ends. When you file your return. Enter any payment you made related to the extension of time to file on Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 10. Individuals Outside the United StatesYou are allowed an automatic 2-month extension, without filing Form 4868 (until June 15, 2022, if you use the calendar year), to file your 2021 return and pay any federal income tax due if:
However, if you pay the tax due after the regular due date (April 15 for most taxpayers), interest will be charged from that date until the date the tax is paid. If you served in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty area, you may be eligible for a longer extension of time to file. See Individuals Serving in Combat Zone, later, for special rules that apply to you. Married taxpayers. If you file a joint return, only one spouse has to qualify for this automatic extension. If you and your spouse file separate returns, the automatic extension applies only to the spouse who qualifies. How to get the extension. To use this automatic extension, you must attach a statement to your return explaining what situation qualified you for the extension. (See the situations listed under (2), earlier.) Extensions beyond 2 months. If you can’t file your return within the automatic 2-month extension period, you may be able to get an additional 4-month extension, for a total of 6 months. File Form 4868 and check the box on line 8. No further extension. An extension of more than 6 months will generally not be granted. However, if you are outside the United States and meet certain tests, you may be granted a longer extension. For more information, see When To File and Pay in Pub. 54. Individuals Serving in Combat ZoneThe deadline for filing your tax return, paying any tax you may owe, and filing a claim for refund is automatically extended if you serve in a combat zone. This applies to members of the Armed Forces, as well as merchant marines serving aboard vessels under the operational control of the Department of Defense, Red Cross personnel, accredited correspondents, and civilians under the direction of the Armed Forces in support of the Armed Forces. Combat zone. A combat zone is any area the President of the United States designates by executive order as an area in which the U.S. Armed Forces are engaging or have engaged in combat. An area usually becomes a combat zone and ceases to be a combat zone on the dates the President designates by executive order. For purposes of the automatic extension, the term “combat zone” includes the following areas.
See Pub. 3 for more detailed information on the locations comprising each combat zone. Pub. 3 also has information about other tax benefits available to military personnel serving in a combat zone. Extension period. The deadline for filing your return, paying any tax due, filing a claim for refund, and taking other actions with the IRS is extended in two steps. First, your deadline is extended for 180 days after the later of:
Second, in addition to the 180 days, your deadline is also extended by the number of days you had left to take action with the IRS when you entered the combat zone. For example, you have 3½ months (January 1–April 15) to file your tax return. Any days left in this period when you entered the combat zone (or the entire 3½ months if you entered it before the beginning of the year) are added to the 180 days. See Extension of Deadlines in Pub. 3 for more information. The rules on the extension for filing your return also apply when you are deployed outside the United States (away from your permanent duty station) while participating in a designated contingency operation. Qualified hospitalization. The hospitalization must be the result of an injury received while serving in a combat zone or a contingency operation. Qualified hospitalization means:
See Pub. 3 for more information on qualified hospitalizations. How Do I Prepare My Return?This section explains how to get ready to fill in your tax return and when to report your income and expenses. It also explains how to complete certain sections of the form. You may find Table 1-6 helpful when you prepare your paper return. Table 1-6. Six Steps for Preparing Your Paper Return
Substitute tax forms. You can’t use your own version of a tax form unless it meets the requirements explained in Pub. 1167. Form W-2. If you were an employee, you should receive Form W-2 from your employer. You will need the information from this form to prepare your return. See Form W-2 under Credit for Withholding and Estimated Tax for 2021 in chapter 4. Your employer is required to provide or send Form W-2 to you no later than January 31, 2022. If it is mailed, you should allow adequate time to receive it before contacting your employer. If you still don't get the form by early February, the IRS can help you by requesting the form from your employer. When you request IRS help, be prepared to provide the following information.
Form 1099. If you received certain types of income, you may receive a Form 1099. For example, if you received taxable interest of $10 or more, the payer is required to provide or send Form 1099 to you no later than January 31, 2022 (or by February 15, 2022, if furnished by a broker). If it is mailed, you should allow adequate time to receive it before contacting the payer. If you still don't get the form by February 15 (or by March 1, 2022, if furnished by a broker), call the IRS for help. When Do I Report My Income and Expenses?You must figure your taxable income on the basis of a tax year. A “tax year” is an annual accounting period used for keeping records and reporting income and expenses. You must account for your income and expenses in a way that clearly shows your taxable income. The way you do this is called an accounting method. This section explains which accounting periods and methods you can use. Accounting PeriodsMost individual tax returns cover a calendar year—the 12 months from January 1 through December 31. If you don't use a calendar year, your accounting period is a fiscal year. A regular fiscal year is a 12-month period that ends on the last day of any month except December. A 52-53-week fiscal year varies from 52 to 53 weeks and always ends on the same day of the week. You choose your accounting period (tax year) when you file your first income tax return. It can’t be longer than 12 months. More information. For more information on accounting periods, including how to change your accounting period, see Pub. 538. Accounting MethodsYour accounting method is the way you account for your income and expenses. Most taxpayers use either the cash method or an accrual method. You choose a method when you file your first income tax return. If you want to change your accounting method after that, you must generally get IRS approval. Use Form 3115 to request an accounting method change. Cash method. If you use this method, report all items of income in the year in which you actually or constructively receive them. Generally, you deduct all expenses in the year you actually pay them. This is the method most individual taxpayers use. Constructive receipt. Generally, you constructively receive income when it is credited to your account or set apart in any way that makes it available to you. You don't need to have physical possession of it. For example, interest credited to your bank account on December 31, 2021, is taxable income to you in 2021 if you could have withdrawn it in 2021 (even if the amount isn't entered in your records or withdrawn until 2022). Garnished wages. If your employer uses your wages to pay your debts, or if your wages are attached or garnished, the full amount is constructively received by you. You must include these wages in income for the year you would have received them. Debts paid for you. If another person cancels or pays your debts (but not as a gift or loan), you have constructively received the amount and must generally include it in your gross income for the year. See Canceled Debts in chapter 8 for more information. Payment to third party. If a third party is paid income from property you own, you have constructively received the income. It is the same as if you had actually received the income and paid it to the third party. Payment to an agent. Income an agent receives for you is income you constructively received in the year the agent receives it. If you indicate in a contract that your income is to be paid to another person, you must include the amount in your gross income when the other person receives it. Check received or available. A valid check that was made available to you before the end of the tax year is constructively received by you in that year. A check that was “made available to you” includes a check you have already received, but not cashed or deposited. It also includes, for example, your last paycheck of the year that your employer made available for you to pick up at the office before the end of the year. It is constructively received by you in that year whether or not you pick it up before the end of the year or wait to receive it by mail after the end of the year. No constructive receipt. There may be facts to show that you didn't constructively receive income. Example. Alice Johnson, a teacher, agreed to her school board's condition that, in her absence, she would receive only the difference between her regular salary and the salary of a substitute teacher hired by the school board. Therefore, Alice didn't constructively receive the amount by which her salary was reduced to pay the substitute teacher. Accrual method. If you use an accrual method, you generally report income when you earn it, rather than when you receive it. You generally deduct your expenses when you incur them, rather than when you pay them. Income paid in advance. An advance payment of income is generally included in gross income in the year you receive it. Your method of accounting doesn't matter as long as the income is available to you. An advance payment may include rent or interest you receive in advance and pay for services you will perform later. A limited deferral until the next tax year may be allowed for certain advance payments. See Pub. 538 for specific information. Additional information. For more information on accounting methods, including how to change your accounting method, see Pub. 538. Social Security Number (SSN)You must enter your SSN on your return. If you are married, enter the SSNs for both you and your spouse, whether you file jointly or separately. If you are filing a joint return, include the SSNs in the same order as the names. Use this same order in submitting other forms and documents to the IRS. . Once you are issued an SSN, use it to file your tax return. Use your SSN to file your tax return even if your SSN does not authorize employment or if you have been issued an SSN that authorizes employment and you lose your employment authorization. An ITIN will not be issued to you once you have been issued an SSN. If you received your SSN after previously using an ITIN, stop using your ITIN. Use your SSN instead. Check that both the name and SSN on your Form 1040 or 1040-SR, W-2, and 1099 agree with your social security card. If they don't, certain deductions and credits on your Form 1040 or 1040-SR may be reduced or disallowed and you may not receive credit for your social security earnings. If your Form W-2 shows an incorrect SSN or name, notify your employer or the form-issuing agent as soon as possible to make sure your earnings are credited to your social security record. If the name or SSN on your social security card is incorrect, call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213. Name change. If you changed your name because of marriage, divorce, etc., be sure to report the change to your local SSA office before filing your return. This prevents delays in processing your return and issuing refunds. It also safeguards your future social security benefits. Dependent's SSN. You must provide the SSN of each dependent you claim, regardless of the dependent's age. This requirement applies to all dependents (not just your children) claimed on your tax return. . Exception. If your child was born and died in 2021 and didn't have an SSN, enter “DIED” in column (2) of the Dependents section of Form 1040 or 1040-SR and include a copy of the child's birth certificate, death certificate, or hospital records. The document must show that the child was born alive. No SSN. File Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card, with your local SSA office to get an SSN for yourself or your dependent. It usually takes about 2 weeks to get an SSN. If you or your dependent isn't eligible for an SSN, see Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN), later. If you are a U.S. citizen or resident alien, you must show proof of age, identity, and citizenship or alien status with your Form SS-5. If you are 12 or older and have never been assigned an SSN, you must appear in person with this proof at an SSA office. Form SS-5 is available at any SSA office, on the Internet at SSA.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf, or by calling 800-772-1213. If you have any questions about which documents you can use as proof of age, identity, or citizenship, contact your SSA office. If your dependent doesn't have an SSN by the time your return is due, you may want to ask for an extension of time to file, as explained earlier under When Do I Have To File. If you don't provide a required SSN or if you provide an incorrect SSN, your tax may be increased and any refund may be reduced. Adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN). If you are in the process of adopting a child who is a U.S. citizen or resident and can’t get an SSN for the child until the adoption is final, you can apply for an ATIN to use instead of an SSN. File Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions, with the IRS to get an ATIN if all of the following are true.
After the adoption is final, you must apply for an SSN for the child. You can’t continue using the ATIN. See Form W-7A for more information. Nonresident alien spouse. If your spouse is a nonresident alien, your spouse must have either an SSN or an ITIN if:
If your spouse isn't eligible for an SSN, see the following discussion on ITINs. Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). The IRS will issue you an ITIN if you are a nonresident or resident alien and you don't have and aren’t eligible to get an SSN. This also applies to an alien spouse or dependent. To apply for an ITIN, file Form W-7 with the IRS. It usually takes about 7 weeks to get an ITIN. Enter the ITIN on your tax return wherever an SSN is requested. Make sure your ITIN hasn’t expired. See Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) renewal, earlier, for more information on expiration and renewal of ITINs. You can also find more information at IRS.gov/ITIN. . . ITIN for tax use only. An ITIN is for federal tax use only. It doesn't entitle you to social security benefits or change your employment or immigration status under U.S. law. Penalty for not providing social security number. If you don't include your SSN or the SSN of your spouse or dependent as required, you may have to pay a penalty. See the discussion on Penalties, later, for more information. SSN on correspondence. If you write to the IRS about your tax account, be sure to include your SSN (and the name and SSN of your spouse, if you filed a joint return) in your correspondence. Because your SSN is used to identify your account, this helps the IRS respond to your correspondence promptly. Presidential Election Campaign FundThis fund helps pay for Presidential election campaigns. The fund also helps pay for pediatric medical research. If you want $3 to go to this fund, check the box. If you are filing a joint return, your spouse can also have $3 go to the fund. If you check the box, your tax or refund won't change. ComputationsThe following information may be useful in making the return easier to complete. Rounding off dollars. You can round off cents to whole dollars on your return and schedules. If you do round to whole dollars, you must round all amounts. To round, drop amounts under 50 cents and increase amounts from 50 to 99 cents to the next dollar. For example, $1.39 becomes $1 and $2.50 becomes $3. If you have to add two or more amounts to figure the amount to enter on a line, include cents when adding the amounts and round off only the total. If you are entering amounts that include cents, make sure to include the decimal point. There is no cents column on Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Equal amounts. If you are asked to enter the smaller or larger of two equal amounts, enter that amount. Negative amounts. If you file a paper return and you need to enter a negative amount, put the amount in parentheses rather than using a minus sign. To combine positive and negative amounts, add all the positive amounts together and then subtract the negative amounts. AttachmentsDepending on the form you file and the items reported on your return, you may have to complete additional schedules and forms and attach them to your paper return. . Form W-2. Form W-2 is a statement from your employer of wages and other compensation paid to you and taxes withheld from your pay. You should have a Form W-2 from each employer. If you file a paper return, be sure to attach a copy of Form W-2 in the place indicated on your return. For more information, see Form W-2 in chapter 4. Form 1099-R. If you received a Form 1099-R showing federal income tax withheld, and you file a paper return, attach a copy of that form in the place indicated on your return. Form 1040 or 1040-SR. If you file a paper return, attach any forms and schedules behind Form 1040 or 1040-SR in order of the “Attachment Sequence No.” shown in the upper right corner of the form or schedule. Then, arrange all other statements or attachments in the same order as the forms and schedules they relate to and attach them last. Don't attach items unless required to do so. Third Party DesigneeIf you want to allow your preparer, a friend, a family member, or any other person you choose to discuss your 2021 tax return with the IRS, check the “Yes” box in the “Third Party Designee” area of your return. Also, enter the designee's name, phone number, and any five digits the designee chooses as his or her personal identification number (PIN). If you check the “Yes” box, you, and your spouse if filing a joint return, are authorizing the IRS to call the designee to answer any questions that arise during the processing of your return. You are also authorizing the designee to:
You aren't authorizing the designee to receive any refund check, bind you to anything (including any additional tax liability), or otherwise represent you before the IRS. If you want to expand the designee's authorization, see Pub. 947. The authorization will automatically end no later than the due date (without any extensions) for filing your 2022 tax return. This is April 18, 2023, for most people. See your form instructions for more information. SignaturesYou must sign and date your return. If you file a joint return, both you and your spouse must sign the return, even if only one of you had income. . Your return isn't considered a valid return unless you sign it in accordance with the requirements in the instructions for your return. You must handwrite your signature on your return if you file it on paper. Digital, electronic, or typed-font signatures are not valid signatures for Forms 1040 or 1040-SR filed on paper. If you electronically file your return, you can use an electronic signature to sign your return in accordance with the requirements contained in the instructions for your return. Failure to sign your return in accordance with these requirements may prevent you from obtaining a refund. Enter your occupation. If you file a joint return, enter both your occupation and your spouse's occupation. When someone can sign for you. You can appoint an agent to sign your return if you are:
Power of attorney. A return signed by an agent in any of these cases must have a power of attorney (POA) attached that authorizes the agent to sign for you. You can use a POA that states that the agent is granted authority to sign the return, or you can use Form 2848. Part I of Form 2848 must state that the agent is granted authority to sign the return. Court-appointed conservator, guardian, or other fiduciary. If you are a court-appointed conservator, guardian, or other fiduciary for a mentally or physically incompetent individual who has to file a tax return, sign your name for the individual. File Form 56. Unable to sign. If the taxpayer is mentally competent but physically unable to sign the return or POA, a valid “signature” is defined under state law. It can be anything that clearly indicates the taxpayer's intent to sign. For example, the taxpayer's “X” with the signatures of two witnesses might be considered a valid signature under a state's law. Spouse unable to sign. If your spouse is unable to sign for any reason, see Signing a joint return in chapter 2. Child's return. If a child has to file a tax return but can’t sign the return, the child's parent, guardian, or another legally responsible person must sign the child's name, followed by the words “By (your signature), parent for minor child.” Paid PreparerGenerally, anyone you pay to prepare, assist in preparing, or review your tax return must sign it and fill in the other blanks, including their Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), in the paid preparer's area of your return. Many preparers are required to e-file the tax returns they prepare. They sign these e-filed returns using their tax preparation software. However, you can choose to have your return completed on paper if you prefer. In that case, the paid preparer can sign the paper return manually or use a rubber stamp or mechanical device. The preparer is personally responsible for affixing his or her signature to the return. If the preparer is self-employed (that is, not employed by any person or business to prepare the return), he or she should check the self-employed box in the “Paid Preparer Use Only” space on the return. The preparer must give you a copy of your return in addition to the copy filed with the IRS. If you prepare your own return, leave this area blank. If another person prepares your return and doesn't charge you, that person shouldn't sign your return. If you have questions about whether a preparer must sign your return, contact any IRS office. RefundsWhen you complete your return, you will determine if you paid more income tax than you owed. If so, you can get a refund of the amount you overpaid or you can choose to apply all or part of the overpayment to your next year's (2022) estimated tax. . Follow the Instructions for Form 1040 to complete the entries to claim your refund and/or to apply your overpayment to your 2022 estimated tax. . . Don't request a deposit of any part of your refund to an account that isn't in your name. Don't allow your tax preparer to deposit any part of your refund into his or her account. The number of direct deposits to a single account or prepaid debit card is limited to three refunds a year. After this limit is exceeded, paper checks will be sent instead. Learn more at IRS.gov/Individuals/Direct-Deposit-Limits. IRA. You can have your refund (or part of it) directly deposited to a traditional IRA, Roth IRA, or SEP-IRA, but not a SIMPLE IRA. You must establish the IRA at a bank or financial institution before you request direct deposit. TreasuryDirect®. You can request a deposit of your refund to a TreasuryDirect® online account to buy U.S. Treasury marketable securities and savings bonds. For more information, go to http://go.usa.gov/3KvcP. Split refunds. If you choose direct deposit, you may be able to split the refund and have it deposited among two or three accounts or buy up to $5,000 in paper or electronic series I savings bonds. Complete Form 8888 and attach it to your return. Overpayment less than one dollar. If your overpayment is less than one dollar, you won't get a refund unless you ask for it in writing. Cashing your refund check. Cash your tax refund check soon after you receive it. Checks expire the last business day of the 12th month of issue. If your check has expired, you can apply to the IRS to have it reissued. Refund more or less than expected. If you receive a check for a refund you aren’t entitled to, or for an overpayment that should have been credited to estimated tax, don't cash the check. Call the IRS. If you receive a check for more than the refund you claimed, don't cash the check until you receive a notice explaining the difference. If your refund check is for less than you claimed, it should be accompanied by a notice explaining the difference. Cashing the check doesn't stop you from claiming an additional amount of refund. If you didn't receive a notice and you have any questions about the amount of your refund, you should wait 2 weeks. If you still haven’t received a notice, call the IRS. Offset against debts. If you are due a refund but haven’t paid certain amounts you owe, all or part of your refund may be used to pay all or part of the past-due amount. This includes past-due federal income tax, other federal debts (such as student loans), state income tax, child and spousal support payments, and state unemployment compensation debt. You will be notified if the refund you claimed has been offset against your debts. Joint return and injured spouse. When a joint return is filed and only one spouse owes a past-due amount, the other spouse can be considered an injured spouse. An injured spouse should file Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation, if both of the following apply and the spouse wants a refund of his or her share of the overpayment shown on the joint return.
Note.If the injured spouse's residence was in a community property state at any time during the tax year, special rules may apply. See the Instructions for Form 8379. If you haven’t filed your joint return and you know that your joint refund will be offset, file Form 8379 with your return. You should receive your refund within 14 weeks from the date the paper return is filed or within 11 weeks from the date the return is filed electronically. If you filed your joint return and your joint refund was offset, file Form 8379 by itself. When filed after offset, it can take up to 8 weeks to receive your refund. Don't attach the previously filed tax return, but do include copies of all Forms W-2 and W-2G for both spouses and any Forms 1099 that show income tax withheld. The processing of Form 8379 may be delayed if these forms aren’t attached, or if the form is incomplete when filed. A separate Form 8379 must be filed for each tax year to be considered. . Amount You OweWhen you complete your return, you will determine if you have paid the full amount of tax that you owe. If you owe additional tax, you should pay it with your return. . If the IRS figures your tax for you, you will receive a bill for any tax that is due. You should pay this bill within 30 days (or by the due date of your return, if later). See Tax Figured by IRS in chapter 13. . . How To PayYou can pay online, by phone, by mobile device, in cash, or by check or money order. Don't include any estimated tax payment for 2022 in this payment. Instead, make the estimated tax payment separately. Bad check or payment. The penalty for writing a bad check to the IRS is $25 or 2% of the check, whichever is more. This penalty also applies to other forms of payment if the IRS doesn't receive the funds. Pay online. Paying online is convenient and secure and helps make sure we get your payments on time. You can pay online with a direct transfer from your bank account using IRS Direct Pay or the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), or by debit or credit card. To pay your taxes online or for more information, go to IRS.gov/Payments. Pay by phone. Paying by phone is another safe and secure method of paying online. Use one of the following methods.
To use EFTPS, you must be enrolled either online or have an enrollment form mailed to you. To make a payment using EFTPS, call 800-555-4477 (English) or 800-244-4829 (Español). People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and have access to TTY/TDD equipment can call 800-733-4829. For more information about EFTPS, go to IRS.gov/Payments or EFTPS.gov. To pay using a debit or credit card, you can call one of the following service providers. There is a convenience fee charged by these providers that varies by provider, card type, and payment amount. ACI Payments, Inc.888-UPAY-TAXTM (888-872-9829) fed.acipayonline.com Link2Gov Corporation 888-PAY-1040TM (888-729-1040) www.PAY1040.comWorldPay US, Inc. 844-PAY-TAX-8TM (844-729-8298) www.payUSAtax.com For the latest details on how to pay by phone, go to IRS.gov/Payments. Pay by cash. Cash is an in-person payment option for individuals provided through retail partners with a maximum of $1,000 per day per transaction. To make a cash payment, you must first be registered online at fed.acipayonline.com. Don’t send cash payments through the mail. Pay by check or money order. Make your check or money order payable to “United States Treasury” for the full amount due. Don't send cash. Don't attach the payment to your return. Show your correct name, address, SSN, daytime phone number, and the tax year and form number on the front of your check or money order. If you are filing a joint return, enter the SSN shown first on your tax return. Notice to taxpayers presenting checks. When you provide a check as payment, you authorize us either to use information from your check to make a one-time electronic fund transfer from your account or to process the payment as a check transaction. When we use information from your check to make an electronic fund transfer, funds may be withdrawn from your account as soon as the same day we receive your payment, and you will not receive your check back from your financial institution. No checks of $100 million or more accepted. The IRS can’t accept a single check (including a cashier’s check) for amounts of $100,000,000 ($100 million) or more. If you are sending $100 million or more by check, you’ll need to spread the payment over 2 or more checks with each check made out for an amount less than $100 million. This limit doesn’t apply to other methods of payment (such as electronic payments). Please consider a method of payment other than check if the amount of the payment is over $100 million. Estimated tax payments. Don't include any 2022 estimated tax payment in the payment for your 2021 income tax return. See chapter 4 for information on how to pay estimated tax. InterestInterest is charged on tax you don't pay by the due date of your return. Interest is charged even if you get an extension of time for filing. . Interest on penalties. Interest is charged on the failure-to-file penalty, the accuracy-related penalty, and the fraud penalty from the due date of the return (including extensions) to the date of payment. Interest on other penalties starts on the date of notice and demand, but isn't charged on penalties paid within 21 calendar days from the date of the notice (or within 10 business days if the notice is for $100,000 or more). Interest due to IRS error or delay. All or part of any interest you were charged can be forgiven if the interest is due to an unreasonable error or delay by an officer or employee of the IRS in performing a ministerial or managerial act. A ministerial act is a procedural or mechanical act that occurs during the processing of your case. A managerial act includes personnel transfers and extended personnel training. A decision concerning the proper application of federal tax law isn't a ministerial or managerial act. The interest can be forgiven only if you aren’t responsible in any important way for the error or delay and the IRS has notified you in writing of the deficiency or payment. For more information, see Pub. 556. Interest and certain penalties may also be suspended for a limited period if you filed your return by the due date (including extensions) and the IRS doesn't provide you with a notice specifically stating your liability and the basis for it before the close of the 36-month period beginning on the later of:
For more information, see Pub. 556. Installment AgreementIf you can’t pay the full amount due with your return, you can ask to make monthly installment payments for the full or a partial amount. However, you will be charged interest and may be charged a late payment penalty on the tax not paid by the date your return is due, even if your request to pay in installments is granted. If your request is granted, you must also pay a fee. To limit the interest and penalty charges, pay as much of the tax as possible with your return. But before requesting an installment agreement, you should consider other less costly alternatives, such as a bank loan or credit card payment. To apply for an installment agreement online, go to IRS.gov/OPA. You can also use Form 9465. In addition to paying by check or money order, you can use a credit or debit card or direct payment from your bank account to make installment agreement payments. See How To Pay, earlier. Gift To Reduce Debt Held by the Public. Send your check to: Bureau of the Fiscal ServiceATTN: Department G P.O. Box 2188 Parkersburg, WV 26106-2188 Or enclose your separate check in the envelope with your income tax return. Don't add this gift to any tax you owe. For information on making this type of gift online, go to TreasuryDirect.gov and see the information under “How do you make a contribution to reduce the debt?” You may be able to deduct this gift as a charitable contribution on next year's tax return if you itemize your deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040). Name and AddressAfter you have completed your return, fill in your name and address in the appropriate area of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. . P.O. box. If your post office doesn't deliver mail to your street address and you have a P.O. box, enter your P.O. box number on the line for your present home address instead of your street address. Foreign address. If your address is outside the United States or its possessions or territories, enter the city name on the appropriate line of your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Don't enter any other information on that line, but also complete the spaces below that line.
Don’t abbreviate the country name. Follow the country's practice for entering the postal code and the name of the province, county, or state. Where Do I File?After you complete your return, you must send it to the IRS. You can mail it or you may be able to file it electronically. See Why Should I File Electronically, earlier. Mailing your paper return. Mail your paper return to the address shown in the Instructions for Form 1040. What Happens After I File?After you send your return to the IRS, you may have some questions. This section discusses concerns you may have about recordkeeping, your refund, and what to do if you move. What Records Should I Keep?This part discusses why you should keep records, what kinds of records you should keep, and how long you should keep them. . If you file a claim for refund, you must be able to prove by your records that you have overpaid your tax. This part doesn't discuss the records you should keep when operating a business. For information on business records, see Pub. 583, Starting a Business and Keeping Records. Why Keep Records?Good records help you:
Kinds of Records To KeepThe IRS doesn't require you to keep your records in a particular way. Keep them in a manner that allows you and the IRS to determine your correct tax. You can use your checkbook to keep a record of your income and expenses. You also need to keep documents, such as receipts and sales slips, that can help prove a deduction. In this section, you will find guidance about basic records that everyone should keep. The section also provides guidance about specific records you should keep for certain items. Electronic records. All requirements that apply to hard copy books and records also apply to electronic storage systems that maintain tax books and records. When you replace hard copy books and records, you must maintain the electronic storage systems for as long as they are material to the administration of tax law. For details on electronic storage system requirements, see Revenue Procedure 97-22, which is on page 9 of Internal Revenue Bulletin 1997-13 at IRS.gov/pub/irs-irbs/irb97-13.pdf. Copies of tax returns. You should keep copies of your tax returns as part of your tax records. They can help you prepare future tax returns, and you will need them if you file an amended return or are audited. Copies of your returns and other records can be helpful to your survivor or the executor or administrator of your estate. If necessary, you can request a copy of a return and all attachments (including Form W-2) from the IRS by using Form 4506. There is a charge for a copy of a return. For information on the cost and where to file, see the instructions for Form 4506. If you just need information from your return, you can order a transcript in one of the following ways.
There is no fee for a transcript. For more information, see Form 4506-T. Basic RecordsBasic records are documents that everybody should keep. These are the records that prove your income and expenses. If you own a home or investments, your basic records should contain documents related to those items. Income. Your basic records prove the amounts you report as income on your tax return. Your income may include wages, dividends, interest, and partnership or S corporation distributions. Your records can also prove that certain amounts aren’t taxable, such as tax-exempt interest. Note.If you receive a Form W-2, keep Copy C until you begin receiving social security benefits. This will help protect your benefits in case there is a question about your work record or earnings in a particular year. Expenses. Your basic records prove the expenses for which you claim a deduction (or credit) on your tax return. Your deductions may include alimony, charitable contributions, mortgage interest, and real estate taxes. You may also have childcare expenses for which you can claim a credit. Home. Your basic records should enable you to determine the basis or adjusted basis of your home. You need this information to determine if you have a gain or loss when you sell your home or to figure depreciation if you use part of your home for business purposes or for rent. Your records should show the purchase price, settlement or closing costs, and the cost of any improvements. They may also show any casualty losses deducted and insurance reimbursements for casualty losses. For detailed information on basis, including which settlement or closing costs are included in the basis of your home, see Pub. 551, Basis of Assets. When you sell your home, your records should show the sales price and any selling expenses, such as commissions. For information on selling your home, see Pub. 523, Selling Your Home. Investments. Your basic records should enable you to determine your basis in an investment and whether you have a gain or loss when you sell it. Investments include stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Your records should show the purchase price, sales price, and commissions. They may also show any reinvested dividends, stock splits and dividends, load charges, and original issue discount (OID). For information on stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, see Pub. 550, Investment Income and Expenses, and Pub. 551. Proof of PaymentOne of your basic records is proof of payment. You should keep these records to support certain amounts shown on your tax return. Proof of payment alone isn't proof that the item claimed on your return is allowable. You should also keep other documents that will help prove that the item is allowable. Generally, you prove payment with a cash receipt, financial account statement, credit card statement, canceled check, or substitute check. If you make payments in cash, you should get a dated and signed receipt showing the amount and the reason for the payment. If you make payments using your bank account, you may be able to prove payment with an account statement. Account statements. You may be able to prove payment with a legible financial account statement prepared by your bank or other financial institution. Pay statements. You may have deductible expenses withheld from your paycheck, such as medical insurance premiums. You should keep your year-end or final pay statements as proof of payment of these expenses. How Long To Keep RecordsYou must keep your records as long as they may be needed for the administration of any provision of the Internal Revenue Code. Generally, this means you must keep records that support items shown on your return until the period of limitations for that return runs out. The period of limitations is the period of time in which you can amend your return to claim a credit or refund or the IRS can assess additional tax. Table 1-7 contains the periods of limitations that apply to income tax returns. Unless otherwise stated, the years refer to the period beginning after the return was filed. Returns filed before the due date are treated as being filed on the due date. Table 1-7. Period of Limitations
Property. Keep records relating to property until the period of limitations expires for the year in which you dispose of the property in a taxable disposition. You must keep these records to figure your basis for computing gain or loss when you sell or otherwise dispose of the property. Generally, if you received property in a nontaxable exchange, your basis in that property is the same as the basis of the property you gave up. You must keep the records on the old property, as well as the new property, until the period of limitations expires for the year in which you dispose of the new property in a taxable disposition. Refund InformationYou can go online to check the status of your 2021 refund 24 hours after the IRS receives your e-filed return, or 4 weeks after you mail a paper return. If you filed Form 8379 with your return, allow 14 weeks (11 weeks if you filed electronically) before checking your refund status. Be sure to have a copy of your 2021 tax return handy because you will need to know the filing status, the first SSN shown on the return, and the exact whole-dollar amount of the refund. To check on your refund, do one of the following.
Interest on RefundsIf you are due a refund, you may get interest on it. The interest rates are adjusted quarterly. If the refund is made within 45 days after the due date of your return, no interest will be paid. If you file your return after the due date (including extensions), no interest will be paid if the refund is made within 45 days after the date you filed. If the refund isn't made within this 45-day period, interest will be paid from the due date of the return or from the date you filed, whichever is later. Accepting a refund check doesn't change your right to claim an additional refund and interest. File your claim within the period of time that applies. See Amended Returns and Claims for Refund, later. If you don't accept a refund check, no more interest will be paid on the overpayment included in the check. Interest on erroneous refund. All or part of any interest you were charged on an erroneous refund will generally be forgiven. Any interest charged for the period before demand for repayment was made will be forgiven unless:
For example, if you claimed a refund of $100 on your return, but the IRS made an error and sent you $1,000, you wouldn't be charged interest for the time you held the $900 difference. You must, however, repay the $900 when the IRS asks. Change of AddressIf you have moved, file your return using your new address. If you move after you filed your return, you should give the IRS clear and concise notification of your change of address. The notification may be written, electronic, or oral. Send written notification to the Internal Revenue Service Center serving your old address. You can use Form 8822, Change of Address. If you are expecting a refund, also notify the post office serving your old address. This will help in forwarding your check to your new address (unless you chose direct deposit of your refund). For more information, see Revenue Procedure 2010-16, 2010-19 I.R.B. 664, available at IRS.gov/irb/2010-19_IRB/ar07.html. Be sure to include your SSN (and the name and SSN of your spouse if you filed a joint return) in any correspondence with the IRS. What if I Made a Mistake?Errors may delay your refund or result in notices being sent to you. If you discover an error, you can file an amended return or claim for refund. Amended Returns and Claims for RefundYou should correct your return if, after you have filed it, you find that:
If you need a copy of your return, see Copies of tax returns under Kinds of Records To Keep, earlier, in this chapter. Form 1040-X. Use Form 1040-X to correct a return you have already filed. Completing Form 1040-X. On Form 1040-X, enter your income, deductions, and credits as you originally reported them on your return; the changes you are making; and the corrected amounts. Then, figure the tax on the corrected amount of taxable income and the amount you owe or your refund. If you owe tax, the IRS offers several payment options. See How To Pay, earlier. The tax owed won't be subtracted from any amount you had credited to your estimated tax. If you can’t pay the full amount due with your return, you can ask to make monthly installment payments. See Installment Agreement, earlier. If you overpaid tax, you can have all or part of the overpayment refunded to you, or you can apply all or part of it to your estimated tax. If you choose to get a refund, it will be sent separately from any refund shown on your original return. Filing Form 1040-X. When completing Form 1040-X, don't forget to show the year of your original return and explain all changes you made. Be sure to attach any forms or schedules needed to explain your changes. Mail your Form 1040-X to the Internal Revenue Service Center serving the area where you now live (as shown in the Instructions for Form 1040-X). However, if you are filing Form 1040-X in response to a notice you received from the IRS, mail it to the address shown on the notice. File a separate form for each tax year involved. Time for filing a claim for refund. Generally, you must file your claim for a credit or refund within 3 years after the date you filed your original return or within 2 years after the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. Returns filed before the due date (without regard to extensions) are considered filed on the due date (even if the due date was a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday). These time periods are suspended while you are financially disabled, discussed later. If the last day for claiming a credit or refund is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, you can file the claim on the next business day. If you don't file a claim within this period, you may not be entitled to a credit or a refund. Federally declared disaster. If you were affected by a federally declared disaster, you may have additional time to file your amended return. See Pub. 556 for details. Protective claim for refund. Generally, a protective claim is a formal claim or amended return for credit or refund normally based on current litigation or expected changes in tax law or other legislation. You file a protective claim when your right to a refund is contingent on future events and may not be determinable until after the statute of limitations expires. A valid protective claim doesn't have to list a particular dollar amount or demand an immediate refund. However, a valid protective claim must:
Mail your protective claim for refund to the address listed in the Instructions for Form 1040-X under Where To File. Generally, the IRS will delay action on the protective claim until the contingency is resolved. Limit on amount of refund. If you file your claim within 3 years after the date you filed your return, the credit or refund can’t be more than the part of the tax paid within the 3-year period (plus any extension of time for filing your return) immediately before you filed the claim. This time period is suspended while you are financially disabled, discussed later. Tax paid. Payments, including estimated tax payments, made before the due date (without regard to extensions) of the original return are considered paid on the due date. For example, income tax withheld during the year is considered paid on the due date of the return, which is April 15 for most taxpayers. Example 1. You made estimated tax payments of $500 and got an automatic extension of time to October 15, 2018, to file your 2017 income tax return. When you filed your return on that date, you paid an additional $200 tax. On October 15, 2021, you filed an amended return and claimed a refund of $700. Because you filed your claim within 3 years after you filed your original return, you can get a refund of up to $700, the tax paid within the 3 years plus the 6-month extension period immediately before you filed the claim. Example 2. The situation is the same as in Example 1, except you filed your return on October 30, 2018, 2 weeks after the extension period ended. You paid an additional $200 on that date. On October 31, 2021, you filed an amended return and claimed a refund of $700. Although you filed your claim within 3 years from the date you filed your original return, the refund was limited to $200, the tax paid within the 3 years plus the 6-month extension period immediately before you filed the claim. The estimated tax of $500 paid before that period can’t be refunded or credited. If you file a claim more than 3 years after you file your return, the credit or refund can’t be more than the tax you paid within the 2 years immediately before you file the claim. Example. You filed your 2017 tax return on April 15, 2018. You paid taxes of $500. On November 5, 2019, after an examination of your 2017 return, you had to pay an additional tax of $200. On May 12, 2021, you file a claim for a refund of $300. However, because you filed your claim more than 3 years after you filed your return, your refund will be limited to the $200 you paid during the 2 years immediately before you filed your claim. Financially disabled. The time periods for claiming a refund are suspended for the period in which you are financially disabled. For a joint income tax return, only one spouse has to be financially disabled for the time period to be suspended. You are financially disabled if you are unable to manage your financial affairs because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or that has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months. However, you aren’t treated as financially disabled during any period your spouse or any other person is authorized to act on your behalf in financial matters. To claim that you are financially disabled, you must send in the following written statements with your claim for refund.
Exceptions for special types of refunds. If you file a claim for one of the items in the following list, the dates and limits discussed earlier may not apply. These items, and where to get more information, are as follows.
Processing claims for refund. Claims are usually processed 8–12 weeks after they are filed. Your claim may be accepted as filed, disallowed, or subject to examination. If a claim is examined, the procedures are the same as in the examination of a tax return. If your claim is disallowed, you will receive an explanation of why it was disallowed. Taking your claim to court. You can sue for a refund in court, but you must first file a timely claim with the IRS. If the IRS disallows your claim or doesn't act on your claim within 6 months after you file it, you can then take your claim to court. For information on the burden of proof in a court proceeding, see Pub. 556. The IRS provides a direct method to move your claim to court if:
When you file your claim with the IRS, you get the direct method by requesting in writing that your claim be immediately rejected. A notice of claim disallowance will be sent to you. You have 2 years from the date of mailing of the notice of claim disallowance to file a refund suit in the U.S. District Court having jurisdiction or in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. Interest on refund. If you receive a refund because of your amended return, interest will be paid on it from the due date of your original return or the date you filed your original return, whichever is later, to the date you filed the amended return. However, if the refund isn't made within 45 days after you file the amended return, interest will be paid up to the date the refund is paid. Reduced refund. Your refund may be reduced by an additional tax liability that has been assessed against you. Also, your refund may be reduced by amounts you owe for past-due federal tax, state income tax, state unemployment compensation debts, child support, spousal support, or certain other federal nontax debts, such as student loans. If your spouse owes these debts, see Offset against debts under Refunds, earlier, for the correct refund procedures to follow. Effect on state tax liability. If your return is changed for any reason, it may affect your state income tax liability. This includes changes made as a result of an examination of your return by the IRS. Contact your state tax agency for more information. PenaltiesThe law provides penalties for failure to file returns or pay taxes as required. Civil PenaltiesIf you don't file your return and pay your tax by the due date, you may have to pay a penalty. You may also have to pay a penalty if you substantially understate your tax, understate a reportable transaction, file an erroneous claim for refund or credit, file a frivolous tax submission, or fail to supply your SSN or ITIN. If you provide fraudulent information on your return, you may have to pay a civil fraud penalty. Filing late. If you don't file your return by the due date (including extensions), you may have to pay a failure-to-file penalty. The penalty is usually 5% for each month or part of a month that a return is late, but not more than 25%. The penalty is based on the tax not paid by the due date (without regard to extensions). Fraud. If your failure to file is due to fraud, the penalty is 15% for each month or part of a month that your return is late, up to a maximum of 75%. Return over 60 days late. If you file your return more than 60 days after the due date, or extended due date, the minimum penalty is the smaller of $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax. Exception. You won't have to pay the penalty if you show that you failed to file on time because of reasonable cause and not because of willful neglect. Paying tax late. You will have to pay a failure-to-pay penalty of ½ of 1% (0.50%) of your unpaid taxes for each month, or part of a month, after the due date that the tax isn't paid. This penalty doesn't apply during the automatic 6-month extension of time to file period if you paid at least 90% of your actual tax liability on or before the due date of your return and pay the balance when you file the return. The monthly rate of the failure-to-pay penalty is half the usual rate (0.25% instead of 0.50%) if an installment agreement is in effect for that month. You must have filed your return by the due date (including extensions) to qualify for this reduced penalty. If a notice of intent to levy is issued, the rate will increase to 1% at the start of the first month beginning at least 10 days after the day that the notice is issued. If a notice and demand for immediate payment is issued, the rate will increase to 1% at the start of the first month beginning after the day that the notice and demand is issued. This penalty can’t be more than 25% of your unpaid tax. You won't have to pay the penalty if you can show that you had a good reason for not paying your tax on time. Combined penalties. If both the failure-to-file penalty and the failure-to-pay penalty (discussed earlier) apply in any month, the 5% (or 15%) failure-to-file penalty is reduced by the failure-to-pay penalty. However, if you file your return more than 60 days after the due date or extended due date, the minimum penalty is the smaller of $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax. Accuracy-related penalty. You may have to pay an accuracy-related penalty if you underpay your tax because:
The penalty is equal to 20% of the underpayment. The penalty is 40% of any portion of the underpayment that is attributable to an undisclosed noneconomic substance transaction or an undisclosed foreign financial asset transaction. The penalty won't be figured on any part of an underpayment on which the fraud penalty (discussed later) is charged. Negligence or disregard. The term “negligence” includes a failure to make a reasonable attempt to comply with the tax law or to exercise ordinary and reasonable care in preparing a return. Negligence also includes failure to keep adequate books and records. You won't have to pay a negligence penalty if you have a reasonable basis for a position you took. The term “disregard” includes any careless, reckless, or intentional disregard. Adequate disclosure. You can avoid the penalty for disregard of rules or regulations if you adequately disclose on your return a position that has at least a reasonable basis. See Disclosure statement, later. This exception won't apply to an item that is attributable to a tax shelter. In addition, it won't apply if you fail to keep adequate books and records, or substantiate items properly. Substantial understatement of income tax. You understate your tax if the tax shown on your return is less than the correct tax. The understatement is substantial if it is more than the larger of 10% of the correct tax or $5,000. However, the amount of the understatement may be reduced to the extent the understatement is due to:
If an item on your return is attributable to a tax shelter, there is no reduction for an adequate disclosure. However, there is a reduction for a position with substantial authority, but only if you reasonably believed that your tax treatment was more likely than not the proper treatment. Substantial authority. Whether there is or was substantial authority for the tax treatment of an item depends on the facts and circumstances. Some of the items that may be considered are court opinions, Treasury regulations, revenue rulings, revenue procedures, and notices and announcements issued by the IRS and published in the Internal Revenue Bulletin that involve the same or similar circumstances as yours. Disclosure statement. To adequately disclose the relevant facts about your tax treatment of an item, use Form 8275. You must also have a reasonable basis for treating the item the way you did. In cases of substantial understatement only, items that meet the requirements of Revenue Procedure 2020-54 (or later update) are considered adequately disclosed on your return without filing Form 8275. Use Form 8275-R to disclose items or positions contrary to regulations. Transaction lacking economic substance. For more information on economic substance, see section 7701(o). Foreign financial asset. For more information on undisclosed foreign financial assets, see section 6662(j). Reasonable cause. You won't have to pay a penalty if you show a good reason (reasonable cause) for the way you treated an item. You must also show that you acted in good faith. This doesn't apply to a transaction that lacks economic substance. Filing erroneous claim for refund or credit. You may have to pay a penalty if you file an erroneous claim for refund or credit. The penalty is equal to 20% of the disallowed amount of the claim, unless you can show a reasonable basis for the way you treated an item. However, any disallowed amount due to a transaction that lacks economic substance won't be treated as having a reasonable basis. The penalty won't be figured on any part of the disallowed amount of the claim that relates to the earned income credit or on which the accuracy-related or fraud penalties are charged. Frivolous tax submission. You may have to pay a penalty of $5,000 if you file a frivolous tax return or other frivolous submissions. A frivolous tax return is one that doesn't include enough information to figure the correct tax or that contains information clearly showing that the tax you reported is substantially incorrect. For more information on frivolous returns, frivolous submissions, and a list of positions that are identified as frivolous, see Notice 2010-33, 2010-17 I.R.B. 609, available at IRS.gov/irb/2010-17_IRB/ar13.html. You will have to pay the penalty if you filed this kind of return or submission based on a frivolous position or a desire to delay or interfere with the administration of federal tax laws. This includes altering or striking out the preprinted language above the space provided for your signature. This penalty is added to any other penalty provided by law. Fraud. If there is any underpayment of tax on your return due to fraud, a penalty of 75% of the underpayment due to fraud will be added to your tax. Joint return. The fraud penalty on a joint return doesn't apply to a spouse unless some part of the underpayment is due to the fraud of that spouse. Failure to supply SSN. If you don't include your SSN or the SSN of another person where required on a return, statement, or other document, you will be subject to a penalty of $50 for each failure. You will also be subject to a penalty of $50 if you don't give your SSN to another person when it is required on a return, statement, or other document. For example, if you have a bank account that earns interest, you must give your SSN to the bank. The number must be shown on the Form 1099-INT or other statement the bank sends you. If you don't give the bank your SSN, you will be subject to the $50 penalty. (You may also be subject to “backup” withholding of income tax. See chapter 4.) You won't have to pay the penalty if you are able to show that the failure was due to reasonable cause and not willful neglect. Criminal PenaltiesYou may be subject to criminal prosecution (brought to trial) for actions such as:
Identity TheftIdentity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information such as your name, SSN, or other identifying information, without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes. An identity thief may use your SSN to get a job or may file a tax return using your SSN to receive a refund. To reduce your risk:
If your tax records are affected by identity theft and you receive a notice from the IRS, respond right away to the name and phone number printed on the IRS notice or letter. If your SSN has been lost or stolen or you suspect you are a victim of tax-related identity theft, visit IRS.gov/IdentityTheft to learn what steps you should take. For more information, see Pub. 5027. . Victims of identity theft who are experiencing economic harm or a systemic problem, or are seeking help in resolving tax problems that have not been resolved through normal channels, may be eligible for Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) assistance. You can reach TAS by calling the National Taxpayer Advocate helpline at 877-777-4778 or 800-829-4059 (TTY/TDD). Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals can also contact the IRS through relay services such as the Federal Relay Service, available at GSA.gov/fedrelay. Protect yourself from suspicious emails or phishing schemes. Phishing is the creation and use of email and websites designed to mimic legitimate business emails and websites. The most common form is the act of sending an email to a user falsely claiming to be an established legitimate enterprise in an attempt to scam the user into surrendering private information that will be used for identity theft. The IRS doesn't initiate contacts with taxpayers via emails. Also, the IRS doesn't request detailed personal information through email or ask taxpayers for the PIN numbers, passwords, or similar secret access information for their credit card, bank, or other financial accounts. If you receive an unsolicited email claiming to be from the IRS, forward the message to . You may also report misuse of the IRS name, logo, forms, or other IRS property to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration toll free at 800-366-4484. You can forward suspicious emails to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at or report them at ftc.gov/complaint. You can contact them at ftc.gov/idtheft or 877-IDTHEFT (877-438-4338). If you have been a victim of identity theft, see IdentityTheft.gov or Pub. 5027. People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and who have access to TTY/TDD equipment can call 866-653-4261. Go to IRS.gov/IDProtection to learn more about identity theft and how to reduce your risk. 2. Filing StatusIntroductionThis chapter helps you determine which filing status to use. There are five filing statuses.
. You must determine your filing status before you can determine whether you must file a tax return (chapter 1), your standard deduction (chapter 10), and your tax (chapter 11). You also use your filing status to determine whether you are eligible to claim certain deductions and credits. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. Marital StatusIn general, your filing status depends on whether you are considered unmarried or married. Unmarried persons. You are considered unmarried for the whole year if, on the last day of your tax year, you are either:
State law governs whether you are married or legally separated under a divorce or separate maintenance decree. Divorced persons. If you are divorced under a final decree by the last day of the year, you are considered unmarried for the whole year. Divorce and remarriage. If you obtain a divorce for the sole purpose of filing tax returns as unmarried individuals, and at the time of divorce you intend to and do, in fact, remarry each other in the next tax year, you and your spouse must file as married individuals in both years. Annulled marriages. If you obtain a court decree of annulment, which holds that no valid marriage ever existed, you are considered unmarried even if you filed joint returns for earlier years. File Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, claiming single or head of household status for all tax years that are affected by the annulment and not closed by the statute of limitations for filing a tax return. Generally, for a credit or refund, you must file Form 1040-X within 3 years (including extensions) after the date you filed your original return or within 2 years after the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. If you filed your original return early (for example, March 1), your return is considered filed on the due date (generally April 15). However, if you had an extension to file (for example, until October 15) but you filed earlier and we received it on July 1, your return is considered filed on July 1. Head of household or qualifying widow(er). If you are considered unmarried, you may be able to file as head of household or as qualifying widow(er). See Head of Household and Qualifying Widow(er) to see if you qualify. Married persons. If you are considered married, you and your spouse can file a joint return or separate returns. Considered married. You are considered married for the whole year if, on the last day of your tax year, you and your spouse meet any one of the following tests.
Spouse died during the year. If your spouse died during the year, you are considered married for the whole year for filing status purposes. If you didn't remarry before the end of the tax year, you can file a joint return for yourself and your deceased spouse. For the next 2 years, you may be entitled to the special benefits described later under Qualifying Widow(er). If you remarried before the end of the tax year, you can file a joint return with your new spouse. Your deceased spouse's filing status is married filing separately for that year. Married persons living apart. If you live apart from your spouse and meet certain tests, you may be able to file as head of household even if you aren't divorced or legally separated. If you qualify to file as head of household instead of married filing separately, your standard deduction will be higher. Also, your tax may be lower, and you may be able to claim the earned income credit. See Head of Household, later. SingleYour filing status is single if you are considered unmarried and you don’t qualify for another filing status. To determine your marital status, see Marital Status, earlier. Widow(er). Your filing status may be single if you were widowed before January 1, 2021, and didn't remarry before the end of 2021. You may, however, be able to use another filing status that will give you a lower tax. See Head of Household and Qualifying Widow(er), later, to see if you qualify. How to file. On Form 1040 or 1040-SR, show your filing status as single by checking the “Single” box on the Filing Status line at the top of the form. Use the Single column of the Tax Table, or Section A of the Tax Computation Worksheet, to figure your tax. Married Filing JointlyYou can choose married filing jointly as your filing status if you are considered married and both you and your spouse agree to file a joint return. On a joint return, you and your spouse report your combined income and deduct your combined allowable expenses. You can file a joint return even if one of you had no income or deductions. If you and your spouse decide to file a joint return, your tax may be lower than your combined tax for the other filing statuses. Also, your standard deduction (if you don’t itemize deductions) may be higher, and you may qualify for tax benefits that don’t apply to other filing statuses. How to file. On Form 1040 or 1040-SR, show your filing status as married filing jointly by checking the “Married filing jointly” box on the Filing Status line at the top of the form. Use the Married filing jointly column of the Tax Table, or Section B of the Tax Computation Worksheet, to figure your tax. . Spouse died. If your spouse died during the year, you are considered married for the whole year and can choose married filing jointly as your filing status. See Spouse died during the year, under Married persons, earlier, for more information. If your spouse died in 2022 before filing a 2021 return, you can choose married filing jointly as your filing status on your 2021 return. Divorced persons. If you are divorced under a final decree by the last day of the year, you are considered unmarried for the whole year and you can’t choose married filing jointly as your filing status. Filing a Joint ReturnBoth you and your spouse must include all of your income and deductions on your joint return. Joint responsibility. Both of you may be held responsible, jointly and individually, for the tax and any interest or penalty due on your joint return. This means that if one spouse doesn't pay the tax due, the other may have to. Or, if one spouse doesn't report the correct tax, both spouses may be responsible for any additional taxes assessed by the IRS. One spouse may be held responsible for all the tax due even if all the income was earned by the other spouse. You may want to file separately if:
Divorced taxpayer. You may be held jointly and individually responsible for any tax, interest, and penalties due on a joint return filed before your divorce. This responsibility may apply even if your divorce decree states that your former spouse will be responsible for any amounts due on previously filed joint returns. Relief from joint responsibility. In some cases, one spouse may be relieved of joint responsibility for tax, interest, and penalties on a joint return for items of the other spouse that were incorrectly reported on the joint return. You can ask for relief no matter how small the liability. There are three types of relief available.
You must file Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief, to request relief from joint responsibility. Pub. 971, Innocent Spouse Relief, explains these kinds of relief and who may qualify for them. Signing a joint return. For a return to be considered a joint return, both spouses must generally sign the return. Spouse died before signing. If your spouse died before signing the return, the executor or administrator must sign the return for your spouse. If neither you nor anyone else has yet been appointed as executor or administrator, you can sign the return for your spouse and enter “Filing as surviving spouse” in the area where you sign the return. Spouse away from home. If your spouse is away from home, you should prepare the return, sign it, and send it to your spouse to sign so that it can be filed on time. Injury or disease prevents signing. If your spouse can’t sign because of disease or injury and tells you to sign for him or her, you can sign your spouse's name in the proper space on the return followed by the words “By (your name), Husband (or Wife).” Be sure to sign in the space provided for your signature. Attach a dated statement, signed by you, to the return. The statement should include the form number of the return you are filing, the tax year, and the reason your spouse can’t sign; it should also state that your spouse has agreed to your signing for him or her. Signing as guardian of spouse. If you are the guardian of your spouse who is mentally incompetent, you can sign the return for your spouse as guardian. Spouse in combat zone. You can sign a joint return for your spouse if your spouse can’t sign because he or she is serving in a combat zone (such as the Persian Gulf Area, Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, or Afghanistan), even if you don’t have a power of attorney or other statement. Attach a signed statement to your return explaining that your spouse is serving in a combat zone. For more information on special tax rules for persons who are serving in a combat zone, or who are in missing status as a result of serving in a combat zone, see Pub. 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide. Power of attorney. In order for you to sign a return for your spouse in any of these cases, you must attach to the return a power of attorney (POA) that authorizes you to sign for your spouse. You can use a POA that states that you have been granted authority to sign the return, or you can use Form 2848. Part I of Form 2848 must state that you are granted authority to sign the return. Nonresident alien or dual-status alien. Generally, a married couple can’t file a joint return if either one is a nonresident alien at any time during the tax year. However, if one spouse was a nonresident alien or dual-status alien who was married to a U.S. citizen or resident alien at the end of the year, the spouses can choose to file a joint return. If you do file a joint return, you and your spouse are both treated as U.S. residents for the entire tax year. See chapter 1 of Pub. 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens. Married Filing SeparatelyYou can choose married filing separately as your filing status if you are married. This filing status may benefit you if you want to be responsible only for your own tax or if it results in less tax than filing a joint return. If you and your spouse don’t agree to file a joint return, you must use this filing status unless you qualify for head of household status, discussed later. You may be able to choose head of household filing status if you are considered unmarried because you live apart from your spouse and meet certain tests (explained under Head of Household, later). This can apply to you even if you aren't divorced or legally separated. If you qualify to file as head of household, instead of as married filing separately, your tax may be lower, you may be able to claim the earned income credit and certain other benefits, and your standard deduction will be higher. The head of household filing status allows you to choose the standard deduction even if your spouse chooses to itemize deductions. See Head of Household, later, for more information. . How to file. If you file a separate return, you generally report only your own income, credits, and deductions. Select this filing status by checking the “Married filing separately” box on the Filing Status line at the top of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Enter your spouse's full name and SSN or ITIN in the entry space at the bottom of the Filing Status section. If your spouse doesn't have and isn't required to have an SSN or ITIN, enter “NRA” in the space for your spouse's SSN. Use the Married filing separately column of the Tax Table, or Section C of the Tax Computation Worksheet, to figure your tax. Special RulesIf you choose married filing separately as your filing status, the following special rules apply. Because of these special rules, you usually pay more tax on a separate return than if you use another filing status you qualify for.
Adjusted gross income (AGI) limits. If your AGI on a separate return is lower than it would have been on a joint return, you may be able to deduct a larger amount for certain deductions that are limited by AGI, such as medical expenses. Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs). You may not be able to deduct all or part of your contributions to a traditional IRA if you or your spouse were covered by an employee retirement plan at work during the year. Your deduction is reduced or eliminated if your income is more than a certain amount. This amount is much lower for married individuals who file separately and lived together at any time during the year. For more information, see How Much Can You Deduct in chapter 9. Rental activity losses. If you actively participated in a passive rental real estate activity that produced a loss, you can generally deduct the loss from your nonpassive income, up to $25,000. This is called a “special allowance.” However, married persons filing separate returns who lived together at any time during the year can’t claim this special allowance. Married persons filing separate returns who lived apart at all times during the year are each allowed a $12,500 maximum special allowance for losses from passive real estate activities. See Rental Activities in Pub. 925, Passive Activity and At-Risk Rules, for more information. Community property states. If you live in a community property state and file separately, your income may be considered separate income or community income for income tax purposes. Community property states include Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. See Pub. 555, Community Property, for more information. Joint Return After Separate ReturnsYou can change your filing status from a separate return to a joint return by filing an amended return using Form 1040-X. You can generally change to a joint return any time within 3 years from the due date of the separate return or returns. This doesn't include any extensions. A separate return includes a return filed by you or your spouse claiming married filing separately, single, or head of household filing status. Separate Returns After Joint ReturnOnce you file a joint return, you can’t choose to file separate returns for that year after the due date of the return. Exception. A personal representative for a decedent can change from a joint return elected by the surviving spouse to a separate return for the decedent. The personal representative has 1 year from the due date (including extensions) of the return to make the change. See Pub. 559, Survivors, Executors, and Administrators, for more information on filing a return for a decedent. Head of HouseholdYou may be able to file as head of household if you meet all of the following requirements.
. How to file. Indicate your choice of this filing status by checking the “Head of household” box on the Filing Status line at the top of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. If the child who qualifies you for this filing status isn't claimed as your dependent in the Dependents section of Form 1040 or 1040-SR, enter the child's name in the entry space at the bottom of the Filing Status section. Use the Head of a household column of the Tax Table, or Section D of the Tax Computation Worksheet, to figure your tax. Considered UnmarriedTo qualify for head of household status, you must be either unmarried or considered unmarried on the last day of the year. You are considered unmarried on the last day of the tax year if you meet all of the following tests.
. Nonresident alien spouse. You are considered unmarried for head of household purposes if your spouse was a nonresident alien at any time during the year and you don’t choose to treat your nonresident spouse as a resident alien. However, your spouse isn't a qualifying person for head of household purposes. You must have another qualifying person and meet the other tests to be eligible to file as head of household. Choice to treat spouse as resident. You are considered married if you choose to treat your spouse as a resident alien. See chapter 1 of Pub. 519. Keeping Up a HomeTo qualify for head of household status, you must pay more than half of the cost of keeping up a home for the year. You can determine whether you paid more than half of the cost of keeping up a home by using Worksheet 2-1. Worksheet 2-1. Cost of Keeping Up a Home
Costs you include. Include in the cost of keeping up a home expenses, such as rent, mortgage interest, real estate taxes, insurance on the home, repairs, utilities, and food eaten in the home. Costs you don’t include. Don’t include the costs of clothing, education, medical treatment, vacations, life insurance, or transportation. Also don’t include the value of your services or those of a member of your household. Qualifying PersonSee Table 2-1 to see who is a qualifying person. Any person not described in Table 2-1 isn't a qualifying person. Table 2-1. Who Is a Qualifying Person Qualifying You To File as Head of Household?1
Example 1—Child. Your unmarried son lived with you all year and was 18 years old at the end of the year. He didn't provide more than half of his own support and doesn't meet the tests to be a qualifying child of anyone else. As a result, he is your qualifying child (see Qualifying Child in chapter 3) and, because he is single, your qualifying person for head of household purposes. Example 2—Child who isn't qualifying person. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except your son was 25 years old at the end of the year and his gross income was $5,000. Because he doesn't meet the age test (explained under Qualifying Child in chapter 3), your son isn't your qualifying child. Because he doesn't meet the gross income test (explained under Qualifying Relative in chapter 3), he isn't your qualifying relative. As a result, he isn't your qualifying person for head of household purposes. Example 3—Girlfriend. Your girlfriend lived with you all year. Even though she may be your qualifying relative if the gross income and support tests (explained in chapter 3) are met, she isn't your qualifying person for head of household purposes because she isn't related to you in one of the ways listed under Relatives who don’t have to live with you in chapter 3. See Table 2-1. Example 4—Girlfriend's child. The facts are the same as in Example 3, except your girlfriend's 10-year-old son also lived with you all year. He isn't your qualifying child and, because he is your girlfriend's qualifying child, he isn't your qualifying relative (see Not a Qualifying Child Test in chapter 3). As a result, he isn't your qualifying person for head of household purposes. Home of qualifying person. Generally, the qualifying person must live with you for more than half the year. Special rule for parent. If your qualifying person is your father or mother, you may be eligible to file as head of household even if your father or mother doesn't live with you. However, you must be able to claim your father or mother as a dependent. Also, you must pay more than half of the cost of keeping up a home that was the main home for the entire year for your father or mother. If you pay more than half of the cost of keeping your parent in a rest home or home for the elderly, that counts as paying more than half of the cost of keeping up your parent's main home. Death or birth. You may be eligible to file as head of household even if the individual who qualifies you for this filing status is born or dies during the year. If the individual is your qualifying child, the child must have lived with you for more than half the part of the year he or she was alive. If the individual is anyone else, see Pub. 501 for more information. Temporary absences. You and your qualifying person are considered to live together even if one or both of you are temporarily absent from your home due to special circumstances, such as illness, education, business, vacation, military service, or detention in a juvenile facility. It must be reasonable to assume the absent person will return to the home after the temporary absence. You must continue to keep up the home during the absence. Kidnapped child. You may be eligible to file as head of household even if the child who is your qualifying person has been kidnapped. For more information, see Pub. 501. Qualifying Widow(er)If your spouse died in 2021, you can use married filing jointly as your filing status for 2021 if you otherwise qualify to use that status. The year of death is the last year for which you can file jointly with your deceased spouse. See Married Filing Jointly, earlier. You may be eligible to use qualifying widow(er) as your filing status for 2 years following the year your spouse died. For example, if your spouse died in 2020, and you haven't remarried, you may be able to use this filing status for 2021 and 2022. This filing status entitles you to use joint return tax rates and the highest standard deduction amount (if you don’t itemize deductions). It doesn't entitle you to file a joint return. How to file. Indicate your choice of this filing status by checking the “Qualifying widow(er)” box on the Filing Status line at the top of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. If the child who qualifies you for this filing status isn’t claimed as your dependent in the Dependents section of Form 1040 or 1040-SR, enter the child’s name in the entry space at the bottom of the Filing Status section. Use the Married filing jointly column of the Tax Table, or Section B of the Tax Computation Worksheet, to figure your tax. Eligibility rules. You are eligible to file your 2021 return as a qualifying widow(er) if you meet all of the following tests.
Example. John's wife died in 2019. John hasn't remarried. During 2020 and 2021, he continued to keep up a home for himself and his child, who lives with him and whom he can claim as a dependent. For 2019, he was entitled to file a joint return for himself and his deceased wife. For 2020 and 2021, he can file as qualifying widower. After 2021, he can file as head of household if he qualifies. Death or birth. You may be eligible to file as a qualifying widow(er) if the child who qualifies you for this filing status is born or dies during the year. You must have provided more than half of the cost of keeping up a home that was the child's main home during the entire part of the year he or she was alive. Kidnapped child. You may be eligible to file as a qualifying widow(er) even if the child who qualifies you for this filing status has been kidnapped. See Pub. 501 for more information. . 3. DependentsIntroductionThis chapter discusses the following topics.
How to claim dependents. On page 1 of your Form 1040 or 1040-SR, enter the names of your dependents in the Dependents section. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Form (and Instructions)
DependentsThe term “dependent” means:
The terms qualifying child and qualifying relative are defined later. All the requirements for claiming a dependent are summarized in Table 3-1. Table 3-1. Overview of the Rules for Claiming a Dependent
Housekeepers, maids, or servants. If these people work for you, you can’t claim them as dependents. Child tax credit. You may be entitled to a child tax credit for each qualifying child who was under age 18 at the end of the year if you claimed that child as a dependent. For more information, see chapter 14. Credit for other dependents. You may be entitled to a credit for other dependents for each qualifying child who does not qualify you for the child tax credit and for each qualifying relative. For more information, see chapter 14. ExceptionsEven if you have a qualifying child or qualifying relative, you can claim that person as a dependent only if these three tests are met.
These three tests are explained in detail here. Dependent Taxpayer TestIf you can be claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer, you can’t claim anyone else as a dependent. Even if you have a qualifying child or qualifying relative, you can’t claim that person as a dependent. If you are filing a joint return and your spouse can be claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer, you and your spouse can’t claim any dependents on your joint return. Joint Return TestYou generally can’t claim a married person as a dependent if he or she files a joint return. Exception. You can claim a person as a dependent who files a joint return if that person and his or her spouse file the joint return only to claim a refund of income tax withheld or estimated tax paid. Example 1—Child files joint return. You supported your 18-year-old daughter, and she lived with you all year while her husband was in the Armed Forces. He earned $35,000 for the year. The couple files a joint return. You can’t claim your daughter as a dependent. Example 2—Child files joint return only as claim for refund of withheld tax. Your 18-year-old son and his 17-year-old wife had $800 of wages from part-time jobs and no other income. They lived with you all year. Neither is required to file a tax return. They don’t have a child. Taxes were taken out of their pay so they filed a joint return only to get a refund of the withheld taxes. The exception to the joint return test applies, so you aren't disqualified from claiming each of them as a dependent just because they file a joint return. You can claim each of them as a dependent if all the other tests to do so are met. Example 3—Child files joint return to claim American opportunity credit. The facts are the same as in Example 2, except no taxes were taken out of your son's pay or his wife's pay. However, they file a joint return to claim an American opportunity credit of $124 and get a refund of that amount. Because claiming the American opportunity credit is their reason for filing the return, they aren't filing it only to get a refund of income tax withheld or estimated tax paid. The exception to the joint return test doesn't apply, so you can’t claim either of them as a dependent. Citizen or Resident TestYou generally can’t claim a person as a dependent unless that person is a U.S. citizen, U.S. resident alien, U.S. national, or a resident of Canada or Mexico. However, there is an exception for certain adopted children, as explained next. Exception for adopted child. If you are a U.S. citizen or U.S. national who has legally adopted a child who isn't a U.S. citizen, U.S. resident alien, or U.S. national, this test is met if the child lived with you as a member of your household all year. This exception also applies if the child was lawfully placed with you for legal adoption and the child lived with you for the rest of the year after placement. Child's place of residence. Children usually are citizens or residents of the country of their parents. If you were a U.S. citizen when your child was born, the child may be a U.S. citizen and meet this test even if the other parent was a nonresident alien and the child was born in a foreign country. Foreign students' place of residence. Foreign students brought to this country under a qualified international education exchange program and placed in American homes for a temporary period generally aren't U.S. residents and don’t meet this test. You can’t claim them as dependents. However, if you provided a home for a foreign student, you may be able to take a charitable contribution deduction. See Expenses Paid for Student Living With You in Pub. 526, Charitable Contributions. U.S. national. A U.S. national is an individual who, although not a U.S. citizen, owes his or her allegiance to the United States. U.S. nationals include American Samoans and Northern Mariana Islanders who chose to become U.S. nationals instead of U.S. citizens. Qualifying ChildFive tests must be met for a child to be your qualifying child. The five tests are:
These tests are explained next. . Relationship TestTo meet this test, a child must be:
Adopted child. An adopted child is always treated as your own child. The term “adopted child” includes a child who was lawfully placed with you for legal adoption. Foster child. A foster child is an individual who is placed with you by an authorized placement agency or by judgment, decree, or other order of any court of competent jurisdiction. Age TestTo meet this test, a child must be:
Example. Your son turned 19 on December 10. Unless he was permanently and totally disabled or a student, he doesn't meet the age test because, at the end of the year, he wasn't under age 19. Child must be younger than you or spouse. To be your qualifying child, a child who isn't permanently and totally disabled must be younger than you. However, if you are married filing jointly, the child must be younger than you or your spouse but doesn't have to be younger than both of you. Example 1—Child not younger than you or spouse. Your 23-year-old brother, who is a student and unmarried, lives with you and your spouse, who provide more than half of his support. He isn't disabled. Both you and your spouse are 21 years old, and you file a joint return. Your brother isn't your qualifying child because he isn't younger than you or your spouse. Example 2—Child younger than your spouse but not younger than you. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except your spouse is 25 years old. Because your brother is younger than your spouse, and you and your spouse are filing a joint return, your brother is your qualifying child, even though he isn't younger than you. Student defined. To qualify as a student, your child must be, during some part of each of any 5 calendar months of the year:
The 5 calendar months don’t have to be consecutive. Full-time student. A full-time student is a student who is enrolled for the number of hours or courses the school considers to be full-time attendance. School defined. A school can be an elementary school; junior or senior high school; college; university; or technical, trade, or mechanical school. However, an on-the-job training course, correspondence school, or school offering courses only through the Internet doesn’t count as a school. Vocational high school students. Students who work on “co-op” jobs in private industry as a part of a school's regular course of classroom and practical training are considered full-time students. Permanently and totally disabled. Your child is permanently and totally disabled if both of the following apply.
Residency TestTo meet this test, your child must have lived with you for more than half the year. There are exceptions for temporary absences, children who were born or died during the year, kidnapped children, and children of divorced or separated parents. Temporary absences. Your child is considered to have lived with you during periods of time when one of you, or both, are temporarily absent due to special circumstances such as:
Death or birth of child. A child who was born or died during the year is treated as having lived with you more than half of the year if your home was the child's home more than half of the time he or she was alive during the year. The same is true if the child lived with you more than half the year except for any required hospital stay following birth. Child born alive. You may be able to claim as a dependent a child born alive during the year, even if the child lived only for a moment. State or local law must treat the child as having been born alive. There must be proof of a live birth shown by an official document, such as a birth certificate. The child must be your qualifying child or qualifying relative, and all the other tests to claim the child as a dependent must be met. Stillborn child. You can’t claim a stillborn child as a dependent. Kidnapped child. You may be able to treat your child as meeting the residency test even if the child has been kidnapped. See Pub. 501 for details. Children of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart). In most cases, because of the residency test, a child of divorced or separated parents is the qualifying child of the custodial parent. However, the child will be treated as the qualifying child of the noncustodial parent if all four of the following statements are true.
If statements (1) through (4) are all true, only the noncustodial parent can:
However, this doesn’t allow the noncustodial parent to claim head of household filing status, the credit for child and dependent care expenses, the exclusion for dependent care benefits, the earned income credit, or the health coverage tax credit. See Applying the tiebreaker rules to divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart), later. Example—Earned income credit. Even if statements (1) through (4) are all true and the custodial parent signs Form 8332 or a substantially similar statement that he or she won’t claim the child as a dependent for 2021, this doesn’t allow the noncustodial parent to claim the child as a qualifying child for the earned income credit. The custodial parent or another taxpayer, if eligible, can claim the child for the earned income credit. Custodial parent and noncustodial parent. The custodial parent is the parent with whom the child lived for the greater number of nights during the year. The other parent is the noncustodial parent. If the parents divorced or separated during the year and the child lived with both parents before the separation, the custodial parent is the one with whom the child lived for the greater number of nights during the rest of the year. A child is treated as living with a parent for a night if the child sleeps:
Equal number of nights. If the child lived with each parent for an equal number of nights during the year, the custodial parent is the parent with the higher adjusted gross income (AGI). December 31. The night of December 31 is treated as part of the year in which it begins. For example, the night of December 31, 2021, is treated as part of 2021. Emancipated child. If a child is emancipated under state law, the child is treated as not living with either parent. See Examples 5 and 6. Absences. If a child wasn't with either parent on a particular night (because, for example, the child was staying at a friend's house), the child is treated as living with the parent with whom the child normally would have lived for that night, except for the absence. But if it can’t be determined with which parent the child normally would have lived or if the child wouldn’t have lived with either parent that night, the child is treated as not living with either parent that night. Parent works at night. If, due to a parent's nighttime work schedule, a child lives for a greater number of days, but not nights, with the parent who works at night, that parent is treated as the custodial parent. On a school day, the child is treated as living at the primary residence registered with the school. Example 1—Child lived with one parent for a greater number of nights. You and your child’s other parent are divorced. In 2021, your child lived with you 210 nights and with the other parent 155 nights. You are the custodial parent. Example 2—Child is away at camp. In 2021, your daughter lives with each parent for alternate weeks. In the summer, she spends 6 weeks at summer camp. During the time she is at camp, she is treated as living with you for 3 weeks and with her other parent, your ex-spouse, for 3 weeks because this is how long she would have lived with each parent if she hadn’t attended summer camp. Example 3—Child lived same number of nights with each parent. Your son lived with you 180 nights during the year and lived the same number of nights with his other parent, your ex-spouse. Your AGI is $40,000. Your ex-spouse's AGI is $25,000. You are treated as your son's custodial parent because you have the higher AGI. Example 4—Child is at parent’s home but with other parent. Your son normally lives with you during the week and with his other parent, your ex-spouse, every other weekend. You become ill and are hospitalized. The other parent lives in your home with your son for 10 consecutive days while you are in the hospital. Your son is treated as living with you during this 10-day period because he was living in your home. Example 5—Child emancipated in May. When your son turned age 18 in May 2021, he became emancipated under the law of the state where he lives. As a result, he isn't considered in the custody of his parents for more than half of the year. The special rule for children of divorced or separated parents doesn't apply. Example 6—Child emancipated in August. Your daughter lives with you from January 1, 2021, until May 31, 2021, and lives with her other parent, your ex-spouse, from June 1, 2021, through the end of the year. She turns 18 and is emancipated under state law on August 1, 2021. Because she is treated as not living with either parent beginning on August 1, she is treated as living with you the greater number of nights in 2021. You are the custodial parent. Written declaration. The custodial parent must use either Form 8332 or a similar statement (containing the same information required by the form) to make the written declaration to release a claim to an exemption for a child to the noncustodial parent. Although the exemption amount is zero for tax year 2021, this release allows the noncustodial parent to claim the child tax credit, additional child tax credit, and credit for other dependents, if applicable, for the child. The noncustodial parent must attach a copy of the form or statement to his or her tax return. The release can be for 1 year, for a number of specified years (for example, alternate years), or for all future years, as specified in the declaration. Post-1984 and pre-2009 divorce decree or separation agreement. If the divorce decree or separation agreement went into effect after 1984 and before 2009, the noncustodial parent may be able to attach certain pages from the decree or agreement instead of Form 8332. The decree or agreement must state all three of the following.
The noncustodial parent must attach all of the following pages of the decree or agreement to his or her tax return.
Post-2008 divorce decree or separation agreement. The noncustodial parent can’t attach pages from the decree or agreement instead of Form 8332 if the decree or agreement went into effect after 2008. The custodial parent must sign either Form 8332 or a similar statement whose only purpose is to release the custodial parent's claim to an exemption for a child, and the noncustodial parent must attach a copy to his or her return. The form or statement must release the custodial parent's claim to the child without any conditions. For example, the release must not depend on the noncustodial parent paying support. . Revocation of release of claim to an exemption. The custodial parent can revoke a release of claim to an exemption. For the revocation to be effective for 2021, the custodial parent must have given (or made reasonable efforts to give) written notice of the revocation to the noncustodial parent in 2020 or earlier. The custodial parent can use Part III of Form 8332 for this purpose and must attach a copy of the revocation to his or her return for each tax year he or she claims the child as a dependent as a result of the revocation. Remarried parent. If you remarry, the support provided by your new spouse is treated as provided by you. Parents who never married. This special rule for divorced or separated parents also applies to parents who never married and who lived apart at all times during the last 6 months of the year. Support Test (To Be a Qualifying Child)To meet this test, the child can’t have provided more than half of his or her own support for the year. This test is different from the support test to be a qualifying relative, which is described later. However, to see what is or isn't support, see Support Test (To Be a Qualifying Relative), later. If you aren't sure whether a child provided more than half of his or her own support, you may find Worksheet 3-1 helpful. Worksheet 3-1. Worksheet for Determining Support
Example. You provided $4,000 toward your 16-year-old son's support for the year. He has a part-time job and provided $6,000 to his own support. He provided more than half of his own support for the year. He isn't your qualifying child. Foster care payments and expenses. Payments you receive for the support of a foster child from a child placement agency are considered support provided by the agency. Similarly, payments you receive for the support of a foster child from a state or county are considered support provided by the state or county. If you aren't in the trade or business of providing foster care and your unreimbursed out-of-pocket expenses in caring for a foster child were mainly to benefit an organization qualified to receive deductible charitable contributions, the expenses are deductible as charitable contributions but aren't considered support you provided. For more information about the deduction for charitable contributions, see Pub. 526. If your unreimbursed expenses aren't deductible as charitable contributions, they may qualify as support you provided. If you are in the trade or business of providing foster care, your unreimbursed expenses aren't considered support provided by you. Example 1. Lauren, a foster child, lived with Mr. and Mrs. Smith for the last 3 months of the year. The Smiths cared for Lauren because they wanted to adopt her (although she hadn’t been placed with them for adoption). They didn't care for her as a trade or business or to benefit the agency that placed her in their home. The Smiths' unreimbursed expenses aren't deductible as charitable contributions but are considered support they provided for Lauren. Example 2. You provided $3,000 toward your 10-year-old foster child's support for the year. The state government provided $4,000, which is considered support provided by the state, not by the child. See Support provided by the state (welfare, food stamps, housing, etc.), later. Your foster child didn't provide more than half of her own support for the year. Scholarships. A scholarship received by a child who is a student isn't taken into account in determining whether the child provided more than half of his or her own support. Joint Return Test (To Be a Qualifying Child)To meet this test, the child can’t file a joint return for the year. Exception. An exception to the joint return test applies if your child and his or her spouse file a joint return only to claim a refund of income tax withheld or estimated tax paid. Example 1—Child files joint return. You supported your 18-year-old daughter, and she lived with you all year while her husband was in the Armed Forces. He earned $35,000 for the year. The couple files a joint return. Because your daughter and her husband file a joint return, she isn't your qualifying child. Example 2—Child files joint return only as a claim for refund of withheld tax. Your 18-year-old son and his 17-year-old wife had $800 of wages from part-time jobs and no other income. They lived with you all year. Neither is required to file a tax return. They don’t have a child. Taxes were taken out of their pay so they filed a joint return only to get a refund of the withheld taxes. The exception to the joint return test applies, so your son may be your qualifying child if all the other tests are met. Example 3—Child files joint return to claim American opportunity credit. The facts are the same as in Example 2, except no taxes were taken out of your son's pay or his wife's pay. However, they file a joint return to claim an American opportunity credit of $124 and get a refund of that amount. Because claiming the American opportunity credit is their reason for filing the return, they aren't filing it only to get a refund of income tax withheld or estimated tax paid. The exception to the joint return test doesn't apply, so your son isn't your qualifying child. Qualifying Child of More Than One Person. . Sometimes, a child meets the relationship, age, residency, support, and joint return tests to be a qualifying child of more than one person. Although the child is a qualifying child of each of these persons, generally only one person can actually treat the child as a qualifying child to take all of the following tax benefits (provided the person is eligible for each benefit).
The other person can’t take any of these benefits based on this qualifying child. In other words, you and the other person can’t agree to divide these benefits between you. Tiebreaker rules. To determine which person can treat the child as a qualifying child to claim these five tax benefits, the following tiebreaker rules apply.
Subject to these tiebreaker rules, you and the other person may be able to choose which of you claims the child as a qualifying child. . Example 1—Child lived with parent and grandparent. You and your 3-year-old daughter Jane lived with your mother all year. You are 25 years old, unmarried, and your AGI is $9,000. Your mother's AGI is $15,000. Jane's father didn't live with you or your daughter. You haven't signed Form 8332 (or a similar statement). Jane is a qualifying child of both you and your mother because she meets the relationship, age, residency, support, and joint return tests for both you and your mother. However, only one of you can claim her. Jane isn't a qualifying child of anyone else, including her father. You agree to let your mother claim Jane. This means your mother can claim Jane as a qualifying child for all of the five tax benefits listed earlier, if she qualifies for each of those benefits (and if you don’t claim Jane as a qualifying child for any of those tax benefits). Example 2—Parent has higher AGI than grandparent. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except your AGI is $18,000. Because your mother's AGI isn't higher than yours, she can’t claim Jane. Only you can claim Jane. Example 3—Two persons claim same child. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except that you and your mother both claim Jane as a qualifying child. In this case, you, as the child's parent, will be the only one allowed to claim Jane as a qualifying child. The IRS will disallow your mother's claim to the five tax benefits listed earlier based on Jane. However, your mother may qualify for the earned income credit as a taxpayer without a qualifying child. Example 4—Qualifying children split between two persons. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except you also have two other young children who are qualifying children of both you and your mother. Only one of you can claim each child. However, if your mother's AGI is higher than yours, you can allow your mother to claim one or more of the children. For example, if you claim one child, your mother can claim the other two. Example 5—Taxpayer who is a qualifying child. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except you are only 18 years old and didn't provide more than half of your own support for the year. This means you are your mother's qualifying child. If she can claim you as a dependent, then you can’t claim your daughter as a dependent because of the Dependent Taxpayer Test, explained earlier. Example 6—Separated parents. You, your husband, and your 10-year-old son lived together until August 1, 2021, when your husband moved out of the household. In August and September, your son lived with you. For the rest of the year, your son lived with your husband, the boy's father. Your son is a qualifying child of both you and your husband because your son lived with each of you for more than half the year and because he met the relationship, age, support, and joint return tests for both of you. At the end of the year, you and your husband still weren't divorced, legally separated, or separated under a written separation agreement, so the rule for children of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart) doesn't apply. You and your husband will file separate returns. Your husband agrees to let you treat your son as a qualifying child. This means, if your husband doesn't claim your son as a qualifying child, you can claim your son as a qualifying child for the child tax credit and exclusion for dependent care benefits (if you qualify for each of those tax benefits). However, you can’t claim head of household filing status because you and your husband didn't live apart for the last 6 months of the year. As a result, your filing status is married filing separately, so you can’t claim the earned income credit because you and your husband didn't live apart for the last 6 months of 2021, and you aren't legally separated under a written separation agreement or decree of separate maintenance. Therefore, you don't meet the requirements to take the earned income credit as married filing separately. You also can't take the credit for child and dependent care expenses because your fling status is married filing separately and you and your husband didn't live apart for the last 6 months of 2021. Example 7—Separated parents claim same child. The facts are the same as in Example 6, except that you and your husband both claim your son as a qualifying child. In this case, only your husband will be allowed to treat your son as a qualifying child. This is because, during 2021, the boy lived with him longer than with you. If you claimed the child tax credit for your son, the IRS will disallow your claim to the child tax credit. If you don’t have another qualifying child or dependent, the IRS will also disallow your claim to the exclusion for dependent care benefits. In addition, because you and your husband didn't live apart for the last 6 months of the year, your husband can’t claim head of household filing status. As a result, his filing status is married filing separately, so he can’t claim the earned income credit because you and your husband didn't live apart for the last 6 months of 2021, and you aren't legally separated under a written separation agreement or decree of separate maintenance. Therefore, your husband doesn't meet the requirements to take the earned income credit as married filing separately. Your husband also can't take the credit for child and dependent care expenses because his filing status is married filing separately and you and your husband didn't live apart for the last 6 months of 2021. Example 8—Unmarried parents. You, your 5-year-old son, and your son's father lived together all year. You and your son's father aren't married. Your son is a qualifying child of both you and his father because he meets the relationship, age, residency, support, and joint return tests for both you and his father. Your AGI is $12,000 and your son's father's AGI is $14,000. Your son's father agrees to let you claim the child as a qualifying child. This means you can claim him as a qualifying child for the child tax credit, head of household filing status, credit for child and dependent care expenses, exclusion for dependent care benefits, and the earned income credit, if you qualify for each of those tax benefits (and if your son's father doesn't claim your son as a qualifying child for any of those tax benefits). Example 9—Unmarried parents claim same child. The facts are the same as in Example 8, except that you and your son's father both claim your son as a qualifying child. In this case, only your son's father will be allowed to treat your son as a qualifying child. This is because his AGI, $14,000, is more than your AGI, $12,000. If you claimed the child tax credit for your son, the IRS will disallow your claim to this credit. If you don’t have another qualifying child or dependent, the IRS will also disallow your claim to head of household filing status, the credit for child and dependent care expenses, and the exclusion for dependent care benefits. However, you may be able to claim the earned income credit as a taxpayer without a qualifying child. Example 10—Child didn't live with a parent. You and your 7-year-old niece, your sister's child, lived with your mother all year. You are 25 years old, and your AGI is $9,300. Your mother's AGI is $15,000. Your niece's parents file jointly, have an AGI of less than $9,000, and don’t live with you or their child. Your niece is a qualifying child of both you and your mother because she meets the relationship, age, residency, support, and joint return tests for both you and your mother. However, only your mother can treat her as a qualifying child. This is because your mother's AGI, $15,000, is more than your AGI, $9,300. Applying the tiebreaker rules to divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart). If a child is treated as the qualifying child of the noncustodial parent under the rules described earlier for children of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart), only the noncustodial parent can claim the child as a dependent and claim the child tax credit or credit for other dependents for the child. However, only the custodial parent can claim the credit for child and dependent care expenses or the exclusion for dependent care benefits for the child, and only the custodial parent can treat the child as a dependent for the health coverage tax credit. Also, generally the noncustodial parent can't claim the child as a qualifying child for head of household filing status or the earned income credit. Instead, generally the custodial parent, if eligible, or other eligible person can claim the child as a qualifying child for those two benefits. If the child is the qualifying child of more than one person for these benefits, then the tiebreaker rules just explained determine whether the custodial parent or another eligible person can treat the child as a qualifying child. Example 1. You and your 5-year-old son lived all year with your mother, who paid the entire cost of keeping up the home. Your AGI is $10,000. Your mother's AGI is $25,000. Your son's father didn't live with you or your son. Under the rules explained earlier for children of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart), your son is treated as the qualifying child of his father, who can claim the child tax credit for him. Because of this, you can’t claim the child tax credit for your son. However, those rules don't allow your son's father to claim your son as a qualifying child for head of household filing status, the credit for child and dependent care expenses, the exclusion for dependent care benefits, the earned income credit, or the health coverage tax credit. You and your mother didn't have any child care expenses or dependent care benefits, so neither of you can claim the credit for child and dependent care expenses or the exclusion for dependent care benefits. Also, neither of you qualifies for the health coverage tax credit. But the boy is a qualifying child of both you and your mother for head of household filing status and the earned income credit because he meets the relationship, age, residency, support, and joint return tests for both you and your mother. (The support test doesn't apply for the earned income credit.) However, you agree to let your mother claim your son. This means she can claim him for head of household filing status and the earned income credit if she qualifies for each and if you don’t claim him as a qualifying child for the earned income credit. (You can’t claim head of household filing status because your mother paid the entire cost of keeping up the home.) You may be able to claim the earned income credit as a taxpayer without a qualifying child. Example 2. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except your AGI is $25,000 and your mother's AGI is $21,000. Your mother can’t claim your son as a qualifying child for any purpose because her AGI isn't higher than yours. Example 3. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except you and your mother both claim your son as a qualifying child for the earned income credit. Your mother also claims him as a qualifying child for head of household filing status. You, as the child's parent, will be the only one allowed to claim your son as a qualifying child for the earned income credit. The IRS will disallow your mother's claim to head of household filing status unless she has another qualifying child or dependent. Your mother can't claim the earned income credit as a taxpayer without a qualifying child because her AGI is more than $21,430. Qualifying RelativeFour tests must be met for a person to be your qualifying relative. The four tests are:
Age. Unlike a qualifying child, a qualifying relative can be any age. There is no age test for a qualifying relative. Kidnapped child. You may be able to treat a child as your qualifying relative even if the child has been kidnapped. See Pub. 501 for details. Not a Qualifying Child TestA child isn't your qualifying relative if the child is your qualifying child or the qualifying child of any other taxpayer. Example 1. Your 22-year-old daughter, who is a student, lives with you and meets all the tests to be your qualifying child. She isn't your qualifying relative. Example 2. Your 2-year-old son lives with your parents and meets all the tests to be their qualifying child. He isn't your qualifying relative. Example 3. Your son lives with you but isn't your qualifying child because he is 30 years old and doesn't meet the age test. He may be your qualifying relative if the gross income test and the support test are met. Example 4. Your 13-year-old grandson lived with his mother for 3 months, with his uncle for 4 months, and with you for 5 months during the year. He isn't your qualifying child because he doesn't meet the residency test. He may be your qualifying relative if the gross income test and the support test are met. Child of person not required to file a return. A child isn't the qualifying child of any other taxpayer and so may qualify as your qualifying relative if the child's parent (or other person for whom the child is defined as a qualifying child) isn't required to file an income tax return and either:
Example 1—Return not required. You support an unrelated friend and her 3-year-old child, who lived with you all year in your home. Your friend has no gross income, isn't required to file a 2021 tax return, and doesn't file a 2021 tax return. Both your friend and her child are your qualifying relatives if the support test is met. Example 2—Return filed to claim refund. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except your friend had wages of $1,500 during the year and had income tax withheld from her wages. She files a return only to get a refund of the income tax withheld and doesn't claim the earned income credit or any other tax credits or deductions. Both your friend and her child are your qualifying relatives if the support test is met. Example 3—Earned income credit claimed. The facts are the same as in Example 2, except your friend had wages of $8,000 during the year and claimed the earned income credit on her return. Your friend's child is the qualifying child of another taxpayer (your friend), so you can’t claim your friend's child as your qualifying relative. Also, you can’t claim your friend as your qualifying relative because of the gross income test explained later. Child in Canada or Mexico. You may be able to claim your child as a dependent even if the child lives in Canada or Mexico. If the child doesn't live with you, the child doesn't meet the residency test to be your qualifying child. However, the child may still be your qualifying relative. If the persons the child does live with aren't U.S. citizens and have no U.S. gross income, those persons aren't “taxpayers,” so the child isn't the qualifying child of any other taxpayer. If the child isn't the qualifying child of any other taxpayer, the child is your qualifying relative as long as the gross income test and the support test are met. You can’t claim as a dependent a child who lives in a foreign country other than Canada or Mexico, unless the child is a U.S. citizen, U.S. resident alien, or U.S. national. There is an exception for certain adopted children who lived with you all year. See Citizen or Resident Test, earlier. Example. You provide all the support of your children, ages 6, 8, and 12, who live in Mexico with your mother and have no income. You are single and live in the United States. Your mother isn't a U.S. citizen and has no U.S. income, so she isn't a “taxpayer.” Your children aren't your qualifying children because they don’t meet the residency test. But since they aren't the qualifying children of any other taxpayer, they may be your qualifying relatives and you may be permitted to claim them as dependents. You may also be able to claim your mother as a dependent if the gross income and support tests are met. Member of Household or Relationship TestTo meet this test, a person must either:
If at any time during the year the person was your spouse, that person can’t be your qualifying relative. Relatives who don’t have to live with you. A person related to you in any of the following ways doesn't have to live with you all year as a member of your household to meet this test.
Any of these relationships that were established by marriage aren't ended by death or divorce. Example. You and your wife began supporting your wife's father, a widower, in 2015. Your wife died in 2020. Despite your wife's death, your father-in-law continues to meet this test, even if he doesn't live with you. You can claim him as a dependent if all other tests are met, including the gross income test and support test. Foster child. A foster child is an individual who is placed with you by an authorized placement agency or by judgment, decree, or other order of any court of competent jurisdiction. Joint return. If you file a joint return, the person can be related to either you or your spouse. Also, the person doesn't need to be related to the spouse who provides support. For example, your spouse's uncle who receives more than half of his support from you may be your qualifying relative, even though he doesn't live with you. However, if you and your spouse file separate returns, your spouse's uncle can be your qualifying relative only if he lives with you all year as a member of your household. Temporary absences. A person is considered to live with you as a member of your household during periods of time when one of you, or both, are temporarily absent due to special circumstances such as:
If the person is placed in a nursing home for an indefinite period of time to receive constant medical care, the absence may be considered temporary. Death or birth. A person who died during the year, but lived with you as a member of your household until death, will meet this test. The same is true for a child who was born during the year and lived with you as a member of your household for the rest of the year. The test is also met if a child lived with you as a member of your household except for any required hospital stay following birth. If your dependent died during the year and you otherwise qualify to claim that person as a dependent, you can still claim that person as a dependent. Example. Your mother died on January 15. She met the tests to be your qualifying relative. You can claim her as a dependent. Local law violated. A person doesn't meet this test if at any time during the year the relationship between you and that person violates local law. Example. Your girlfriend lived with you as a member of your household all year. However, your relationship with her violated the laws of the state where you live because she was married to someone else. Therefore, she doesn't meet this test and you can’t claim her as a dependent. Adopted child. An adopted child is always treated as your own child. The term “adopted child” includes a child who was lawfully placed with you for legal adoption. Cousin. Your cousin meets this test only if he or she lives with you all year as a member of your household. A cousin is a descendant of a brother or sister of your father or mother. Gross Income TestTo meet this test, a person's gross income for the year must be less than $4,300. Gross income defined. Gross income is all income in the form of money, property, and services that isn't exempt from tax. In a manufacturing, merchandising, or mining business, gross income is the total net sales minus the cost of goods sold, plus any miscellaneous income from the business. Gross receipts from rental property are gross income. Don’t deduct taxes, repairs, or other expenses to determine the gross income from rental property. Gross income includes a partner's share of the gross (not a share of the net) partnership income. Gross income also includes all taxable unemployment compensation, taxable social security benefits, and certain amounts received as scholarship and fellowship grants. Scholarships received by degree candidates and used for tuition, fees, supplies, books, and equipment required for particular courses generally aren't included in gross income. For more information about scholarships, see chapter 8. Disabled dependent working at sheltered workshop. For purposes of the gross income test, the gross income of an individual who is permanently and totally disabled at any time during the year doesn't include income for services the individual performs at a sheltered workshop. The availability of medical care at the workshop must be the main reason for the individual's presence there. Also, the income must come solely from activities at the workshop that are incident to this medical care. A “sheltered workshop” is a school that:
Permanently and totally disabled has the same meaning here as under Qualifying Child, earlier. Support Test (To Be a Qualifying Relative)To meet this test, you must generally provide more than half of a person's total support during the calendar year. However, if two or more persons provide support, but no one person provides more than half of a person's total support, see Multiple Support Agreement, later. How to determine if support test is met. You figure whether you have provided more than half of a person's total support by comparing the amount you contributed to that person's support with the entire amount of support that person received from all sources. This includes support the person provided from his or her own funds. You may find Worksheet 3-1 helpful in figuring whether you provided more than half of a person's support. Person's own funds not used for support. A person's own funds aren't support unless they are actually spent for support. Example. Your mother received $2,400 in social security benefits and $300 in interest. She paid $2,000 for lodging and $400 for recreation. She put $300 in a savings account. Even though your mother received a total of $2,700 ($2,400 + $300), she spent only $2,400 ($2,000 + $400) for her own support. If you spent more than $2,400 for her support and no other support was received, you have provided more than half of her support. Child's wages used for own support. You can’t include in your contribution to your child's support any support paid for by the child with the child's own wages, even if you paid the wages. Year support is provided. The year you provide the support is the year you pay for it, even if you do so with borrowed money that you repay in a later year. If you use a fiscal year to report your income, you must provide more than half of the dependent's support for the calendar year in which your fiscal year begins. Armed Forces dependency allotments. The part of the allotment contributed by the government and the part taken out of your military pay are both considered provided by you in figuring whether you provide more than half of the support. If your allotment is used to support persons other than those you name, you can claim them as dependents if they otherwise qualify. Example. You are in the Armed Forces. You authorize an allotment for your widowed mother that she uses to support herself and her sister. If the allotment provides more than half of each person's support, you can claim each of them as a dependent, if they otherwise qualify, even though you authorize the allotment only for your mother. Tax-exempt military quarters allowances. These allowances are treated the same way as dependency allotments in figuring support. The allotment of pay and the tax-exempt basic allowance for quarters are both considered as provided by you for support. Tax-exempt income. In figuring a person's total support, include tax-exempt income, savings, and borrowed amounts used to support that person. Tax-exempt income includes certain social security benefits, welfare benefits, nontaxable life insurance proceeds, Armed Forces family allotments, nontaxable pensions, and tax-exempt interest. Example 1. You provide $4,000 toward your mother's support during the year. She has earned income of $600, nontaxable social security benefits of $4,800, and tax-exempt interest of $200. She uses all these for her support. You can’t claim your mother as a dependent because the $4,000 you provide isn't more than half of her total support of $9,600 ($4,000 + $600 + $4,800 + $200). Example 2. Your niece takes out a student loan of $2,500 and uses it to pay her college tuition. She is personally responsible for the loan. You provide $2,000 toward her total support. You can’t claim her as a dependent because you provide less than half of her support. Social security benefits. If a married couple receives benefits that are paid by one check made out to both of them, half of the total paid is considered to be for the support of each spouse, unless they can show otherwise. If a child receives social security benefits and uses them toward his or her own support, the benefits are considered as provided by the child. Support provided by the state (welfare, food stamps, housing, etc.). Benefits provided by the state to a needy person are generally considered support provided by the state. However, payments based on the needs of the recipient won't be considered as used entirely for that person's support if it is shown that part of the payments weren't used for that purpose. Foster care. Payments you receive for the support of a foster child from a child placement agency are considered support provided by the agency. See Foster care payments and expenses, earlier. Home for the aged. If you make a lump-sum advance payment to a home for the aged to take care of your relative for life and the payment is based on that person's life expectancy, the amount of support you provide each year is the lump-sum payment divided by the relative's life expectancy. The amount of support you provide also includes any other amounts you provided during the year. Total SupportTo figure if you provided more than half of a person's support, you must first determine the total support provided for that person. Total support includes amounts spent to provide food, lodging, clothing, education, medical and dental care, recreation, transportation, and similar necessities. Generally, the amount of an item of support is the amount of the expense incurred in providing that item. For lodging, the amount of support is the fair rental value of the lodging. Expenses not directly related to any one member of a household, such as the cost of food for the household, must be divided among the members of the household. Example 1. Grace Brown, mother of Mary Miller, lives with Frank and Mary Miller and their two children. Grace gets social security benefits of $2,400, which she spends for clothing, transportation, and recreation. Grace has no other income. Frank and Mary's total food expense for the household is $5,200. They pay Grace's medical and drug expenses of $1,200. The fair rental value of the lodging provided for Grace is $1,800 a year, based on the cost of similar rooming facilities. Figure Grace's total support as follows.
The support Frank and Mary provide, $4,040 ($1,800 lodging + $1,200 medical expenses + $1,040 food), is more than half of Grace's $6,440 total support. Example 2. Your parents live with you, your spouse, and your two children in a house you own. The fair rental value of your parents' share of the lodging is $2,000 a year ($1,000 each), which includes furnishings and utilities. Your father receives a nontaxable pension of $4,200, which he spends equally between your mother and himself for items of support such as clothing, transportation, and recreation. Your total food expense for the household is $6,000. Your heat and utility bills amount to $1,200. Your mother has hospital and medical expenses of $600, which you pay during the year. Figure your parents' total support as follows.
You must apply the support test separately to each parent. You provide $2,000 ($1,000 lodging + $1,000 food) of your father's total support of $4,100—less than half. You provide $2,600 to your mother ($1,000 lodging + $1,000 food + $600 medical)—more than half of her total support of $4,700. You meet the support test for your mother, but not your father. Heat and utility costs are included in the fair rental value of the lodging, so these aren't considered separately. Lodging. If you provide a person with lodging, you are considered to provide support equal to the fair rental value of the room, apartment, house, or other shelter in which the person lives. Fair rental value includes a reasonable allowance for the use of furniture and appliances, and for heat and other utilities that are provided. Fair rental value defined. Fair rental value is the amount you could reasonably expect to receive from a stranger for the same kind of lodging. It is used instead of actual expenses such as taxes, interest, depreciation, paint, insurance, utilities, and the cost of furniture and appliances. In some cases, fair rental value may be equal to the rent paid. If you provide the total lodging, the amount of support you provide is the fair rental value of the room the person uses, or a share of the fair rental value of the entire dwelling if the person has use of your entire home. If you don’t provide the total lodging, the total fair rental value must be divided depending on how much of the total lodging you provide. If you provide only a part and the person supplies the rest, the fair rental value must be divided between both of you according to the amount each provides. Example. Your parents live rent free in a house you own. It has a fair rental value of $5,400 a year furnished, which includes a fair rental value of $3,600 for the house and $1,800 for the furniture. This doesn't include heat and utilities. The house is completely furnished with furniture belonging to your parents. You pay $600 for their utility bills. Utilities usually aren't included in rent for houses in the area where your parents live. Therefore, you consider the total fair rental value of the lodging to be $6,000 ($3,600 fair rental value of the unfurnished house + $1,800 allowance for the furnishings provided by your parents + $600 cost of utilities) of which you are considered to provide $4,200 ($3,600 + $600). Person living in his or her own home. The total fair rental value of a person's home that he or she owns is considered support contributed by that person. Living with someone rent free. If you live with a person rent free in his or her home, you must reduce the amount you provide for support of that person by the fair rental value of lodging he or she provides you. Property. Property provided as support is measured by its fair market value. Fair market value is the price that property would sell for on the open market. It is the price that would be agreed upon between a willing buyer and a willing seller, with neither being required to act, and both having reasonable knowledge of the relevant facts. Capital expenses. Capital items, such as furniture, appliances, and cars, bought for a person during the year can be included in total support under certain circumstances. The following examples show when a capital item is or isn't support. Example 1. You buy a $200 power lawn mower for your 13-year-old child. The child is given the duty of keeping the lawn trimmed. Because the lawn mower benefits all members of the household, don’t include the cost of the lawn mower in the support of your child. Example 2. You buy a $150 television set as a birthday present for your 12-year-old child. The television set is placed in your child's bedroom. You can include the cost of the television set in the support of your child. Example 3. You pay $5,000 for a car and register it in your name. You and your 17-year-old daughter use the car equally. Because you own the car and don’t give it to your daughter but merely let her use it, don’t include the cost of the car in your daughter's total support. However, you can include in your daughter's support your out-of-pocket expenses of operating the car for her benefit. Example 4. Your 17-year-old son, using personal funds, buys a car for $4,500. You provide the rest of your son's support, $4,000. Because the car is bought and owned by your son, the car's fair market value ($4,500) must be included in his support. Your son has provided more than half of his own total support of $8,500 ($4,500 + $4,000), so he isn't your qualifying child. You didn't provide more than half of his total support, so he isn't your qualifying relative. You can’t claim your son as a dependent. Medical insurance premiums. Medical insurance premiums you pay, including premiums for supplementary Medicare coverage, are included in the support you provide. Medical insurance benefits. Medical insurance benefits, including basic and supplementary Medicare benefits, aren't part of support. Tuition payments and allowances under the GI Bill. Amounts veterans receive under the GI Bill for tuition payments and allowances while they attend school are included in total support. Example. During the year, your son receives $2,200 from the government under the GI Bill. He uses this amount for his education. You provide the rest of his support, $2,000. Because GI benefits are included in total support, your son's total support is $4,200 ($2,200 + $2,000). You haven't provided more than half of his support. Child care expenses. If you pay someone to provide child or dependent care, you can include these payments in the amount you provided for the support of your child or disabled dependent, even if you claim a credit for the payments. For information on the credit, see Pub. 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses. Other support items. Other items may be considered as support depending on the facts in each case. Don’t Include in Total SupportThe following items aren't included in total support.
Multiple Support AgreementSometimes no one provides more than half of the support of a person. Instead, two or more persons, each of whom would be able to claim the person as a dependent but for the support test, together provide more than half of the person's support. When this happens, you can agree that any one of you who individually provides more than 10% of the person's support, but only one, can claim the person as a dependent. Each of the others must sign a statement agreeing not to claim the person as a dependent for that year. The person who claims the person as a dependent must keep these signed statements for his or her records. A multiple support declaration identifying each of the others who agreed not to claim the person as a dependent must be attached to the return of the person claiming the person as a dependent. Form 2120 can be used for this purpose. You can claim someone as a dependent under a multiple support agreement for someone related to you or for someone who lived with you all year as a member of your household. Example 1. You, your sister, and your two brothers provide the entire support of your mother for the year. You provide 45%, your sister 35%, and your two brothers each provide 10%. Either you or your sister can claim your mother as a dependent. The other must sign a statement agreeing not to claim your mother as a dependent. The one who claims your mother as a dependent must attach Form 2120, or a similar declaration, to his or her return and must keep the statement signed by the other for his or her records. Because neither brother provides more than 10% of the support, neither can claim your mother as a dependent and neither has to sign a statement. Example 2. You and your brother each provide 20% of your mother's support for the year. The remaining 60% of her support is provided equally by two persons who aren't related to her. She doesn't live with them. Because more than half of her support is provided by persons who can’t claim her as a dependent, no one can claim her as a dependent. Example 3. Your father lives with you and receives 25% of his support from social security, 40% from you, 24% from his brother (your uncle), and 11% from a friend. Either you or your uncle can claim your father as a dependent if the other signs a statement agreeing not to. The one who claims your father as a dependent must attach Form 2120, or a similar declaration, to his return and must keep for his records the signed statement from the one agreeing not to claim your father as a dependent. Support Test for Children of Divorced or Separated Parents (or Parents Who Live Apart)In most cases, a child of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart) will be a qualifying child of one of the parents. See Children of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart) under Qualifying Child, earlier. However, if the child doesn't meet the requirements to be a qualifying child of either parent, the child may be a qualifying relative of one of the parents. If you think this might apply to you, see Pub. 501. Social Security Numbers for DependentsYou must show the social security number (SSN) of any dependent you list in the Dependents section of your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. . No SSN. If a person whom you expect to claim as a dependent on your return doesn't have an SSN, either you or that person should apply for an SSN as soon as possible by filing Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card, with the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can get Form SS-5 online at SSA.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf or at your local SSA office. It usually takes about 2 weeks to get an SSN once the SSA has all the information it needs. If you don’t have a required SSN by the filing due date, you can file Form 4868 for an extension of time to file. Born and died in 2021. If your child was born and died in 2021, and you don’t have an SSN for the child, you may attach a copy of the child's birth certificate, death certificate, or hospital records instead. The document must show the child was born alive. If you do this, enter “DIED” in column (2) of the Dependents section of your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Alien or adoptee with no SSN. If your dependent doesn't have and can’t get an SSN, you must list the individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) or adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN) instead of an SSN. Taxpayer identification numbers for aliens. If your dependent is a resident or nonresident alien who doesn't have and isn't eligible to get an SSN, your dependent must apply for an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). For details on how to apply, see Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
Taxpayer identification numbers for adoptees. If you have a child who was placed with you by an authorized placement agency, you may be able to claim the child as a dependent. However, if you can’t get an SSN or an ITIN for the child, you must get an adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN) for the child from the IRS. See Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions, for details. 4. Tax Withholding and Estimated TaxWhat's New for 2022Tax law changes for 2022. When you figure how much income tax you want withheld from your pay and when you figure your estimated tax, consider tax law changes effective in 2022. For more information, see Pub. 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax. RemindersEstimated tax safe harbor for higher income taxpayers. If your 2021 adjusted gross income was more than $150,000 ($75,000 if you are married filing a separate return), you must pay the smaller of 90% of your expected tax for 2022 or 110% of the tax shown on your 2021 return to avoid an estimated tax penalty. IntroductionThis chapter discusses how to pay your tax as you earn or receive income during the year. In general, the federal income tax is a pay-as-you-go tax. There are two ways to pay as you go.
This chapter explains these methods. In addition, it also explains the following.
Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Form (and Instructions)
Tax Withholding for 2022This section discusses income tax withholding on:
This section explains the rules for withholding tax from each of these types of income. This section also covers backup withholding on interest, dividends, and other payments. Salaries and WagesIncome tax is withheld from the pay of most employees. Your pay includes your regular pay, bonuses, commissions, and vacation allowances. It also includes reimbursements and other expense allowances paid under a nonaccountable plan. See Supplemental Wages, later, for more information about reimbursements and allowances paid under a nonaccountable plan. If your income is low enough that you won't have to pay income tax for the year, you may be exempt from withholding. This is explained under Exemption From Withholding, later. You can ask your employer to withhold income tax from noncash wages and other wages not subject to withholding. If your employer doesn't agree to withhold tax, or if not enough is withheld, you may have to pay estimated tax, as discussed later under Estimated Tax for 2022. Military retirees. Military retirement pay is treated in the same manner as regular pay for income tax withholding purposes, even though it is treated as a pension or annuity for other tax purposes. Household workers. If you are a household worker, you can ask your employer to withhold income tax from your pay. A household worker is an employee who performs household work in a private home, local college club, or local fraternity or sorority chapter. Tax is withheld only if you want it withheld and your employer agrees to withhold it. If you don't have enough income tax withheld, you may have to pay estimated tax, as discussed later under Estimated Tax for 2022. Farmworkers. Generally, income tax is withheld from your cash wages for work on a farm unless your employer does both of these:
Differential wage payments. When employees are on leave from employment for military duty, some employers make up the difference between the military pay and civilian pay. Payments to an employee who is on active duty for a period of more than 30 days will be subject to income tax withholding, but not subject to social security, Medicare, or federal unemployment (FUTA) tax withholding. The wages and withholding will be reported on Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement. Determining Amount of Tax Withheld Using Form W-4The amount of income tax your employer withholds from your regular pay depends on two things.
Form W-4 includes steps to help you figure your withholding. Complete Steps 2 through 4 only if they apply to you.
New JobWhen you start a new job, you must fill out Form W-4 and give it to your employer. Your employer should have copies of the form. If you need to change the information later, you must fill out a new form. If you work only part of the year (for example, you start working after the beginning of the year), too much tax may be withheld. You may be able to avoid overwithholding if your employer agrees to use the part-year method. See Part-Year Method in chapter 1 of Pub. 505 for more information. Employee also receiving pension income. If you receive pension or annuity income and begin a new job, you will need to file Form W-4 with your new employer. However, you can choose to split your withholding between your pension and job in any manner. Changing Your WithholdingDuring the year, changes may occur to your marital status, adjustments, deductions, or credits you expect to claim on your tax return. When this happens, you may need to give your employer a new Form W-4 to change your withholding status. If a change in personal circumstances reduces the amount of withholding you are entitled to claim, you are required to give your employer a new Form W-4 within 10 days after the change occurs. Changing your withholding for 2023. If events in 2022 will change the amount of withholding you should claim for 2023, you must give your employer a new Form W-4 by December 1, 2022. If the event occurs in December 2022, submit a new Form W-4 within 10 days. Checking Your WithholdingAfter you have given your employer a Form W-4, you can check to see whether the amount of tax withheld from your pay is too little or too much. If too much or too little tax is being withheld, you should give your employer a new Form W-4 to change your withholding. You should try to have your withholding match your actual tax liability. If not enough tax is withheld, you will owe tax at the end of the year and may have to pay interest and a penalty. If too much tax is withheld, you will lose the use of that money until you get your refund. Always check your withholding if there are personal or financial changes in your life or changes in the law that might change your tax liability. Note.You can’t give your employer a payment to cover withholding on salaries and wages for past pay periods or a payment for estimated tax. Completing Form W-4 and WorksheetsForm W-4 has worksheets to help you figure the correct amount of withholding you can claim. The worksheets are for your own records. Don't give them to your employer. Multiple Jobs Worksheet. If you have income from more than one job at the same time, or are married filing jointly and you and your spouse both work, complete the Multiple Jobs Worksheet on the Form W-4. If you and your spouse expect to file separate returns, figure your withholding using separate worksheets based on your own individual income, adjustments, deductions, and credits. Deductions Worksheet. Use the Deductions Worksheet on Form W-4 if you plan to itemize deductions or claim certain adjustments to income and you want to reduce your withholding. Also complete this worksheet when you have changes to these items to see if you need to change your withholding. Getting the Right Amount of Tax WithheldIn most situations, the tax withheld from your pay will be close to the tax you figure on your return if you follow these two rules.
But because the worksheets and withholding methods don't account for all possible situations, you may not be getting the right amount withheld. This is most likely to happen in the following situations.
Cumulative wage method. If you change the amount of your withholding during the year, too much or too little tax may have been withheld for the period before you made the change. You may be able to compensate for this if your employer agrees to use the cumulative wage withholding method for the rest of the year. You must ask your employer in writing to use this method. To be eligible, you must have been paid for the same kind of payroll period (weekly, biweekly, etc.) since the beginning of the year.
Publication 505To make sure you are getting the right amount of tax withheld, get Pub. 505. It will help you compare the total tax to be withheld during the year with the tax you can expect to figure on your return. It will also help you determine how much, if any, additional withholding is needed each payday to avoid owing tax when you file your return. If you don't have enough tax withheld, you may have to pay estimated tax, as explained under Estimated Tax for 2022, later. . Rules Your Employer Must FollowIt may be helpful for you to know some of the withholding rules your employer must follow. These rules can affect how to fill out your Form W-4 and how to handle problems that may arise. New Form W-4. When you start a new job, your employer should have you complete a Form W-4. Beginning with your first payday, your employer will use the information you give on the form to figure your withholding. If you later fill out a new Form W-4, your employer can put it into effect as soon as possible. The deadline for putting it into effect is the start of the first payroll period ending 30 or more days after you turn it in. No Form W-4. If you don't give your employer a completed Form W-4, your employer must withhold at the highest rate, as if you were single. Repaying withheld tax. If you find you are having too much tax withheld because you didn't claim the correct amount of withholding you are entitled to, you should give your employer a new Form W-4. Your employer can’t repay any of the tax previously withheld. Instead, claim the full amount withheld when you file your tax return. However, if your employer has withheld more than the correct amount of tax for the Form W-4 you have in effect, you don't have to fill out a new Form W-4 to have your withholding lowered to the correct amount. Your employer can repay the amount that was withheld incorrectly. If you aren’t repaid, your Form W-2 will reflect the full amount actually withheld, which you would claim when you file your tax return. Exemption From WithholdingIf you claim exemption from withholding, your employer won't withhold federal income tax from your wages. The exemption applies only to income tax, not to social security, Medicare, or FUTA tax withholding. You can claim exemption from withholding for 2022 only if both of the following situations apply.
Students. If you are a student, you aren’t automatically exempt. See chapter 1 to find out if you must file a return. If you work only part time or only during the summer, you may qualify for exemption from withholding. Age 65 or older or blind. If you are 65 or older or blind, use Worksheet 1-1 or 1-2 in chapter 1 of Pub. 505 to help you decide if you qualify for exemption from withholding. Don't use either worksheet if you will itemize deductions or claim tax credits on your 2022 return. Instead, see Itemizing deductions or claiming credits in chapter 1 of Pub. 505. Claiming exemption from withholding. To claim exemption, you must give your employer a Form W-4. Write “Exempt” on the form in the space below Step 4(c) and complete the applicable steps of the form. If you claim exemption, but later your situation changes so that you will have to pay income tax after all, you must file a new Form W-4 within 10 days after the change. If you claim exemption in 2022, but you expect to owe income tax for 2023, you must file a new Form W-4 by December 1, 2022. Your claim of exempt status may be reviewed by the IRS. An exemption is good for only 1 year. You must give your employer a new Form W-4 by February 15 each year to continue your exemption. Supplemental WagesSupplemental wages include bonuses, commissions, overtime pay, vacation allowances, certain sick pay, and expense allowances under certain plans. The payer can figure withholding on supplemental wages using the same method used for your regular wages. However, if these payments are identified separately from your regular wages, your employer or other payer of supplemental wages can withhold income tax from these wages at a flat rate. Expense allowances. Reimbursements or other expense allowances paid by your employer under a nonaccountable plan are treated as supplemental wages. Reimbursements or other expense allowances paid under an accountable plan that are more than your proven expenses are treated as paid under a nonaccountable plan if you don't return the excess payments within a reasonable period of time. For more information about accountable and nonaccountable expense allowance plans, see Pub. 505. PenaltiesYou may have to pay a penalty of $500 if both of the following apply.
There is also a criminal penalty for willfully supplying false or fraudulent information on your Form W-4 or for willfully failing to supply information that would increase the amount withheld. The penalty upon conviction can be either a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to 1 year, or both. These penalties will apply if you deliberately and knowingly falsify your Form W-4 in an attempt to reduce or eliminate the proper withholding of taxes. A simple error or an honest mistake won't result in one of these penalties. TipsThe tips you receive while working on your job are considered part of your pay. You must include your tips on your tax return on the same line as your regular pay. However, tax isn't withheld directly from tip income, as it is from your regular pay. Nevertheless, your employer will take into account the tips you report when figuring how much to withhold from your regular pay. For more information on reporting your tips to your employer and on the withholding rules for tip income, see Pub. 531, Reporting Tip Income. How employer figures amount to withhold. The tips you report to your employer are counted as part of your income for the month you report them. Your employer can figure your withholding in either of two ways.
Not enough pay to cover taxes. If your regular pay isn't enough for your employer to withhold all the tax (including income tax and social security and Medicare taxes (or the equivalent railroad retirement tax)) due on your pay plus your tips, you can give your employer money to cover the shortage. See Pub. 531 for more information. Allocated tips. Your employer shouldn't withhold income tax, Medicare tax, social security tax, or railroad retirement tax on any allocated tips. Withholding is based only on your pay plus your reported tips. Your employer should refund to you any incorrectly withheld tax. See Pub. 531 for more information. Taxable Fringe BenefitsThe value of certain noncash fringe benefits you receive from your employer is considered part of your pay. Your employer must generally withhold income tax on these benefits from your regular pay. For information on fringe benefits, see Fringe Benefits under Employee Compensation in chapter 5. Although the value of your personal use of an employer-provided car, truck, or other highway motor vehicle is taxable, your employer can choose not to withhold income tax on that amount. Your employer must notify you if this choice is made. For more information on withholding on taxable fringe benefits, see chapter 1 of Pub. 505. Sick PaySick pay is a payment to you to replace your regular wages while you are temporarily absent from work due to sickness or personal injury. To qualify as sick pay, it must be paid under a plan to which your employer is a party. If you receive sick pay from your employer or an agent of your employer, income tax must be withheld. An agent who doesn't pay regular wages to you may choose to withhold income tax at a flat rate. However, if you receive sick pay from a third party who isn't acting as an agent of your employer, income tax will be withheld only if you choose to have it withheld. See Form W-4S, later. If you receive payments under a plan in which your employer doesn't participate (such as an accident or health plan where you paid all the premiums), the payments aren’t sick pay and usually aren’t taxable. Union agreements. If you receive sick pay under a collective bargaining agreement between your union and your employer, the agreement may determine the amount of income tax withholding. See your union representative or your employer for more information. Form W-4S. If you choose to have income tax withheld from sick pay paid by a third party, such as an insurance company, you must fill out Form W-4S. Its instructions contain a worksheet you can use to figure the amount you want withheld. They also explain restrictions that may apply. Give the completed form to the payer of your sick pay. The payer must withhold according to your directions on the form. Estimated tax. If you don't request withholding on Form W-4S, or if you don't have enough tax withheld, you may have to make estimated tax payments. If you don't pay enough tax, either through estimated tax or withholding, or a combination of both, you may have to pay a penalty. See Underpayment Penalty for 2021 at the end of this chapter. Pensions and AnnuitiesIncome tax will usually be withheld from your pension or annuity distributions unless you choose not to have it withheld. This rule applies to distributions from:
The amount withheld depends on whether you receive payments spread out over more than 1 year (periodic payments), within 1 year (nonperiodic payments), or as an eligible rollover distribution (ERD). Income tax withholding from an ERD is mandatory. More information. For more information on withholding on pensions and annuities, including a discussion of Form W-4P, see Pensions and Annuities in chapter 1 of Pub. 505. Gambling WinningsIncome tax is withheld at a flat 24% rate from certain kinds of gambling winnings. Gambling winnings of more than $5,000 from the following sources are subject to income tax withholding.
It doesn't matter whether your winnings are paid in cash, in property, or as an annuity. Winnings not paid in cash are taken into account at their fair market value. Exception. Gambling winnings from bingo, keno, and slot machines generally aren’t subject to income tax withholding. However, you may need to provide the payer with a social security number to avoid withholding. See Backup withholding on gambling winnings in chapter 1 of Pub. 505. If you receive gambling winnings not subject to withholding, you may need to pay estimated tax. See Estimated Tax for 2022, later. If you don't pay enough tax, either through withholding or estimated tax, or a combination of both, you may have to pay a penalty. See Underpayment Penalty for 2021 at the end of this chapter. Form W-2G. If a payer withholds income tax from your gambling winnings, you should receive a Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings, showing the amount you won and the amount withheld. Report the tax withheld on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 25c. Unemployment CompensationYou can choose to have income tax withheld from unemployment compensation. To make this choice, fill out Form W-4V (or a similar form provided by the payer) and give it to the payer. All unemployment compensation is taxable. If you don't have income tax withheld, you may have to pay estimated tax. See Estimated Tax for 2022, later. If you don't pay enough tax, either through withholding or estimated tax, or a combination of both, you may have to pay a penalty. See Underpayment Penalty for 2021 at the end of this chapter. Federal PaymentsYou can choose to have income tax withheld from certain federal payments you receive. These payments are the following.
To make this choice, fill out Form W-4V (or a similar form provided by the payer) and give it to the payer. If you don't choose to have income tax withheld, you may have to pay estimated tax. See Estimated Tax for 2022, later. If you don't pay enough tax, either through withholding or estimated tax, or a combination of both, you may have to pay a penalty. See Underpayment Penalty for 2021 at the end of this chapter. More information. For more information about the tax treatment of social security and railroad retirement benefits, see chapter 7. Get Pub. 225, Farmer's Tax Guide, for information about the tax treatment of commodity credit corporation loans or crop disaster payments. Backup WithholdingBanks or other businesses that pay you certain kinds of income must file an information return (Form 1099) with the IRS. The information return shows how much you were paid during the year. It also includes your name and taxpayer identification number (TIN). TINs are explained in chapter 1 under Social Security Number (SSN). These payments generally aren’t subject to withholding. However, “backup” withholding is required in certain situations. Backup withholding can apply to most kinds of payments that are reported on Form 1099. The payer must withhold at a flat 24% rate in the following situations.
Go to IRS.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-Self-Employed/Backup-Withholding for more information on kinds of payments subject to backup withholding. Penalties. There are civil and criminal penalties for giving false information to avoid backup withholding. The civil penalty is $500. The criminal penalty, upon conviction, is a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment of up to 1 year, or both. Estimated Tax for 2022Estimated tax is the method used to pay tax on income that isn't subject to withholding. This includes income from self-employment, interest, dividends, alimony, rent, gains from the sale of assets, prizes, and awards. You may also have to pay estimated tax if the amount of income tax being withheld from your salary, pension, or other income isn't enough. Estimated tax is used to pay both income tax and self-employment tax, as well as other taxes and amounts reported on your tax return. If you don't pay enough tax, either through withholding or estimated tax, or a combination of both, you may have to pay a penalty. If you don't pay enough by the due date of each payment period (see When To Pay Estimated Tax, later), you may be charged a penalty even if you are due a refund when you file your tax return. For information on when the penalty applies, see Underpayment Penalty for 2021 at the end of this chapter. Who Doesn't Have To Pay Estimated TaxIf you receive salaries or wages, you can avoid having to pay estimated tax by asking your employer to take more tax out of your earnings. To do this, give a new Form W-4 to your employer. See chapter 1 of Pub. 505. Estimated tax not required. You don't have to pay estimated tax for 2022 if you meet all three of the following conditions.
You had no tax liability for 2021 if your total tax was zero or you didn't have to file an income tax return. For the definition of “total tax” for 2021, see Pub. 505, chapter 2. Who Must Pay Estimated TaxIf you owe additional tax for 2021, you may have to pay estimated tax for 2022. You can use the following general rule as a guide during the year to see if you will have enough withholding, or if you should increase your withholding or make estimated tax payments. General rule. In most cases, you must pay estimated tax for 2022 if both of the following apply.
. Special rules for farmers, fishermen, and higher income taxpayers. If at least two-thirds of your gross income for tax year 2021 or 2022 is from farming or fishing, substitute 662/3% for 90% in (2a) under the General rule, earlier. If your AGI for 2021 was more than $150,000 ($75,000 if your filing status for 2022 is married filing a separate return), substitute 110% for 100% in (2b) under General rule, earlier. See Figure 4-A and Pub. 505, chapter 2, for more information. Figure 4-A. Do You Have To Pay Estimated Tax?
Figure 4-A Do You Have To Pay Estimated Tax? Figure 4-A. Do You Have To Pay Estimated Tax? Figure 4-A. Do You Have To Pay Estimated Tax? Summary: This flowchart is used to determine if you have to pay estimated tax. Start This is the starting of the flowchart. Decision (1) Will you owe $1,000 or more for 2022 after subtracting income tax withholding and refundable credits (see footnote 1) from your total tax? (Don't subtract any estimated tax payments.) Footnote 1: Use the refundable credits shown on the 2022 Estimated Tax Worksheet in Pub. 505.
Decision (2) Will your income tax withholding and refundable credits (see footnote 1) be at least 90% (66 2/3% for farmers and fishermen) of the tax shown on your 2022 tax return?
Decision (3) Will your income tax withholding and refundable credits (see footnote 1) be at least 100% (see footnote 2) of the tax shown on your 2021 tax return? Note: Your 2021 return must have covered a 12-month period. Footnote 2: 110% if less than two-thirds of your gross income for 2021 and 2022 is from farming or fishing and your 2021 adjusted gross income was more than $150,000 ($75,000 if your filing status for 2022 is married filing a separate return).
Process (a) You are NOT required to pay estimated tax. Continue To End Process (b) You MUST make estimated tax payment(s) by the required due date(s). See When To Pay Estimated Tax. Continue To End End This is the ending of the flowchart. Please click here for the text description of the image. Aliens. Resident and nonresident aliens may also have to pay estimated tax. Resident aliens should follow the rules in this chapter unless noted otherwise. Nonresident aliens should get Form 1040-ES (NR), U.S. Estimated Tax for Nonresident Alien Individuals. You are an alien if you aren’t a citizen or national of the United States. You are a resident alien if you either have a green card or meet the substantial presence test. For more information about the substantial presence test, see Pub. 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens. Married taxpayers. If you qualify to make joint estimated tax payments, apply the rules discussed here to your joint estimated income. You and your spouse can make joint estimated tax payments even if you aren’t living together. However, you and your spouse can’t make joint estimated tax payments if:
If you and your spouse can’t make estimated tax payments, apply these rules to your separate estimated income. Making joint or separate estimated tax payments won't affect your choice of filing a joint tax return or separate returns for 2022. 2021 separate returns and 2022 joint return. If you plan to file a joint return with your spouse for 2022 but you filed separate returns for 2021, your 2021 tax is the total of the tax shown on your separate returns. You filed a separate return if you filed as single, head of household, or married filing separately. 2021 joint return and 2022 separate returns. If you plan to file a separate return for 2022 but you filed a joint return for 2021, your 2021 tax is your share of the tax on the joint return. You file a separate return if you file as single, head of household, or married filing separately. To figure your share of the tax on the joint return, first figure the tax both you and your spouse would have paid had you filed separate returns for 2021 using the same filing status as for 2022. Then, multiply the tax on the joint return by the following fraction.
Example. Joe and Heather filed a joint return for 2021 showing taxable income of $48,500 and a tax of $5,425. Of the $48,500 taxable income, $40,100 was Joe's and the rest was Heather's. For 2022, they plan to file married filing separately. Joe figures his share of the tax on the 2021 joint return as follows.
How To Figure Estimated TaxTo figure your estimated tax, you must figure your expected adjusted gross income (AGI), taxable income, taxes, deductions, and credits for the year. When figuring your 2022 estimated tax, it may be helpful to use your income, deductions, and credits for 2021 as a starting point. Use your 2021 federal tax return as a guide. You can use Form 1040-ES and Pub. 505 to figure your estimated tax. Nonresident aliens use Form 1040-ES (NR) and Pub. 505 to figure estimated tax (see chapter 8 of Pub. 519 for more information). You must make adjustments both for changes in your own situation and for recent changes in the tax law. For a discussion of these changes, visit IRS.gov. For more complete information on how to figure your estimated tax for 2022, see chapter 2 of Pub. 505. When To Pay Estimated TaxFor estimated tax purposes, the tax year is divided into four payment periods. Each period has a specific payment due date. If you don't pay enough tax by the due date of each payment period, you may be charged a penalty even if you are due a refund when you file your income tax return. The payment periods and due dates for estimated tax payments are shown next.
Saturday, Sunday, holiday rule. If the due date for an estimated tax payment falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the payment will be on time if you make it on the next day that isn't a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday. January payment. If you file your 2022 Form 1040 or 1040-SR by January 31, 2023, and pay the rest of the tax you owe, you don't need to make the payment due on January 17, 2023. Fiscal year taxpayers. If your tax year doesn't start on January 1, see the Form 1040-ES instructions for your payment due dates. When To StartYou don't have to make estimated tax payments until you have income on which you will owe income tax. If you have income subject to estimated tax during the first payment period, you must make your first payment by the due date for the first payment period. You can pay all your estimated tax at that time, or you can pay it in installments. If you choose to pay in installments, make your first payment by the due date for the first payment period. Make your remaining installment payments by the due dates for the later periods. No income subject to estimated tax during first period. If you don't have income subject to estimated tax until a later payment period, you must make your first payment by the due date for that period. You can pay your entire estimated tax by the due date for that period or you can pay it in installments by the due date for that period and the due dates for the remaining periods. Table 4-1.General Due Dates for Estimated Tax Installment Payments
How much to pay to avoid a penalty. To determine how much you should pay by each payment due date, see How To Figure Each Payment next.
How To Figure Each PaymentYou should pay enough estimated tax by the due date of each payment period to avoid a penalty for that period. You can figure your required payment for each period by using either the regular installment method or the annualized income installment method. These methods are described in chapter 2 of Pub. 505. If you don't pay enough during each payment period, you may be charged a penalty even if you are due a refund when you file your tax return. If the earlier discussion of No income subject to estimated tax during first period or the later discussion of Change in estimated tax applies to you, you may benefit from reading Annualized Income Installment Method in chapter 2 of Pub. 505 for information on how to avoid a penalty. Underpayment penalty. Under the regular installment method, if your estimated tax payment for any period is less than one-fourth of your estimated tax, you may be charged a penalty for underpayment of estimated tax for that period when you file your tax return. Under the annualized income installment method, your estimated tax payments vary with your income, but the amount required must be paid each period. See Instructions for Form 2210 for more information.
Change in estimated tax. After you make an estimated tax payment, changes in your income, adjustments, deductions, or credits may make it necessary for you to refigure your estimated tax. Pay the unpaid balance of your amended estimated tax by the next payment due date after the change or in installments by that date and the due dates for the remaining payment periods. Estimated Tax Payments Not RequiredYou don't have to pay estimated tax if your withholding in each payment period is at least as much as:
You also don't have to pay estimated tax if you will pay enough through withholding to keep the amount you owe with your return under $1,000. How To Pay Estimated TaxThere are several ways to pay estimated tax.
Credit an OverpaymentIf you show an overpayment of tax after completing your Form 1040 or 1040-SR for 2021, you can apply part or all of it to your estimated tax for 2022. On line 36 of Form 1040 or 1040-SR, enter the amount you want credited to your estimated tax rather than refunded. Take the amount you have credited into account when figuring your estimated tax payments. You can’t have any of the amount you credited to your estimated tax refunded to you until you file your tax return for the following year. You also can’t use that overpayment in any other way. Pay OnlineThe IRS offers an electronic payment option that is right for you. Paying online is convenient, secure, and helps make sure we get your payments on time. To pay your taxes online or for more information, go to IRS.gov/Payments. You can pay using any of the following methods.
Pay by PhonePaying by phone is another safe and secure method of paying electronically. Use one of the following methods: (1) call one of the debit or credit card providers, or (2) use the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS). Debit or credit card. Call one of our service providers. Each charges a fee that varies by provider, card type, and payment amount. Link2Gov Corporation888-PAY-1040TM (888-729-1040) www.PAY1040.comWorldPay US, Inc. 844-PAY-TAX-8TM (844-729-8298) www.payUSAtax.comACI Payments, Inc. (Formerly Official Payments) 888-272-9829 www.fed.acipayonline.com EFTPS. To use EFTPS, you must be enrolled either online or have an enrollment form mailed to you. To make a payment using EFTPS, call 800-555-4477 (English) or 800-244-4829 (Español). People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and who have access to TTY/TDD equipment can call 800-733-4829. For more information about EFTPS, go to IRS.gov/Payments or www.EFTPS.gov. Pay by Mobile DeviceTo pay through your mobile device, download the IRS2Go application. Pay by CashCash is an in-person payment option for individuals provided through retail partners with a maximum of $1,000 per day per transaction. To make a cash payment, you must first be registered online at www.fed.acipayonline.com, our Official Payment provider. Pay by Check or Money Order Using the Estimated Tax Payment VoucherBefore submitting a payment through the mail using the estimated tax payment voucher, please consider alternative methods. One of our safe, quick, and easy electronic payment options might be right for you. If you choose to mail in your payment, each payment of estimated tax by check or money order must be accompanied by a payment voucher from Form 1040-ES. During 2021, if you:
then you should receive a copy of the 2022 Form 1040-ES with payment vouchers. The enclosed payment vouchers will be preprinted with your name, address, and social security number. Using the preprinted vouchers will speed processing, reduce the chance of error, and help save processing costs. Use the window envelopes that came with your Form 1040-ES package. If you use your own envelopes, make sure you mail your payment vouchers to the address shown in the Form 1040-ES instructions for the place where you live. No checks of $100 million or more accepted. The IRS can’t accept a single check (including a cashier’s check) for amounts of $100,000,000 ($100 million) or more. If you are sending $100 million or more by check, you’ll need to spread the payment over two or more checks with each check made out for an amount less than $100 million. This limit doesn’t apply to other methods of payment (such as electronic payments). Please consider a method of payment other than check if the amount of the payment is over $100 million. Note.These criteria can change without notice. If you don't receive a Form 1040-ES package and you are required to make an estimated tax payment, you should go to IRS.gov/Form1040ES and print a copy of Form 1040-ES that includes four blank payment vouchers. Complete one of these and make your payment timely to avoid penalties for paying late. . If you didn't pay estimated tax last year, you can order Form 1040-ES from the IRS (see the inside back cover of this publication) or download it from IRS.gov. Follow the instructions to make sure you use the vouchers correctly. Joint estimated tax payments. If you file a joint return and are making joint estimated tax payments, enter the names and social security numbers on the payment voucher in the same order as they will appear on the joint return. Change of address. You must notify the IRS if you are making estimated tax payments and you changed your address during the year. Complete Form 8822, Change of Address, and mail it to the address shown in the instructions for that form. Credit for Withholding and Estimated Tax for 2021When you file your 2021 income tax return, take credit for all the income tax and excess social security or railroad retirement tax withheld from your salary, wages, pensions, etc. Also take credit for the estimated tax you paid for 2021. These credits are subtracted from your total tax. Because these credits are refundable, you should file a return and claim these credits, even if you don't owe tax. Two or more employers. If you had two or more employers in 2021 and were paid wages of more than $142,800, too much social security or tier 1 railroad retirement tax may have been withheld from your pay. You may be able to claim the excess as a credit against your income tax when you file your return. See the Instructions for Form 1040 for more information. WithholdingIf you had income tax withheld during 2021, you should be sent a statement by January 31, 2022, showing your income and the tax withheld. Depending on the source of your income, you should receive:
Forms W-2 and W-2G. If you file a paper return, always file Form W-2 with your income tax return. File Form W-2G with your return only if it shows any federal income tax withheld from your winnings. You should get at least two copies of each form. If you file a paper return, attach one copy to the front of your federal income tax return. Keep one copy for your records. You should also receive copies to file with your state and local returns. Form W-2Your employer is required to provide or send Form W-2 to you no later than January 31, 2022. You should receive a separate Form W-2 from each employer you worked for. If you stopped working before the end of 2021, your employer could have given you your Form W-2 at any time after you stopped working. However, your employer must provide or send it to you by January 31, 2022. If you ask for the form, your employer must send it to you within 30 days after receiving your written request or within 30 days after your final wage payment, whichever is later. If you haven't received your Form W-2 by January 31, you should ask your employer for it. If you don't receive it by early February, call the IRS. Form W-2 shows your total pay and other compensation and the income tax, social security tax, and Medicare tax that was withheld during the year. Include the federal income tax withheld (as shown in box 2 of Form W-2) on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 25a. In addition, Form W-2 is used to report any taxable sick pay you received and any income tax withheld from your sick pay. Form W-2GIf you had gambling winnings in 2021, the payer may have withheld income tax. If tax was withheld, the payer will give you a Form W-2G showing the amount you won and the amount of tax withheld. Report the amounts you won on Schedule 1 (Form 1040). Take credit for the tax withheld on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 25c. The 1099 SeriesMost forms in the 1099 series aren’t filed with your return. These forms should be furnished to you by January 31, 2022 (or, for Forms 1099-B, 1099-S, and certain Forms 1099-MISC, by February 15, 2022). Unless instructed to file any of these forms with your return, keep them for your records. There are several different forms in this series, which are not listed. See the instructions for the specific Form 1099 for more information. Form 1099-R. Attach Form 1099-R to your paper return if box 4 shows federal income tax withheld. Include the amount withheld in the total on line 25b of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Backup withholding. If you were subject to backup withholding on income you received during 2021, include the amount withheld, as shown on your Form 1099, in the total on line 25b of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Form Not CorrectIf you receive a form with incorrect information on it, you should ask the payer for a corrected form. Call the telephone number or write to the address given for the payer on the form. The corrected Form W-2G or Form 1099 you receive will have an “X” in the “CORRECTED” box at the top of the form. A special form, Form W-2c, Corrected Wage and Tax Statement, is used to correct a Form W-2. In certain situations, you will receive two forms in place of the original incorrect form. This will happen when your taxpayer identification number is wrong or missing, your name and address are wrong, or you received the wrong type of form (for example, a Form 1099-DIV, Dividends and Distributions, instead of a Form 1099-INT, Interest Income). One new form you receive will be the same incorrect form or have the same incorrect information, but all money amounts will be zero. This form will have an “X” in the “CORRECTED” box at the top of the form. The second new form should have all the correct information, prepared as though it is the original (the “CORRECTED” box won't be checked). Form Received After FilingIf you file your return and you later receive a form for income that you didn't include on your return, you should report the income and take credit for any income tax withheld by filing Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. Separate ReturnsIf you are married but file a separate return, you can take credit only for the tax withheld from your own income. Don't include any amount withheld from your spouse's income. However, different rules may apply if you live in a community property state. Community property states are listed in chapter 2. For more information on these rules, and some exceptions, see Pub. 555, Community Property. Estimated TaxTake credit for all your estimated tax payments for 2021 on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 26. Include any overpayment from 2020 that you had credited to your 2021 estimated tax. Name changed. If you changed your name, and you made estimated tax payments using your old name, attach a brief statement to the front of your paper tax return indicating:
The statement should cover payments you made jointly with your spouse as well as any you made separately. Be sure to report the change to the Social Security Administration. This prevents delays in processing your return and issuing any refunds. Separate ReturnsIf you and your spouse made separate estimated tax payments for 2021 and you file separate returns, you can take credit only for your own payments. If you made joint estimated tax payments, you must decide how to divide the payments between your returns. One of you can claim all of the estimated tax paid and the other none, or you can divide it in any other way you agree on. If you can’t agree, you must divide the payments in proportion to each spouse's individual tax as shown on your separate returns for 2021. Divorced TaxpayersIf you made joint estimated tax payments for 2021, and you were divorced during the year, either you or your former spouse can claim all of the joint payments, or you each can claim part of them. If you can’t agree on how to divide the payments, you must divide them in proportion to each spouse's individual tax as shown on your separate returns for 2021. If you claim any of the joint payments on your tax return, enter your former spouse's social security number (SSN) in the space provided on the front of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. If you divorced and remarried in 2021, enter your present spouse's SSN in the space provided on the front of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Also, on the dotted line next to line 26, enter your former spouse’s SSN, followed by “DIV.” Underpayment Penalty for 2021If you didn't pay enough tax, either through withholding or by making timely estimated tax payments, you will have an underpayment of estimated tax and you may have to pay a penalty. Generally, you won't have to pay a penalty for 2021 if any of the following apply.
Farmers and fishermen. Special rules apply if you are a farmer or fisherman. See the Instructions for Form 2210-F for more information. IRS can figure the penalty for you. If you think you owe the penalty but you don't want to figure it yourself when you file your tax return, you may not have to. Generally, the IRS will figure the penalty for you and send you a bill. However, if you think you are able to lower or eliminate your penalty, you must complete Form 2210 or Form 2210-F and attach it to your paper return. See Instructions for Form 2210 for more information. Part Two - Income and Adjustments to IncomeThe five chapters in this part discuss many kinds of income and adjustments to income. They explain which income is and isn’t taxed and discuss some of the adjustments to income that you can make in figuring your adjusted gross income. The Form 1040 and 1040-SR schedules that are discussed in these chapters are:
Table V. Other Adjustments to Income
5. Wages, Salaries, and Other EarningsRemindersDeferred compensation contribution limit. If you participate in a 401(k) plan, 403(b) plan, or the federal government's Thrift Savings Plan, the total annual amount you can contribute remains at $19,500 for 2021. This also applies to most 457 plans. IntroductionThis chapter discusses compensation received for services as an employee, such as wages, salaries, and fringe benefits. The following topics are included.
The chapter explains what income is included and isn’t included in the employee's gross income and what’s not included. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. Employee CompensationThis section discusses various types of employee compensation, including fringe benefits, retirement plan contributions, stock options, and restricted property. Form W-2. If you’re an employee, you should receive a Form W-2 from your employer showing the pay you received for your services. Include your pay on line 1 of Form 1040 or 1040-SR, even if you don’t receive a Form W-2. In some instances, your employer isn’t required to give you a Form W-2. Your employer isn’t required to give you a Form W-2 if you perform household work in your employer's home for less than $2,300 in cash wages during the calendar year and you have no federal income taxes withheld from your wages. Household work is work done in or around an employer's home. Some examples of workers who do household work are:
See Schedule H (Form 1040), Household Employment Taxes, and its instructions, and Pub. 926 for more information. If you performed services, other than as an independent contractor, and your employer didn’t withhold social security and Medicare taxes from your pay, you must file Form 8919, Uncollected Social Security and Medicare Tax on Wages, with your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. See Form 8919 and its instructions for more information on how to figure unreported wages and taxes and how to include them on your income tax return. Childcare providers. If you provide childcare, either in the child's home or in your home or other place of business, the pay you receive must be included in your income. If you aren’t an employee, you’re probably self-employed and must include payments for your services on Schedule C (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Business. You generally aren’t an employee unless you’re subject to the will and control of the person who employs you as to what you’re to do and how you’re to do it. Babysitting. If you’re paid to babysit, even for relatives or neighborhood children, whether on a regular basis or only periodically, the rules for childcare providers apply to you. Employment tax. Whether you're an employee or self-employed person, your income could be subject to self-employment tax. See the instructions for Schedules C and SE (Form 1040) if you're self-employed. Also, see Pub. 926 for more information. Miscellaneous CompensationThis section discusses different types of employee compensation. Advance commissions and other earnings. If you receive advance commissions or other amounts for services to be performed in the future and you’re a cash-method taxpayer, you must include these amounts in your income in the year you receive them. If you repay unearned commissions or other amounts in the same year you receive them, reduce the amount included in your income by the repayment. If you repay them in a later tax year, you can deduct the repayment as an itemized deduction on your Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16, or you may be able to take a credit for that year. See Repayments in chapter 8. Allowances and reimbursements. If you receive travel, transportation, or other business expense allowances or reimbursements from your employer, see Pub. 463, Travel, Gift, and Car Expenses. If you’re reimbursed for moving expenses, see Pub. 521, Moving Expenses. Back pay awards. If you receive an amount in payment of a settlement or judgment for back pay, you must include the amount of the payment in your income. This includes payments made to you for damages, unpaid life insurance premiums, and unpaid health insurance premiums. They should be reported to you by your employer on Form W-2. Bonuses and awards. If you receive a bonus or award (cash, goods, services) from your employer, you must include its value in your income. However, if your employer merely promises to pay you a bonus or award at some future time, it isn’t taxable until you receive it or it’s made available to you. Employee achievement award. If you receive tangible personal property (other than cash, a gift certificate, or an equivalent item) as an award for length of service or safety achievement, you can generally exclude its value from your income. The amount you can exclude is limited to your employer's cost and can’t be more than $1,600 for qualified plan awards or $400 for nonqualified plan awards for all such awards you receive during the year. Your employer can tell you whether your award is a qualified plan award. Your employer must make the award as part of a meaningful presentation, under conditions and circumstances that don’t create a significant likelihood of it being disguised pay. However, the exclusion doesn’t apply to the following awards.
Example. Ben Green received three employee achievement awards during the year: a nonqualified plan award of a watch valued at $250, two qualified plan awards of a stereo valued at $1,000, and a set of golf clubs valued at $500. Assuming that the requirements for qualified plan awards are otherwise satisfied, each award by itself would be excluded from income. However, because the $1,750 total value of the awards is more than $1,600, Ben must include $150 ($1,750 – $1,600) in his income. Differential wage payments. This is any payment made to you by an employer for any period during which you are, for a period of more than 30 days, an active duty member of the uniformed services and represents all or a portion of the wages you would have received from the employer during that period. These payments are treated as wages and are subject to income tax withholding, but not FICA or FUTA taxes. The payments are reported as wages on Form W-2. Government cost-of-living allowances. Most payments received by U.S. Government civilian employees for working abroad are taxable. However, certain cost-of-living allowances are tax free. Pub. 516, U.S. Government Civilian Employees Stationed Abroad, explains the tax treatment of allowances, differentials, and other special pay you receive for employment abroad. Nonqualified deferred compensation plans. Your employer may report to you the total amount of deferrals for the year under a nonqualified deferred compensation plan on Form W-2, box 12, using code Y. This amount isn’t included in your income. However, if at any time during the tax year, the plan fails to meet certain requirements, or isn’t operated under those requirements, all amounts deferred under the plan for the tax year and all preceding tax years to the extent vested and not previously included in income are included in your income for the current year. This amount is included in your wages shown on Form W-2, box 1. It’s also shown on Form W-2, box 12, using code Z. Note received for services. If your employer gives you a secured note as payment for your services, you must include the fair market value (usually the discount value) of the note in your income for the year you receive it. When you later receive payments on the note, a proportionate part of each payment is the recovery of the fair market value that you previously included in your income. Don’t include that part again in your income. Include the rest of the payment in your income in the year of payment. If your employer gives you a nonnegotiable unsecured note as payment for your services, payments on the note that are credited toward the principal amount of the note are compensation income when you receive them. Severance pay. If you receive a severance payment when your employment with your employer ends or is terminated, you must include this amount in your income. Accrued leave payment. If you’re a federal employee and receive a lump-sum payment for accrued annual leave when you retire or resign, this amount will be included as wages on your Form W-2. If you resign from one agency and are reemployed by another agency, you may have to repay part of your lump-sum annual leave payment to the second agency. You can reduce gross wages by the amount you repaid in the same tax year in which you received it. Attach to your tax return a copy of the receipt or statement given to you by the agency you repaid to explain the difference between the wages on the return and the wages on your Forms W-2. Outplacement services. If you choose to accept a reduced amount of severance pay so that you can receive outplacement services (such as training in résumé writing and interview techniques), you must include the unreduced amount of the severance pay in income. Sick pay. Pay you receive from your employer while you’re sick or injured is part of your salary or wages. In addition, you must include in your income sick pay benefits received from any of the following payers.
However, if you paid the premiums on an accident or health insurance policy yourself, the benefits you receive under the policy aren’t taxable. For more information, see Pub. 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income. Social security and Medicare taxes paid by employer. If you and your employer have an agreement that your employer pays your social security and Medicare taxes without deducting them from your gross wages, you must report the amount of tax paid for you as taxable wages on your tax return. The payment is also treated as wages for figuring your social security and Medicare taxes and your social security and Medicare benefits. However, these payments aren’t treated as social security and Medicare wages if you’re a household worker or a farm worker. Stock appreciation rights. Don’t include a stock appreciation right granted by your employer in income until you exercise (use) the right. When you use the right, you’re entitled to a cash payment equal to the fair market value of the corporation's stock on the date of use minus the fair market value on the date the right was granted. You include the cash payment in your income in the year you use the right. Fringe BenefitsFringe benefits received in connection with the performance of your services are included in your income as compensation unless you pay fair market value for them or they’re specifically excluded by law. Refraining from the performance of services (for example, under a covenant not to compete) is treated as the performance of services for purposes of these rules. Accounting period. You must use the same accounting period your employer uses to report your taxable noncash fringe benefits. Your employer has the option to report taxable noncash fringe benefits by using either of the following rules.
Your employer doesn’t have to use the same accounting period for each fringe benefit, but must use the same period for all employees who receive a particular benefit. You must use the same accounting period that you use to report the benefit to claim an employee business deduction (for use of a car, for example). Form W-2. Your employer must include all taxable fringe benefits in box 1 of Form W-2 as wages, tips, and other compensation and, if applicable, in boxes 3 and 5 as social security and Medicare wages. Although not required, your employer may include the total value of fringe benefits in box 14 (or on a separate statement). However, if your employer provided you with a vehicle and included 100% of its annual lease value in your income, the employer must separately report this value to you in box 14 (or on a separate statement). Accident or Health PlanIn most cases, the value of accident or health plan coverage provided to you by your employer isn’t included in your income. Benefits you receive from the plan may be taxable, as explained later under Sickness and Injury Benefits. For information on the items covered in this section, other than long-term care coverage, see Pub. 969, Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favored Health Plans. Long-term care coverage. Contributions by your employer to provide coverage for long-term care services generally aren’t included in your income. However, contributions made through a flexible spending or similar arrangement offered by your employer must be included in your income. This amount will be reported as wages in box 1 of your Form W-2. Contributions you make to the plan are discussed in Pub. 502, Medical and Dental Expenses. Archer MSA contributions. Contributions by your employer to your Archer MSA generally aren’t included in your income. Their total will be reported in box 12 of Form W-2 with code R. You must report this amount on Form 8853, Archer MSAs and Long-Term Care Insurance Contracts. File the form with your return. Health flexible spending arrangement (health FSA). If your employer provides a health FSA that qualifies as an accident or health plan, the amount of your salary reduction, and reimbursements of your medical care expenses, in most cases, aren’t included in your income. Note.Health FSAs are subject to a limit on salary reduction contributions for plan years beginning after 2012. For tax years beginning in 2021, the dollar limitation (as indexed for inflation) on voluntary employee salary reductions for contributions to health FSAs is $2,750. Health reimbursement arrangement (HRA). If your employer provides an HRA that qualifies as an accident or health plan, coverage and reimbursements of your medical care expenses generally aren’t included in your income. Health savings account (HSA). If you’re an eligible individual, you and any other person, including your employer or a family member, can make contributions to your HSA. Contributions, other than employer contributions, are deductible on your return whether or not you itemize deductions. Contributions made by your employer aren’t included in your income. Distributions from your HSA that are used to pay qualified medical expenses aren’t included in your income. Distributions not used for qualified medical expenses are included in your income. See Pub. 969 for the requirements of an HSA. Contributions by a partnership to a bona fide partner's HSA aren’t contributions by an employer. The contributions are treated as a distribution of money and aren’t included in the partner's gross income. Contributions by a partnership to a partner's HSA for services rendered are treated as guaranteed payments that are includible in the partner's gross income. In both situations, the partner can deduct the contribution made to the partner's HSA. Contributions by an S corporation to a 2% shareholder-employee's HSA for services rendered are treated as guaranteed payments and are includible in the shareholder-employee's gross income. The shareholder-employee can deduct the contribution made to the shareholder-employee's HSA. Qualified HSA funding distribution. You can make a one-time distribution from your individual retirement account (IRA) to an HSA and you generally won’t include any of the distribution in your income. Adoption AssistanceYou may be able to exclude from your income amounts paid or expenses incurred by your employer for qualified adoption expenses in connection with your adoption of an eligible child. See the Instructions for Form 8839, Qualified Adoption Expenses, for more information. Adoption benefits are reported by your employer in box 12 of Form W-2 with code T. They are also included as social security and Medicare wages in boxes 3 and 5. However, they aren’t included as wages in box 1. To determine the taxable and nontaxable amounts, you must complete Part III of Form 8839. File the form with your return. De Minimis (Minimal) BenefitsIf your employer provides you with a product or service and the cost of it is so small that it would be unreasonable for the employer to account for it, you generally don’t include its value in your income. In most cases, don’t include in your income the value of discounts at company cafeterias, cab fares home when working overtime, and company picnics. Holiday gifts. If your employer gives you a turkey, ham, or other item of nominal value at Christmas or other holidays, don’t include the value of the gift in your income. However, if your employer gives you cash or a cash equivalent, you must include it in your income. Educational AssistanceYou can exclude from your income up to $5,250 of qualified employer-provided educational assistance. For more information, see Pub. 970, Tax Benefits for Education. Group-Term Life InsuranceIn most cases, the cost of up to $50,000 of group-term life insurance coverage provided to you by your employer (or former employer) isn’t included in your income. However, you must include in income the cost of employer-provided insurance that is more than the cost of $50,000 of coverage reduced by any amount you pay toward the purchase of the insurance. For exceptions, see Entire cost excluded and Entire cost taxed, later. If your employer provided more than $50,000 of coverage, the amount included in your income is reported as part of your wages in box 1 of your Form W-2. Also, it’s shown separately in box 12 with code C. Group-term life insurance. This insurance is term life insurance protection (insurance for a fixed period of time) that:
Permanent benefits. If your group-term life insurance policy includes permanent benefits, such as a paid-up or cash surrender value, you must include in your income, as wages, the cost of the permanent benefits minus the amount you pay for them. Your employer should be able to tell you the amount to include in your income. Accidental death benefits. Insurance that provides accidental or other death benefits but doesn’t provide general death benefits (travel insurance, for example) isn’t group-term life insurance. Former employer. If your former employer provided more than $50,000 of group-term life insurance coverage during the year, the amount included in your income is reported as wages in box 1 of Form W-2. Also, it’s shown separately in box 12 with code C. Box 12 will also show the amount of uncollected social security and Medicare taxes on the excess coverage, with codes M and N. You must pay these taxes with your income tax return. Include them on Schedule 2 (Form 1040), line 13. Two or more employers. Your exclusion for employer-provided group-term life insurance coverage can’t exceed the cost of $50,000 of coverage, whether the insurance is provided by a single employer or multiple employers. If two or more employers provide insurance coverage that totals more than $50,000, the amounts reported as wages on your Forms W-2 won’t be correct. You must figure how much to include in your income. Reduce the amount you figure by any amount reported with code C in box 12 of your Forms W-2, add the result to the wages reported in box 1, and report the total on your return. Figuring the taxable cost. Use Worksheet 5-1 to figure the amount to include in your income. Worksheet 5-1. Figuring the Cost of Group-Term Life Insurance To Include in Income
Table 5-1. Cost of $1,000 of Group-Term Life Insurance for 1 Month
Worksheet 5-1. Figuring the Cost of Group-Term Life Insurance To Include in Income—Illustrated
Entire cost excluded. You aren’t taxed on the cost of group-term life insurance if any of the following circumstances apply.
Entire cost taxed. You’re taxed on the entire cost of group-term life insurance if either of the following circumstances apply.
Retirement Planning ServicesGenerally, don’t include the value of qualified retirement planning services provided to you and your spouse by your employer's qualified retirement plan. Qualified services include retirement planning advice, information about your employer's retirement plan, and information about how the plan may fit into your overall individual retirement income plan. You can’t exclude the value of any tax preparation, accounting, legal, or brokerage services provided by your employer. TransportationIf your employer provides you with a qualified transportation fringe benefit, it can be excluded from your income, up to certain limits. A qualified transportation fringe benefit is:
Cash reimbursement by your employer for these expenses under a bona fide reimbursement arrangement is also excludable. However, cash reimbursement for a transit pass is excludable only if a voucher or similar item that can be exchanged only for a transit pass isn’t readily available for direct distribution to you. Exclusion limit. The exclusion for commuter vehicle transportation and transit pass fringe benefits can’t be more than $270 a month. The exclusion for the qualified parking fringe benefit can’t be more than $270 a month. If the benefits have a value that is more than these limits, the excess must be included in your income. Commuter highway vehicle. This is a highway vehicle that seats at least six adults (not including the driver). At least 80% of the vehicle's mileage must reasonably be expected to be:
Transit pass. This is any pass, token, farecard, voucher, or similar item entitling a person to ride mass transit (whether public or private) free or at a reduced rate or to ride in a commuter highway vehicle operated by a person in the business of transporting persons for compensation. Qualified parking. This is parking provided to an employee at or near the employer's place of business. It also includes parking provided on or near a location from which the employee commutes to work by mass transit, in a commuter highway vehicle, or by carpool. It doesn’t include parking at or near the employee's home. Retirement Plan ContributionsYour employer's contributions to a qualified retirement plan for you aren’t included in income at the time contributed. (Your employer can tell you whether your retirement plan is qualified.) However, the cost of life insurance coverage included in the plan may have to be included. See Group-Term Life Insurance, earlier, under Fringe Benefits. If your employer pays into a nonqualified plan for you, you must generally include the contributions in your income as wages for the tax year in which the contributions are made. However, if your interest in the plan isn’t transferable or is subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture (you have a good chance of losing it) at the time of the contribution, you don’t have to include the value of your interest in your income until it’s transferable or is no longer subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture. . Elective deferrals. If you’re covered by certain kinds of retirement plans, you can choose to have part of your compensation contributed by your employer to a retirement fund, rather than have it paid to you. The amount you set aside (called an elective deferral) is treated as an employer contribution to a qualified plan. An elective deferral, other than a designated Roth contribution (discussed later), isn’t included in wages subject to income tax at the time contributed. Rather, it’s subject to income tax when distributed from the plan. However, it’s included in wages subject to social security and Medicare taxes at the time contributed. Elective deferrals include elective contributions to the following retirement plans.
Qualified automatic contribution arrangements. Under a qualified automatic contribution arrangement, your employer can treat you as having elected to have a part of your compensation contributed to a section 401(k) plan. You are to receive written notice of your rights and obligations under the qualified automatic contribution arrangement. The notice must explain:
You must be given a reasonable period of time after receipt of the notice and before the first elective contribution is made to make an election with respect to the contributions. Overall limit on deferrals. For 2021, in most cases, you shouldn’t have deferred more than a total of $19,500 of contributions to the plans listed in (1) through (3) and (5) above. The limit for SIMPLE plans is $13,500. The limit for section 501(c)(18)(D) plans is the lesser of $7,000 or 25% of your compensation. The limit for section 457 plans is the lesser of your includible compensation or $19,500. Amounts deferred under specific plan limits are part of the overall limit on deferrals. Designated Roth contributions. Employers with section 401(k) and section 403(b) plans can create qualified Roth contribution programs so that you may elect to have part or all of your elective deferrals to the plan designated as after-tax Roth contributions. Designated Roth contributions are treated as elective deferrals, except that they’re included in income at the time contributed. Excess deferrals. Your employer or plan administrator should apply the proper annual limit when figuring your plan contributions. However, you’re responsible for monitoring the total you defer to ensure that the deferrals aren’t more than the overall limit. If you set aside more than the limit, the excess must generally be included in your income for that year, unless you have an excess deferral of a designated Roth contribution. See Pub. 525 for a discussion of the tax treatment of excess deferrals. Catch-up contributions. You may be allowed catch-up contributions (additional elective deferral) if you’re age 50 or older by the end of the tax year. Stock OptionsIf you receive a nonstatutory option to buy or sell stock or other property as payment for your services, you will usually have income when you receive the option, when you exercise the option (use it to buy or sell the stock or other property), or when you sell or otherwise dispose of the option. However, if your option is a statutory stock option, you won’t have any income until you sell or exchange your stock. Your employer can tell you which kind of option you hold. For more information, see Pub. 525. Restricted PropertyIn most cases, if you receive property for your services, you must include its fair market value in your income in the year you receive the property. However, if you receive stock or other property that has certain restrictions that affect its value, you don’t include the value of the property in your income until it has substantially vested. (Although you can elect to include the value of the property in your income in the year it’s transferred to you.) For more information, see Restricted Property in Pub. 525. Dividends received on restricted stock. Dividends you receive on restricted stock are treated as compensation and not as dividend income. Your employer should include these payments on your Form W-2. Stock you elected to include in income. Dividends you receive on restricted stock you elected to include in your income in the year transferred are treated the same as any other dividends. Report them on your return as dividends. For a discussion of dividends, see Pub. 550, Investment Income and Expenses. For information on how to treat dividends reported on both your Form W-2 and Form 1099-DIV, see Dividends received on restricted stock in Pub. 525. Special Rules for Certain EmployeesThis section deals with special rules for people in certain types of employment: members of the clergy, members of religious orders, people working for foreign employers, military personnel, and volunteers. ClergyGenerally, if you’re a member of the clergy, you must include in your income offerings and fees you receive for marriages, baptisms, funerals, masses, etc., in addition to your salary. If the offering is made to the religious institution, it isn’t taxable to you. If you’re a member of a religious organization and you give your outside earnings to the religious organization, you must still include the earnings in your income. However, you may be entitled to a charitable contribution deduction for the amount paid to the organization. See Pub. 526. Pension. A pension or retirement pay for a member of the clergy is usually treated as any other pension or annuity. It must be reported on lines 5a and 5b of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Housing. Special rules for housing apply to members of the clergy. Under these rules, you don’t include in your income the rental value of a home (including utilities) or a designated housing allowance provided to you as part of your pay. However, the exclusion can’t be more than the reasonable pay for your services. If you pay for the utilities, you can exclude any allowance designated for utility cost, up to your actual cost. The home or allowance must be provided as compensation for your services as an ordained, licensed, or commissioned minister. However, you must include the rental value of the home or the housing allowance as earnings from self-employment on Schedule SE (Form 1040) if you’re subject to the self-employment tax. For more information, see Pub. 517, Social Security and Other Information for Members of the Clergy and Religious Workers. Members of Religious OrdersIf you’re a member of a religious order who has taken a vow of poverty, how you treat earnings that you renounce and turn over to the order depends on whether your services are performed for the order. Services performed for the order. If you’re performing the services as an agent of the order in the exercise of duties required by the order, don’t include in your income the amounts turned over to the order. If your order directs you to perform services for another agency of the supervising church or an associated institution, you’re considered to be performing the services as an agent of the order. Any wages you earn as an agent of an order that you turn over to the order aren’t included in your income. Example. You’re a member of a church order and have taken a vow of poverty. You renounce any claims to your earnings and turn over to the order any salaries or wages you earn. You’re a registered nurse, so your order assigns you to work in a hospital that is an associated institution of the church. However, you remain under the general direction and control of the order. You’re considered to be an agent of the order and any wages you earn at the hospital that you turn over to your order aren’t included in your income. Services performed outside the order. If you’re directed to work outside the order, your services aren’t an exercise of duties required by the order unless they meet both of the following requirements.
If you’re an employee of a third party, the services you perform for the third party won’t be considered directed or required of you by the order. Amounts you receive for these services are included in your income, even if you have taken a vow of poverty. Example. Mark Brown is a member of a religious order and has taken a vow of poverty. He renounces all claims to his earnings and turns over his earnings to the order. Mark is a schoolteacher. He was instructed by the superiors of the order to get a job with a private tax-exempt school. Mark became an employee of the school, and, at his request, the school made the salary payments directly to the order. Because Mark is an employee of the school, he is performing services for the school rather than as an agent of the order. The wages Mark earns working for the school are included in his income. Foreign EmployerSpecial rules apply if you work for a foreign employer. U.S. citizen. If you’re a U.S. citizen who works in the United States for a foreign government, an international organization, a foreign embassy, or any foreign employer, you must include your salary in your income. Social security and Medicare taxes. You’re exempt from social security and Medicare employee taxes if you’re employed in the United States by an international organization or a foreign government. However, you must pay self-employment tax on your earnings from services performed in the United States, even though you aren’t self-employed. This rule also applies if you’re an employee of a qualifying wholly owned instrumentality of a foreign government. Employees of international organizations or foreign governments. Your compensation for official services to an international organization is exempt from federal income tax if you aren’t a citizen of the United States or you’re a citizen of the Philippines (whether or not you’re a citizen of the United States). Your compensation for official services to a foreign government is exempt from federal income tax if all of the following are true.
Waiver of alien status. If you’re an alien who works for a foreign government or international organization and you file a waiver under section 247(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to keep your immigrant status, different rules may apply. See Foreign Employer in Pub. 525. Employment abroad. For information on the tax treatment of income earned abroad, see Pub. 54. MilitaryPayments you receive as a member of a military service are generally taxed as wages except for retirement pay, which is taxed as a pension. Allowances generally aren’t taxed. For more information on the tax treatment of military allowances and benefits, see Pub. 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide. Differential wage payments. Any payments made to you by an employer during the time you’re performing service in the uniformed services are treated as compensation. These wages are subject to income tax withholding and are reported on a Form W-2. See the discussion under Miscellaneous Compensation, earlier. Military retirement pay. If your retirement pay is based on age or length of service, it’s taxable and must be included in your income as a pension on lines 5a and 5b of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Don’t include in your income the amount of any reduction in retirement or retainer pay to provide a survivor annuity for your spouse or children under the Retired Serviceman's Family Protection Plan or the Survivor Benefit Plan. For more detailed discussion of survivor annuities, see Pub. 575, Pension and Annuity Income. Veterans' benefits. Don’t include in your income any veterans' benefits paid under any law, regulation, or administrative practice administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The following amounts paid to veterans or their families aren’t taxable.
VolunteersThe tax treatment of amounts you receive as a volunteer worker for the Peace Corps or similar agency is covered in the following discussions. Peace Corps. Living allowances you receive as a Peace Corps volunteer or volunteer leader for housing, utilities, household supplies, food, and clothing are generally exempt from tax. Taxable allowances. The following allowances, however, must be included in your income and reported as wages.
Example. Gary Carpenter, a Peace Corps volunteer, gets $175 a month as a readjustment allowance during his period of service, to be paid to him in a lump sum at the end of his tour of duty. Although the allowance isn’t available to him until the end of his service, Gary must include it in his income on a monthly basis as it’s credited to his account. Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA). If you’re a VISTA volunteer, you must include meal and lodging allowances paid to you in your income as wages. National Senior Services Corps programs. Don’t include in your income amounts you receive for supportive services or reimbursements for out-of-pocket expenses from the following programs.
Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE). If you receive amounts for supportive services or reimbursements for out-of-pocket expenses from SCORE, don’t include these amounts in gross income. Volunteer tax counseling. Don’t include in your income any reimbursements you receive for transportation, meals, and other expenses you have in training for, or actually providing, volunteer federal income tax counseling for the elderly (TCE). You can deduct as a charitable contribution your unreimbursed out-of-pocket expenses in taking part in the volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) program. See Pub. 526. Volunteer firefighters and emergency medical responders. If you are a volunteer firefighter or emergency medical responder, don’t include in your income the following benefits you receive from a state or local government.
The excluded income reduces any related tax or contribution deduction. Sickness and Injury BenefitsThis section discusses sickness and injury benefits, including disability pensions, long-term care insurance contracts, workers' compensation, and other benefits. In most cases, you must report as income any amount you receive for personal injury or sickness through an accident or health plan that is paid for by your employer. If both you and your employer pay for the plan, only the amount you receive that is due to your employer's payments is reported as income. However, certain payments may not be taxable to you. For information on nontaxable payments, see Military and Government Disability Pensions and Other Sickness and Injury Benefits, later in this discussion. . Cost paid by you. If you pay the entire cost of a health or accident insurance plan, don’t include any amounts you receive from the plan for personal injury or sickness as income on your tax return. If your plan reimbursed you for medical expenses you deducted in an earlier year, you may have to include some, or all, of the reimbursement in your income. See What if You Receive Insurance Reimbursement in a Later Year? in Pub. 502, Medical and Dental Expenses. Cafeteria plans. In most cases, if you’re covered by an accident or health insurance plan through a cafeteria plan, and the amount of the insurance premiums wasn’t included in your income, you aren’t considered to have paid the premiums and you must include any benefits you receive in your income. If the amount of the premiums was included in your income, you’re considered to have paid the premiums, and any benefits you receive aren’t taxable. Disability PensionsIf you retired on disability, you must include in income any disability pension you receive under a plan that is paid for by your employer. You must report your taxable disability payments as wages on line 1 of Form 1040 or 1040-SR until you reach minimum retirement age. Minimum retirement age is generally the age at which you can first receive a pension or annuity if you’re not disabled. . Beginning on the day after you reach minimum retirement age, payments you receive are taxable as a pension or annuity. Report the payments on lines 5a and 5b of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. The rules for reporting pensions are explained in Disability Pensions in Pub. 575. For information on disability payments from a governmental program provided as a substitute for unemployment compensation, see Unemployment Benefits in chapter 8. Retirement and profit-sharing plans. If you receive payments from a retirement or profit-sharing plan that doesn’t provide for disability retirement, don’t treat the payments as a disability pension. The payments must be reported as a pension or annuity. For more information on pensions, see Pub. 575. Accrued leave payment. If you retire on disability, any lump-sum payment you receive for accrued annual leave is a salary payment. The payment is not a disability payment. Include it in your income in the tax year you receive it.
Military and Government Disability PensionsCertain military and government disability pensions aren’t taxable. Service-connected disability. You may be able to exclude from income amounts you receive as a pension, annuity, or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in one of the following government services.
Conditions for exclusion. Don’t include the disability payments in your income if any of the following conditions apply.
Pension based on years of service. If you receive a disability pension based on years of service, in most cases you must include it in your income. However, if the pension qualifies for the exclusion for a service-connected disability (discussed earlier), don’t include in income the part of your pension that you would have received if the pension had been based on a percentage of disability. You must include the rest of your pension in your income. Retroactive VA determination. If you retire from the armed services based on years of service and are later given a retroactive service-connected disability rating by the VA, your retirement pay for the retroactive period is excluded from income up to the amount of VA disability benefits you would have been entitled to receive. You can claim a refund of any tax paid on the excludable amount (subject to the statute of limitations) by filing an amended return on Form 1040-X for each previous year during the retroactive period. You must include with each Form 1040-X a copy of the official VA Determination letter granting the retroactive benefit. The letter must show the amount withheld and the effective date of the benefit. If you receive a lump-sum disability severance payment and are later awarded VA disability benefits, exclude 100% of the severance benefit from your income. However, you must include in your income any lump-sum readjustment or other nondisability severance payment you received on release from active duty, even if you’re later given a retroactive disability rating by the VA. Special period of limitation. In most cases, under the period of limitation, a claim for credit or refund must be filed within 3 years from the time a return was filed or 2 years from the time the tax was paid. However, if you receive a retroactive service-connected disability rating determination, the period of limitation is extended by a 1-year period beginning on the date of the determination. This 1-year extended period applies to claims for credit or refund filed after June 17, 2008, and doesn’t apply to any tax year that began more than 5 years before the date of the determination. Terrorist attack or military action. Don’t include in your income disability payments you receive for injuries incurred as a direct result of a terrorist attack directed against the United States (or its allies), whether outside or within the United States or from military action. See Pub. 3920 and Pub. 907 for more information. Long-Term Care Insurance ContractsLong-term care insurance contracts in most cases are treated as accident and health insurance contracts. Amounts you receive from them (other than policyholder dividends or premium refunds) in most cases are excludable from income as amounts received for personal injury or sickness. To claim an exclusion for payments made on a per diem or other periodic basis under a long-term care insurance contract, you must file Form 8853 with your return. A long-term care insurance contract is an insurance contract that only provides coverage for qualified long-term care services. The contract must:
Qualified long-term care services. Qualified long-term care services are:
Chronically ill individual. A chronically ill individual is one who has been certified by a licensed health care practitioner within the previous 12 months as one of the following.
Limit on exclusion. You can generally exclude from gross income up to $400 a day for 2021. See Limit on exclusion, under Long-Term Care Insurance Contracts, under Sickness and Injury Benefits in Pub. 525 for more information. Workers' CompensationAmounts you receive as workers' compensation for an occupational sickness or injury are fully exempt from tax if they’re paid under a workers' compensation act or a statute in the nature of a workers' compensation act. The exemption also applies to your survivors. The exemption, however, doesn’t apply to retirement plan benefits you receive based on your age, length of service, or prior contributions to the plan, even if you retired because of an occupational sickness or injury. . Return to work. If you return to work after qualifying for workers' compensation, salary payments you receive for performing light duties are taxable as wages. Other Sickness and Injury BenefitsIn addition to disability pensions and annuities, you may receive other payments for sickness or injury. Railroad sick pay. Payments you receive as sick pay under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act are taxable and you must include them in your income. However, don’t include them in your income if they’re for an on-the-job injury. If you received income because of a disability, see Disability Pensions, earlier. Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA). Payments received under this Act for personal injury or sickness, including payments to beneficiaries in case of death, aren’t taxable. However, you’re taxed on amounts you receive under this Act as continuation of pay for up to 45 days while a claim is being decided. Report this income as wages. Also, pay for sick leave while a claim is being processed is taxable and must be included in your income as wages. . Other compensation. Many other amounts you receive as compensation for sickness or injury aren’t taxable. These include the following amounts.
Reimbursement for medical care. A reimbursement for medical care is generally not taxable. However, it may reduce your medical expense deduction. For more information, see Pub. 502. 6. Interest Income
RemindersForeign-source income. If you are a U.S. citizen with interest income from sources outside the United States (foreign income), you must report that income on your tax return unless it is exempt by U.S. law. This is true whether you reside inside or outside the United States and whether or not you receive a Form 1099 from the foreign payer. Automatic 6-month extension. If you receive your Form 1099 reporting your interest income late and you need more time to file your tax return, you can request a 6-month extension of time to file. See Automatic Extension in chapter 1. Children who have unearned income. See Form 8615 and its instructions for the rules and rates that apply to certain children with unearned income. IntroductionThis chapter discusses the following topics.
In general, any interest you receive or that is credited to your account and can be withdrawn is taxable income. Exceptions to this rule are discussed later in this chapter. You may be able to deduct expenses you have in earning this income on Schedule A (Form 1040) if you itemize your deductions. See Money borrowed to invest in certificate of deposit, later, and chapter 12. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Form (and Instructions)
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. General InformationA few items of general interest are covered here. . Tax on unearned income of certain children. Part of a child's 2021 unearned income may be taxed at the parent's tax rate. If so, Form 8615 must be completed and attached to the child's tax return. If not, Form 8615 isn't required and the child's income is taxed at his or her own tax rate. Some parents can choose to include the child's interest and dividends on the parent's return. If you can, use Form 8814 for this purpose. For more information about the tax on unearned income of children and the parents' election, go to Form 8615. Beneficiary of an estate or trust. Interest you receive as a beneficiary of an estate or trust is generally taxable income. You should receive a Schedule K-1 (Form 1041), Beneficiary's Share of Income, Deductions, Credits, etc., from the fiduciary. Your copy of Schedule K-1 (Form 1041) and its instructions will tell you where to report the income on your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Taxpayer identification number (TIN). You must give your name and TIN (either a social security number (SSN), an employer identification number (EIN), an adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN), or an individual tax identification number (ITIN)) to any person required by federal tax law to make a return, statement, or other document that relates to you. This includes payers of interest. If you don't give your TIN to the payer of interest, the payer will generally be required to backup withhold on the interest payments at a rate of 24%, and you may also be subject to a penalty. TIN for joint account. If the funds in a joint account belong to one person, list that person's name first on the account and give that person's TIN to the payer. (For information on who owns the funds in a joint account, see Joint accounts, later.) If the joint account contains combined funds, give the TIN of the person whose name is listed first on the account. This is because only one name and TIN can be shown on Form 1099. These rules apply to both joint ownership by a married couple and to joint ownership by other individuals. For example, if you open a joint savings account with your child using funds belonging to the child, list the child's name first on the account and give the child's TIN. Custodian account for your child. If your child is the actual owner of an account that is recorded in your name as custodian for the child, give the child's TIN to the payer. For example, you must give your child's SSN to the payer of interest on an account owned by your child, even though the interest is paid to you as custodian. Penalty for failure to supply TIN. If you don't give your TIN to the payer of interest, you may have to pay a penalty. See Failure to supply SSN under Penalties in chapter 1. Backup withholding may also apply. Backup withholding. Your interest income is generally not subject to regular withholding. However, it may be subject to backup withholding to ensure that income tax is collected on the income. Under backup withholding, the payer of interest must withhold, as income tax, on the amount you are paid, by applying the appropriate withholding rate. The current rate is 24%. Withholding is required only if there is a condition for backup withholding, such as failing to provide your TIN to the payer or failing to certify your TIN under penalties of perjury, if required. Backup withholding may also be required if the IRS has determined that you underreported your interest or dividend income. For more information, see Backup Withholding in chapter 4. Reporting backup withholding. If backup withholding is deducted from your interest income, the amount withheld will be reported on your Form 1099-INT. The Form 1099-INT will show any backup withholding as “Federal income tax withheld.” Joint accounts. If two or more persons hold property (such as a savings account or bond) as joint tenants, tenants by the entirety, or tenants in common, each person's share of any interest from the property is determined by local law. Income from property given to a child. Property you give as a parent to your child under the Model Gifts of Securities to Minors Act, the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act, or any similar law becomes the child's property. Income from the property is taxable to the child, except that any part used to satisfy a legal obligation to support the child is taxable to the parent or guardian having that legal obligation. Savings account with parent as trustee. Interest income from a savings account opened for a minor child, but placed in the name and subject to the order of the parents as trustees, is taxable to the child if, under the law of the state in which the child resides, both of the following are true.
Form 1099-INT. Interest income is generally reported to you on Form 1099-INT, or a similar statement, by banks, savings and loans, and other payers of interest. This form shows you the interest income you received during the year. Keep this form for your records. You don't have to attach it to your tax return. Report on your tax return the total interest income you receive for the tax year. See the instructions for Form 1099-INT to see whether you need to adjust any of the amounts reported to you. Interest not reported on Form 1099-INT. Even if you don't receive a Form 1099-INT, you must still report all of your interest income. For example, you may receive distributive shares of interest from partnerships or S corporations. This interest is reported to you on Schedule K-1 (Form 1065), Partner's Share of Income, Deduction, Credits, etc.; or Schedule K-1 (Form 1120-S), Shareholder's Share of Income, Deductions, Credits, etc. Nominees. Generally, if someone receives interest as a nominee for you, that person must give you a Form 1099-INT showing the interest received on your behalf. If you receive a Form 1099-INT that includes amounts belonging to another person, see the discussion on nominee distributions under How To Report Interest Income in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550, or the Schedule B (Form 1040) instructions. Incorrect amount. If you receive a Form 1099-INT that shows an incorrect amount or other incorrect information, you should ask the issuer for a corrected form. The new Form 1099-INT you receive will have the “CORRECTED” box checked. Form 1099-OID. Reportable interest income may also be shown on Form 1099-OID, Original Issue Discount. For more information about amounts shown on this form, see Original Issue Discount (OID), later in this chapter. . Exempt-interest dividends. Exempt-interest dividends you receive from a mutual fund or other regulated investment company aren't included in your taxable income. (However, see Information-reporting requirement next.) Exempt-interest dividends should be shown on Form 1099-DIV, box 11. You don't reduce your basis for distributions that are exempt-interest dividends. Information-reporting requirement. Although exempt-interest dividends aren't taxable, you must show them on your tax return if you have to file. This is an information-reporting requirement and doesn't change the exempt-interest dividends into taxable income. Note.Exempt-interest dividends paid from specified private activity bonds may be subject to the alternative minimum tax. See Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) in chapter 13 for more information. Chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550 contains a discussion on private activity bonds under State or Local Government Obligations. Interest on VA dividends. Interest on insurance dividends left on deposit with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) isn't taxable. This includes interest paid on dividends on converted United States Government Life Insurance and on National Service Life Insurance policies. Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs). Interest on a Roth IRA generally isn't taxable. Interest on a traditional IRA is tax deferred. You generally don't include interest earned in an IRA in your income until you make withdrawals from the IRA. See chapter 9. Taxable InterestTaxable interest includes interest you receive from bank accounts, loans you make to others, and other sources. The following are some sources of taxable interest. Dividends that are actually interest. Certain distributions commonly called dividends are actually interest. You must report as interest so-called dividends on deposits or on share accounts in:
The “dividends” will be shown as interest income on Form 1099-INT. Money market funds. Money market funds pay dividends and are offered by nonbank financial institutions, such as mutual funds and stock brokerage houses. Generally, amounts you receive from money market funds should be reported as dividends, not as interest. Certificates of deposit and other deferred interest accounts. If you open any of these accounts, interest may be paid at fixed intervals of 1 year or less during the term of the account. You must generally include this interest in your income when you actually receive it or are entitled to receive it without paying a substantial penalty. The same is true for accounts that mature in 1 year or less and pay interest in a single payment at maturity. If interest is deferred for more than 1 year, see Original Issue Discount (OID), later. Interest subject to penalty for early withdrawal. If you withdraw funds from a deferred interest account before maturity, you may have to pay a penalty. You must report the total amount of interest paid or credited to your account during the year, without subtracting the penalty. See Penalty on early withdrawal of savings in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550 for more information on how to report the interest and deduct the penalty. Money borrowed to invest in certificate of deposit. The interest you pay on money borrowed from a bank or savings institution to meet the minimum deposit required for a certificate of deposit from the institution and the interest you earn on the certificate are two separate items. You must report the total interest income you earn on the certificate in your income. If you itemize deductions, you can deduct the interest you pay as investment interest, up to the amount of your net investment income. See Interest Expenses in chapter 3 of IRS.gov/Pub550. Example. You deposited $5,000 with a bank and borrowed $5,000 from the bank to make up the $10,000 minimum deposit required to buy a 6-month certificate of deposit. The certificate earned $575 at maturity in 2021, but you received only $265, which represented the $575 you earned minus $310 interest charged on your $5,000 loan. The bank gives you a Form 1099-INT for 2021 showing the $575 interest you earned. The bank also gives you a statement showing that you paid $310 of interest for 2021. You must include the $575 in your income. If you itemize your deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040), you can deduct $310, subject to the net investment income limit. Gift for opening account. If you receive noncash gifts or services for making deposits or for opening an account in a savings institution, you may have to report the value as interest. For deposits of less than $5,000, gifts or services valued at more than $10 must be reported as interest. For deposits of $5,000 or more, gifts or services valued at more than $20 must be reported as interest. The value is determined by the cost to the financial institution. Example. You open a savings account at your local bank and deposit $800. The account earns $20 interest. You also receive a $15 calculator. If no other interest is credited to your account during the year, the Form 1099-INT you receive will show $35 interest for the year. You must report $35 interest income on your tax return. Interest on insurance dividends. Interest on insurance dividends left on deposit with an insurance company that can be withdrawn annually is taxable to you in the year it is credited to your account. However, if you can withdraw it only on the anniversary date of the policy (or other specified date), the interest is taxable in the year that date occurs. Prepaid insurance premiums. Any increase in the value of prepaid insurance premiums, advance premiums, or premium deposit funds is interest if it is applied to the payment of premiums due on insurance policies or made available for you to withdraw. U.S. obligations. Interest on U.S. obligations issued by any agency or instrumentality of the United States, such as U.S. Treasury bills, notes, and bonds, is taxable for federal income tax purposes. Interest on tax refunds. Interest you receive on tax refunds is taxable income. Interest on condemnation award. If the condemning authority pays you interest to compensate you for a delay in payment of an award, the interest is taxable. Installment sale payments. If a contract for the sale or exchange of property provides for deferred payments, it also usually provides for interest payable with the deferred payments. Generally, that interest is taxable when you receive it. If little or no interest is provided for in a deferred payment contract, part of each payment may be treated as interest. See Unstated Interest and Original Issue Discount in Pub. 537, Installment Sales. Interest on annuity contract. Accumulated interest on an annuity contract you sell before its maturity date is taxable. Usurious interest. Usurious interest is interest charged at an illegal rate. This is taxable as interest unless state law automatically changes it to a payment on the principal. Interest income on frozen deposits. Exclude from your gross income interest on frozen deposits. A deposit is frozen if, at the end of the year, you can't withdraw any part of the deposit because:
The amount of interest you must exclude is the interest that was credited on the frozen deposits minus the sum of:
If you receive a Form 1099-INT for interest income on deposits that were frozen at the end of 2021, see Frozen deposits under How To Report Interest Income in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550 for information about reporting this interest income exclusion on your tax return. The interest you exclude is treated as credited to your account in the following year. You must include it in income in the year you can withdraw it. Example. $100 of interest was credited on your frozen deposit during the year. You withdrew $80 but couldn't withdraw any more as of the end of the year. You must include $80 in your income and exclude $20 from your income for the year. You must include the $20 in your income for the year you can withdraw it. Bonds traded flat. If you buy a bond at a discount when interest has been defaulted or when the interest has accrued but hasn't been paid, the transaction is described as trading a bond flat. The defaulted or unpaid interest isn't income and isn't taxable as interest if paid later. When you receive a payment of that interest, it is a return of capital that reduces the remaining cost basis of your bond. Interest that accrues after the date of purchase, however, is taxable interest income for the year it is received or accrued. See Bonds Sold Between Interest Dates, later, for more information. Below-market loans. In general, a below-market loan is a loan on which no interest is charged or on which interest is charged at a rate below the applicable federal rate. If you are the lender of a below-market loan, you may have additional interest income. See Below-Market Loans in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550 for more information. U.S. Savings BondsThis section provides tax information on U.S. savings bonds. It explains how to report the interest income on these bonds and how to treat transfers of these bonds. . . For Series EE and I electronic savings bonds: Series EE and Series I Treasury Retail Securities Services P.O. Box 7015 Minneapolis, MN 55480-7015 For Series EE and I paper savings bonds: For Series HH and Series H savings bonds: . . TreasuryDirect.gov/indiv/indiv.htm.. Accrual method taxpayers. If you use an accrual method of accounting, you must report interest on U.S. savings bonds each year as it accrues. You can't postpone reporting interest until you receive it or until the bonds mature. Accrual methods of accounting are explained in chapter 1 under Accounting Methods. Cash method taxpayers. If you use the cash method of accounting, as most individual taxpayers do, you generally report the interest on U.S. savings bonds when you receive it. The cash method of accounting is explained in chapter 1 under Accounting Methods. But see Reporting options for cash method taxpayers, later. Series H and HH bonds. These bonds were issued at face value in exchange for other savings bonds. Series HH bonds were issued between 1980 and 2004. They mature 20 years after issue. Series HH bonds that have not matured pay interest twice a year (usually by direct deposit to your bank account). If you are a cash method taxpayer, you must report this interest as income in the year you receive it. Most H/HH bonds have a deferred interest component. The reporting of this as income is addressed later in this chapter. Series H bonds were issued before 1980. All Series H bonds have matured and are no longer earning interest. Series EE and Series I bonds. Interest on these bonds is payable when you redeem the bonds. The difference between the purchase price and the redemption value is taxable interest. Series E and EE bonds. Series E bonds were issued before 1980. All Series E bonds have matured and are no longer earning interest. Series EE bonds were first offered in January 1980 and have a maturity period of 30 years; they were offered in paper (definitive) form until 2012. Paper Series EE and Series E bonds were issued at a discount and increase in value as they earn interest. Electronic (book-entry) Series EE bonds were first offered in 2003; they are issued at face value and increase in value as they earn interest. For all Series E and Series EE bonds, the purchase price plus all accrued interest is payable to you at redemption. Series I bonds. Series I bonds were first offered in 1998. These are inflation-indexed bonds issued at face value with a maturity period of 30 years. Series I bonds increase in value as they earn interest. The face value plus all accrued interest is payable to you at redemption. Reporting options for cash method taxpayers. If you use the cash method of reporting income, you can report the interest on Series EE, Series E, and Series I bonds in either of the following ways.
You must use the same method for all Series EE, Series E, and Series I bonds you own. If you don't choose method 2 by reporting the increase in redemption value as interest each year, you must use method 1. . Change from method 1. If you want to change your method of reporting the interest from method 1 to method 2, you can do so without permission from the IRS. In the year of change, you must report all interest accrued to date and not previously reported for all your bonds. Once you choose to report the interest each year, you must continue to do so for all Series EE, Series E, and Series I bonds you own and for any you get later, unless you request permission to change, as explained next. Change from method 2. To change from method 2 to method 1, you must request permission from the IRS. Permission for the change is automatically granted if you send the IRS a statement that meets all the following requirements.
You must attach this statement to your tax return for the year of change, which you must file by the due date (including extensions). You can have an automatic extension of 6 months from the due date of your return for the year of change (excluding extensions) to file the statement with an amended return. To get this extension, you must have filed your original return for the year of the change by the due date (including extensions). Instead of filing this statement, you can request permission to change from method 2 to method 1 by filing Form 3115, Application for Change in Accounting Method. In that case, follow the form instructions for an automatic change. No user fee is required. Co-owners. If a U.S. savings bond is issued in the names of co-owners, such as you and your child or you and your spouse, interest on the bond is generally taxable to the co-owner who bought the bond. One co-owner's funds used. If you used your funds to buy the bond, you must pay the tax on the interest. This is true even if you let the other co-owner redeem the bond and keep all the proceeds. Under these circumstances, the co-owner who redeemed the bond will receive a Form 1099-INT at the time of redemption and must provide you with another Form 1099-INT showing the amount of interest from the bond taxable to you. The co-owner who redeemed the bond is a “nominee.” See Nominee distributions under How To Report Interest Income in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550 for more information about how a person who is a nominee reports interest income belonging to another person. Both co-owners' funds used. If you and the other co-owner each contribute part of the bond's purchase price, the interest is generally taxable to each of you, in proportion to the amount each of you paid. Community property. If you and your spouse live in a community property state and hold bonds as community property, one-half of the interest is considered received by each of you. If you file separate returns, each of you must generally report one-half of the bond interest. For more information about community property, see Pub. 555. Table 6-1. These rules are also shown in Table 6-1. Ownership transferred. If you bought Series E, Series EE, or Series I bonds entirely with your own funds and had them reissued in your co-owner's name or beneficiary's name alone, you must include in your gross income for the year of reissue all interest that you earned on these bonds and have not previously reported. But, if the bonds were reissued in your name alone, you don't have to report the interest accrued at that time. This same rule applies when bonds (other than bonds held as community property) are transferred between spouses or incident to divorce. Purchased jointly. If you and a co-owner each contributed funds to buy Series E, Series EE, or Series I bonds jointly and later have the bonds reissued in the co-owner's name alone, you must include in your gross income for the year of reissue your share of all the interest earned on the bonds that you have not previously reported. The former co-owner doesn't have to include in gross income at the time of reissue his or her share of the interest earned that was not reported before the transfer. This interest, however, as well as all interest earned after the reissue, is income to the former co-owner. This income-reporting rule also applies when a new co-owner purchases your share of the bond and the bonds are reissued in the name of your former co-owner and a new co-owner. But the new co-owner will report only his or her share of the interest earned after the transfer. If bonds that you and a co-owner bought jointly are reissued to each of you separately in the same proportion as your contribution to the purchase price, neither you nor your co-owner has to report at that time the interest earned before the bonds were reissued. Table 6-1. Who Pays the Tax on U.S. Savings Bond Interest
Example 1. You and your spouse each spent an equal amount to buy a $1,000 Series EE savings bond. The bond was issued to you and your spouse as co-owners. You both postpone reporting interest on the bond. You later have the bond reissued as two $500 bonds, one in your name and one in your spouse's name. At that time, neither you nor your spouse has to report the interest earned to the date of reissue. Example 2. You bought a $1,000 Series EE savings bond entirely with your own funds. The bond was issued to you and your spouse as co-owners. You both postpone reporting interest on the bond. You later have the bond reissued as two $500 bonds, one in your name and one in your spouse's name. You must report half the interest earned to the date of reissue. Transfer to a trust. If you own Series E, Series EE, or Series I bonds and transfer them to a trust, giving up all rights of ownership, you must include in your income for that year the interest earned to the date of transfer if you have not already reported it. However, if you are considered the owner of the trust and if the increase in value both before and after the transfer continues to be taxable to you, you can continue to defer reporting the interest earned each year. You must include the total interest in your income in the year you cash or dispose of the bonds or the year the bonds finally mature, whichever is earlier. The same rules apply to previously unreported interest on Series EE or Series E bonds if the transfer to a trust consisted of Series HH or Series H bonds you acquired in a trade for the Series EE or Series E bonds. See Savings bonds traded, later. Decedents. The manner of reporting interest income on Series E, Series EE, or Series I bonds, after the death of the owner (decedent), depends on the accounting and income-reporting methods previously used by the decedent. This is explained in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550. Savings bonds traded. Prior to September 2004, you could trade (exchange) Series E or EE bonds for Series H or HH bonds. At the time of the trade, you had the choice to postpone (defer) reporting the interest which had been earned on your Series E or EE bonds until the Series H or HH bonds received in the trade were redeemed or matured. Any cash you received in the transaction was income up to the amount of the interest that had accrued on the Series E or EE bonds. The amount of income that you chose to postpone reporting was recorded on the face of the Series H or HH bonds as“ Deferred Interest”; this amount is also equal to the difference between the redemption value of the Series H or HH bonds and your cost. Your cost is the sum of the amount you paid for the exchanged Series E or EE bonds plus any amount you had to pay at the time of the transaction. Example. You traded Series EE bonds (on which you postponed reporting the interest) for $2,500 in Series HH bonds and $223 in cash. You reported the $223 as taxable income on your tax return. At the time of the trade, the Series EE bonds had accrued interest of $523 and a redemption value of $2,723. You hold the Series HH bonds until maturity, when you receive $2,500. You must report $300 as interest income in the year of maturity. This is the difference between their redemption value, $2,500, and your cost, $2,200 (the amount you paid for the Series EE bonds). It is also the difference between the accrued interest of $523 on the Series EE bonds and the $223 cash received on the trade. Note.The $300 amount that is reportable upon redemption or maturity may be found recorded on the face of the Series HH bond as “Deferred Interest.” If more than one Series HH bond is received in the exchange, the total amount of interest postponed/deferred in the transaction is divided proportionately among the Series HH bonds. Choice to report interest in year of trade. You can choose to treat all of the previously unreported accrued interest on the Series E or EE bonds traded for Series H or HH bonds as income in the year of the trade. If you choose to report the interest, then the “Deferred Interest” notation on the face of the Series H or HH bonds received in the trade will be $0 or blank. Form 1099-INT for U.S. savings bonds interest. When you cash a bond, the bank or other payer that redeems it must give you a Form 1099-INT if the interest part of the payment you receive is $10 or more. Box 3 of your Form 1099-INT should show the interest as the difference between the amount you received and the amount paid for the bond. However, your Form 1099-INT may show more interest than you have to include on your income tax return. For example, this may happen if any of the following are true.
For more information on including the correct amount of interest on your return, see How To Report Interest Income, later. Pub. 550 includes examples showing how to report these amounts. . Education Savings Bond ProgramYou may be able to exclude from income all or part of the interest you receive on the redemption of qualified U.S. savings bonds during the year if you pay qualified higher educational expenses during the same year. This exclusion is known as the Education Savings Bond Program. You don't qualify for this exclusion if your filing status is married filing separately. Form 8815. Use Form 8815 to figure your exclusion. Attach the form to your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Qualified U.S. savings bonds. A qualified U.S. savings bond is a Series EE bond issued after 1989 or a Series I bond. The bond must be issued either in your name (sole owner) or in your and your spouse's names (co-owners). You must be at least 24 years old before the bond's issue date. For example, a bond bought by a parent and issued in the name of his or her child under age 24 doesn't qualify for the exclusion by the parent or child. . Beneficiary. You can designate any individual (including a child) as a beneficiary of the bond. Verification by IRS. If you claim the exclusion, the IRS will check it by using bond redemption information from the Department of the Treasury. Qualified expenses. Qualified higher education expenses are tuition and fees required for you, your spouse, or your dependent (for whom you claim an exemption) to attend an eligible educational institution. Qualified expenses include any contribution you make to a qualified tuition program or to a Coverdell education savings account (ESA). Qualified expenses don't include expenses for room and board or for courses involving sports, games, or hobbies that aren't part of a degree- or certificate-granting program. Eligible educational institutions. These institutions include most public, private, and nonprofit universities, colleges, and vocational schools that are accredited and eligible to participate in student aid programs run by the U.S. Department of Education. Reduction for certain benefits. You must reduce your qualified higher education expenses by all of the following tax-free benefits.
Amount excludable. If the total proceeds (interest and principal) from the qualified U.S. savings bonds you redeem during the year aren't more than your adjusted qualified higher education expenses for the year, you may be able to exclude all of the interest. If the proceeds are more than the expenses, you may be able to exclude only part of the interest. To determine the excludable amount, multiply the interest part of the proceeds by a fraction. The numerator of the fraction is the qualified higher education expenses you paid during the year. The denominator of the fraction is the total proceeds you received during the year. Example. In February 2021, Mark and Joan, a married couple, cashed qualified Series EE U.S. savings bonds with a total denomination of $10,000 that they bought in April 2005 for $5,000. They received proceeds of $6,972, representing principal of $5,000 and interest of $1,972. In 2021, they paid $4,000 of their daughter's college tuition. They aren't claiming an education credit for that amount, and their daughter doesn't have any tax-free educational assistance. They can exclude $1,131 ($1,972 × ($4,000 ÷ $6,972)) of interest in 2021. They must include the remaining $841 ($1,972 − $1,131) interest in gross income. Modified adjusted gross income limit. The interest exclusion is limited if your modified adjusted gross income (modified AGI) is:
You don't qualify for the interest exclusion if your modified AGI is equal to or more than the upper limit for your filing status. Modified AGI, for purposes of this exclusion, is adjusted gross income (Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 11) figured before the interest exclusion, and modified by adding back any:
Use the Line 9 Worksheet in the Form 8815 instructions to figure your modified AGI. If you have investment interest expense incurred to earn royalties and other investment income, see Education Savings Bond Program in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550. . U.S. Treasury Bills, Notes, and BondsTreasury bills, notes, and bonds are direct debts (obligations) of the U.S. Government. Taxation of interest. Interest income from Treasury bills, notes, and bonds is subject to federal income tax but is exempt from all state and local income taxes. You should receive a Form 1099-INT showing the interest paid to you for the year in box 3. Treasury bills. These bills generally have a 4-week, 8-week, 13-week, 26-week, or 52-week maturity period. They are generally issued at a discount in the amount of $100 and multiples of $100. The difference between the discounted price you pay for the bills and the face value you receive at maturity is interest income. Generally, you report this interest income when the bill is paid at maturity. If you paid a premium for a bill (more than the face value), you generally report the premium as a section 171 deduction when the bill is paid at maturity. Treasury notes and bonds. Generally, maturity periods are up to 10 years for Treasury notes and up to 30 years for Treasury bonds. Both are generally issued in denominations of $100 to $1,000,000 and generally pay interest every 6 months. Generally, you report this interest for the year paid. For more information, see U.S. Treasury Bills, Notes, and Bonds in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550. . .Treasury Retail Securities Services P.O. Box 7015 Minneapolis, MN 55480-7015 . . For information on Series EE, Series I, and Series HH savings bonds, see U.S. Savings Bonds, earlier. Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS). These securities pay interest twice a year at a fixed rate, based on a principal amount adjusted to take into account inflation and deflation. For the tax treatment of these securities, see Inflation-Indexed Debt Instruments under Original Issue Discount (OID) in IRS.gov/Pub550. Bonds Sold Between Interest DatesIf you sell a bond between interest payment dates, part of the sales price represents interest accrued to the date of sale. You must report that part of the sales price as interest income for the year of sale. If you buy a bond between interest payment dates, part of the purchase price represents interest accrued before the date of purchase. When that interest is paid to you, treat it as a nontaxable return of your capital investment, rather than as interest income. See Accrued interest on bonds under How To Report Interest Income in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550 for information on reporting the payment. InsuranceLife insurance proceeds paid to you as beneficiary of the insured person are usually not taxable. But if you receive the proceeds in installments, you must usually report a part of each installment payment as interest income. For more information about insurance proceeds received in installments, see Pub. 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income. Annuity. If you buy an annuity with life insurance proceeds, the annuity payments you receive are taxed as pension and annuity income from a nonqualified plan, not as interest income. See chapter 5 for information on pension and annuity income from nonqualified plans. State or Local Government ObligationsInterest on a bond used to finance government operations generally isn't taxable if the bond is issued by a state, the District of Columbia, a possession of the United States, or any of their political subdivisions. Bonds issued after 1982 (including tribal economic development bonds issued after February 17, 2009) by an Indian tribal government are treated as issued by a state. Interest on these bonds is generally tax exempt if the bonds are part of an issue of which substantially all proceeds are to be used in the exercise of any essential government function. However, the essential government function requirement does not apply to tribal economic development bonds issued after February 17, 2009. See section 7871(f). For information on federally guaranteed bonds, mortgage revenue bonds, arbitrage bonds, private activity bonds, qualified tax credit bonds, and Build America bonds, see State or Local Government Obligations in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550. Information-reporting requirement. If you file a tax return, you are required to show any tax-exempt interest you received on your return. This is an information-reporting requirement only. It doesn't change tax-exempt interest to taxable interest. Original Issue Discount (OID)Original issue discount (OID) is a form of interest. You generally include OID in your income as it accrues over the term of the debt instrument, whether or not you receive any payments from the issuer. A debt instrument generally has OID when the instrument is issued for a price that is less than its stated redemption price at maturity. OID is the difference between the stated redemption price at maturity and the issue price. All debt instruments that pay no interest before maturity are presumed to be issued at a discount. Zero coupon bonds are one example of these instruments. The OID accrual rules generally don't apply to short-term obligations (those with a fixed maturity date of 1 year or less from date of issue). See Discount on Short-Term Obligations in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550. De minimis OID. You can treat the discount as zero if it is less than one-fourth of 1% (0.0025) of the stated redemption price at maturity multiplied by the number of full years from the date of original issue to maturity. This small discount is known as de minimis OID. Example 1. You bought a 10-year bond with a stated redemption price at maturity of $1,000, issued at $980 with OID of $20. One-fourth of 1% of $1,000 (stated redemption price) times 10 (the number of full years from the date of original issue to maturity) equals $25. Because the $20 discount is less than $25, the OID is treated as zero. (If you hold the bond at maturity, you will recognize $20 ($1,000 − $980) of capital gain.) Example 2. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except that the bond was issued at $950. The OID is $50. Because the $50 discount is more than the $25 figured in Example 1, you must include the OID in income as it accrues over the term of the bond. Debt instrument bought after original issue. If you buy a debt instrument with de minimis OID at a premium, the de minimis OID isn't includible in income. If you buy a debt instrument with de minimis OID at a discount, the discount is reported under the market discount rules. See Market Discount Bonds in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550. Exceptions to reporting OID as current income. The OID rules discussed in this chapter don't apply to the following debt instruments.
Form 1099-OID. The issuer of the debt instrument (or your broker if you held the instrument through a broker) should give you Form 1099-OID, or a similar statement, if the total OID for the calendar year is $10 or more. Form 1099-OID will show, in box 1, the amount of OID for the part of the year that you held the bond. It will also show, in box 2, the stated interest you must include in your income. Box 8 shows OID on a U.S. Treasury obligation for the part of the year you owned it and isn't included in box 1. A copy of Form 1099-OID will be sent to the IRS. Don't file your copy with your return. Keep it for your records. In most cases, you must report the entire amount in boxes 1, 2, and 8 of Form 1099-OID as interest income. But see Refiguring OID shown on Form 1099-OID, later in this discussion, for more information. Form 1099-OID not received. If you had OID for the year but didn't receive a Form 1099-OID, you may have to figure the correct amount of OID to report on your return. See Pub. 1212 for details on how to figure the correct OID. Nominee. If someone else is the holder of record (the registered owner) of an OID instrument belonging to you and receives a Form 1099-OID on your behalf, that person must give you a Form 1099-OID. Refiguring OID shown on Form 1099-OID. You may need to refigure the OID shown in box 1 or box 8 of Form 1099-OID if either of the following applies.
If you acquired your debt instrument before 2014, your payer is only required to report a gross amount of OID in box 1 or box 8 of Form 1099-OID. For information about figuring the correct amount of OID to include in your income, see Figuring OID on Long-Term Debt Instruments in Pub. 1212 and the instructions for Form 1099-OID. If you acquired your debt instrument after 2013, unless you have informed your payer that you do not want to amortize bond premium, your payer must generally report either (1) a net amount of OID that reflects the offset of OID by the amount of bond premium or acquisition premium amortization for the year, or (2) a gross amount for both the OID and the bond premium or acquisition premium amortization for the year. Refiguring periodic interest shown on Form 1099-OID. If you disposed of a debt instrument or acquired it from another holder during the year, see Bonds Sold Between Interest Dates, earlier, for information about the treatment of periodic interest that may be shown in box 2 of Form 1099-OID for that instrument. Certificates of deposit (CDs). If you buy a CD with a maturity of more than 1 year, you must include in income each year a part of the total interest due and report it in the same manner as other OID. This also applies to similar deposit arrangements with banks, building and loan associations, etc., including:
Bearer CDs. CDs issued after 1982 must generally be in registered form. Bearer CDs are CDs not in registered form. They aren't issued in the depositor's name and are transferable from one individual to another. Banks must provide the IRS and the person redeeming a bearer CD with a Form 1099-INT. More information. See chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550 for more information about OID and related topics, such as market discount bonds. When To Report Interest IncomeWhen to report your interest income depends on whether you use the cash method or an accrual method to report income. Cash method. Most individual taxpayers use the cash method. If you use this method, you generally report your interest income in the year in which you actually or constructively receive it. However, there are special rules for reporting the discount on certain debt instruments. See U.S. Savings Bonds and Original Issue Discount (OID), earlier. Example. On September 1, 2019, you loaned another individual $2,000 at 4% interest, compounded annually. You aren't in the business of lending money. The note stated that principal and interest would be due on August 31, 2021. In 2021, you received $2,163.20 ($2,000 principal and $163.20 interest). If you use the cash method, you must include in income on your 2021 return the $163.20 interest you received in that year. Constructive receipt. You constructively receive income when it is credited to your account or made available to you. You don't need to have physical possession of it. For example, you are considered to receive interest, dividends, or other earnings on any deposit or account in a bank, savings and loan, or similar financial institution, or interest on life insurance policy dividends left to accumulate, when they are credited to your account and subject to your withdrawal. This is true even if they aren't yet entered in your passbook. You constructively receive income on the deposit or account even if you must:
Accrual method. If you use an accrual method, you report your interest income when you earn it, whether or not you have received it. Interest is earned over the term of the debt instrument. Example. If, in the previous example, you use an accrual method, you must include the interest in your income as you earn it. You would report the interest as follows: 2019, $26.67; 2020, $81.06; and 2021, $55.47. Coupon bonds. Interest on bearer bonds with detachable coupons is generally taxable in the year the coupon becomes due and payable. It doesn't matter when you mail the coupon for payment. How To Report Interest IncomeGenerally, you report all your taxable interest income on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 2b. Schedule B (Form 1040). You must also complete Schedule B (Form 1040), Part I, if you file Form 1040 or 1040-SR and any of the following apply.
In Part I, line 1, list each payer's name and the amount received from each. If you received a Form 1099-INT or Form 1099-OID from a brokerage firm, list the brokerage firm as the payer. . Reporting tax-exempt interest. Total your tax-exempt interest (such as interest or accrued OID on certain state and municipal bonds, including zero coupon municipal bonds) reported on Form 1099-INT, box 8, and exempt-interest dividends from a mutual fund or other regulated investment company reported on Form 1099-DIV, box 11. Add these amounts to any other tax-exempt interest you received. Report the total on line 2a of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Form 1099-INT, box 9, and Form 1099-DIV, box 12, show the tax-exempt interest subject to the alternative minimum tax on Form 6251. These amounts are already included in the amounts on Form 1099-INT, box 8, and Form 1099-DIV, box 11. Don't add the amounts in Form 1099-INT, box 9, and Form 1099-DIV, box 12, to, or subtract them from, the amounts on Form 1099-INT, box 8, and Form 1099-DIV, box 11. . Form 1099-INT. Your taxable interest income, except for interest from U.S. savings bonds and Treasury obligations, is shown in box 1 of Form 1099-INT. Add this amount to any other taxable interest income you received. See the instructions for Form 1099-INT if you have interest from a security acquired at a premium. You must report all of your taxable interest income even if you don't receive a Form 1099-INT. Contact your financial institution if you don't receive a Form 1099-INT by February 15. Your identifying number may be truncated on any Form 1099-INT you receive. If you forfeited interest income because of the early withdrawal of a time deposit, the deductible amount will be shown on Form 1099-INT in box 2. See Penalty on early withdrawal of savings in chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550. Box 3 of Form 1099-INT shows the interest income you received from U.S. savings bonds, Treasury bills, Treasury notes, and Treasury bonds. Generally, add the amount shown in box 3 to any other taxable interest income you received. If part of the amount shown in box 3 was previously included in your interest income, see U.S. savings bond interest previously reported, later. If you acquired the security at a premium, see the instructions for Form 1099-INT. Box 4 of Form 1099-INT will contain an amount if you were subject to backup withholding. Include the amount from box 4 on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 25b (federal income tax withheld). Box 5 of Form 1099-INT shows investment expenses. See chapter 12 for more information about investment expenses. Box 6 of Form 1099-INT shows foreign tax paid. You may be able to claim this tax as a deduction or a credit on your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. See your tax return instructions. Box 7 of Form 1099-INT shows the country or U.S. possession to which the foreign tax was paid. U.S. savings bond interest previously reported. If you received a Form 1099-INT for U.S. savings bond interest, the form may show interest you don't have to report. See Form 1099-INT for U.S. savings bonds interest, earlier. On Schedule B (Form 1040), Part I, line 1, report all the interest shown on your Form 1099-INT. Then follow these steps.
More information. For more information about how to report interest income, see chapter 1 of IRS.gov/Pub550 or the instructions for the form you must file. 7. Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement BenefitsIntroductionThis chapter explains the federal income tax rules for social security benefits and equivalent tier 1 railroad retirement benefits. It explains the following topics.
Social security benefits include monthly retirement, survivor, and disability benefits. They don’t include Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments, which aren’t taxable. Equivalent tier 1 railroad retirement benefits are the part of tier 1 benefits that a railroad employee or beneficiary would have been entitled to receive under the social security system. They are commonly called the social security equivalent benefit (SSEB) portion of tier 1 benefits. If you received these benefits during 2021, you should have received a Form SSA-1099, Social Security Benefit Statement; or Form RRB-1099, Payments by the Railroad Retirement Board. These forms show the amounts received and repaid, and taxes withheld for the year. You may receive more than one of these forms for the same year. You should add the amounts shown on all the Forms SSA-1099 and Forms RRB-1099 you receive for the year to determine the total amounts received and repaid, and taxes withheld for that year. See the Appendix at the end of Pub. 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits, for more information. Note.When the term “benefits” is used in this chapter, it applies to both social security benefits and the SSEB portion of tier 1 railroad retirement benefits. my Social Security account. Social security beneficiaries may quickly and easily obtain information from the SSA's website with a my Social Security account to:
For more information and to set up an account, go to SSA.gov/myaccount. What isn’t covered in this chapter. This chapter doesn’t cover the tax rules for the following railroad retirement benefits.
For information on these benefits, see Pub. 575, Pension and Annuity Income. This chapter doesn’t cover the tax rules for social security benefits reported on Form SSA-1042S, Social Security Benefit Statement; or Form RRB-1042S, Statement for Nonresident Alien Recipients of Payments by the Railroad Retirement Board. For information about these benefits, see Pub. 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens; and Pub. 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits. This chapter also doesn’t cover the tax rules for foreign social security benefits. These benefits are taxable as annuities, unless they are exempt from U.S. tax or treated as a U.S. social security benefit under a tax treaty. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Forms (and Instructions)
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. Are Any of Your Benefits Taxable?To find out whether any of your benefits may be taxable, compare the base amount (explained later) for your filing status with the total of:
Exclusions. When making this comparison, don’t reduce your other income by any exclusions for:
Children's benefits. The rules in this chapter apply to benefits received by children. See Who is taxed, later. Figuring total income. To figure the total of one-half of your benefits plus your other income, use Worksheet 7-1, discussed later. If the total is more than your base amount, part of your benefits may be taxable. If you are married and file a joint return for 2021, you and your spouse must combine your incomes and your benefits to figure whether any of your combined benefits are taxable. Even if your spouse didn’t receive any benefits, you must add your spouse's income to yours to figure whether any of your benefits are taxable. . Base amount. Your base amount is:
Worksheet 7-1. You can use Worksheet 7-1 to figure the amount of income to compare with your base amount. This is a quick way to check whether some of your benefits may be taxable.
Example. You and your spouse (both over 65) are filing a joint return for 2021 and you both received social security benefits during the year. In January 2022, you received a Form SSA-1099 showing net benefits of $5,100 in box 5. Your spouse received a Form SSA-1099 showing net benefits of $2,500 in box 5. You also received a taxable pension of $27,200 and interest income of $700. You didn’t have any tax-exempt interest income. Your benefits aren’t taxable for 2021 because your income, as figured in Worksheet 7-1, isn’t more than your base amount ($32,000) for married filing jointly. Even though none of your benefits are taxable, you must file a return for 2021 because your taxable gross income ($27,900) exceeds the minimum filing requirement amount for your filing status.
Who is taxed. Benefits are included in the taxable income (to the extent they are taxable) of the person who has the legal right to receive the benefits. For example, if you and your child receive benefits, but the check for your child is made out in your name, you must use only your part of the benefits to see whether any benefits are taxable to you. One-half of the part that belongs to your child must be added to your child's other income to see whether any of those benefits are taxable to your child. Repayment of benefits. Any repayment of benefits you made during 2021 must be subtracted from the gross benefits you received in 2021. It doesn’t matter whether the repayment was for a benefit you received in 2021 or in an earlier year. If you repaid more than the gross benefits you received in 2021, see Repayments More Than Gross Benefits, later. Your gross benefits are shown in box 3 of Form SSA-1099 or RRB-1099. Your repayments are shown in box 4. The amount in box 5 shows your net benefits for 2021 (box 3 minus box 4). Use the amount in box 5 to figure whether any of your benefits are taxable. Tax withholding and estimated tax. You can choose to have federal income tax withheld from your social security benefits and/or the SSEB portion of your tier 1 railroad retirement benefits. If you choose to do this, you must complete a Form W-4V, Voluntary Withholding Request. If you don’t choose to have income tax withheld, you may have to request additional withholding from other income or pay estimated tax during the year. For details, see chapter 4, earlier; Pub. 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax; or the Instructions for Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals. How To Report Your BenefitsIf part of your benefits are taxable, you must use Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Reporting on Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Report your net benefits (the total amount from box 5 of all your Forms SSA-1099 and Forms RRB-1099) on line 6a and the taxable part on line 6b. If you are married filing separately and you lived apart from your spouse for all of 2021, also enter “D” to the right of the word “benefits” on line 6a. Benefits not taxable. Report your net benefits (the total amount from box 5 of all your Forms SSA-1099 and Forms RRB-1099) on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 6a. Enter -0- on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 6b. If you are married filing separately and you lived apart from your spouse for all of 2021, also enter “D” to the right of the word “benefits” on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 6a. How Much Is Taxable?If part of your benefits are taxable, how much is taxable depends on the total amount of your benefits and other income. Generally, the higher that total amount, the greater the taxable part of your benefits. Maximum taxable part. Generally, up to 50% of your benefits will be taxable. However, up to 85% of your benefits can be taxable if either of the following situations applies to you.
Which worksheet to use. A worksheet you can use to figure your taxable benefits is in the Instructions for Form 1040. You can use either that worksheet or Worksheet 1 in Pub. 915, unless any of the following situations applies to you.
Lump-sum election. You must include the taxable part of a lump-sum (retroactive) payment of benefits received in 2021 in your 2021 income, even if the payment includes benefits for an earlier year. . Generally, you use your 2021 income to figure the taxable part of the total benefits received in 2021. However, you may be able to figure the taxable part of a lump-sum payment for an earlier year separately, using your income for the earlier year. You can elect this method if it lowers your taxable benefits. Making the election. If you received a lump-sum benefit payment in 2021 that includes benefits for one or more earlier years, follow the instructions in Pub. 915 under Lump-Sum Election to see whether making the election will lower your taxable benefits. That discussion also explains how to make the election. . ExamplesThe following are a few examples you can use as a guide to figure the taxable part of your benefits. Example 1. George White is single and files Form 1040 for 2021. He received the following income in 2021.
George also received social security benefits during 2021. The Form SSA-1099 he received in January 2022 shows $5,980 in box 5. To figure his taxable benefits, George completes the worksheet shown here. . Filled-in Worksheet 1. Figuring Your Taxable Benefits
The amount on line 19 of George's worksheet shows that $2,990 of his social security benefits is taxable. On line 6a of his Form 1040, George enters his net benefits of $5,980. On line 6b, he enters his taxable benefits of $2,990. Example 2. Ray and Alice Hopkins file a joint return on Form 1040 for 2021. Ray is retired and received a fully taxable pension of $15,500. He also received social security benefits, and his Form SSA-1099 for 2021 shows net benefits of $5,600 in box 5. Alice worked during the year and had wages of $14,000. She made a deductible payment to her IRA account of $1,000 and isn’t covered by a retirement plan at work. Ray and Alice have two savings accounts with a total of $250 in taxable interest income. They complete Worksheet 1, shown below, entering $29,750 ($15,500 + $14,000 + $250) on line 3. They find none of Ray's social security benefits are taxable. On Form 1040, they enter $5,600 on line 6a and -0- on line 6b. Filled-in Worksheet 1. Figuring Your Taxable Benefits
Example 3. Joe and Betty Johnson file a joint return on Form 1040 for 2021. Joe is a retired railroad worker and in 2021 received the SSEB portion of tier 1 railroad retirement benefits. Joe's Form RRB-1099 shows $10,000 in box 5. Betty is a retired government worker and received a fully taxable pension of $38,000. They had $2,300 in taxable interest income plus interest of $200 on a qualified U.S. savings bond. The savings bond interest qualified for the exclusion. They figure their taxable benefits by completing Worksheet 1, shown below. Because they have qualified U.S. savings bond interest, they follow the note at the beginning of the worksheet and use the amount from line 2 of their Schedule B (Form 1040) on line 3 of the worksheet instead of the amount from line 2b of their Form 1040. On line 3 of the worksheet, they enter $40,500 ($38,000 + $2,500). Filled-in Worksheet 1. Figuring Your Taxable Benefits
More than 50% of Joe's net benefits are taxable because the income on line 8 of the worksheet ($45,500) is more than $44,000. (See Maximum taxable part under How Much Is Taxable, earlier.) Joe and Betty enter $10,000 on Form 1040, line 6a; and $6,275 on Form 1040, line 6b. Deductions Related to Your BenefitsYou may be entitled to deduct certain amounts related to the benefits you receive. Disability payments. You may have received disability payments from your employer or an insurance company that you included as income on your tax return in an earlier year. If you received a lump-sum payment from the SSA or RRB, and you had to repay the employer or insurance company for the disability payments, you can take an itemized deduction for the part of the payments you included in gross income in the earlier year. If the amount you repay is more than $3,000, you may be able to claim a tax credit instead. Claim the deduction or credit in the same way explained under Repayment of benefits received in an earlier year in the section Repayments More Than Gross Benefits next. Repayments More Than Gross BenefitsIn some situations, your Form SSA-1099 or Form RRB-1099 will show that the total benefits you repaid (box 4) are more than the gross benefits (box 3) you received. If this occurred, your net benefits in box 5 will be a negative figure (a figure in parentheses) and none of your benefits will be taxable. Don’t use a worksheet in this case. If you receive more than one form, a negative figure in box 5 of one form is used to offset a positive figure in box 5 of another form for that same year. If you have any questions about this negative figure, contact your local SSA office or your local RRB field office. Joint return. If you and your spouse file a joint return, and your Form SSA-1099 or RRB-1099 has a negative figure in box 5, but your spouse's doesn’t, subtract the amount in box 5 of your form from the amount in box 5 of your spouse's form. You do this to get your net benefits when figuring if your combined benefits are taxable. Example. John and Mary file a joint return for 2021. John received Form SSA-1099 showing $3,000 in box 5. Mary also received Form SSA-1099 and the amount in box 5 was ($500). John and Mary will use $2,500 ($3,000 minus $500) as the amount of their net benefits when figuring if any of their combined benefits are taxable. Repayment of benefits received in an earlier year. If the total amount shown in box 5 of all of your Forms SSA-1099 and RRB-1099 is a negative figure, you may be able to deduct part of this negative figure that represents benefits you included in gross income in an earlier year if the figure is more than $3,000. If the figure is $3,000 or less, it is a miscellaneous itemized deduction and can no longer be deducted. Deduction more than $3,000. If this deduction is more than $3,000, you should figure your tax two ways.
Compare the tax figured in methods 1 and 2. Your tax for 2021 is the smaller of the two amounts. If method 1 results in less tax, take the itemized deduction on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16. If method 2 results in less tax, claim a credit for the amount from step 2c above on Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 13z. Enter “I.R.C. 1341” on the entry line. If both methods produce the same tax, deduct the repayment on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16. 8. Other IncomeWhat’s NewBusiness meals. Section 210 of the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020 provides for the temporary allowance of a 100% business meal deduction for food or beverages provided by a restaurant and paid or incurred after December 31, 2020, and before January 1, 2023. RemindersUnemployment compensation. If you received unemployment compensation but did not receive Form 1099-G, Certain Government Payments, through the mail, you may need to access your information through your state’s website to get your electronic Form 1099-G. IntroductionYou must include on your return all items of income you receive in the form of money, property, and services unless the tax law states that you don’t include them. Some items, however, are only partly excluded from income. This chapter discusses many kinds of income and explains whether they’re taxable or nontaxable.
This chapter begins with discussions of the following income items.
These discussions are followed by brief discussions of other income items. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. BarteringBartering is an exchange of property or services. You must include in your income, at the time received, the fair market value of property or services you receive in bartering. If you exchange services with another person and you both have agreed ahead of time on the value of the services, that value will be accepted as fair market value unless the value can be shown to be otherwise. Generally, you report this income on Schedule C (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Business. However, if the barter involves an exchange of something other than services, such as in Example 3 below, you may have to use another form or schedule instead. Example 1. You’re a self-employed attorney who performs legal services for a client, a small corporation. The corporation gives you shares of its stock as payment for your services. You must include the fair market value of the shares in your income on Schedule C (Form 1040) in the year you receive them. Example 2. You’re self-employed and a member of a barter club. The club uses “credit units” as a means of exchange. It adds credit units to your account for goods or services you provide to members, which you can use to purchase goods or services offered by other members of the barter club. The club subtracts credit units from your account when you receive goods or services from other members. You must include in your income the value of the credit units that are added to your account, even though you may not actually receive goods or services from other members until a later tax year. Example 3. You own a small apartment building. In return for 6 months rent-free use of an apartment, an artist gives you a work of art she created. You must report as rental income on Schedule E (Form 1040), Supplemental Income and Loss, the fair market value of the artwork, and the artist must report as income on Schedule C (Form 1040) the fair rental value of the apartment. Form 1099-B from barter exchange. If you exchanged property or services through a barter exchange, Form 1099-B, Proceeds From Broker and Barter Exchange Transactions, or a similar statement from the barter exchange should be sent to you by February 15, 2022. It should show the value of cash, property, services, credits, or scrip you received from exchanges during 2021. The IRS will also receive a copy of Form 1099-B. Canceled DebtsIn most cases, if a debt you owe is canceled or forgiven, other than as a gift or bequest, you must include the canceled amount in your income. You have no income from the canceled debt if it’s intended as a gift to you. A debt includes any indebtedness for which you’re liable or which attaches to property you hold. If the debt is a nonbusiness debt, report the canceled amount on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8c. If it’s a business debt, report the amount on Schedule C (Form 1040) (or on Schedule F (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Farming, if the debt is farm debt and you’re a farmer). Form 1099-C. If a federal government agency, financial institution, or credit union cancels or forgives a debt you owe of $600 or more, you will receive a Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt. The amount of the canceled debt is shown in box 2. Interest included in canceled debt. If any interest is forgiven and included in the amount of canceled debt in box 2, the amount of interest will also be shown in box 3. Whether or not you must include the interest portion of the canceled debt in your income depends on whether the interest would be deductible when you paid it. See Deductible debt under Exceptions, later. If the interest wouldn’t be deductible (such as interest on a personal loan), include in your income the amount from box 2 of Form 1099-C. If the interest would be deductible (such as on a business loan), include in your income the net amount of the canceled debt (the amount shown in box 2 less the interest amount shown in box 3). Discounted mortgage loan. If your financial institution offers a discount for the early payment of your mortgage loan, the amount of the discount is canceled debt. You must include the canceled amount in your income. Mortgage relief upon sale or other disposition. If you’re personally liable for a mortgage (recourse debt), and you’re relieved of the mortgage when you dispose of the property, you may realize gain or loss up to the fair market value of the property. Also, to the extent the mortgage discharge exceeds the fair market value of the property, it’s income from discharge of indebtedness unless it qualifies for exclusion under Excluded debt, later. Report any income from discharge of indebtedness on nonbusiness debt that doesn’t qualify for exclusion as other income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8c. If you aren’t personally liable for a mortgage (nonrecourse debt), and you’re relieved of the mortgage when you dispose of the property (such as through foreclosure), that relief is included in the amount you realize. You may have a taxable gain if the amount you realize exceeds your adjusted basis in the property. Report any gain on nonbusiness property as a capital gain. See Pub. 4681 for more information. Stockholder debt. If you’re a stockholder in a corporation and the corporation cancels or forgives your debt to it, the canceled debt is a constructive distribution that’s generally dividend income to you. For more information, see Pub. 542, Corporations. If you’re a stockholder in a corporation and you cancel a debt owed to you by the corporation, you generally don’t realize income. This is because the canceled debt is considered as a contribution to the capital of the corporation equal to the amount of debt principal that you canceled. Repayment of canceled debt. If you included a canceled amount in your income and later pay the debt, you may be able to file a claim for refund for the year the amount was included in income. You can file a claim on Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, if the statute of limitations for filing a claim is still open. The statute of limitations generally doesn’t end until 3 years after the due date of your original return. ExceptionsThere are several exceptions to the inclusion of canceled debt in income. These are explained next. Student loans. Certain student loans contain a provision that all or part of the debt incurred to attend the qualified educational institution will be canceled if you work for a certain period of time in certain professions for any of a broad class of employers. You don’t have income if your student loan is canceled after you agreed to this provision and then performed the services required. To qualify, the loan must have been made by:
A loan to refinance a qualified student loan will also qualify if it was made by an educational institution or a qualified tax-exempt organization under its program designed as described in item 3b above. Education loan repayment assistance. Education loan repayments made to you by the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program (NHSC Loan Repayment Program), a state education loan repayment program eligible for funds under the Public Health Service Act, or any other state loan repayment or loan forgiveness program that’s intended to provide for the increased availability of health services in underserved or health professional shortage areas aren’t taxable. Deductible debt. You don’t have income from the cancellation of a debt if your payment of the debt would be deductible. This exception applies only if you use the cash method of accounting. For more information, see chapter 5 of Pub. 334, Tax Guide for Small Business. Price reduced after purchase. In most cases, if the seller reduces the amount of debt you owe for property you purchased, you don’t have income from the reduction. The reduction of the debt is treated as a purchase price adjustment and reduces your basis in the property. Excluded debt. Don’t include a canceled debt in your gross income in the following situations.
Host or HostessIf you host a party or event at which sales are made, any gift or gratuity you receive for giving the event is a payment for helping a direct seller make sales. You must report this item as income at its fair market value. Your out-of-pocket party expenses are subject to the 50% limit for meal expenses. For tax years 2018 and after, no deduction is allowed for any expenses related to activities generally considered entertainment, amusement, or recreation. Taxpayers may continue to deduct 50% of the cost of business meals if the taxpayer (or an employee of the taxpayer) is present and the food or beverages are not considered lavish or extravagant. The meals may be provided to a current or potential business customer, client, consultant, or similar business contact. Food and beverages that are provided during entertainment events will not be considered entertainment if purchased separately from the event. Section 210 of the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020 provides for the temporary allowance of a 100% business meal deduction for food or beverages provided by a restaurant and paid or incurred after December 31, 2020, and before January 1, 2023. For more information about the limit for meal expenses, see Pub. 463, Travel, Gift, and Car Expenses. Life Insurance ProceedsLife insurance proceeds paid to you because of the death of the insured person aren’t taxable unless the policy was turned over to you for a price. This is true even if the proceeds were paid under an accident or health insurance policy or an endowment contract. However, interest income received as a result of life insurance proceeds may be taxable. Proceeds not received in installments. If death benefits are paid to you in a lump sum or other than at regular intervals, include in your income only the benefits that are more than the amount payable to you at the time of the insured person's death. If the benefit payable at death isn’t specified, you include in your income the benefit payments that are more than the present value of the payments at the time of death. Proceeds received in installments. If you receive life insurance proceeds in installments, you can exclude part of each installment from your income. To determine the excluded part, divide the amount held by the insurance company (generally, the total lump sum payable at the death of the insured person) by the number of installments to be paid. Include anything over this excluded part in your income as interest. Surviving spouse. If your spouse died before October 23, 1986, and insurance proceeds paid to you because of the death of your spouse are received in installments, you can exclude up to $1,000 a year of the interest included in the installments. If you remarry, you can continue to take the exclusion. Surrender of policy for cash. If you surrender a life insurance policy for cash, you must include in income any proceeds that are more than the cost of the life insurance policy. In most cases, your cost (or investment in the contract) is the total of premiums that you paid for the life insurance policy, less any refunded premiums, rebates, dividends, or unrepaid loans that weren’t included in your income. You should receive a Form 1099-R showing the total proceeds and the taxable part. Report these amounts on lines 5a and 5b of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. More information. For more information, see Life Insurance Proceeds in Pub. 525. Endowment Contract ProceedsAn endowment contract is a policy under which you’re paid a specified amount of money on a certain date unless you die before that date, in which case the money is paid to your designated beneficiary. Endowment proceeds paid in a lump sum to you at maturity are taxable only if the proceeds are more than the cost of the policy. To determine your cost, subtract any amount that you previously received under the contract and excluded from your income from the total premiums (or other consideration) paid for the contract. Include in your income the part of the lump-sum payment that’s more than your cost. Accelerated Death BenefitsCertain amounts paid as accelerated death benefits under a life insurance contract or viatical settlement before the insured's death are excluded from income if the insured is terminally or chronically ill. Viatical settlement. This is the sale or assignment of any part of the death benefit under a life insurance contract to a viatical settlement provider. A viatical settlement provider is a person who regularly engages in the business of buying or taking assignment of life insurance contracts on the lives of insured individuals who are terminally or chronically ill and who meets the requirements of section 101(g)(2)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code. Exclusion for terminal illness. Accelerated death benefits are fully excludable if the insured is a terminally ill individual. This is a person who has been certified by a physician as having an illness or physical condition that can reasonably be expected to result in death within 24 months from the date of the certification. Exclusion for chronic illness. If the insured is a chronically ill individual who’s not terminally ill, accelerated death benefits paid on the basis of costs incurred for qualified long-term care services are fully excludable. Accelerated death benefits paid on a per diem or other periodic basis are excludable up to a limit. For 2021, this limit is $400. It applies to the total of the accelerated death benefits and any periodic payments received from long-term care insurance contracts. For information on the limit and the definitions of chronically ill individual, qualified long-term care services, and long-term care insurance contracts, see Long-Term Care Insurance Contracts under Sickness and Injury Benefits in Pub. 525. Exception. The exclusion doesn’t apply to any amount paid to a person (other than the insured) who has an insurable interest in the life of the insured because the insured:
Form 8853. To claim an exclusion for accelerated death benefits made on a per diem or other periodic basis, you must file Form 8853, Archer MSAs and Long-Term Care Insurance Contracts, with your return. You don’t have to file Form 8853 to exclude accelerated death benefits paid on the basis of actual expenses incurred. Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyA spouse, former spouse, and child of a public safety officer killed in the line of duty can exclude from gross income survivor benefits received from a governmental section 401(a) plan attributable to the officer’s service. See section 101(h). A public safety officer who’s permanently and totally disabled or killed in the line of duty and a surviving spouse or child can exclude from income death or disability benefits received from the federal Bureau of Justice Assistance or death benefits paid by a state program. See section 104(a)(6). For this purpose, the term “public safety officer” includes law enforcement officers, firefighters, chaplains, and rescue squad and ambulance crew members. For more information, see Pub. 559, Survivors, Executors, and Administrators. Partnership IncomeA partnership generally isn’t a taxable entity. The income, gains, losses, deductions, and credits of a partnership are passed through to the partners based on each partner's distributive share of these items. Schedule K-1 (Form 1065). Although a partnership generally pays no tax, it must file an information return on Form 1065, U.S. Return of Partnership Income, and send Schedule K-1 (Form 1065) to each partner. In addition, the partnership will send each partner a copy of the Partner's Instructions for Schedule K-1 (Form 1065) to help each partner report his or her share of the partnership's income, deductions, credits, and tax preference items. . For more information on partnerships, see Pub. 541, Partnerships. Qualified joint venture. If you and your spouse each materially participate as the only members of a jointly owned and operated business, and you file a joint return for the tax year, you can make a joint election to be treated as a qualified joint venture instead of a partnership. To make this election, you must divide all items of income, gain, loss, deduction, and credit attributable to the business between you and your spouse in accordance with your respective interests in the venture. For further information on how to make the election and which schedule(s) to file, see the instructions for your individual tax return. S Corporation IncomeIn most cases, an S corporation doesn’t pay tax on its income. Instead, the income, losses, deductions, and credits of the corporation are passed through to the shareholders based on each shareholder's pro rata share. Schedule K-1 (Form 1120-S). An S corporation must file a return on Form 1120-S, U.S. Income Tax Return for an S Corporation, and send Schedule K-1 (Form 1120-S) to each shareholder. In addition, the S corporation will send each shareholder a copy of the Shareholder's Instructions for Schedule K-1 (Form 1120-S) to help each shareholder report his or her share of the S corporation's income, losses, credits, and deductions. . For more information on S corporations and their shareholders, see the Instructions for Form 1120-S. RecoveriesA recovery is a return of an amount you deducted or took a credit for in an earlier year. The most common recoveries are refunds, reimbursements, and rebates of deductions itemized on Schedule A (Form 1040). You may also have recoveries of nonitemized deductions (such as payments on previously deducted bad debts) and recoveries of items for which you previously claimed a tax credit. Tax benefit rule. You must include a recovery in your income in the year you receive it up to the amount by which the deduction or credit you took for the recovered amount reduced your tax in the earlier year. For this purpose, any increase to an amount carried over to the current year that resulted from the deduction or credit is considered to have reduced your tax in the earlier year. For more information, see Pub. 525. Federal income tax refund. Refunds of federal income taxes aren’t included in your income because they’re never allowed as a deduction from income. State tax refund. If you received a state or local income tax refund (or credit or offset) in 2021, you must generally include it in income if you deducted the tax in an earlier year. The payer should send Form 1099-G to you by January 31, 2022. The IRS will also receive a copy of the Form 1099-G. If you file Form 1040 or 1040-SR, use the State and Local Income Tax Refund Worksheet in the 2021 instructions for Schedule 1 (Form 1040) to figure the amount (if any) to include in your income. See Pub. 525 for when you must use another worksheet. If you could choose to deduct for a tax year either:
the maximum refund that you may have to include in income is limited to the excess of the tax you chose to deduct for that year over the tax you didn’t choose to deduct for that year. For examples, see Pub. 525. Mortgage interest refund. If you received a refund or credit in 2021 of mortgage interest paid in an earlier year, the amount should be shown in box 4 of your Form 1098, Mortgage Interest Statement. Don’t subtract the refund amount from the interest you paid in 2021. You may have to include it in your income under the rules explained in the following discussions. Interest on recovery. Interest on any of the amounts you recover must be reported as interest income in the year received. For example, report any interest you received on state or local income tax refunds on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 2b. Recovery and expense in same year. If the refund or other recovery and the expense occur in the same year, the recovery reduces the deduction or credit and isn’t reported as income. Recovery for 2 or more years. If you receive a refund or other recovery that’s for amounts you paid in 2 or more separate years, you must allocate, on a pro rata basis, the recovered amount between the years in which you paid it. This allocation is necessary to determine the amount of recovery from any earlier years and to determine the amount, if any, of your allowable deduction for this item for the current year. For information on how to figure the allocation, see Recoveries in Pub. 525. Itemized Deduction RecoveriesIf you recover any amount that you deducted in an earlier year on Schedule A (Form 1040), you must generally include the full amount of the recovery in your income in the year you receive it. Where to report. Enter your state or local income tax refund on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 1, and the total of all other recoveries as other income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. Standard deduction limit. You are generally allowed to claim the standard deduction if you don’t itemize your deductions. Only your itemized deductions that are more than your standard deduction are subject to the recovery rule (unless you’re required to itemize your deductions). If your total deductions on the earlier year return weren’t more than your income for that year, include in your income this year the lesser of:
Example. For 2020, you filed a joint return. Your taxable income was $60,000 and you weren’t entitled to any tax credits. Your standard deduction was $24,800, and you had itemized deductions of $26,600. In 2021, you received the following recoveries for amounts deducted on your 2020 return.
None of the recoveries were more than the deductions taken for 2020. The difference between the state and local income tax you deducted and your local general sales tax was more than $400. Your total recoveries are less than the amount by which your itemized deductions exceeded the standard deduction ($26,600 − $24,800 = $1,800), so you must include your total recoveries in your income for 2021. Report the state and local income tax refund of $400 on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 1, and the balance of your recoveries, $525, on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. Standard deduction for earlier years. To determine if amounts recovered in the current year must be included in your income, you must know the standard deduction for your filing status for the year the deduction was claimed. Look in the instructions for your tax return from prior years to locate the standard deduction for the filing status for that prior year. Example. You filed a joint return on Form 1040 for 2020 with taxable income of $45,000. Your itemized deductions were $24,950. The standard deduction that you could have claimed was $24,800. In 2021, you recovered $2,100 of your 2020 itemized deductions. None of the recoveries were more than the actual deductions for 2020. Include $150 of the recoveries in your 2021 income. This is the smaller of your recoveries ($2,100) or the amount by which your itemized deductions were more than the standard deduction ($24,950 − $24,800 = $150). Recovery limited to deduction. You don’t include in your income any amount of your recovery that’s more than the amount you deducted in the earlier year. The amount you include in your income is limited to the smaller of:
Example. During 2020, you paid $1,700 for medical expenses. Of this amount, you deducted $200 on your 2020 Schedule A (Form 1040). In 2021, you received a $500 reimbursement from your medical insurance for your 2020 expenses. The only amount of the $500 reimbursement that must be included in your income for 2021 is $200—the amount actually deducted. Other recoveries. See Recoveries in Pub. 525 if:
Rents From Personal PropertyIf you rent out personal property, such as equipment or vehicles, how you report your income and expenses is in most cases determined by:
In most cases, if your primary purpose is income or profit and you’re involved in the rental activity with continuity and regularity, your rental activity is a business. See Pub. 535, Business Expenses, for details on deducting expenses for both business and not-for-profit activities. Reporting business income and expenses. If you’re in the business of renting personal property, report your income and expenses on Schedule C (Form 1040). The form instructions have information on how to complete them. Reporting nonbusiness income. If you aren’t in the business of renting personal property, report your rental income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8k. Reporting nonbusiness expenses. If you rent personal property for profit, include your rental expenses in the total amount you enter on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 24b, and see the instructions there. If you don’t rent personal property for profit, your deductions are limited and you can’t report a loss to offset other income. See Activity not for profit under Other Income, later. RepaymentsIf you had to repay an amount that you included in your income in an earlier year, you may be able to deduct the amount repaid from your income for the year in which you repaid it. Or, if the amount you repaid is more than $3,000, you may be able to take a credit against your tax for the year in which you repaid it. Generally, you can claim a deduction or credit only if the repayment qualifies as an expense or loss incurred in your trade or business or in a for-profit transaction. Type of deduction. The type of deduction you’re allowed in the year of repayment depends on the type of income you included in the earlier year. You generally deduct the repayment on the same form or schedule on which you previously reported it as income. For example, if you reported it as self-employment income, deduct it as a business expense on Schedule C (Form 1040) or Schedule F (Form 1040). If you reported it as a capital gain, deduct it as a capital loss as explained in the Instructions for Schedule D (Form 1040). If you reported it as wages, unemployment compensation, or other nonbusiness income, you may be able to deduct it as an other itemized deduction if the amount repaid is over $3,000. . Repaid social security benefits. If you repaid social security benefits or equivalent railroad retirement benefits, see Repayment of benefits in chapter 7. Repayment of $3,000 or less. If the amount you repaid was $3,000 or less, deduct it from your income in the year you repaid it. Repayment over $3,000. If the amount you repaid was more than $3,000, you can deduct the repayment as an other itemized deduction on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16, if you included the income under a claim of right. This means that at the time you included the income, it appeared that you had an unrestricted right to it. However, you can choose to take a credit for the year of repayment. Figure your tax under both methods and compare the results. Use the method (deduction or credit) that results in less tax. . Method 1. Figure your tax for 2021 claiming a deduction for the repaid amount. If you deduct it as an other itemized deduction, enter it on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16. Method 2. Figure your tax for 2021 claiming a credit for the repaid amount. Follow these steps.
If method 1 results in less tax, deduct the amount repaid. If method 2 results in less tax, claim the credit figured in (3) above on Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 13d, by adding the amount of the credit to any other credits on this line, and see the instructions there. An example of this computation can be found in Pub. 525. Repaid wages subject to social security and Medicare taxes. If you had to repay an amount that you included in your wages or compensation in an earlier year on which social security, Medicare, or tier 1 RRTA taxes were paid, ask your employer to refund the excess amount to you. If the employer refuses to refund the taxes, ask for a statement indicating the amount of the overcollection to support your claim. File a claim for refund using Form 843, Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement. Repaid wages subject to Additional Medicare Tax. Employers can’t make an adjustment or file a claim for refund for Additional Medicare Tax withholding when there is a repayment of wages received by an employee in a prior year because the employee determines liability for Additional Medicare Tax on the employee's income tax return for the prior year. If you had to repay an amount that you included in your wages or compensation in an earlier year, and on which Additional Medicare Tax was paid, you may be able to recover the Additional Medicare Tax paid on the amount. To recover Additional Medicare Tax on the repaid wages or compensation, you must file Form 1040-X for the prior year in which the wages or compensation was originally received. See the Instructions for Form 1040-X. RoyaltiesRoyalties from copyrights, patents, and oil, gas, and mineral properties are taxable as ordinary income. In most cases, you report royalties in Part I of Schedule E (Form 1040). However, if you hold an operating oil, gas, or mineral interest or are in business as a self-employed writer, inventor, artist, etc., report your income and expenses on Schedule C (Form 1040). Copyrights and patents. Royalties from copyrights on literary, musical, or artistic works, and similar property, or from patents on inventions, are amounts paid to you for the right to use your work over a specified period of time. Royalties are generally based on the number of units sold, such as the number of books, tickets to a performance, or machines sold. Oil, gas, and minerals. Royalty income from oil, gas, and mineral properties is the amount you receive when natural resources are extracted from your property. The royalties are based on units, such as barrels, tons, etc., and are paid to you by a person or company that leases the property from you. Depletion. If you’re the owner of an economic interest in mineral deposits or oil and gas wells, you can recover your investment through the depletion allowance. For information on this subject, see chapter 9 of Pub. 535. Coal and iron ore. Under certain circumstances, you can treat amounts you receive from the disposal of coal and iron ore as payments from the sale of a capital asset, rather than as royalty income. For information about gain or loss from the sale of coal and iron ore, see chapter 2 of Pub. 544. Sale of property interest. If you sell your complete interest in oil, gas, or mineral rights, the amount you receive is considered payment for the sale of property used in a trade or business under section 1231, not royalty income. Under certain circumstances, the sale is subject to capital gain or loss treatment as explained in the Instructions for Schedule D (Form 1040). For more information on selling section 1231 property, see chapter 3 of Pub. 544. If you retain a royalty, an overriding royalty, or a net profit interest in a mineral property for the life of the property, you have made a lease or a sublease, and any cash you receive for the assignment of other interests in the property is ordinary income subject to a depletion allowance. Part of future production sold. If you own mineral property but sell part of the future production, in most cases you treat the money you receive from the buyer at the time of the sale as a loan from the buyer. Don’t include it in your income or take depletion based on it. When production begins, you include all the proceeds in your income, deduct all the production expenses, and deduct depletion from that amount to arrive at your taxable income from the property. Unemployment BenefitsThe tax treatment of unemployment benefits you receive depends on the type of program paying the benefits. Unemployment compensation. You must include in income all unemployment compensation you receive. You should receive a Form 1099-G showing in box 1 the total unemployment compensation paid to you. In most cases, you enter unemployment compensation on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 7. . Types of unemployment compensation. Unemployment compensation generally includes any amount received under an unemployment compensation law of the United States or of a state. It includes the following benefits.
Governmental program. If you contribute to a governmental unemployment compensation program and your contributions aren’t deductible, amounts you receive under the program aren’t included as unemployment compensation until you recover your contributions. If you deducted all of your contributions to the program, the entire amount you receive under the program is included in your income. Repayment of unemployment compensation. If you repaid in 2021 unemployment compensation you received in 2021, subtract the amount you repaid from the total amount you received and enter the difference on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 7. On the dotted line next to your entry, enter “Repaid” and the amount you repaid. If you repaid unemployment compensation in 2021 that you included in income in an earlier year, you can deduct the amount repaid on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16, if you itemize deductions and the amount is more than $3,000. See Repayments, earlier. Tax withholding. You can choose to have federal income tax withheld from your unemployment compensation. To make this choice, complete Form W-4V, Voluntary Withholding Request, and give it to the paying office. Tax will be withheld at 10% of your payment. . Supplemental unemployment benefits. Benefits received from an employer-financed fund (to which the employees didn’t contribute) aren’t unemployment compensation. They are taxable as wages. For more information, see Supplemental Unemployment Benefits in section 5 of Pub. 15-A, Employer's Supplemental Tax Guide. Report these payments on line 1 of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Repayment of benefits. You may have to repay some of your supplemental unemployment benefits to qualify for trade readjustment allowances under the Trade Act of 1974. If you repay supplemental unemployment benefits in the same year you receive them, reduce the total benefits by the amount you repay. If you repay the benefits in a later year, you must include the full amount of the benefits received in your income for the year you received them. Deduct the repayment in the later year as an adjustment to gross income on Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Include the repayment on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 24e, and see the instructions there. If the amount you repay in a later year is more than $3,000, you may be able to take a credit against your tax for the later year instead of deducting the amount repaid. For more information on this, see Repayments, earlier. Private unemployment fund. Unemployment benefit payments from a private (nonunion) fund to which you voluntarily contribute are taxable only if the amounts you receive are more than your total payments into the fund. Report the taxable amount on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. Payments by a union. Benefits paid to you as an unemployed member of a union from regular union dues are included in your income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. However, if you contribute to a special union fund and your payments to the fund aren’t deductible, the unemployment benefits you receive from the fund are includible in your income only to the extent they’re more than your contributions. Guaranteed annual wage. Payments you receive from your employer during periods of unemployment, under a union agreement that guarantees you full pay during the year, are taxable as wages. Include them on line 1 of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. State employees. Payments similar to a state's unemployment compensation may be made by the state to its employees who aren’t covered by the state's unemployment compensation law. Although the payments are fully taxable, don’t report them as unemployment compensation. Report these payments on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. Welfare and Other Public Assistance BenefitsDon’t include in your income governmental benefit payments from a public welfare fund based upon need, such as payments to blind individuals under a state public assistance law. Payments from a state fund for the victims of crime shouldn’t be included in the victims' incomes if they’re in the nature of welfare payments. Don’t deduct medical expenses that are reimbursed by such a fund. You must include in your income any welfare payments that are compensation for services or that are obtained fraudulently. Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance (RTAA) payments. RTAA payments received from a state must be included in your income. The state must send you Form 1099-G to advise you of the amount you should include in income. The amount should be reported on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. Persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, you must include in income compensation you receive for services you perform unless the compensation is otherwise excluded. However, you don’t include in income the value of goods, services, and cash that you receive, not in return for your services, but for your training and rehabilitation because you have a disability. Excludable amounts include payments for transportation and attendant care, such as interpreter services for the deaf, reader services for the blind, and services to help individuals with an intellectual disability do their work. Disaster relief grants. Don’t include post-disaster grants received under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act in your income if the grant payments are made to help you meet necessary expenses or serious needs for medical, dental, housing, personal property, transportation, childcare, or funeral expenses. Don’t deduct casualty losses or medical expenses that are specifically reimbursed by these disaster relief grants. If you have deducted a casualty loss for the loss of your personal residence and you later receive a disaster relief grant for the loss of the same residence, you may have to include part or all of the grant in your taxable income. See Recoveries, earlier. Unemployment assistance payments under the Act are taxable unemployment compensation. See Unemployment compensation under Unemployment Benefits, earlier. Disaster relief payments. You can exclude from income any amount you receive that’s a qualified disaster relief payment. A qualified disaster relief payment is an amount paid to you:
You can exclude this amount only to the extent any expense it pays for isn’t paid for by insurance or otherwise. The exclusion doesn’t apply if you were a participant or conspirator in a terrorist action or a representative of one. A qualified disaster is:
For amounts paid under item (4) above, a disaster is qualified if it’s determined by an applicable federal, state, or local authority to warrant assistance from the federal, state, or local government, agency, or instrumentality. Disaster mitigation payments. You can exclude from income any amount you receive that’s a qualified disaster mitigation payment. Qualified disaster mitigation payments are most commonly paid to you in the period immediately following damage to property as a result of a natural disaster. However, disaster mitigation payments are used to mitigate (reduce the severity of) potential damage from future natural disasters. They’re paid to you through state and local governments based on the provisions of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act or the National Flood Insurance Act. You can’t increase the basis or adjusted basis of your property for improvements made with nontaxable disaster mitigation payments. Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP). If you benefit from Pay-for-Performance Success Payments under HAMP, the payments aren’t taxable. Mortgage assistance payments under section 235 of the National Housing Act. Payments made under section 235 of the National Housing Act for mortgage assistance aren’t included in the homeowner's income. Interest paid for the homeowner under the mortgage assistance program can’t be deducted. Medicare. Medicare benefits received under title XVIII of the Social Security Act aren’t includible in the gross income of the individuals for whom they’re paid. This includes basic (Part A (Hospital Insurance Benefits for the Aged)) and supplementary (Part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits for the Aged)). Social security benefits (including lump-sum payments attributable to prior years), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, and lump-sum death benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits such as old-age benefits, benefits to disabled workers, and benefits to spouses and dependents. These benefits may be subject to federal income tax depending on your filing status and other income. See chapter 7 in this publication and Pub. 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits, for more information. An individual originally denied benefits, but later approved, may receive a lump-sum payment for the period when benefits were denied (which may be prior years). See Pub. 915 for information on how to make a lump-sum election, which may reduce your tax liability. There are also other types of benefits paid by the SSA. However, SSI benefits and lump-sum death benefits (one-time payment to spouse and children of deceased) aren’t subject to federal income tax. For more information on these benefits, go to SSA.gov. Nutrition Program for the Elderly. Food benefits you receive under the Nutrition Program for the Elderly aren’t taxable. If you prepare and serve free meals for the program, include in your income as wages the cash pay you receive, even if you’re also eligible for food benefits. Payments to reduce cost of winter energy. Payments made by a state to qualified people to reduce their cost of winter energy use aren’t taxable. Other IncomeThe following brief discussions are arranged in alphabetical order. Other income items briefly discussed below are referenced to publications which provide more topical information. Activity not for profit. You must include on your return income from an activity from which you don’t expect to make a profit. An example of this type of activity is a hobby or a farm you operate mostly for recreation and pleasure. Enter this income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. Deductions for expenses related to the activity are limited. They can’t total more than the income you report and can be taken only if you itemize deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040). See Not-for-Profit Activities in chapter 1 of Pub. 535 for information on whether an activity is considered carried on for a profit. Alaska Permanent Fund dividend. If you received a payment from Alaska's mineral income fund (Alaska Permanent Fund dividend), report it as income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8f. The state of Alaska sends each recipient a document that shows the amount of the payment with the check. The amount is also reported to the IRS. Alimony. Include in your income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 2a, any taxable alimony payments you receive. Amounts you receive for child support aren’t income to you. Alimony and child support payments are discussed in Pub. 504. . Bribes. If you receive a bribe, include it in your income. Campaign contributions. These contributions aren’t income to a candidate unless they’re diverted to his or her personal use. To be nontaxable, the contributions must be spent for campaign purposes or kept in a fund for use in future campaigns. However, interest earned on bank deposits, dividends received on contributed securities, and net gains realized on sales of contributed securities are taxable and must be reported on Form 1120-POL, U.S. Income Tax Return for Certain Political Organizations. Excess campaign funds transferred to an office account must be included in the officeholder's income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z, in the year transferred. Carpools. Don’t include in your income amounts you receive from the passengers for driving a car in a carpool to and from work. These amounts are considered reimbursement for your expenses. However, this rule doesn’t apply if you have developed carpool arrangements into a profit-making business of transporting workers for hire. Cash rebates. A cash rebate you receive from a dealer or manufacturer of an item you buy isn’t income, but you must reduce your basis by the amount of the rebate. Example. You buy a new car for $24,000 cash and receive a $2,000 rebate check from the manufacturer. The $2,000 isn’t income to you. Your basis in the car is $22,000. This is the basis on which you figure gain or loss if you sell the car and depreciation if you use it for business. Casualty insurance and other reimbursements. You generally shouldn’t report these reimbursements on your return unless you’re figuring gain or loss from the casualty or theft. See Pub. 547 for more information. Child support payments. You shouldn’t report these payments on your return. See Pub. 504 for more information. Court awards and damages. To determine if settlement amounts you receive by compromise or judgment must be included in your income, you must consider the item that the settlement replaces. The character of the income as ordinary income or capital gain depends on the nature of the underlying claim. Include the following as ordinary income.
Don’t include in your income compensatory damages for personal physical injury or physical sickness (whether received in a lump sum or installments). Emotional distress. Emotional distress itself isn’t a physical injury or physical sickness, but damages you receive for emotional distress due to a physical injury or sickness are treated as received for the physical injury or sickness. Don’t include them in your income. If the emotional distress is due to a personal injury that isn’t due to a physical injury or sickness (for example, employment discrimination or injury to reputation), you must include the damages in your income, except for any damages that aren’t more than amounts paid for medical care due to that emotional distress. Emotional distress includes physical symptoms that result from emotional distress, such as headaches, insomnia, and stomach disorders. Credit card insurance. In most cases, if you receive benefits under a credit card disability or unemployment insurance plan, the benefits are taxable to you. These plans make the minimum monthly payment on your credit card account if you can’t make the payment due to injury, illness, disability, or unemployment. Report on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z, the amount of benefits you received during the year that’s more than the amount of the premiums you paid during the year. Down payment assistance. If you purchase a home and receive assistance from a nonprofit corporation to make the down payment, that assistance isn’t included in your income. If the corporation qualifies as a tax-exempt charitable organization, the assistance is treated as a gift and is included in your basis of the house. If the corporation doesn’t qualify, the assistance is treated as a rebate or reduction of the purchase price and isn’t included in your basis. Employment agency fees. If you get a job through an employment agency, and the fee is paid by your employer, the fee isn’t includible in your income if you aren’t liable for it. However, if you pay it and your employer reimburses you for it, it’s includible in your income. Energy conservation subsidies. You can exclude from gross income any subsidy provided, either directly or indirectly, by public utilities for the purchase or installation of an energy conservation measure for a dwelling unit. Energy conservation measure. This includes installations or modifications that are primarily designed to reduce consumption of electricity or natural gas, or improve the management of energy demand. Dwelling unit. This includes a house, apartment, condominium, mobile home, boat, or similar property. If a building or structure contains both dwelling and other units, any subsidy must be properly allocated. Estate and trust income. An estate or trust, unlike a partnership, may have to pay federal income tax. If you’re a beneficiary of an estate or trust, you may be taxed on your share of its income distributed or required to be distributed to you. However, there is never a double tax. Estates and trusts file their returns on Form 1041, U.S. Income Tax Return for Estates and Trusts, and your share of the income is reported to you on Schedule K-1 (Form 1041). Current income required to be distributed. If you’re the beneficiary of an estate or trust that must distribute all of its current income, you must report your share of the distributable net income, whether or not you actually received it. Current income not required to be distributed. If you’re the beneficiary of an estate or trust and the fiduciary has the choice of whether to distribute all or part of the current income, you must report:
up to the amount of your share of distributable net income. How to report. Treat each item of income the same way that the estate or trust would treat it. For example, if a trust's dividend income is distributed to you, you report the distribution as dividend income on your return. The same rule applies to distributions of tax-exempt interest and capital gains. The fiduciary of the estate or trust must tell you the type of items making up your share of the estate or trust income and any credits you’re allowed on your individual income tax return. Losses. Losses of estates and trusts generally aren’t deductible by the beneficiaries. Grantor trust. Income earned by a grantor trust is taxable to the grantor, not the beneficiary, if the grantor keeps certain control over the trust. (The grantor is the one who transferred property to the trust.) This rule applies if the property (or income from the property) put into the trust will or may revert (be returned) to the grantor or the grantor's spouse. Generally, a trust is a grantor trust if the grantor has a reversionary interest valued (at the date of transfer) at more than 5% of the value of the transferred property. Expenses paid by another. If your personal expenses are paid for by another person, such as a corporation, the payment may be taxable to you depending upon your relationship with that person and the nature of the payment. But if the payment makes up for a loss caused by that person, and only restores you to the position you were in before the loss, the payment isn’t includible in your income. Fees for services. Include all fees for your services in your income. Examples of these fees are amounts you receive for services you perform as:
Nonemployee compensation. If you aren’t an employee and the fees for your services from a single payer in the course of the payer's trade or business total $600 or more for the year, the payer should send you a Form 1099-NEC. You may need to report your fees as self-employment income. See Self-Employed Persons in chapter 1 for a discussion of when you’re considered self-employed. Corporate director. Corporate director fees are self-employment income. Report these payments on Schedule C (Form 1040). Personal representatives. All personal representatives must include in their gross income fees paid to them from an estate. If you aren’t in the trade or business of being an executor (for instance, you’re the executor of a friend's or relative's estate), report these fees on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. If you’re in the trade or business of being an executor, report these fees as self-employment income on Schedule C (Form 1040). The fee isn’t includible in income if it’s waived. Manager of trade or business for bankruptcy estate. Include in your income all payments received from your bankruptcy estate for managing or operating a trade or business that you operated before you filed for bankruptcy. Report this income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z. Notary public. Report payments for these services on Schedule C (Form 1040). These payments aren’t subject to self-employment tax. See the separate Instructions for Schedule SE (Form 1040) for details. Election precinct official. You should receive a Form W-2 showing payments for services performed as an election official or election worker. Report these payments on line 1 of Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Foster care providers. Generally, payment you receive from a state, political subdivision, or a qualified foster care placement agency for caring for a qualified foster individual in your home is excluded from your income. However, you must include in your income payment to the extent it’s received for the care of more than five qualified foster individuals age 19 years or older. A qualified foster individual is a person who:
Difficulty-of-care payments. These are payments that are designated by the payer as compensation for providing the additional care that’s required for physically, mentally, or emotionally handicapped qualified foster individuals. A state must determine that this compensation is needed, and the care for which the payments are made must be provided in the foster care provider's home in which the qualified foster individual was placed. Certain Medicaid waiver payments are treated as difficulty-of-care payments when received by an individual care provider for caring for an eligible individual living in the provider's home. See Notice 2014-7, available at IRS.gov/irb/2014-04_IRB#NOT-2014-7, and related questions and answers, available at IRS.gov/Individuals/Certain-Medicaid-Waiver-Payments-May-Be-Excludable-From-Income, for more information. You must include in your income difficulty-of-care payments to the extent they’re received for more than:
Maintaining space in home. If you’re paid to maintain space in your home for emergency foster care, you must include the payment in your income. Reporting taxable payments. If you receive payments that you must include in your income and you’re in business as a foster care provider, report the payments on Schedule C (Form 1040). See Pub. 587, Business Use of Your Home, to help you determine the amount you can deduct for the use of your home. Found property. If you find and keep property that doesn’t belong to you that has been lost or abandoned (treasure trove), it’s taxable to you at its fair market value in the first year it’s your undisputed possession. Free tour. If you received a free tour from a travel agency for organizing a group of tourists, you must include its value in your income. Report the fair market value of the tour on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z, if you aren’t in the trade or business of organizing tours. You can’t deduct your expenses in serving as the voluntary leader of the group at the group's request. If you organize tours as a trade or business, report the tour's value on Schedule C (Form 1040). Gambling winnings. You must include your gambling winnings in income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8b. Winnings from fantasy sports leagues are gambling winnings. If you itemize your deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040), you can deduct gambling losses you had during the year, but only up to the amount of your winnings. If you’re in the trade or business of gambling, use Schedule C (Form 1040). Lotteries and raffles. Winnings from lotteries and raffles are gambling winnings. In addition to cash winnings, you must include in your income the fair market value of bonds, cars, houses, and other noncash prizes. . Form W-2G. You may have received a Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings, showing the amount of your gambling winnings and any tax taken out of them. Include the amount from box 1 on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8b. Include the amount shown in box 4 on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 25c, as federal income tax withheld. Gifts and inheritances. In most cases, property you receive as a gift, bequest, or inheritance isn’t included in your income. However, if property you receive this way later produces income such as interest, dividends, or rents, that income is taxable to you. If property is given to a trust and the income from it is paid, credited, or distributed to you, that income is also taxable to you. If the gift, bequest, or inheritance is the income from the property, that income is taxable to you. Inherited pension or individual retirement arrangement (IRA). If you inherited a pension or an IRA, you may have to include part of the inherited amount in your income. See Survivors and Beneficiaries in Pub. 575 if you inherited a pension. See What if You Inherit an IRA? in Pubs. 590-A and 590-B if you inherited an IRA. Hobby losses. Losses from a hobby aren’t deductible from other income. A hobby is an activity from which you don’t expect to make a profit. See Activity not for profit, earlier. . Illegal activities. Income from illegal activities, such as money from dealing illegal drugs, must be included in your income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z, or on Schedule C (Form 1040) if from your self-employment activity. Indian fishing rights. If you’re a member of a qualified Indian tribe that has fishing rights secured by treaty, executive order, or an Act of Congress as of March 17, 1988, don’t include in your income amounts you receive from activities related to those fishing rights. The income isn’t subject to income tax, self-employment tax, or employment taxes. Interest on frozen deposits. In general, you exclude from your income the amount of interest earned on a frozen deposit. See Interest income on frozen deposits in chapter 6. Interest on qualified savings bonds. You may be able to exclude from income the interest from qualified U.S. savings bonds you redeem if you pay qualified higher education expenses in the same year. For more information on this exclusion, see Education Savings Bond Program under U.S. Savings Bonds in chapter 6. Job interview expenses. If a prospective employer asks you to appear for an interview and either pays you an allowance or reimburses you for your transportation and other travel expenses, the amount you receive is generally not taxable. You include in income only the amount you receive that’s more than your actual expenses. Jury duty. Jury duty pay you receive must be included in your income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8g. If you gave any of your jury duty pay to your employer because your employer continued to pay you while you served jury duty, include the amount you gave your employer as an income adjustment on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 24a, and see the instructions there. Kickbacks. You must include kickbacks, side commissions, push money, or similar payments you receive in your income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8z, or on Schedule C (Form 1040) if from your self-employment activity. Example. You sell cars and help arrange car insurance for buyers. Insurance brokers pay back part of their commissions to you for referring customers to them. You must include the kickbacks in your income. Medical savings accounts (Archer MSAs and Medicare Advantage MSAs). In most cases, you don’t include in income amounts you withdraw from your Archer MSA or Medicare Advantage MSA if you use the money to pay for qualified medical expenses. Generally, qualified medical expenses are those you can deduct on Schedule A (Form 1040). For more information about qualified medical expenses, see Pub. 502. For more information about Archer MSAs or Medicare Advantage MSAs, see Pub. 969, Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favored Health Plans. Prizes and awards. If you win a prize in a lucky number drawing, television or radio quiz program, beauty contest, or other event, you must include it in your income. For example, if you win a $50 prize in a photography contest, you must report this income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8h. If you refuse to accept a prize, don’t include its value in your income. Prizes and awards in goods or services must be included in your income at their fair market value. Employee awards or bonuses. Cash awards or bonuses given to you by your employer for good work or suggestions must generally be included in your income as wages. However, certain noncash employee achievement awards can be excluded from income. See Bonuses and awards in chapter 5. Pulitzer, Nobel, and similar prizes. If you were awarded a prize in recognition of accomplishments in religious, charitable, scientific, artistic, educational, literary, or civic fields, you must generally include the value of the prize in your income. However, you don’t include this prize in your income if you meet all of the following requirements.
See Pub. 525 for more information about the conditions that apply to the transfer. Qualified Opportunity Fund (QOF). Effective December 22, 2017, Code section 1400Z-2 provides a temporary deferral on inclusion in gross income for capital gains invested in QOFs, and permanent exclusion of capital gains from the sale or exchange of an investment in the QOF if the investment is held for at least 10 years. See the Instructions for Form 8949 on how to report your election to defer eligible gains invested in a QOF. See the instructions for Form 8997, Initial and Annual Statement of Qualified Opportunity Fund (QOF) Investments, for reporting information. For additional information, see Opportunity Zones Frequently Asked Questions at IRS.gov/Newsroom/Opportunity-Zones-Frequently-Asked-Questions. Qualified tuition programs (QTPs). A QTP (also known as a 529 program) is a program set up to allow you to either prepay or contribute to an account established for paying a student's qualified higher education expenses at an eligible educational institution. A program can be established and maintained by a state, an agency or instrumentality of a state, or an eligible educational institution. The part of a distribution representing the amount paid or contributed to a QTP isn’t included in income. This is a return of the investment in the program. In most cases, the beneficiary doesn’t include in income any earnings distributed from a QTP if the total distribution is less than or equal to adjusted qualified higher education expenses. See Pub. 970 for more information. Railroad retirement annuities. The following types of payments are treated as pension or annuity income and are taxable under the rules explained in Pub. 575, Pension and Annuity Income.
Rewards. If you receive a reward for providing information, include it in your income. Sale of home. You may be able to exclude from income all or part of any gain from the sale or exchange of your main home. See Pub. 523. Sale of personal items. If you sold an item you owned for personal use, such as a car, refrigerator, furniture, stereo, jewelry, or silverware, your gain is taxable as a capital gain. Report it as explained in the Instructions for Schedule D (Form 1040). You can’t deduct a loss. However, if you sold an item you held for investment, such as gold or silver bullion, coins, or gems, any gain is taxable as a capital gain and any loss is deductible as a capital loss. Example. You sold a painting on an online auction website for $100. You bought the painting for $20 at a garage sale years ago. Report your gain as a capital gain as explained in the Instructions for Schedule D (Form 1040). Scholarships and fellowships. A candidate for a degree can exclude amounts received as a qualified scholarship or fellowship. A qualified scholarship or fellowship is any amount you receive that’s for:
Amounts used for room and board don’t qualify for the exclusion. See Pub. 970 for more information on qualified scholarships and fellowship grants. Payment for services. In most cases, you must include in income the part of any scholarship or fellowship that represents payment for past, present, or future teaching, research, or other services. This applies even if all candidates for a degree must perform the services to receive the degree. For information about the rules that apply to a tax-free qualified tuition reduction provided to employees and their families by an educational institution, see Pub. 970. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) payments. Allowances paid by the VA aren’t included in your income. These allowances aren’t considered scholarship or fellowship grants. Prizes. Scholarship prizes won in a contest aren’t scholarships or fellowships if you don’t have to use the prizes for educational purposes. You must include these amounts in your income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8h, whether or not you use the amounts for educational purposes. Sharing/gig economy. Generally, if you work in the gig economy or did gig work, you must include all income received from all jobs whether you received a Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third-Party Network Transactions, or not. See the Instructions for Schedule C (Form 1040) and the Instructions for Schedule SE (Form 1040). Stolen property. If you steal property, you must report its fair market value in your income in the year you steal it unless you return it to its rightful owner in the same year. Transporting school children. Don’t include in your income a school board mileage allowance for taking children to and from school if you aren’t in the business of taking children to school. You can’t deduct expenses for providing this transportation. Union benefits and dues. Amounts deducted from your pay for union dues, assessments, contributions, or other payments to a union can’t be excluded from your income. Strike and lockout benefits. Benefits paid to you by a union as strike or lockout benefits, including both cash and the fair market value of other property, are usually included in your income as compensation. You can exclude these benefits from your income only when the facts clearly show that the union intended them as gifts to you. Utility rebates. If you’re a customer of an electric utility company and you participate in the utility's energy conservation program, you may receive on your monthly electric bill either:
The amount of the rate reduction or nonrefundable credit isn’t included in your income. 9. Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs)What’s NewModified AGI limit for traditional IRA contributions. For 2021, if you are covered by a retirement plan at work, your deduction for contributions to a traditional IRA is reduced (phased out) if your modified AGI is:
If you either live with your spouse or file a joint return, and your spouse is covered by a retirement plan at work but you aren’t, your deduction is phased out if your modified AGI is more than $198,000 but less than $208,000. If your modified AGI is $208,000 or more, you can’t take a deduction for contributions to a traditional IRA. See How Much Can You Deduct, later. Modified AGI limit for Roth IRA contributions. For 2021, your Roth IRA contribution limit is reduced (phased out) in the following situations.
See Can You Contribute to a Roth IRA, later. 2022 modified AGI limits. You can find information about the 2022 contribution and AGI limits in Pub. 590-A. RemindersQualified disaster tax relief. Special rules provide for tax-favored withdrawals and repayments from certain retirement plans for taxpayers who suffered an economic loss as a result of a qualified disaster. A qualified disaster includes a major disaster that was declared by Presidential Declaration that is dated between January 1, 2020, and February 25, 2021 (inclusive). However, in order to qualify under the latest legislation, the major disaster must have an incident period beginning between December 28, 2019, and December 27, 2020 (inclusive). Also, a qualified disaster loss does not include any disaster that has been declared only by reason of COVID-19. See Form 8915-F, Qualified Disaster Plan Distributions and Repayments, for more information.See Pub. 590-B, Distributions from Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs), for more information. Maximum age for making traditional IRA contributions repealed. For tax years beginning after 2019, there is no age limit on making contributions to your traditional IRA. For more information, see Pub. 590-A. Required minimum distributions (RMDs). For distributions required to be made after tax year 2019, the age for the required beginning date for mandatory distributions is changed to age 72 for taxpayers reaching age 70½ after 2019. Contributions to both traditional and Roth IRAs. For information on your combined contribution limit if you contribute to both traditional and Roth IRAs, see Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs, later. Extended rollover period for qualified plan loan offsets in 2018 or later. For distributions made in tax years after tax year 2017, you have until the due date (including extensions) for your tax return for the tax year in which the offset occurs to rollover a qualified plan loan offset amount. For more information, see Pub. 590-A. No recharacterizations of conversions made in 2018 or later. A conversion of a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, and a rollover from any other eligible retirement plan to a Roth IRA, made after tax year 2017, can’t be recharacterized as having been made to a traditional IRA. For more information, see Pub. 590-A. Statement of required minimum distribution. If a minimum distribution from your IRA is required, the trustee, custodian, or issuer that held the IRA at the end of the preceding year must either report the amount of the required minimum distribution to you, or offer to figure it for you. The report or offer must include the date by which the amount must be distributed. The report is due January 31 of the year in which the minimum distribution is required. It can be provided with the year-end fair market value statement that you normally get each year. No report is required for IRAs of owners who have died. IRA interest. Although interest earned from your IRA is generally not taxed in the year earned, it isn't tax-exempt interest. Tax on your traditional IRA is generally deferred until you take a distribution. Don't report this interest on your tax return as tax-exempt interest. Net investment income tax. For purposes of the Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT), net investment income doesn't include distributions from a qualified retirement plan including IRAs (for example, 401(a), 403(a), 403(b), 408, 408A, or 457(b) plans). However, these distributions are taken into account when determining the modified AGI threshold. Distributions from a nonqualified retirement plan are included in net investment income. See Form 8960, Net Investment Income Tax—Individuals, Estates, and Trusts, and its instructions for more information. Form 8606. To designate contributions as nondeductible, you must file Form 8606. . IntroductionAn IRA is a personal savings plan that gives you tax advantages for setting aside money for your retirement. This chapter discusses the following topics.
Simplified Employee Pensions (SEPs) and Savings Incentive Match Plans for Employees (SIMPLE) plans aren't discussed in this chapter. For more information on these plans and employees' SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs that are part of these plans, see Pub. 560, Retirement Plans for Small Business. For information about contributions, deductions, withdrawals, transfers, rollovers, and other transactions, see Pub. 590-A and Pub. 590-B. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Form (and Instructions)
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. Traditional IRAsIn this chapter, the original IRA (sometimes called an ordinary or regular IRA) is referred to as a “traditional IRA.” A traditional IRA is any IRA that isn't a Roth IRA or a SIMPLE IRA.Two advantages of a traditional IRA are:
Who Can Open a Traditional IRA?You can open and make contributions to a traditional IRA if you (or, if you file a joint return, your spouse) received taxable compensation during the year. . What is compensation? Generally, compensation is what you earn from working. Compensation includes wages, salaries, tips, professional fees, bonuses, and other amounts you receive for providing personal services. The IRS treats as compensation any amount properly shown in box 1 (Wages, tips, other compensation) of Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, provided that this amount is reduced by any amount properly shown in box 11 (Nonqualified plans). Scholarship and fellowship payments are compensation for this purpose only if shown in box 1 of Form W-2. Compensation also includes commissions and taxable alimony and separate maintenance payments. Self-employment income. If you are self-employed (a sole proprietor or a partner), compensation is the net earnings from your trade or business (provided your personal services are a material income-producing factor) reduced by the total of:
Compensation includes earnings from self-employment even if they aren't subject to self-employment tax because of your religious beliefs. Nontaxable combat pay. For IRA purposes, if you were a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, your compensation includes any nontaxable combat pay you receive. What isn't compensation? Compensation doesn't include any of the following items.
When and How Can a Traditional IRA Be Opened?You can open a traditional IRA at any time. However, the time for making contributions for any year is limited. See When Can Contributions Be Made, later. You can open different kinds of IRAs with a variety of organizations. You can open an IRA at a bank or other financial institution or with a mutual fund or life insurance company. You can also open an IRA through your stockbroker. Any IRA must meet Internal Revenue Code requirements. Kinds of traditional IRAs. Your traditional IRA can be an individual retirement account or annuity. It can be part of either a SEP or an employer or employee association trust account. How Much Can Be Contributed?There are limits and other rules that affect the amount that can be contributed to a traditional IRA. These limits and other rules are explained below. Community property laws. Except as discussed later under Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA limit, each spouse figures his or her limit separately, using his or her own compensation. This is the rule even in states with community property laws. Brokers' commissions. Brokers' commissions paid in connection with your traditional IRA are subject to the contribution limit. Trustees' fees. Trustees' administrative fees aren't subject to the contribution limit. Qualified reservist repayments. If you are (or were) a member of a reserve component and you were ordered or called to active duty after September 11, 2001, you may be able to contribute (repay) to an IRA amounts equal to any qualified reservist distributions you received. You can make these repayment contributions even if they would cause your total contributions to the IRA to be more than the general limit on contributions. To be eligible to make these repayment contributions, you must have received a qualified reservist distribution from an IRA or from a section 401(k) or 403(b) plan or similar arrangement. For more information, see Qualified reservist repayments under How Much Can Be Contributed? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-A. . General limit. For 2021, the most that can be contributed to your traditional IRA is generally the smaller of the following amounts.
This is the most that can be contributed regardless of whether the contributions are to one or more traditional IRAs or whether all or part of the contributions are nondeductible. (See Nondeductible Contributions, later.) Qualified reservist repayments don't affect this limit. Example 1. Betty, who is 34 years old and single, earned $24,000 in 2021. Her IRA contributions for 2021 are limited to $6,000. Example 2. John, an unmarried college student working part time, earned $3,500 in 2021. His IRA contributions for 2021 are limited to $3,500, the amount of his compensation. Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA limit. For 2021, if you file a joint return and your taxable compensation is less than that of your spouse, the most that can be contributed for the year to your IRA is the smaller of the following amounts.
This means that the total combined contributions that can be made for the year to your IRA and your spouse's IRA can be as much as $12,000 ($13,000 if only one of you is 50 or older, or $14,000 if both of you are 50 or older). When Can Contributions Be Made?As soon as you open your traditional IRA, contributions can be made to it through your chosen sponsor (trustee or other administrator). Contributions must be in the form of money (cash, check, or money order). Property can't be contributed. Contributions must be made by due date. Contributions can be made to your traditional IRA for a year at any time during the year or by the due date for filing your return for that year, not including extensions. Designating year for which contribution is made. If an amount is contributed to your traditional IRA between January 1 and April 15, you should tell the sponsor which year (the current year or the previous year) the contribution is for. If you don't tell the sponsor which year it is for, the sponsor can assume, and report to the IRS, that the contribution is for the current year (the year the sponsor received it). Filing before a contribution is made. You can file your return claiming a traditional IRA contribution before the contribution is actually made. Generally, the contribution must be made by the due date of your return, not including extensions. Contributions not required. You don't have to contribute to your traditional IRA for every tax year, even if you can. How Much Can You Deduct?Generally, you can deduct the lesser of:
However, if you or your spouse was covered by an employer retirement plan, you may not be able to deduct this amount. See Limit if Covered by Employer Plan, later. . Trustees' fees. Trustees' administrative fees that are billed separately and paid in connection with your traditional IRA aren't deductible as IRA contributions. You are also not able to deduct these fees as an itemized deduction. Brokers' commissions. Brokers' commissions are part of your IRA contribution and, as such, are deductible subject to the limits. Full deduction. If neither you nor your spouse was covered for any part of the year by an employer retirement plan, you can take a deduction for total contributions to one or more traditional IRAs of up to the lesser of:
This limit is reduced by any contributions made to a 501(c)(18) plan on your behalf. Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA. In the case of a married couple with unequal compensation who file a joint return, the deduction for contributions to the traditional IRA of the spouse with less compensation is limited to the lesser of the following amounts.
This limit is reduced by any contributions to a 501(c)(18) plan on behalf of the spouse with the lesser compensation. Note.If you were divorced or legally separated (and didn't remarry) before the end of the year, you can't deduct any contributions to your spouse's IRA. After a divorce or legal separation, you can deduct only contributions to your own IRA. Your deductions are subject to the rules for single individuals. Covered by an employer retirement plan. If you or your spouse was covered by an employer retirement plan at any time during the year for which contributions were made, your deduction may be further limited. This is discussed later under Limit if Covered by Employer Plan. Limits on the amount you can deduct don't affect the amount that can be contributed. See Nondeductible Contributions, later. Are You Covered by an Employer Plan?The Form W-2 you receive from your employer has a box used to indicate whether you were covered for the year. The “Retirement plan” box should be checked if you were covered. Reservists and volunteer firefighters should also see Situations in Which You Aren’t Covered, later. If you aren't certain whether you were covered by your employer's retirement plan, you should ask your employer. Federal judges. For purposes of the IRA deduction, federal judges are covered by an employer retirement plan. For Which Year(s) Are You Covered?Special rules apply to determine the tax years for which you are covered by an employer plan. These rules differ depending on whether the plan is a defined contribution plan or a defined benefit plan. Tax year. Your tax year is the annual accounting period you use to keep records and report income and expenses on your income tax return. For almost all people, the tax year is the calendar year. Defined contribution plan. Generally, you are covered by a defined contribution plan for a tax year if amounts are contributed or allocated to your account for the plan year that ends with or within that tax year. A defined contribution plan is a plan that provides for a separate account for each person covered by the plan. Types of defined contribution plans include profit-sharing plans, stock bonus plans, and money purchase pension plans. For additional information, see Pub. 590-A. Defined benefit plan. If you are eligible to participate in your employer's defined benefit plan for the plan year that ends within your tax year, you are covered by the plan. This rule applies even if you:
A defined benefit plan is any plan that isn't a defined contribution plan. In a defined benefit plan, the level of benefits to be provided to each participant is spelled out in the plan. The plan administrator figures the amount needed to provide those benefits and those amounts are contributed to the plan. Defined benefit plans include pension plans and annuity plans. No vested interest. If you accrue a benefit for a plan year, you are covered by that plan even if you have no vested interest in (legal right to) the accrual. Situations in Which You Aren’t CoveredUnless you are covered under another employer plan, you aren't covered by an employer plan if you are in one of the situations described below. Social security or railroad retirement. Coverage under social security or railroad retirement isn't coverage under an employer retirement plan. Benefits from a previous employer's plan. If you receive retirement benefits from a previous employer's plan, you aren't covered by that plan. Reservists. If the only reason you participate in a plan is because you are a member of a reserve unit of the U.S. Armed Forces, you may not be covered by the plan. You aren't covered by the plan if both of the following conditions are met.
Volunteer firefighters. If the only reason you participate in a plan is because you are a volunteer firefighter, you may not be covered by the plan. You aren't covered by the plan if both of the following conditions are met.
Limit if Covered by Employer PlanIf either you or your spouse was covered by an employer retirement plan, you may be entitled to only a partial (reduced) deduction or no deduction at all, depending on your income and your filing status. Your deduction begins to decrease (phase out) when your income rises above a certain amount and is eliminated altogether when it reaches a higher amount. These amounts vary depending on your filing status. To determine if your deduction is subject to phaseout, you must determine your modified AGI and your filing status. See Filing status and Modified adjusted gross income (AGI), later. Then use Table 9-1 or Table 9-2 to determine if the phaseout applies. Social security recipients. Instead of using Table 9-1 or Table 9-2, use the worksheets in Appendix B of Pub. 590-A if, for the year, all of the following apply.
Use those worksheets to figure your IRA deduction, your nondeductible contribution, and the taxable portion, if any, of your social security benefits. Deduction phaseout. If you are covered by an employer retirement plan and you didn't receive any social security retirement benefits, your IRA deduction may be reduced or eliminated depending on your filing status and modified AGI as shown in Table 9-1. Table 9-1. Effect of Modified AGI1 on Deduction if You Are Covered by Retirement Plan at Work
If your spouse is covered. If you aren't covered by an employer retirement plan, but your spouse is, and you didn't receive any social security benefits, your IRA deduction may be reduced or eliminated entirely depending on your filing status and modified AGI as shown in Table 9-2. Filing status. Your filing status depends primarily on your marital status. For this purpose, you need to know if your filing status is single or head of household, married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er), or married filing separately. If you need more information on filing status, see chapter 2. Lived apart from spouse. If you didn't live with your spouse at any time during the year and you file a separate return, your filing status, for this purpose, is single. Table 9-2. Effect of Modified AGI1 on Deduction if You Aren’t Covered by Retirement Plan at Work
Modified adjusted gross income (AGI). You may be able to use Worksheet 9-1 to figure your modified AGI. However, if you made contributions to your IRA for 2021 and received a distribution from your IRA in 2021, see Pub. 590-A. . When filing Form 1040 or 1040-SR, refigure the AGI amount on line 11 without taking into account any of the following amounts.
This is your modified AGI. Both contributions for 2021 and distributions in 2021. If all three of the following apply, any IRA distributions you received in 2021 may be partly tax free and partly taxable.
If this is your situation, you must figure the taxable part of the traditional IRA distribution before you can figure your modified AGI. To do this, you can use Worksheet 1-1 in Pub. 590-B. If at least one of the above doesn't apply, figure your modified AGI using Worksheet 9-1. How to figure your reduced IRA deduction. You can figure your reduced IRA deduction for Form 1040 or 1040-SR by using the worksheets in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-A. Also, the Instructions for Form 1040 include similar worksheets that you may be able to use instead. Worksheet 9-1. Figuring Your Modified AGI
Reporting Deductible ContributionsWhen filing Form 1040 or 1040-SR, enter your IRA deduction on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 20. Nondeductible ContributionsAlthough your deduction for IRA contributions may be reduced or eliminated, contributions can be made to your IRA up to the general limit or, if it applies, the Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA limit. The difference between your total permitted contributions and your IRA deduction, if any, is your nondeductible contribution. Example. Mike is 30 years old and single. In 2021, he was covered by a retirement plan at work. His salary was $67,000. His modified AGI was $80,000. Mike made a $6,000 IRA contribution for 2021. Because he was covered by a retirement plan and his modified AGI was over $76,000, he can't deduct his $6,000 IRA contribution. He must designate this contribution as a nondeductible contribution by reporting it on Form 8606, as explained next. Form 8606. To designate contributions as nondeductible, you must file Form 8606. You don't have to designate a contribution as nondeductible until you file your tax return. When you file, you can even designate otherwise deductible contributions as nondeductible. You must file Form 8606 to report nondeductible contributions even if you don't have to file a tax return for the year. . Failure to report nondeductible contributions. If you don't report nondeductible contributions, all of the contributions to your traditional IRA will be treated as deductible contributions when withdrawn. All distributions from your IRA will be taxed unless you can show, with satisfactory evidence, that nondeductible contributions were made. Penalty for overstatement. If you overstate the amount of nondeductible contributions on your Form 8606 for any tax year, you must pay a penalty of $100 for each overstatement, unless it was due to reasonable cause. Penalty for failure to file Form 8606. You will have to pay a $50 penalty if you don't file a required Form 8606, unless you can prove that the failure was due to reasonable cause. Tax on earnings on nondeductible contributions. As long as contributions are within the contribution limits, none of the earnings or gains on contributions (deductible or nondeductible) will be taxed until they are distributed. See When Can You Withdraw or Use IRA Assets, later. Cost basis. You will have a cost basis in your traditional IRA if you made any nondeductible contributions. Your cost basis is the sum of the nondeductible contributions to your IRA minus any withdrawals or distributions of nondeductible contributions. Inherited IRAsIf you inherit a traditional IRA, you are called a beneficiary. A beneficiary can be any person or entity the owner chooses to receive the benefits of the IRA after he or she dies. Beneficiaries of a traditional IRA must include in their gross income any taxable distributions they receive. Inherited from spouse. If you inherit a traditional IRA from your spouse, you generally have the following three choices. You can do one of the following.
Treating it as your own. You will be considered to have chosen to treat the IRA as your own if:
You will only be considered to have chosen to treat the IRA as your own if:
However, if you receive a distribution from your deceased spouse's IRA, you can roll that distribution over into your own IRA within the 60-day time limit, as long as the distribution isn't a required distribution, even if you aren't the sole beneficiary of your deceased spouse's IRA. Inherited from someone other than spouse. If you inherit a traditional IRA from anyone other than your deceased spouse, you can't treat the inherited IRA as your own. This means that you can't make any contributions to the IRA. It also means you can't roll over any amounts into or out of the inherited IRA. However, you can make a trustee-to-trustee transfer as long as the IRA into which amounts are being moved is set up and maintained in the name of the deceased IRA owner for the benefit of you as beneficiary. For more information, see the discussion of Inherited IRAs under Rollover From One IRA Into Another, later. Can You Move Retirement Plan Assets?You can transfer, tax free, assets (money or property) from other retirement plans (including traditional IRAs) to a traditional IRA. You can make the following kinds of transfers.
Transfers to Roth IRAs. Under certain conditions, you can move assets from a traditional IRA or from a designated Roth account to a Roth IRA. You can also move assets from a qualified retirement plan to a Roth IRA. See Can You Move Amounts Into a Roth IRA? under Roth IRAs, later. Trustee-to-Trustee TransferA transfer of funds in your traditional IRA from one trustee directly to another, either at your request or at the trustee's request, isn't a rollover. This includes the situation where the current trustee issues a check to the new trustee, but gives it to you to deposit. Because there is no distribution to you, the transfer is tax free. Because it isn't a rollover, it isn't affected by the 1-year waiting period required between rollovers, discussed later under Rollover From One IRA Into Another. For information about direct transfers to IRAs from retirement plans other than IRAs, see Can You Move Retirement Plan Assets? in chapter 1 and Can You Move Amounts Into a Roth IRA? in chapter 2 of Pub. 590-A. RolloversGenerally, a rollover is a tax-free distribution to you of cash or other assets from one retirement plan that you contribute (roll over) to another retirement plan. The contribution to the second retirement plan is called a “rollover contribution.” Note.An amount rolled over tax free from one retirement plan to another is generally includible in income when it is distributed from the second plan. Kinds of rollovers to a traditional IRA. You can roll over amounts from the following plans into a traditional IRA.
Rollover notice. A written explanation of rollover treatment must be given to you by the plan (other than an IRA) making the distribution. See Written explanation to recipients in Pub. 590-A. Kinds of rollovers from a traditional IRA. You may be able to roll over, tax free, a distribution from your traditional IRA into a qualified plan. These plans include the federal Thrift Savings Plan (for federal employees), deferred compensation plans of state or local governments (section 457 plans), and tax-sheltered annuity plans (section 403(b) plans). The part of the distribution that you can roll over is the part that would otherwise be taxable (includible in your income). Qualified plans may, but aren't required to, accept such rollovers. Time limit for making a rollover contribution. You must generally make the rollover contribution by the 60th day after the day you receive the distribution from your traditional IRA or your employer's plan. The IRS may waive the 60-day requirement where the failure to do so would be against equity or good conscience, such as in the event of a casualty, disaster, or other event beyond your reasonable control. For more information, see Can You Move Retirement Plan Assets? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-A. Extension of rollover period. If an amount distributed to you from a traditional IRA or a qualified employer retirement plan is a frozen deposit at any time during the 60-day period allowed for a rollover, special rules extend the rollover period. For more information, see Can You Move Retirement Plan Assets? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-A. Rollover From One IRA Into AnotherYou can withdraw, tax free, all or part of the assets from one traditional IRA if you reinvest them within 60 days in the same or another traditional IRA. Because this is a rollover, you can't deduct the amount that you reinvest in an IRA. Waiting period between rollovers. Generally, if you make a tax-free rollover of any part of a distribution from a traditional IRA, you can't, within a 1-year period, make a tax-free rollover of any later distribution from that same IRA. You also can't make a tax-free rollover of any amount distributed, within the same 1-year period, from the IRA into which you made the tax-free rollover. The 1-year period begins on the date you receive the IRA distribution, not on the date you roll it over into an IRA. Rules apply to the number of rollovers you can have with your traditional IRAs. See Application of one-rollover limitation next. Application of one-rollover limitation. You can make only one rollover from an IRA to another (or the same) IRA in any 1-year period, regardless of the number of IRAs you own. The limit applies by aggregating all of an individual's IRAs, including SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, as well as traditional and Roth IRAs, effectively treating them as one IRA for purposes of the limit. However, trustee-to-trustee transfers between IRAs aren't limited and rollovers from traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs (conversions) aren't limited. Example. John has three traditional IRAs: IRA-1, IRA-2, and IRA-3. John didn't take any distributions from his IRAs in 2021. On January 1, 2022, John took a distribution from IRA-1 and rolled it over into IRA-2 on the same day. For 2022, John can't roll over any other 2021 IRA distribution, including a rollover distribution involving IRA-3. This wouldn’t apply to a trustee-to-trustee transfer or a Roth IRA conversion. Partial rollovers. If you withdraw assets from a traditional IRA, you can roll over part of the withdrawal tax free and keep the rest of it. The amount you keep will generally be taxable (except for the part that is a return of nondeductible contributions). The amount you keep may be subject to the 10% additional tax on early distributions, discussed later under What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes. Required distributions. Amounts that must be distributed during a particular year under the required minimum distribution rules (discussed later) aren't eligible for rollover treatment. Inherited IRAs. If you inherit a traditional IRA from your spouse, you can generally roll it over, or you can choose to make the inherited IRA your own. See Treating it as your own, earlier. Not inherited from spouse. If you inherit a traditional IRA from someone other than your spouse, you can't roll it over or allow it to receive a rollover contribution. You must withdraw the IRA assets within a certain period. For more information, see When Must You Withdraw Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions) in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-B. Reporting rollovers from IRAs. Report any rollover from one traditional IRA to the same or another traditional IRA on Form 1040 or 1040-SR as follows. Enter the total amount of the distribution on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4a. If the total amount on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4a, was rolled over, enter zero on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4b. If the total distribution wasn't rolled over, enter the taxable portion of the part that wasn't rolled over on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4b. Enter “Rollover” next to Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4b. For more information, see the Instructions for Form 1040. If you rolled over the distribution into a qualified plan (other than an IRA) or you make the rollover in 2022, attach a statement explaining what you did. Rollover From Employer's Plan Into an IRAYou can roll over into a traditional IRA all or part of an eligible rollover distribution you receive from your (or your deceased spouse's):
A qualified plan is one that meets the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code. Eligible rollover distribution. Generally, an eligible rollover distribution is any distribution of all or part of the balance to your credit in a qualified retirement plan except the following.
Your rollover into a traditional IRA may include both amounts that would be taxable and amounts that wouldn’t be taxable if they were distributed to you but not rolled over. To the extent the distribution is rolled over into a traditional IRA, it isn’t includible in your income. . Rollover by nonspouse beneficiary. A direct transfer from a deceased employee's qualified pension, profit-sharing, or stock bonus plan; annuity plan; tax-sheltered annuity (section 403(b)) plan; or governmental deferred compensation (section 457) plan to an IRA set up to receive the distribution on your behalf can be treated as an eligible rollover distribution if you are the designated beneficiary of the plan and not the employee's spouse. The IRA is treated as an inherited IRA. For more information about inherited IRAs, see Inherited IRAs, earlier. Reporting rollovers from employer plans. Enter the total distribution (before income tax or other deductions were withheld) on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4a. This amount should be shown in box 1 of Form 1099-R. From this amount, subtract any contributions (usually shown in box 5 of Form 1099-R) that were taxable to you when made. From that result, subtract the amount that was rolled over either directly or within 60 days of receiving the distribution. Enter the remaining amount, even if zero, on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4b. Also, enter "Rollover" next to Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4b. Transfers Incident to DivorceIf an interest in a traditional IRA is transferred from your spouse or former spouse to you by a divorce or separate maintenance decree or a written document related to such a decree, the interest in the IRA, starting from the date of the transfer, is treated as your IRA. The transfer is tax free. For detailed information, see Distributions under divorce or similar proceedings (alternate payees) under Rollover From Employer's Plan Into an IRA in Pub. 590-A. Converting From Any Traditional IRA to a Roth IRAAllowable conversions. You can withdraw all or part of the assets from a traditional IRA and reinvest them (within 60 days) in a Roth IRA. The amount that you withdraw and timely contribute (convert) to the Roth IRA is called a conversion contribution. If properly (and timely) rolled over, the 10% additional tax on early distributions won't apply. However, a part or all of the conversion contribution from your traditional IRA is included in your gross income. Required distributions. You can't convert amounts that must be distributed from your traditional IRA for a particular year (including the calendar year in which you reach age 72 under the required minimum distribution rules (discussed later)). Income. You must include in your gross income distributions from a traditional IRA that you would have had to include in income if you hadn't converted them into a Roth IRA. These amounts are normally included in income on your return for the year that you converted them from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. You don't include in gross income any part of a distribution from a traditional IRA that is a return of your basis, as discussed later. You must file Form 8606 to report 2021 conversions from traditional, SEP, or SIMPLE IRAs to a Roth IRA in 2021 (unless you recharacterized the entire amount) and to figure the amount to include in income. If you must include any amount in your gross income, you may have to increase your withholding or make estimated tax payments. See chapter 4. RecharacterizationsYou may be able to treat a contribution made to one type of IRA as having been made to a different type of IRA. This is called recharacterizing the contribution. See Can You Move Retirement Plan Assets? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-A for more detailed information. How to recharacterize a contribution. To recharacterize a contribution, you must generally have the contribution transferred from the first IRA (the one to which it was made) to the second IRA in a trustee-to-trustee transfer. If the transfer is made by the due date (including extensions) for your tax return for the year during which the contribution was made, you can elect to treat the contribution as having been originally made to the second IRA instead of to the first IRA. If you recharacterize your contribution, you must do all three of the following.
No recharacterizations of conversions made in 2018 or later. A conversion of a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, and a rollover from any other eligible retirement plan to a Roth IRA, made in tax years beginning after tax year 2017, can’t be recharacterized as having been made to a traditional IRA. If you made a conversion in the 2017 tax year, you had until the due date (with extensions) for filing the return for that tax year to recharacterize it. No deduction allowed. You can't deduct the contribution to the first IRA. Any net income you transfer with the recharacterized contribution is treated as earned in the second IRA. How do you recharacterize a contribution? To recharacterize a contribution, you must notify both the trustee of the first IRA (the one to which the contribution was actually made) and the trustee of the second IRA (the one to which the contribution is being moved) that you have elected to treat the contribution as having been made to the second IRA rather than the first. You must make the notifications by the date of the transfer. Only one notification is required if both IRAs are maintained by the same trustee. The notification(s) must include all of the following information.
Reporting a recharacterization. If you elect to recharacterize a contribution to one IRA as a contribution to another IRA, you must report the recharacterization on your tax return as directed by Form 8606 and its instructions. You must treat the contribution as having been made to the second IRA. When Can You Withdraw or Use IRA Assets?There are rules limiting use of your IRA assets and distributions from it. Violation of the rules generally results in additional taxes in the year of violation. See What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes, later. Contributions returned before the due date of return. If you made IRA contributions in 2021, you can withdraw them tax free by the due date of your return. If you have an extension of time to file your return, you can withdraw them tax free by the extended due date. You can do this if, for each contribution you withdraw, both of the following conditions apply.
Note.To figure the amount you must withdraw, see Worksheet 1-4 under When Can You Withdraw or Use Assets? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-A. Earnings includible in income. You must include in income any earnings on the contributions you withdraw. Include the earnings in income for the year in which you made the contributions, not in the year in which you withdraw them. . Early distributions tax. The 10% additional tax on distributions made before you reach age 59½ doesn't apply to these tax-free withdrawals of your contributions. However, the distribution of interest or other income must be reported on Form 5329 and, unless the distribution qualifies as an exception to the age 59½ rule, it will be subject to this tax. See Early Distributions under What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes? in Pub. 590-B. When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions)You can't keep funds in a traditional IRA indefinitely. Eventually, they must be distributed. If there are no distributions, or if the distributions aren't large enough, you may have to pay a 50% excise tax on the amount not distributed as required. See Excess Accumulations (Insufficient Distributions), later. The requirements for distributing IRA funds differ depending on whether you are the IRA owner or the beneficiary of a decedent's IRA. Required minimum distribution. The amount that must be distributed each year is referred to as the “required minimum distribution.” Distributions not eligible for rollover. Amounts that must be distributed (required minimum distributions) during a particular year aren't eligible for rollover treatment. IRA owners. If you are the owner of a traditional IRA, you must generally start receiving distributions from your IRA by April 1 of the year following the year in which you reach age 72. April 1 of the year following the year in which you reach age 72 is referred to as the “required beginning date.” Distributions by the required beginning date. You must receive at least a minimum amount for each year starting with the year you reach age 72. If you don't (or didn't) receive that minimum amount in the year you become age 72, then you must receive distributions for the year you become age 72 by April 1 of the next year. If an IRA owner dies after reaching age 72 but before April 1 of the next year, no minimum distribution is required because death occurred before the required beginning date. . Distributions after the required beginning date. The required minimum distribution for any year after the year you
turn age 72 must be made by December 31 of that later year. Beneficiaries. If you are the beneficiary of a decedent's traditional IRA, the requirements for distributions from that IRA generally depend on whether the IRA owner died before or after the required beginning date for distributions. More information. For more information, including how to figure your minimum required distribution each year and how to figure your required distribution if you are a beneficiary of a decedent's IRA, see When Must You Withdraw Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions) in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-B. Are Distributions Taxable?In general, distributions from a traditional IRA are taxable in the year you receive them. Exceptions. Exceptions to distributions from traditional IRAs being taxable in the year you receive them are:
. Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs). A QCD is generally a nontaxable distribution made directly by the trustee of your IRA to an organization eligible to receive tax deductible contributions. See Qualified Charitable Distributions in Pub. 590-B for more information. . Ordinary income. Distributions from traditional IRAs that you include in income are taxed as ordinary income. No special treatment. In figuring your tax, you can't use the 10-year tax option or capital gain treatment that applies to lump-sum distributions from qualified retirement plans. Distributions Fully or Partly TaxableDistributions from your traditional IRA may be fully or partly taxable, depending on whether your IRA includes any nondeductible contributions. Fully taxable. If only deductible contributions were made to your traditional IRA (or IRAs, if you have more than one), you have no basis in your IRA. Because you have no basis in your IRA, any distributions are fully taxable when received. See Reporting taxable distributions on your return, later. Partly taxable. If you made nondeductible contributions or rolled over any after-tax amounts to any of your traditional IRAs, you have a cost basis (investment in the contract) equal to the amount of those contributions. These nondeductible contributions aren't taxed when they are distributed to you. They are a return of your investment in your IRA. Only the part of the distribution that represents nondeductible contributions and rolled over after-tax amounts (your cost basis) is tax free. If nondeductible contributions have been made or after-tax amounts have been rolled over to your IRA, distributions consist partly of nondeductible contributions (basis) and partly of deductible contributions, earnings, and gains (if there are any). Until all of your basis has been distributed, each distribution is partly nontaxable and partly taxable. Form 8606. You must complete Form 8606 and attach it to your return if you receive a distribution from a traditional IRA and have ever made nondeductible contributions or rolled over after-tax amounts to any of your traditional IRAs. Using the form, you will figure the nontaxable distributions for 2021 and your total IRA basis for 2021 and earlier years. Note.If you are required to file Form 8606 but you aren't required to file an income tax return, you must still file Form 8606. Send it to the IRS at the time and place you would otherwise file an income tax return. Distributions reported on Form 1099-R. If you receive a distribution from your traditional IRA, you will receive Form 1099-R, Distributions From Pensions, Annuities, Retirement or Profit-Sharing Plans, IRAs, Insurance Contracts, etc., or a similar statement. IRA distributions are shown in boxes 1 and 2a of Form 1099-R. The number or letter codes in box 7 tell you what type of distribution you received from your IRA. Withholding. Federal income tax is withheld from distributions from traditional IRAs unless you choose not to have tax withheld. See chapter 4. IRA distributions delivered outside the United States. In general, if you are a U.S. citizen or resident alien and your home address is outside the United States or its possessions, you can't choose exemption from withholding on distributions from your traditional IRA. Reporting taxable distributions on your return. Report fully taxable distributions, including early distributions, on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4b (no entry is required on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4a). If only part of the distribution is taxable, enter the total amount on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4a, and the taxable part on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 4b. What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes?The tax advantages of using traditional IRAs for retirement savings can be offset by additional taxes and penalties if you don't follow the rules. There are additions to the regular tax for using your IRA funds in prohibited transactions. There are also additional taxes for the following activities.
There are penalties for overstating the amount of nondeductible contributions and for failure to file a Form 8606, if required. Prohibited TransactionsGenerally, a prohibited transaction is any improper use of your traditional IRA by you, your beneficiary, or any disqualified person. Disqualified persons include your fiduciary and members of your family (spouse, ancestor, lineal descendent, and any spouse of a lineal descendent). The following are examples of prohibited transactions with a traditional IRA.
Effect on an IRA account. Generally, if you or your beneficiary engages in a prohibited transaction in connection with your traditional IRA account at any time during the year, the account stops being an IRA as of the first day of that year. Effect on you or your beneficiary. If your account stops being an IRA because you or your beneficiary engaged in a prohibited transaction, the account is treated as distributing all its assets to you at their fair market values on the first day of the year. If the total of those values is more than your basis in the IRA, you will have a taxable gain that is includible in your income. For information on figuring your gain and reporting it in income, see Are Distributions Taxable, earlier. The distribution may be subject to additional taxes or penalties. Taxes on prohibited transactions. If someone other than the owner or beneficiary of a traditional IRA engages in a prohibited transaction, that person may be liable for certain taxes. In general, there is a 15% tax on the amount of the prohibited transaction and a 100% additional tax if the transaction isn't corrected. More information. For more information on prohibited transactions, see What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-A. Investment in CollectiblesIf your traditional IRA invests in collectibles, the amount invested is considered distributed to you in the year invested. You may have to pay the 10% additional tax on early distributions, discussed later. Collectibles. These include:
Exception. Your IRA can invest in one-, one-half-, one-quarter-, or one-tenth-ounce U.S. gold coins, or one-ounce silver coins minted by the Treasury Department. It can also invest in certain platinum coins and certain gold, silver, palladium, and platinum bullion.
Excess ContributionsGenerally, an excess contribution is the amount contributed to your traditional IRA(s) for the year that is more than the smaller of:
An excess contribution could be the result of your contribution, your spouse's contribution, your employer's contribution, or an improper rollover contribution. If your employer makes contributions on your behalf to a SEP IRA, see chapter 2 of Pub. 560. Tax on excess contributions. In general, if the excess contributions for a year aren't withdrawn by the date your return for the year is due (including extensions), you are subject to a 6% tax. You must pay the 6% tax each year on excess amounts that remain in your traditional IRA at the end of your tax year. The tax can't be more than 6% of the combined value of all your IRAs as of the end of your tax year. The additional tax is figured on Form 5329. Excess contributions withdrawn by due date of return. You won't have to pay the 6% tax if you withdraw an excess contribution made during a tax year and you also withdraw interest or other income earned on the excess contribution. You must complete your withdrawal by the date your tax return for that year is due, including extensions. How to treat withdrawn contributions. Don't include in your gross income an excess contribution that you withdraw from your traditional IRA before your tax return is due if both the following conditions are met.
You can take into account any loss on the contribution while it was in the IRA when figuring the amount that must be withdrawn. If there was a loss, the net income you must withdraw may be a negative amount. How to treat withdrawn interest or other income. You must include in your gross income the interest or other income that was earned on the excess contribution. Report it on your return for the year in which the excess contribution was made. Your withdrawal of interest or other income may be subject to an additional 10% tax on early distributions, discussed later. Excess contributions withdrawn after due date of return. In general, you must include all distributions (withdrawals) from your traditional IRA in your gross income. However, if the following conditions are met, you can withdraw excess contributions from your IRA and not include the amount withdrawn in your gross income.
The withdrawal can take place at any time, even after the due date, including extensions, for filing your tax return for the year. Excess contribution deducted in an earlier year. If you deducted an excess contribution in an earlier year for which the total contributions weren't more than the maximum deductible amount for that year (see the following table), you can still remove the excess from your traditional IRA and not include it in your gross income. To do this, file Form 1040-X for that year and don't deduct the excess contribution on the amended return. Generally, you can file an amended return within 3 years after you filed your return or 2 years from the time the tax was paid, whichever is later.
Excess due to incorrect rollover information. If an excess contribution in your traditional IRA is the result of a rollover and the excess occurred because the information the plan was required to give you was incorrect, you can withdraw the excess contribution. The limits mentioned above are increased by the amount of the excess that is due to the incorrect information. You will have to amend your return for the year in which the excess occurred to correct the reporting of the rollover amounts in that year. Don't include in your gross income the part of the excess contribution caused by the incorrect information. For more information, see Excess Contributions under What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes? in Pub. 590-A. Early DistributionsYou must include early distributions of taxable amounts from your traditional IRA in your gross income. Early distributions are also subject to an additional 10% tax. See the discussion of Form 5329 under Reporting Additional Taxes, later, to figure and report the tax. Early distributions defined. Early distributions are generally amounts distributed from your traditional IRA account or annuity before you are age 59½. Age 59½ rule. Generally, if you are under age 59½, you must pay a 10% additional tax on the distribution of any assets (money or other property) from your traditional IRA. Distributions before you are age 59½ are called early distributions. The 10% additional tax applies to the part of the distribution that you have to include in gross income. It is in addition to any regular income tax on that amount. After age 59½ and before age 72. After you reach age 59½, you can receive distributions without having to pay the 10% additional tax. Even though you can receive distributions after you reach age 59½, distributions aren't required until you reach age 72. See When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions), earlier. Exceptions. There are several exceptions to the age 59½ rule. Even if you receive a distribution before you are age 59½, you may not have to pay the 10% additional tax if you are in one of the following situations.
Most of these exceptions are explained under Early Distributions in What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-B. Receivership distributions. Early distributions (with or without your consent) from savings institutions placed in receivership are subject to this tax unless one of the exceptions listed earlier applies. This is true even if the distribution is from a receiver that is a state agency. Additional 10% tax. The additional tax on early distributions is 10% of the amount of the early distribution that you must include in your gross income. This tax is in addition to any regular income tax resulting from including the distribution in income. Nondeductible contributions. The tax on early distributions doesn't apply to the part of a distribution that represents a return of your nondeductible contributions (basis). More information. For more information on early distributions, see What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-B. Excess Accumulations (Insufficient Distributions)You can't keep amounts in your traditional IRA indefinitely. Generally, you must begin receiving distributions by April 1 of the year following the year in which you reach age 72. The required minimum distribution for any year after the year in which you reach age 72 must be made by December 31 of that later year. Tax on excess. If distributions are less than the required minimum distribution for the year, you may have to pay a 50% excise tax for that year on the amount not distributed as required. Request to waive the tax. If the excess accumulation is due to reasonable error, and you have taken, or are taking, steps to remedy the insufficient distribution, you can request that the tax be waived. If you believe you qualify for this relief, attach a statement of explanation and complete Form 5329 as instructed under Waiver of tax for reasonable cause in the Instructions for Form 5329. Exemption from tax. If you are unable to take required distributions because you have a traditional IRA invested in a contract issued by an insurance company that is in state insurer delinquency proceedings, the 50% excise tax doesn't apply if the conditions and requirements of Revenue Procedure 92-10 are satisfied. More information. For more information on excess accumulations, see What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-B. Reporting Additional TaxesGenerally, you must use Form 5329 to report the tax on excess contributions, early distributions, and excess accumulations. Filing a tax return. If you must file an individual income tax return, complete Form 5329 and attach it to your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Enter the total additional taxes due on Schedule 2 (Form 1040), line 8. Not filing a tax return. If you don't have to file a tax return but do have to pay one of the additional taxes mentioned earlier, file the completed Form 5329 with the IRS at the time and place you would have filed your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Be sure to include your address on page 1 and your signature and date on page 2. Enclose, but don't attach, a check or money order payable to “United States Treasury” for the tax you owe, as shown on Form 5329. Enter your social security number and “2021 Form 5329” on your check or money order. Form 5329 not required. You don't have to use Form 5329 if any of the following situations exists.
Roth IRAsRegardless of your age, you may be able to establish and make nondeductible contributions to a retirement plan called a Roth IRA. Contributions not reported. You don't report Roth IRA contributions on your return. What Is a Roth IRA?A Roth IRA is an individual retirement plan that, except as explained in this chapter, is subject to the rules that apply to a traditional IRA (defined earlier). It can be either an account or an annuity. Individual retirement accounts and annuities are described under How Can a Traditional IRA Be Opened? in chapter 1 of Pub. 590-A. To be a Roth IRA, the account or annuity must be designated as a Roth IRA when it is opened. A deemed IRA can be a Roth IRA, but neither a SEP IRA nor a SIMPLE IRA can be designated as a Roth IRA. Unlike a traditional IRA, you can't deduct contributions to a Roth IRA. But, if you satisfy the requirements, qualified distributions (discussed later) are tax free. You can leave amounts in your Roth IRA as long as you live. When Can a Roth IRA Be Opened?You can open a Roth IRA at any time. However, the time for making contributions for any year is limited. See When Can You Make Contributions under Can You Contribute to a Roth IRA? next. Can You Contribute to a Roth IRA?Generally, you can contribute to a Roth IRA if you have taxable compensation (defined later) and your modified AGI (defined later) is less than:
. Is there an age limit for contributions? Contributions can be made to your Roth IRA regardless of your age. Can you contribute to a Roth IRA for your spouse? You can contribute to a Roth IRA for your spouse provided the contributions satisfy the Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA limit (discussed under How Much Can Be Contributed, earlier, under Traditional IRAs), you file jointly, and your modified AGI is less than $208,000. Compensation. Compensation includes wages, salaries, tips, professional fees, bonuses, and other amounts received for providing personal services. It also includes commissions, self-employment income, nontaxable combat pay, military differential pay, and taxable alimony and separate maintenance payments. Modified AGI. Your modified AGI for Roth IRA purposes is your AGI as shown on your return with some adjustments. Use Worksheet 9-2 to determine your modified AGI. Worksheet 9-2. Modified AGI for Roth IRA Purposes
How Much Can Be Contributed?The contribution limit for Roth IRAs generally depends on whether contributions are made only to Roth IRAs or to both traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs. Roth IRAs only. If contributions are made only to Roth IRAs, your contribution limit is generally the lesser of the following amounts.
However, if your modified AGI is above a certain amount, your contribution limit may be reduced, as explained later under Contribution limit reduced. Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs. If contributions are made to both Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs established for your benefit, your contribution limit for Roth IRAs is generally the same as your limit would be if contributions were made only to Roth IRAs, but then reduced by all contributions for the year to all IRAs other than Roth IRAs. Employer contributions under a SEP or SIMPLE IRA plan don't affect this limit. This means that your contribution limit is generally the lesser of the following amounts.
However, if your modified AGI is above a certain amount, your contribution limit may be reduced, as explained next under Contribution limit reduced. Contribution limit reduced. If your modified AGI is above a certain amount, your contribution limit is gradually reduced. Use Table 9-3 to determine if this reduction applies to you. Table 9-3. Effect of Modified AGI on Roth IRA Contribution
Figuring the reduction. If the amount you can contribute to your Roth IRA is reduced, see Worksheet 2-2 under Can You Contribute to a Roth IRA? in chapter 2 of Pub. 590-A for how to figure the reduction. When Can You Make Contributions?You can make contributions to a Roth IRA for a year at any time during the year or by the due date of your return for that year (not including extensions). .
What if You Contribute Too Much?A 6% excise tax applies to any excess contribution to a Roth IRA. Excess contributions. These are the contributions to your Roth IRAs for a year that equal the total of:
Withdrawal of excess contributions. For purposes of determining excess contributions, any contribution that is withdrawn on or before the due date (including extensions) for filing your tax return for the year is treated as an amount not contributed. This treatment applies only if any earnings on the contributions are also withdrawn. The earnings are considered to have been earned and received in the year the excess contribution was made. Applying excess contributions. If contributions to your Roth IRA for a year were more than the limit, you can apply the excess contribution in one year to a later year if the contributions for that later year are less than the maximum allowed for that year. Can You Move Amounts Into a Roth IRA?You may be able to convert amounts from either a traditional, SEP, or SIMPLE IRA into a Roth IRA. You may be able to roll amounts over from a qualified retirement plan to a Roth IRA. You may be able to recharacterize contributions made to one IRA as having been made directly to a different IRA. You can roll amounts over from a designated Roth account or from one Roth IRA to another Roth IRA. ConversionsYou can convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. The conversion is treated as a rollover, regardless of the conversion method used. Most of the rules for rollovers, described earlier under Rollover From One IRA Into Another under Traditional IRAs, apply to these rollovers. However, the 1-year waiting period doesn't apply. Conversion methods. You can convert amounts from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA in any of the following ways.
Same trustee. Conversions made with the same trustee can be made by redesignating the traditional IRA as a Roth IRA, rather than opening a new account or issuing a new contract. Rollover from a qualified retirement plan into a Roth IRA. You can roll over into a Roth IRA all or part of an eligible rollover distribution you receive from your (or your deceased spouse's):
Any amount rolled over is subject to the same rules as those for converting a traditional IRA into a Roth IRA. Also, the rollover contribution must meet the rollover requirements that apply to the specific type of retirement plan. Income. You must include in your gross income distributions from a qualified retirement plan that you would have had to include in income if you hadn't rolled them over into a Roth IRA. You don't include in gross income any part of a distribution from a qualified retirement plan that is a return of basis (after-tax contributions) to the plan that was taxable to you when paid. These amounts are normally included in income on your return for the year of the rollover from the qualified employer plan to a Roth IRA. . For more information, see Rollover From Employer's Plan Into a Roth IRA in chapter 2 of Pub. 590-A. Converting from a SIMPLE IRA. Generally, you can convert an amount in your SIMPLE IRA to a Roth IRA under the same rules explained earlier under Converting From Any Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA under Traditional IRAs. However, you can't convert any amount distributed from the SIMPLE IRA plan during the 2-year period beginning on the date you first participated in any SIMPLE IRA plan maintained by your employer. More information. For more detailed information on conversions, see Can You Move Amounts Into a Roth IRA? of chapter 2 of Pub. 590-A. Rollover From a Roth IRAYou can withdraw, tax free, all or part of the assets from one Roth IRA if you contribute them within 60 days to another Roth IRA. Most of the rules for rollovers, explained earlier under Rollover From One IRA Into Another under Traditional IRAs, apply to these rollovers. Rollover from designated Roth account. A rollover from a designated Roth account can only be made to another designated Roth account or to a Roth IRA. For more information about designated Roth accounts, see Designated Roth accounts under Rollovers in Pub. 575. Are Distributions Taxable?You don't include in your gross income qualified distributions or distributions that are a return of your regular contributions from your Roth IRA(s). You also don't include distributions from your Roth IRA that you roll over tax free into another Roth IRA. You may have to include part of other distributions in your income. See Ordering rules for distributions, later. What are qualified distributions? A qualified distribution is any payment or distribution from your Roth IRA that meets the following requirements.
Additional tax on distributions of conversion and certain rollover contributions within 5-year period. If, within the 5-year period starting with the first day of your tax year in which you convert an amount from a traditional IRA or roll over an amount from a qualified retirement plan to a Roth IRA, you take a distribution from a Roth IRA, you may have to pay the 10% additional tax on early distributions. You must generally pay the 10% additional tax on any amount attributable to the part of the amount converted or rolled over (the conversion or rollover contribution) that you had to include in income. A separate 5-year period applies to each conversion and rollover. See Ordering rules for distributions, later, to determine the amount, if any, of the distribution that is attributable to the part of the conversion or rollover contribution that you had to include in income. Additional tax on other early distributions. Unless an exception applies, you must pay the 10% additional tax on the taxable part of any distributions that aren't qualified distributions. See Pub. 590-B for more information. Ordering rules for distributions. If you receive a distribution from your Roth IRA that isn't a qualified distribution, part of it may be taxable. There is a set order in which contributions (including conversion contributions and rollover contributions from qualified retirement plans) and earnings are considered to be distributed from your Roth IRA. Regular contributions are distributed first. See Ordering Rules for Distributions under Are Distributions Taxable? in chapter 2 of Pub. 590-B for more information. Must you withdraw or use Roth IRA assets? You aren't required to take distributions from your Roth IRA at any age. The minimum distribution rules that apply to traditional IRAs don't apply to Roth IRAs while the owner is alive. However, after the death of a Roth IRA owner, certain minimum distribution rules that apply to traditional IRAs also apply to Roth IRAs. More information. For more detailed information on Roth IRAs, see chapter 2 of Pub. 590-A and Pub. 590-B. Part Three - Standard Deduction, Itemized Deductions, and Other DeductionsAfter you have figured your adjusted gross income, you are ready to subtract the deductions used to figure taxable income. You can subtract either the standard deduction or itemized deductions, and, if you qualify, the qualified business income deduction. Itemized deductions are deductions for certain expenses that are listed on Schedule A (Form 1040). The three chapters in this part discuss the standard deduction and each itemized deduction. See chapter 10 for the factors to consider when deciding whether to take the standard deduction or itemized deductions. The Form 1040 and 1040-SR schedules that are discussed in these chapters are:
10. Standard DeductionWhat's NewStandard deduction increased. The standard deduction for taxpayers who don't itemize their deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040) has increased. The amount of your standard deduction depends on your filing status and other factors. Use the 2021 Standard Deduction Tables near the end of this chapter to figure your standard deduction. . IntroductionThis chapter discusses the following topics.
Most taxpayers have a choice of either taking a standard deduction or itemizing their deductions. If you have a choice, you can use the method that gives you the lower tax. The standard deduction is a dollar amount that reduces your taxable income. It is a benefit that eliminates the need for many taxpayers to itemize actual deductions, such as medical expenses, charitable contributions, and taxes, on Schedule A (Form 1040). The standard deduction is higher for taxpayers who:
. Persons not eligible for the standard deduction. Your standard deduction is zero and you should itemize any deductions you have if:
If you are a nonresident alien who is married to a U.S. citizen or resident alien at the end of the year, you can choose to be treated as a U.S. resident. (See Pub. 519.) If you make this choice, you can take the standard deduction. . Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Form (and Instructions)
Standard Deduction AmountThe standard deduction amount depends on your filing status, whether you are 65 or older or blind, and whether another taxpayer can claim you as a dependent. Generally, the standard deduction amounts are adjusted each year for inflation. The standard deduction amounts for most people are shown in Table 10-1. Decedent's final return. The standard deduction for a decedent's final tax return is the same as it would have been had the decedent continued to live. However, if the decedent wasn't 65 or older at the time of death, the higher standard deduction for age can't be claimed. Higher Standard Deduction for Age (65 or Older)If you are age 65 or older on the last day of the year and don't itemize deductions, you are entitled to a higher standard deduction. You are considered 65 on the day before your 65th birthday. Therefore, you can take a higher standard deduction for 2021 if you were born before January 2, 1957. Use Table 10-2 to figure the standard deduction amount. Death of a taxpayer. If you are preparing a return for someone who died in 2021, read this before using Table 10-2 or Table 10-3. Consider the taxpayer to be 65 or older at the end of 2021 only if they were 65 or older at the time of death. Even if the taxpayer was born before January 2, 1957, they are not considered 65 or older at the end of 2021 unless they were 65 or older at the time of death. A person is considered to reach age 65 on the day before their 65th birthday. Higher Standard Deduction for BlindnessIf you are blind on the last day of the year and you don't itemize deductions, you are entitled to a higher standard deduction. Not totally blind. If you aren't totally blind, you must get a certified statement from an eye doctor (ophthalmologist or optometrist) that:
If your eye condition isn't likely to improve beyond these limits, the statement should include this fact. Keep the statement in your records. If your vision can be corrected beyond these limits only by contact lenses that you can wear only briefly because of pain, infection, or ulcers, you can take the higher standard deduction for blindness if you otherwise qualify. Spouse 65 or Older or BlindYou can take the higher standard deduction if your spouse is age 65 or older or blind and:
Death of a spouse. If your spouse died in 2021 before reaching age 65, you can't take a higher standard deduction because of your spouse. Even if your spouse was born before January 2, 1957, he or she isn't considered 65 or older at the end of 2021 unless he or she was 65 or older at the time of death. A person is considered to reach age 65 on the day before their 65th birthday. Example. Your spouse was born on February 14, 1956, and died on February 13, 2021. Your spouse is considered age 65 at the time of death. However, if your spouse died on February 12, 2021, your spouse isn't considered age 65 at the time of death and isn't 65 or older at the end of 2021. . Higher Standard Deduction for Net Disaster LossYour standard deduction may be increased by any net qualified disaster loss. See the Instructions for Form 1040 and the Instructions for Schedule A (Form 1040) for more information on how to figure your increased standard deduction and how to report it on Form 1040 or 1040-SR. ExamplesThe following examples illustrate how to determine your standard deduction using Tables 10-1 and 10-2. Example 1. Larry, 46, and Donna, 33, are filing a joint return for 2021. Neither is blind, and neither can be claimed as a dependent. They decide not to itemize their deductions. They use Table 10-1. Their standard deduction is $25,100. Example 2. The facts are the same as in Example 1, except that Larry is blind at the end of 2021. Larry and Donna use Table 10-2. Their standard deduction is $26,450. Example 3. Bill and Lisa are filing a joint return for 2021. Both are over age 65. Neither is blind, and neither can be claimed as a dependent. If they don't itemize deductions, they use Table 10-2. Their standard deduction is $27,800. Standard Deduction for DependentsThe standard deduction for an individual who can be claimed as a dependent on another person's tax return is generally limited to the greater of:
However, if the individual is 65 or older or blind, the standard deduction may be higher. If you (or your spouse, if filing jointly) can be claimed as a dependent on someone else's return, use Table 10-3 to determine your standard deduction. Earned income defined. Earned income is salaries, wages, tips, professional fees, and other amounts received as pay for work you actually perform. For purposes of the standard deduction, earned income also includes any part of a taxable scholarship or fellowship grant. See chapter 1 of Pub. 970, Tax Benefits for Education, for more information on what qualifies as a scholarship or fellowship grant. Example 1. Michael is 16 years old and single. His parents can claim him as a dependent on their 2021 tax return. He has interest income of $780 and wages of $150. He has no itemized deductions. Michael uses Table 10-3 to find his standard deduction. He enters $150 (his earned income) on line 1, $500 ($150 + $350) on line 3, $1,100 (the larger of $500 and $1,100) on line 5, and $12,550 on line 6. His standard deduction, on line 7a, is $1,100 (the smaller of $1,100 and $12,550). Example 2. Joe, a 22-year-old college student, can be claimed as a dependent on his parents' 2021 tax return. Joe is married and files a separate return. His wife doesn't itemize deductions on her separate return. Joe has $1,500 in interest income and wages of $3,800. He has no itemized deductions. Joe finds his standard deduction by using Table 10-3. He enters his earned income, $3,800, on line 1. He adds lines 1 and 2 and enters $4,150 ($3,800 + $350) on line 3. On line 5, he enters $4,150, the larger of lines 3 and 4. Because Joe is married filing a separate return, he enters $12,550 on line 6. On line 7a, he enters $4,150 as his standard deduction because it is smaller than $12,550, the amount on line 6. Example 3. Amy, who is single, can be claimed as a dependent on her parents' 2021 tax return. She is 18 years old and blind. She has interest income of $1,300 and wages of $2,900. She has no itemized deductions. Amy uses Table 10-3 to find her standard deduction. She enters her wages of $2,900 on line 1. She adds lines 1 and 2 and enters $3,250 ($2,900 + $350) on line 3. On line 5, she enters $3,250, the larger of lines 3 and 4. Because she is single, Amy enters $12,550 on line 6. She enters $3,250 on line 7a. This is the smaller of the amounts on lines 5 and 6. Because she checked the box in the top part of the worksheet, indicating she is blind, she enters $1,700 on line 7b. She then adds the amounts on lines 7a and 7b and enters her standard deduction of $4,950 ($3,250 + $1,700) on line 7c. Example 4. Ed is 18 years old and single. His parents can claim him as a dependent on their 2021 tax return. He has wages of $7,000, interest income of $500, and a business loss of $3,000. He has no itemized deductions. Ed uses Table 10-3 to figure his standard deduction. He enters $4,000 ($7,000 − $3,000) on line 1. He adds lines 1 and 2 and enters $4,350 ($4,000 + $350) on line 3. On line 5, he enters $4,350, the larger of lines 3 and 4. Because he is single, Ed enters $12,550 on line 6. On line 7a, he enters $4,350 as his standard deduction because it is smaller than $12,550, the amount on line 6. Who Should ItemizeYou should itemize deductions if your total deductions are more than your standard deduction amount. Also, you should itemize if you don't qualify for the standard deduction, as discussed earlier under Persons not eligible for the standard deduction. You should first figure your itemized deductions and compare that amount to your standard deduction to make sure you are using the method that gives you the greater benefit. When to itemize. You may benefit from itemizing your deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040) if you:
These deductions are explained in chapter 11 and in the publications listed under Useful Items, earlier. If you decide to itemize your deductions, complete Schedule A and attach it to your Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Enter the amount from Schedule A, line 17, on Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR, line 12a. Electing to itemize for state tax or other purposes. Even if your itemized deductions are less than your standard deduction, you can elect to itemize deductions on your federal return rather than take the standard deduction. You may want to do this if, for example, the tax benefit of itemizing your deductions on your state tax return is greater than the tax benefit you lose on your federal return by not taking the standard deduction. To make this election, you must check the box on line 18 of Schedule A. Changing your mind. If you don't itemize your deductions and later find that you should have itemized—or if you itemize your deductions and later find you shouldn't have—you can change your return by filing Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. See Amended Returns and Claims for Refund in chapter 1 for more information on amended returns. Married persons who filed separate returns. You can change methods of taking deductions only if you and your spouse both make the same changes. Both of you must file a consent to assessment for any additional tax either one may owe as a result of the change. You and your spouse can use the method that gives you the lower total tax, even though one of you may pay more tax than you would have paid by using the other method. You both must use the same method of claiming deductions. If one itemizes deductions, the other should itemize because they won't qualify for the standard deduction. See Persons not eligible for the standard deduction, earlier. 2021 Standard Deduction Tables
Table 10-1.Standard Deduction Chart for Most People*
Table 10-2.Standard Deduction Chart for People Born Before January 2, 1957, or Who Are Blind*
Table 10-3.Standard Deduction Worksheet for Dependents Use this worksheet only if someone else can claim you (or your spouse, if filing jointly) as a dependent.
11. TaxesRemindersLimitation on deduction for state and local taxes. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provided for a temporary limitation on the deduction for state and local taxes. See Limitation on deduction for state and local taxes, later. No deduction for foreign taxes paid for real estate. You can no longer deduct foreign taxes you paid on real estate. IntroductionThis chapter discusses which taxes you can deduct if you itemize deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040). It also explains which taxes you can deduct on other schedules or forms and which taxes you can’t deduct. This chapter covers the following topics.
Use Table 11-1 as a guide to determine which taxes you can deduct. The end of the chapter contains a section that explains which forms you use to deduct different types of taxes. Business taxes. You can deduct certain taxes only if they are ordinary and necessary expenses of your trade or business or of producing income. For information on these taxes, see Pub. 535, Business Expenses. State or local taxes. These are taxes imposed by the 50 states, U.S. possessions, or any of their political subdivisions (such as a county or city), or by the District of Columbia. Indian tribal government. An Indian tribal government recognized by the Secretary of the Treasury as performing substantial government functions will be treated as a state for purposes of claiming a deduction for taxes. Income taxes, real estate taxes, and personal property taxes imposed by that Indian tribal government (or by any of its subdivisions that are treated as political subdivisions of a state) are deductible. General sales taxes. These are taxes imposed at one rate on retail sales of a broad range of classes of items. Foreign taxes. These are taxes imposed by a foreign country or any of its political subdivisions. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Form (and Instructions)
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. Tests To Deduct Any TaxThe following two tests must be met for you to deduct any tax.
The tax must be imposed on you. In general, you can deduct only taxes imposed on you. Generally, you can deduct property taxes only if you are an owner of the property. If your spouse owns the property and pays the real estate taxes, the taxes are deductible on your spouse's separate return or on your joint return. You must pay the tax during your tax year. If you are a cash basis taxpayer, you can deduct only those taxes you actually paid during your tax year. If you pay your taxes by check and the check is honored by your financial institution, the day you mail or deliver the check is the date of payment. If you use a pay-by-phone account (such as a credit card or electronic funds withdrawal), the date reported on the statement of the financial institution showing when payment was made is the date of payment. If you contest a tax liability and are a cash basis taxpayer, you can deduct the tax only in the year you actually pay it (or transfer money or other property to provide for satisfaction of the contested liability). See Pub. 538, Accounting Periods and Methods, for details. If you use an accrual method of accounting, see Pub. 538 for more information. Income TaxesThis section discusses the deductibility of state and local income taxes (including employee contributions to state benefit funds) and foreign income taxes. State and Local Income TaxesYou can deduct state and local income taxes. Exception. You can’t deduct state and local income taxes you pay on income that is exempt from federal income tax, unless the exempt income is interest income. For example, you can’t deduct the part of a state's income tax that is on a cost-of-living allowance exempt from federal income tax. What To DeductYour deduction may be for withheld taxes, estimated tax payments, or other tax payments as follows. Withheld taxes. You can deduct state and local income taxes withheld from your salary in the year they are withheld. Your Form(s) W-2 will show these amounts. Forms W-2G, 1099-B, 1099-DIV, 1099-G, 1099-K, 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, 1099-OID, and 1099-R may also show state and local income taxes withheld. Estimated tax payments. You can deduct estimated tax payments you made during the year to a state or local government. However, you must have a reasonable basis for making the estimated tax payments. Any estimated state or local tax payments that aren’t made in good faith at the time of payment aren’t deductible. Example. You made an estimated state income tax payment. However, the estimate of your state tax liability shows that you will get a refund of the full amount of your estimated payment. You had no reasonable basis to believe you had any additional liability for state income taxes and you can’t deduct the estimated tax payment. Refund applied to taxes. You can deduct any part of a refund of prior-year state or local income taxes that you chose to have credited to your 2021 estimated state or local income taxes. Don’t reduce your deduction by either of the following items.
However, part or all of this refund (or credit) may be taxable. See Refund (or credit) of state or local income taxes, later. Separate federal returns. If you and your spouse file separate state, local, and federal income tax returns, each of you can deduct on your federal return only the amount of your own state and local income tax that you paid during the tax year. Joint state and local returns. If you and your spouse file joint state and local returns and separate federal returns, each of you can deduct on your separate federal return a part of the state and local income taxes paid during the tax year. You can deduct only the amount of the total taxes that is proportionate to your gross income compared to the combined gross income of you and your spouse. However, you can’t deduct more than the amount you actually paid during the year. You can avoid this calculation if you and your spouse are jointly and individually liable for the full amount of the state and local income taxes. If so, you and your spouse can deduct on your separate federal returns the amount you each actually paid. Joint federal return. If you file a joint federal return, you can deduct the state and local income taxes both of you paid. Contributions to state benefit funds. As an employee, you can deduct mandatory contributions to state benefit funds withheld from your wages that provide protection against loss of wages. For example, certain states require employees to make contributions to state funds providing disability or unemployment insurance benefits. Mandatory payments made to the following state benefit funds are deductible as state income taxes on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5a.
. Refund (or credit) of state or local income taxes. If you receive a refund of (or credit for) state or local income taxes in a year after the year in which you paid them, you may have to include the refund in income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 1, in the year you receive it. This includes refunds resulting from taxes that were overwithheld, applied from a prior-year return, not figured correctly, or figured again because of an amended return. If you didn’t itemize your deductions in the previous year, don’t include the refund in income. If you deducted the taxes in the previous year, include all or part of the refund on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 1, in the year you receive the refund. For a discussion of how much to include, see Recoveries in Pub. 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income, for more information. Foreign Income TaxesGenerally, you can take either a deduction or a credit for income taxes imposed on you by a foreign country or a U.S. possession. However, you can’t take a deduction or credit for foreign income taxes paid on income that is exempt from U.S. tax under the foreign earned income exclusion or the foreign housing exclusion. For information on these exclusions, see Pub. 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad. For information on the foreign tax credit, see Pub. 514. State and Local General Sales TaxesYou can elect to deduct state and local general sales taxes, instead of state and local income taxes, as an itemized deduction on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5a. You can use either your actual expenses or the state and local sales tax tables to figure your sales tax deduction. Actual expenses. Generally, you can deduct the actual state and local general sales taxes (including compensating use taxes) if the tax rate was the same as the general sales tax rate. Food, clothing, and medical supplies. Sales taxes on food, clothing, and medical supplies are deductible as a general sales tax even if the tax rate was less than the general sales tax rate. Motor vehicles. Sales taxes on motor vehicles are deductible as a general sales tax even if the tax rate was less than the general sales tax rate. However, if you paid sales tax on a motor vehicle at a rate higher than the general sales tax, you can deduct only the amount of the tax that you would have paid at the general sales tax rate on that vehicle. Include any state and local general sales taxes paid for a leased motor vehicle. For purposes of this section, motor vehicles include cars, motorcycles, motor homes, recreational vehicles, sport utility vehicles, trucks, vans, and off-road vehicles. . Trade or business items. Don't include sales taxes paid on items used in your trade or business on Schedule A (Form 1040). Instead, go to the instructions for the form you are using to report business income and expenses to see if you can deduct these taxes. Optional sales tax tables. Instead of using your actual expenses, you can figure your state and local general sales tax deduction using the state and local sales tax tables in the Instructions for Schedule A (Form 1040). You may also be able to add the state and local general sales taxes paid on certain specified items. Your applicable table amount is based on the state where you live, your income, and your family size. Your income is your adjusted gross income plus any nontaxable items such as the following.
If you lived in different states during the same tax year, you must prorate your applicable table amount for each state based on the days you lived in each state. See the instructions for Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5a, for details. State and Local Real Estate TaxesDeductible real estate taxes are any state and local taxes on real property levied for the general public welfare. You can deduct these taxes only if they are assessed uniformly against all property under the jurisdiction of the taxing authority. The proceeds must be for general community or governmental purposes and not be a payment for a special privilege granted or service rendered to you. Deductible real estate taxes generally don’t include taxes charged for local benefits and improvements that increase the value of the property. They also don’t include itemized charges for services (such as trash collection) assessed against specific property or certain people, even if the charge is paid to the taxing authority. For more information about taxes and charges that aren’t deductible, see Real Estate-Related Items You Can’t Deduct, later. Tenant-shareholders in a cooperative housing corporation. Generally, if you are a tenant-stockholder in a cooperative housing corporation, you can deduct the amount paid to the corporation that represents your share of the real estate taxes the corporation paid or incurred for your dwelling unit. The corporation should provide you with a statement showing your share of the taxes. For more information, see Special Rules for Cooperatives in Pub. 530. Division of real estate taxes between buyers and sellers. If you bought or sold real estate during the year, the real estate taxes must be divided between the buyer and the seller. The buyer and the seller must divide the real estate taxes according to the number of days in the real property tax year (the period to which the tax is imposed relates) that each owned the property. The seller is treated as paying the taxes up to, but not including, the date of sale. The buyer is treated as paying the taxes beginning with the date of sale. This applies regardless of the lien dates under local law. Generally, this information is included on the settlement statement provided at the closing. If you (the seller) can’t deduct taxes until they are paid because you use the cash method of accounting, and the buyer of your property is personally liable for the tax, you are considered to have paid your part of the tax at the time of the sale. This lets you deduct the part of the tax to the date of sale even though you didn’t actually pay it. However, you must also include the amount of that tax in the selling price of the property. The buyer must include the same amount in his or her cost of the property. You figure your deduction for taxes on each property bought or sold during the real property tax year as follows. Worksheet 11-1. Figuring Your State and Local Real Estate Tax Deduction
Real estate taxes for prior years. Don’t divide delinquent taxes between the buyer and seller if the taxes are for any real property tax year before the one in which the property is sold. Even if the buyer agrees to pay the delinquent taxes, the buyer can’t deduct them. The buyer must add them to the cost of the property. The seller can deduct these taxes paid by the buyer. However, the seller must include them in the selling price. Examples. The following examples illustrate how real estate taxes are divided between buyer and seller. Example 1. Dennis and Beth White's real property tax year for both their old home and their new home is the calendar year, with payment due August 1. The tax on their old home, sold on May 7, was $620. The tax on their new home, bought on May 3, was $732. Dennis and Beth are considered to have paid a proportionate share of the real estate taxes on the old home even though they didn’t actually pay them to the taxing authority. On the other hand, they can claim only a proportionate share of the taxes they paid on their new property even though they paid the entire amount. Dennis and Beth owned their old home during the real property tax year for 126 days (January 1 to May 6, the day before the sale). They figure their deduction for taxes on their old home as follows. Worksheet 11-1. Figuring Your State and Local Real Estate Tax Deduction — Taxes on Old Home
Since the buyers of their old home paid all of the taxes, Dennis and Beth also include the $214 in the selling price of the old home. (The buyers add the $214 to their cost of the home.) Dennis and Beth owned their new home during the real property tax year for 243 days (May 3 to December 31, including their date of purchase). They figure their deduction for taxes on their new home as follows. Worksheet 11-1. Figuring Your State and Local Real Estate Tax Deduction — Taxes on New Home
Since Dennis and Beth paid all of the taxes on the new home, they add $245 ($732 paid less $487 deduction) to their cost of the new home. (The sellers add this $245 to their selling price and deduct the $245 as a real estate tax.) Dennis and Beth's real estate tax deduction for their old and new homes is the sum of $214 and $487, or $701. They will enter this amount on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5b. Example 2. George and Helen Brown bought a new home on May 3, 2021. Their real property tax year for the new home is the calendar year. Real estate taxes for 2020 were assessed in their state on January 1, 2021. The taxes became due on May 31, 2021, and October 31, 2021. The Browns agreed to pay all taxes due after the date of purchase. Real estate taxes for 2020 were $680. They paid $340 on May 31, 2021, and $340 on October 31, 2021. These taxes were for the 2020 real property tax year. The Browns can’t deduct them since they didn’t own the property until 2021. Instead, they must add $680 to the cost of their new home. In January 2022, the Browns receive their 2021 property tax statement for $752, which they will pay in 2022. The Browns owned their new home during the 2021 real property tax year for 243 days (May 3 to December 31). They will figure their 2022 deduction for taxes as follows. Worksheet 11-1. Figuring Your State and Local Real Estate Tax Deduction — Taxes on New Home
The remaining $251 ($752 paid less $501 deduction) of taxes paid in 2022, along with the $680 paid in 2021, is added to the cost of their new home. Because the taxes up to the date of sale are considered paid by the seller on the date of sale, the seller is entitled to a 2021 tax deduction of $931. This is the sum of the $680 for 2020 and the $251 for the 122 days the seller owned the home in 2021. The seller must also include the $931 in the selling price when he or she figures the gain or loss on the sale. The seller should contact the Browns in January 2022 to find out how much real estate tax is due for 2021. Form 1099-S. For certain sales or exchanges of real estate, the person responsible for closing the sale (generally, the settlement agent) prepares Form 1099-S, Proceeds From Real Estate Transactions, to report certain information to the IRS and to the seller of the property. Box 2 of Form 1099-S is for the gross proceeds from the sale and should include the portion of the seller's real estate tax liability that the buyer will pay after the date of sale. The buyer includes these taxes in the cost basis of the property, and the seller both deducts this amount as a tax paid and includes it in the sales price of the property. For a real estate transaction that involves a home, any real estate tax the seller paid in advance but that is the liability of the buyer appears on Form 1099-S, box 6. The buyer deducts this amount as a real estate tax, and the seller reduces his or her real estate tax deduction (or includes it in income) by the same amount. See Refund (or rebate), later. Taxes placed in escrow. If your monthly mortgage payment includes an amount placed in escrow (put in the care of a third party) for real estate taxes, you may not be able to deduct the total amount placed in escrow. You can deduct only the real estate tax that the third party actually paid to the taxing authority. If the third party doesn’t notify you of the amount of real estate tax that was paid for you, contact the third party or the taxing authority to find the proper amount to show on your return. Tenants by the entirety. If you and your spouse held property as tenants by the entirety and you file separate federal returns, each of you can deduct only the taxes each of you paid on the property. Divorced individuals. If your divorce or separation agreement states that you must pay the real estate taxes for a home owned by you and your spouse, part of your payments may be deductible as alimony and part as real estate taxes. See Payments to a third party in Pub. 504, Divorced or Separated Individuals, for more information. Ministers’ and military housing allowances. If you are a minister or a member of the uniformed services and receive a housing allowance that you can exclude from income, you still can deduct all of the real estate taxes you pay on your home. Refund (or rebate). If you received a refund or rebate in 2021 of real estate taxes you paid in 2021, you must reduce your deduction by the amount refunded to you. If you received a refund or rebate in 2021 of real estate taxes you deducted in an earlier year, you generally must include the refund or rebate in income in the year you receive it. However, the amount you include in income is limited to the amount of the deduction that reduced your tax in the earlier year. For more information, see Recoveries in Pub. 525. Table 11-1. Which Taxes Can You Deduct?
Real Estate-Related Items You Can’t DeductPayments for the following items generally aren’t deductible as real estate taxes.
Taxes for local benefits. Deductible real estate taxes generally don’t include taxes charged for local benefits and improvements tending to increase the value of your property. These include assessments for streets, sidewalks, water mains, sewer lines, public parking facilities, and similar improvements. You should increase the basis of your property by the amount of the assessment. Local benefit taxes are deductible only if they are for maintenance, repair, or interest charges related to those benefits. If only a part of the taxes is for maintenance, repair, or interest, you must be able to show the amount of that part to claim the deduction. If you can’t determine what part of the tax is for maintenance, repair, or interest, none of it is deductible. . Itemized charges for services. An itemized charge for services assessed against specific property or certain people isn’t a tax, even if the charge is paid to the taxing authority. For example, you can’t deduct the charge as a real estate tax if it is:
. Exception. Service charges used to maintain or improve services (such as trash collection or police and fire protection) are deductible as real estate taxes if:
Transfer taxes (or stamp taxes). Transfer taxes and similar taxes and charges on the sale of a personal home aren’t deductible. If they are paid by the seller, they are expenses of the sale and reduce the amount realized on the sale. If paid by the buyer, they are included in the cost basis of the property. Rent increase due to higher real estate taxes. If your landlord increases your rent in the form of a tax surcharge because of increased real estate taxes, you can’t deduct the increase as taxes. Homeowners' association charges. These charges aren’t deductible because they are imposed by the homeowners' association, rather than the state or local government. Personal Property TaxesPersonal property tax is deductible if it is a state or local tax that is:
A tax that meets the above requirements can be considered charged on personal property even if it is for the exercise of a privilege. For example, a yearly tax based on value qualifies as a personal property tax even if it is called a registration fee and is for the privilege of registering motor vehicles or using them on the highways. If the tax is partly based on value and partly based on other criteria, it may qualify in part. Example. Your state charges a yearly motor vehicle registration tax of 1% of value plus 50 cents per hundredweight. You paid $32 based on the value ($1,500) and weight (3,400 lbs.) of your car. You can deduct $15 (1% × $1,500) as a personal property tax because it is based on the value. The remaining $17 ($0.50 × 34), based on the weight, isn’t deductible. Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductMany federal, state, and local government taxes aren’t deductible because they don’t fall within the categories discussed earlier. Other taxes and fees, such as federal income taxes, aren’t deductible because the tax law specifically prohibits a deduction for them. See Table 11-1. Taxes and fees that are generally not deductible include the following items.
Many taxes and fees other than those listed above are also nondeductible, unless they are ordinary and necessary expenses of a business or income-producing activity. For other nondeductible items, see Real Estate-Related Items You Can’t Deduct, earlier. Where To DeductYou deduct taxes on the following schedules. State and local income taxes. These taxes are deducted on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5a, even if your only source of income is from business, rents, or royalties. Limitation on deduction for state and local taxes. The deduction for state and local taxes is limited to $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing married separately). State and local taxes are the taxes that you include on Schedule A (Form 1040), lines 5a, 5b, and 5c. Include taxes imposed by a U.S. possession with your state and local taxes on Schedule A (Form 1040), lines 5a, 5b, and 5c. However, don't include any U.S. possession taxes you paid that are allocable to excluded income. . General sales taxes. Sales taxes are deducted on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5a. You must check the box on line 5a. If you elect to deduct sales taxes, you can’t deduct state and local income taxes on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5a. Foreign income taxes. Generally, income taxes you pay to a foreign country or U.S. possession can be claimed as an itemized deduction on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 6, or as a credit against your U.S. income tax on Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 1. To claim the credit, you may have to complete and attach Form 1116. For more information, see the Instructions for Form 1040 or Pub. 514. Real estate taxes and personal property taxes. Real estate and personal property taxes are deducted on Schedule A (Form 1040), lines 5b and 5c, respectively, unless they are paid on property used in your business, in which case they are deducted on Schedule C (Form 1040) or Schedule F (Form 1040). Taxes on property that produces rent or royalty income are deducted on Schedule E (Form 1040). Self-employment tax. Deduct one-half of your self-employment tax on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 15. Other taxes. All other deductible taxes are deducted on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 6. 12. Other Itemized DeductionsWhat's NewStandard mileage rate. The 2021 rate for business use of a vehicle is 56 cents a mile. RemindersEducator expenses. Educator expenses include amounts paid or incurred after March 12, 2020, for personal protective equipment, disinfectant, and other supplies used for the prevention of the spread of coronavirus. For more information, see the instructions for Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 11, and Educator Expenses in Pub. 529, Miscellaneous Deductions. No miscellaneous itemized deductions allowed. You can no longer claim any miscellaneous itemized deductions. Miscellaneous itemized deductions are those deductions that would have been subject to the 2%-of-adjusted-gross-income (AGI) limitation. See Miscellaneous Itemized Deductions, later. Fines and penalties. Rules regarding deducting fines and penalties have changed. See Fines and Penalties, later. IntroductionThis chapter explains that you can no longer claim any miscellaneous itemized deductions, unless you fall into one of the qualified categories of employment claiming a deduction relating to unreimbursed employee expenses. Miscellaneous itemized deductions are those deductions that would have been subject to the 2%-of-AGI limitation. You can still claim certain expenses as itemized deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040), Schedule A (Form 1040-NR), or as an adjustment to income on Form 1040 or 1040-SR. This chapter covers the following topics.
. Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Form (and Instructions)
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. Miscellaneous Itemized DeductionsYou can no longer claim any miscellaneous itemized deductions that are subject to the 2%-of-AGI limitation, including unreimbursed employee expenses. However, you may be able to deduct certain unreimbursed employee business expenses if you fall into one of the following categories of employment listed under Unreimbursed Employee Expenses next. Unreimbursed Employee ExpensesYou can no longer claim a deduction for unreimbursed employee expenses unless you fall into one of the following categories of employment.
Categories of EmploymentYou can deduct unreimbursed employee expenses only if you qualify as an Armed Forces reservist, a qualified performing artist, a fee-basis state or local government official, or an employee with impairment-related work expenses. Armed Forces reservist (member of a reserve component). You are a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States if you are in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard Reserve; the Army National Guard of the United States; or the Reserve Corps of the Public Health Service. Qualified performing artist. You are a qualified performing artist if you:
Fee-basis state or local government official. You are a qualifying fee-basis official if you are employed by a state or political subdivision of a state and are compensated, in whole or in part, on a fee basis. Employee with impairment-related work expenses. Impairment-related work expenses are the allowable expenses of an individual with physical or mental disabilities for attendant care at his or her place of employment. They also include other expenses in connection with the place of employment that enable the employee to work. See Pub. 463, Travel, Gift, and Car Expenses, for more details. Allowable unreimbursed employee expenses. If you qualify as an employee in one of the categories mentioned above, you may be able to deduct the following items as unreimbursed employee expenses. Unreimbursed employee expenses for individuals in these categories of employment are deducted as adjustments to gross income. Qualified employees listed in one of the categories above must complete Form 2106, Employee Business Expenses, to take the deduction. You can deduct only unreimbursed employee expenses that are paid or incurred during your tax year, for carrying on your trade or business of being an employee, and ordinary and necessary. An expense is ordinary if it's common and accepted in your trade, business, or profession. An expense is necessary if it's appropriate and helpful to your business. An expense doesn't have to be required to be considered necessary. Educator ExpensesIf you were an eligible educator in 2021, you can deduct up to $250 of qualified expenses you paid in 2021 as an adjustment to gross income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 11, rather than as a miscellaneous itemized deduction. If you and your spouse are filing jointly and both of you were eligible educators, the maximum deduction is $500. However, neither spouse can deduct more than $250 of his or her qualified expenses. For additional information, see Educator Expenses in Pub. 529, Miscellaneous Deductions. . Expenses You Can’t DeductBecause of the suspension of miscellaneous itemized deductions, there are two categories of expenses you can't deduct: miscellaneous itemized deductions subject to the 2%-of-AGI limitation, and those expenses that are traditionally nondeductible under the Internal Revenue Code. Both categories of deduction are discussed next. Miscellaneous Deductions Subject to 2% AGIUnless you fall into one of the qualified categories of employment under Unreimbursed Employee Expenses, earlier, miscellaneous itemized deductions that are subject to the 2%-of-AGI limitation can no longer be claimed. For expenses not related to unreimbursed employee expenses, you generally can't deduct the following expenses, even if you fall into one of the qualified categories of employment listed earlier. Appraisal FeesAppraisal fees you pay to figure a casualty loss or the fair market value of donated property are miscellaneous itemized deductions and can no longer be deducted. Casualty and Theft LossesDamaged or stolen property used in performing services as an employee is a miscellaneous deduction and can no longer be deducted. For other casualty and theft losses, see Pub. 547, Casualties, Disasters, and Thefts. Clerical Help and Office RentOffice expenses, such as rent and clerical help, you pay in connection with your investments and collecting taxable income on those investments are miscellaneous itemized deductions and are no longer deductible. Credit or Debit Card Convenience FeesThe convenience fee charged by the card processor for paying your income tax (including estimated tax payments) by credit or debit card is a miscellaneous itemized deduction and is no longer deductible. Depreciation on Home ComputerIf you use your home computer to produce income (for example, to manage your investments that produce taxable income), the depreciation of the computer for that part of the usage of the computer is a miscellaneous itemized deduction and is no longer deductible. Fees To Collect Interest and DividendsFees you pay to a broker, bank, trustee, or similar agent to collect your taxable bond interest or dividends on shares of stock are miscellaneous itemized deductions and can no longer be deducted. Hobby ExpensesA hobby isn't a business because it isn't carried on to make a profit. Hobby expenses are miscellaneous itemized deductions and can no longer be deducted. See Not-for-Profit Activities in chapter 1 of Pub. 535, Business Expenses. Indirect Deductions of Pass-Through EntitiesPass-through entities include partnerships, S corporations, and mutual funds that aren't publicly offered. Deductions of pass-through entities are passed through to the partners or shareholders. The partner’s or shareholder’s share of passed-through deductions for investment expenses are miscellaneous itemized deductions and can no longer be deducted. Nonpublicly offered mutual funds. These funds will send you a Form 1099-DIV, Dividends and Distributions, or a substitute form, showing your share of gross income and investment expenses. The investment expenses reported on Form 1099-DIV are a miscellaneous itemized deduction and are no longer deductible. Investment Fees and ExpensesInvestment fees, custodial fees, trust administration fees, and other expenses you paid for managing your investments that produce taxable income are miscellaneous itemized deductions and are no longer deductible. Legal ExpensesYou can usually deduct legal expenses that you incur in attempting to produce or collect taxable income or that you pay in connection with the determination, collection, or refund of any tax. Legal expenses that you incur in attempting to produce or collect taxable income, or that you pay in connection with the determination, collection, or refund of any tax are miscellaneous itemized deductions and are no longer deductible. You can deduct expenses of resolving tax issues relating to profit or loss from business reported on Schedule C (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Business (Sole Proprietorship), from rentals or royalties reported on Schedule E (Form 1040), Supplemental Income and Loss, or from farm income and expenses reported on Schedule F (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Farming, on that schedule. Expenses for resolving nonbusiness tax issues are miscellaneous itemized deductions and are no longer deductible. Loss on DepositsFor information on whether, and if so, how, you may deduct a loss on your deposit in a qualified financial institution, see Loss on Deposits in Pub. 547. Repayments of IncomeGenerally, repayments of amounts that you included in income in an earlier year is a miscellaneous itemized deduction and can no longer be deducted. If you had to repay more than $3,000 that you included in your income in an earlier year, you may be able to deduct the amount. See Repayments Under Claim of Right, later. Repayments of Social Security BenefitsFor information on how to deduct your repayments of certain social security benefits, see Repayments More Than Gross Benefits in chapter 7. Safe Deposit Box RentRent you pay for a safe deposit box you use to store taxable income-producing stocks, bonds, or investment-related papers is a miscellaneous itemized deduction and can no longer be deducted. You also can't deduct the rent if you use the box for jewelry, other personal items, or tax-exempt securities. Service Charges on Dividend Reinvestment PlansService charges you pay as a subscriber in a dividend reinvestment plan are a miscellaneous itemized deduction and can no longer be deducted. These service charges include payments for:
Tax Preparation FeesTax preparation fees on the return for the year in which you pay them are a miscellaneous itemized deduction and can no longer be deducted. These fees include the cost of tax preparation software programs and tax publications. They also include any fee you paid for electronic filing of your return. Trustee's Administrative Fees for IRATrustee's administrative fees that are billed separately and paid by you in connection with your IRA are a miscellaneous itemized deduction and can no longer be deducted. For more information about IRAs, see chapter 9. Nondeductible ExpensesIn addition to the miscellaneous itemized deductions discussed earlier, you can't deduct the following expenses. List of Nondeductible Expenses
Adoption ExpensesYou can't deduct the expenses of adopting a child, but you may be able to take a credit for those expenses. See the Instructions for Form 8839, Qualified Adoption Expenses, for more information. Campaign ExpensesYou can't deduct campaign expenses of a candidate for any office, even if the candidate is running for reelection to the office. These include qualification and registration fees for primary elections. Legal fees. You can't deduct legal fees paid to defend charges that arise from participation in a political campaign. Check-Writing Fees on Personal AccountIf you have a personal checking account, you can't deduct fees charged by the bank for the privilege of writing checks, even if the account pays interest. Club DuesGenerally, you can't deduct the cost of membership in any club organized for business, pleasure, recreation, or other social purpose. This includes business, social, athletic, luncheon, sporting, airline, hotel, golf, and country clubs. You can't deduct dues paid to an organization if one of its main purposes is to:
Dues paid to airline, hotel, and luncheon clubs aren't deductible. Commuting ExpensesYou can't deduct commuting expenses (the cost of transportation between your home and your main or regular place of work). If you haul tools, instruments, or other items in your car to and from work, you can deduct only the additional cost of hauling the items such as the rent on a trailer to carry the items. Fines and PenaltiesGenerally, no deduction is allowed for fines and penalties paid to a government or specified nongovernmental entity for the violation of any law except in the following situations.
Nondeductible amounts include an amount paid in settlement of your actual or potential liability for a fine or penalty (civil or criminal). Fines or penalties include amounts paid such as parking tickets, tax penalties, and penalties deducted from teachers' paychecks after an illegal strike. No deduction is allowed for the restitution amount or amount paid to come into compliance with the law unless the amounts are specifically identified in the settlement agreement or court order. Also, any amount paid or incurred as reimbursement to the government for the costs of any investigation or litigation are not eligible for the exceptions and are nondeductible. Health Spa ExpensesYou can't deduct health spa expenses, even if there is a job requirement to stay in excellent physical condition, such as might be required of a law enforcement officer. Home Security SystemYou can't deduct the cost of a home security system as a miscellaneous deduction. However, you may be able to claim a deduction for a home security system as a business expense if you have a home office. See Security system under Figuring the Deduction in Pub. 587. Investment-Related SeminarsYou can't deduct any expenses for attending a convention, seminar, or similar meeting for investment purposes. Life Insurance PremiumsYou can't deduct premiums you pay on your life insurance. You may be able to deduct, as alimony, premiums you pay on life insurance policies assigned to your former spouse. See Pub. 504, Divorced or Separated Individuals, for information on alimony. Lobbying ExpensesYou generally can't deduct amounts paid or incurred for lobbying expenses. These include expenses to:
Lobbying expenses also include any amounts paid or incurred for research, preparation, planning, or coordination of any of these activities. Dues used for lobbying. If a tax-exempt organization notifies you that part of the dues or other amounts you pay to the organization are used to pay nondeductible lobbying expenses, you can't deduct that part. See Lobbying Expenses in Pub. 529 for information on exceptions. Lost or Mislaid Cash or PropertyYou can't deduct a loss based on the mere disappearance of money or property. However, an accidental loss or disappearance of property can qualify as a casualty if it results from an identifiable event that is sudden, unexpected, or unusual. See Pub. 547 for more information. Lunches With Co-WorkersYou can't deduct the expenses of lunches with co-workers, except while traveling away from home on business. See Pub. 463 for information on deductible expenses while traveling away from home. Meals While Working LateYou can't deduct the cost of meals while working late. However, you may be able to claim a deduction if the cost of meals is a deductible entertainment expense, or if you're traveling away from home. See Pub. 463 for information on deductible entertainment expenses and expenses while traveling away from home. Personal Legal ExpensesYou can't deduct personal legal expenses such as those for the following.
You can't deduct these expenses even if a result of the legal proceeding is the loss of income-producing property. Political ContributionsYou can't deduct contributions made to a political candidate, a campaign committee, or a newsletter fund. Advertisements in convention bulletins and admissions to dinners or programs that benefit a political party or political candidate aren't deductible. Professional Accreditation FeesYou can't deduct professional accreditation fees such as the following.
Professional ReputationYou can't deduct expenses of radio and TV appearances to increase your personal prestige or establish your professional reputation. Relief Fund ContributionsYou can't deduct contributions paid to a private plan that pays benefits to any covered employee who can't work because of any injury or illness not related to the job. Residential Telephone ServiceYou can't deduct any charge (including taxes) for basic local telephone service for the first telephone line to your residence, even if it's used in a trade or business. Stockholders' MeetingsYou can't deduct transportation and other expenses you pay to attend stockholders' meetings of companies in which you own stock but have no other interest. You can't deduct these expenses even if you're attending the meeting to get information that would be useful in making further investments.
Tax-Exempt Income ExpensesYou can't deduct expenses to produce tax-exempt income. You can't deduct interest on a debt incurred or continued to buy or carry If you have expenses to produce both taxable and tax-exempt income, but you can't identify the expenses that produce each type of income, you must divide the expenses based on the amount of each type of income to determine the amount that you can deduct. Travel Expenses for Another IndividualYou generally can't deduct travel expenses you pay or incur for a spouse, dependent, or other individual who accompanies you (or your employee) on business or personal travel unless the spouse, dependent, or other individual is an employee of the taxpayer, the travel is for a bona fide business purpose, and such expenses would otherwise be deductible by the spouse, dependent, or other individual. See Pub. 463 for more information on deductible travel expenses. Voluntary Unemployment Benefit Fund ContributionsYou can't deduct voluntary unemployment benefit fund contributions you make to a union fund or a private fund. However, you can deduct contributions as taxes if state law requires you to make them to a state unemployment fund that covers you for the loss of wages from unemployment caused by business conditions. WristwatchesYou can't deduct the cost of a wristwatch, even if there is a job requirement that you know the correct time to properly perform your duties. Expenses You Can DeductYou can deduct the items listed below as itemized deductions. Report these items on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16, or Schedule A (Form 1040-NR), line 7. List of DeductionsEach of the following items is discussed in detail after the list (except where indicated).
Amortizable Premium on Taxable BondsIn general, if the amount you pay for a bond is greater than its stated principal amount, the excess is bond premium. You can elect to amortize the premium on taxable bonds. The amortization of the premium is generally an offset to interest income on the bond rather than a separate deduction item. Part of the premium on some bonds may be an itemized deduction on Schedule A (Form 1040). For more information, see Amortizable Premium on Taxable Bonds in Pub. 529, and Bond Premium Amortization in chapter 3 of Pub. 550, Investment Income and Expenses. Casualty and Theft Losses of Income-Producing PropertyYou can deduct a casualty or theft loss as an itemized deduction on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16, if the damaged or stolen property was income-producing property (property held for investment, such as stocks, notes, bonds, gold, silver, vacant lots, and works of art). First, report the loss in Form 4684, Section B. You may also have to include the loss on Form 4797 if you're otherwise required to file that form. To figure your deduction, add all casualty or theft losses from this type of property included on Form 4684, lines 32 and 38b, or Form 4797, line 18a. For more information on casualty and theft losses, see Pub. 547. Excess Deductions of an Estate or TrustGenerally, if an estate or trust has an excess deduction resulting from total deductions being greater than its gross income, in the estate’s or trust's last tax year, a beneficiary can deduct the excess deductions, depending on its character. The excess deductions retain their character as an adjustment to arrive at adjusted gross income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), as a non-miscellaneous itemized deduction reported on Schedule A (Form 1040), or as a miscellaneous itemized deduction. For more information on excess deductions of an estate or trust, see the Instructions for Schedule K-1 (Form 1041) for a Beneficiary Filing Form 1040. Federal Estate Tax on Income in Respect of a DecedentYou can deduct the federal estate tax attributable to income in respect of a decedent that you as a beneficiary include in your gross income. Income in respect of the decedent is gross income that the decedent would have received had death not occurred and that wasn't properly includible in the decedent's final income tax return. See Pub. 559, Survivors, Executors, and Administrators, for more information. Gambling Losses up to the Amount of Gambling WinningsYou must report the full amount of your gambling winnings for the year on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 8b. You deduct your gambling losses for the year on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 16. You can't deduct gambling losses that are more than your winnings. . . Your diary should contain at least the following information.
See Pub. 529 for more information. Impairment-Related Work ExpensesIf you have a physical or mental disability that limits your being employed, or substantially limits one or more of your major life activities, such as performing manual tasks, walking, speaking, breathing, learning, and working, you can deduct your impairment-related work expenses. Impairment-related work expenses are ordinary and necessary business expenses for attendant care services at your place of work and for other expenses in connection with your place of work that are necessary for you to be able to work. Self-employed. If you're self-employed, enter your impairment-related work expenses on the appropriate form (Schedule C (Form 1040), Schedule E (Form 1040), or Schedule F (Form 1040)) used to report your business income and expenses. Repayments Under Claim of RightIf you had to repay more than $3,000 that you included in your income in an earlier year because at the time you thought you had an unrestricted right to it, you may be able to deduct the amount you repaid or take a credit against your tax. See Repayments in chapter 8 for more information. Unlawful Discrimination ClaimsYou may be able to deduct, as an adjustment to income on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 24h, attorney fees and court costs for actions settled or decided after October 22, 2004, involving a claim of unlawful discrimination, a claim against the U.S. Government, or a claim made under section 1862(b)(3)(A) of the Social Security Act. However, the amount you can deduct on Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 24h, is limited to the amount of the judgment or settlement you are including in income for the tax year. See Pub. 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income, for more information. Unrecovered Investment in AnnuityA retiree who contributed to the cost of an annuity can exclude from income a part of each payment received as a tax-free return of the retiree's investment. If the retiree dies before the entire investment is recovered tax free, any unrecovered investment can be deducted on the retiree's final income tax return. See Pub. 575, Pension and Annuity Income, for more information about the tax treatment of pensions and annuities. Part Four - Figuring Your Taxes, and Refundable and Nonrefundable CreditsThe two chapters in this part explain how to figure your tax. They also discuss tax credits that, unlike deductions, are subtracted directly from your tax and reduce your tax dollar for dollar. The Form 1040 and 1040-SR schedules that are discussed in these chapters are:
13. How To Figure Your TaxIntroductionAfter you have figured your income and deductions your next step is to figure your tax. This chapter discusses:
Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Publication
Form (and Instructions)
Figuring Your TaxYour income tax is based on your taxable income. After you figure your income tax and AMT, if any, subtract your tax credits and add any other taxes you may owe. The result is your total tax. Compare your total tax with your total payments to determine whether you are entitled to a refund or must make a payment. This section provides a general outline of how to figure your tax. You can find step-by-step directions in the Instructions for Form 1040. Tax. Most taxpayers use either the Tax Table or the Tax Computation Worksheet to figure their income tax. However, there are special methods if your income includes any of the following items.
Credits. After you figure your income tax and any AMT (discussed later), determine if you are eligible for any tax credits. Eligibility information for these tax credits is discussed in other publications and your form instructions. The following items are some of the credits you may be able to subtract from your tax and shows where you can find more information on each credit.
Some credits (such as the earned income credit) aren’t listed because they are treated as payments. See Payments, later. Other taxes. After you subtract your tax credits, determine whether there are any other taxes you must pay. This chapter doesn’t explain these other taxes. You can find that information in other publications and your form instructions. See the following list for other taxes you may need to add to your income tax.
You may also have to pay AMT (discussed later in this chapter). Payments. After you determine your total tax, figure the total payments you have already made for the year. Include credits that are treated as payments. This chapter doesn’t explain these payments and credits. You can find that information in other publications and your form instructions. See the following list of payments and credits that you may be able to include in your total payments.
Refund or balance due. To determine whether you are entitled to a refund or whether you must make a payment, compare your total payments with your total tax. If you are entitled to a refund, see your form instructions for information on having it directly deposited into one or more of your accounts (including a traditional IRA, Roth IRA, or a SEP-IRA), or to purchase U.S. savings bonds instead of receiving a paper check. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)This section briefly discusses an additional tax you may have to pay. The tax law gives special treatment to some kinds of income and allows special deductions and credits for some kinds of expenses. Taxpayers who benefit from this special treatment may have to pay at least a minimum amount of tax through an additional tax called AMT. You may have to pay the AMT if your taxable income for regular tax purposes, combined with certain adjustments and tax preference items, is more than a certain amount. See Form 6251, Alternative Minimum Tax—Individuals. Adjustments and tax preference items. The more common adjustments and tax preference items include:
More information. For more information about the AMT, see the Instructions for Form 6251. Tax Figured by IRSIf you file by the due date of your return (not counting extensions) — April 18, 2022, for most people — you can have the IRS figure your tax for you on Form 1040 or 1040-SR. If the IRS figures your tax and you paid too much, you will receive a refund. If you didn’t pay enough, you will receive a bill for the balance. To avoid interest or the penalty for late payment, you must pay the bill within 30 days of the date of the bill or by the due date for your return, whichever is later. The IRS can also figure the credit for the elderly or the disabled and the earned income credit for you. When the IRS cannot figure your tax. The IRS can’t figure your tax for you if any of the following apply.
Filing the ReturnAfter you complete the line entries for the tax form you are filing, fill in your name and address. Enter your social security number in the space provided. If you are married, enter the social security numbers of you and your spouse, even if you file separately. Sign and date your return and enter your occupation(s). If you are filing a joint return, both you and your spouse must sign it. Enter your daytime phone number in the space provided. This may help speed the processing of your return if we have a question that can be answered over the phone. If you are filing a joint return, you may enter either your or your spouse's daytime phone number. If you want to allow your preparer, a friend, a family member, or any other person you choose to discuss your 2021 tax return with the IRS, check the “Yes” box in the “Third Party Designee” area on your return. Also, enter the designee's name, phone number, and any five digits the designee chooses as their personal identification number (PIN). If you check the “Yes” box, you, and your spouse if filing a joint return, are authorizing the IRS to call the designee to answer any questions that may arise during the processing of your return. Fill in and attach any schedules and forms asked for on the lines you completed to your paper return. Attach a copy of each of your Forms W-2 to your paper return. Also, attach to your paper return any Form 1099-R you received that has withholding tax in box 4. Mail your return to the Internal Revenue Service Center for the area where you live. A list of Service Center addresses is in the instructions for your tax return. Form 1040 or 1040-SR Line EntriesIf you want the IRS to figure your tax. Read Form 1040 or 1040-SR, lines 1 through 15, and Schedule 1 (Form 1040), if applicable. Fill in the lines that apply to you and attach Schedule 1 (Form 1040), if applicable. Don’t complete Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 16 or 17. If you are filing a joint return, use the space on the dotted line next to the words “Adjusted Gross Income” on the first page of your return to separately show your taxable income and your spouse's taxable income. Read Form 1040 or 1040-SR, lines 19 through 33, and Schedules 2 and 3 (Form 1040), if applicable. Fill in the lines that apply to you and attach Schedules 2 and 3 (Form 1040), if applicable. Don’t fill in Form 1040 or 1040-SR, lines 22, 24, 33, or 34 through 38. Don’t fill in Schedule 2 (Form 1040), line 1 or 3. Also, don’t complete Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 6d, if you are completing Schedule R (Form 1040), or Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 27a, if you want the IRS to figure the credits shown on those lines. Payments. If you have federal income tax withheld that is shown on Form W-2, box 2, Form 1099, box 4, Form W-2G, box 4, or another form (see Instructions for Form 1040 for more information) enter the amount on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 25. Enter any estimated tax payments you made on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 26. Credit for child and dependent care expenses. If you can take this credit, complete Form 2441 and attach it to your paper return. Enter the amount of the credit on Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 2 and/or line 13g, whichever applies. The IRS will not figure this credit. Net premium tax credit. If you take this credit, complete Form 8962, Premium Tax Credit (PTC), and attach it to your return. Enter the amount of the credit on Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 9. The IRS will not figure this credit. Credit for the elderly or the disabled. If you can take this credit, the IRS can figure it for you. Enter “CFE” on the line next to Schedule 3 (Form 1040), line 6d, and attach Schedule R (Form 1040) to your paper return. On Schedule R (Form 1040), check the box in Part I for your filing status and age. Complete Parts II and III, lines 11 and 13, if they apply. Earned income credit. If you can take this credit, the IRS can figure it for you. Enter “EIC” on the dotted line on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 27a. If you elect to use your nontaxable combat pay in figuring your EIC, enter “NCP” and the amount on the dotted line on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 27b. If you elect to use your 2019 earned income in figuring your EIC, enter the amount of your 2019 earned income on the dotted line on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 27c. If you have a qualifying child, you must fill in Schedule EIC (Form 1040), Earned Income Credit, and attach it to your paper return. If you don’t provide the child's social security number on Schedule EIC, line 2, the credit will be reduced or disallowed unless the child was born and died in 2021. If your credit for any year after 1996 was reduced or disallowed by the IRS, you may also have to file Form 8862 with your return. For details, see the Instructions for Form 1040. 14. Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other DependentsWhat’s NewSchedule 8812 (Form 1040). The Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) and its instructions have been revised to be the single source for figuring and reporting the child tax credit and credit for other dependents. The instructions now include all applicable worksheets for figuring these credits. As a result, Pub. 972, Child Tax Credit, won’t be revised. For prior-year versions of Pub. 972, go to IRS.gov/Pub972. Enhanced child tax credit. For 2021, the child tax credit applies to qualifying children who have not attained age 18 by the end of 2021. Also, the initial amount of the child tax credit is increased to $3,600 for each qualifying child who hasn't attained age 6 by the end of 2021 and $3,000 for each other qualifying child who has not attained age 18 by the end of 2021. The credit for other dependents has not been enhanced. Simplified refundable child tax credit. If you meet certain residency requirements, your child tax credit will be fully refundable and easier to figure. This means you can claim the credit even if you didn't work and even if you receive no income. If you do not meet the residency requirements, you will figure your child tax credit and additional child tax credit in a manner similar to how these credits were figured for 2020. Letter 6419. If you received advance child tax credit payments during 2021, you will receive Letter 6419. Keep this letter for your records. You will use the information from this letter to figure the amount of child tax credit to claim on your 2021 tax returns or the amount of additional tax you must report on Schedule 2 (Form 1040). Additional tax on excess advance child tax credit payments. If you received advance child tax credit payments during 2021 and the credits you figure using Schedule 8812 (Form 1040), Credits for Qualifying Children and Other Dependents, are less than what you received, you may owe an additional tax. Complete Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) to determine if you must report an additional tax on Schedule 2 (Form 1040).
RemindersAbbreviations used throughout this chapter. The following abbreviations will be used in this chapter when appropriate.
Other abbreviations may be used in this chapter and will be defined as needed. Delayed refund for returns claiming the ACTC. The IRS can’t issue refunds before mid-February 2022 for returns that properly claim the ACTC. This time frame applies to the entire refund, not just the portion associated with the ACTC. IntroductionThe CTC is a credit that may reduce your tax by as much as $3,000 ($3,600 in the case of a qualifying child who has not attained age 6 as of the close of the calendar year in which the tax year of the taxpayer begins) for each child who qualifies you for the credit. See Limits on the RCTC, NCTC, and ODC, later. The ACTC is a credit you may be able to take if you are not able to claim the full amount of the CTC. The ODC is a credit that may reduce your tax by as much as $500 for each eligible dependent. . Useful ItemsYou may want to see: Form (and Instructions)
For these and other useful items, go to IRS.gov/Forms. Taxpayer Identification Number RequirementsYou must have a TIN by the due date of your return. If you, or your spouse if filing jointly, don’t have an SSN or ITIN issued on or before the due date of your 2021 return (including extensions), you can’t claim the RCTC, NCTC, ODC, or ACTC on either your original or amended 2021 tax return. If you apply for an ITIN on or before the due date of your 2021 return (including extensions) and the IRS issues you an ITIN as a result of the application, the IRS will consider your ITIN as issued on or before the due date of your return. Each qualifying child you use for RCTC, NCTC, or ACTC must have the required SSN. If you have a qualifying child who doesn’t have the required SSN, you can’t use the child to claim the RCTC, NCTC, or ACTC on either your original or amended 2021 tax return. The required SSN is one that is valid for employment and is issued before the due date of your 2021 return (including extensions). If your qualifying child was born and died in 2021 and you don’t have an SSN for the child, attach a copy of the child’s birth certificate, death certificate, or hospital records. The document must show the child was born alive. If your qualifying child doesn’t have the required SSN but has another type of TIN issued on or before the due date of your 2021 return (including extensions), you may be able to claim the ODC for that child. See Credit for Other Dependents (ODC), later. Each dependent you use for the ODC must have a TIN by the due date of your return. If you have a dependent who doesn’t have an SSN, ITIN, or ATIN issued on or before the due date of your 2021 return (including extensions), you can’t use that dependent to claim the ODC on either your original or amended 2021 tax return. If you apply for an ITIN or ATIN for the dependent on or before the due date of your 2021 return (including extensions) and the IRS issues the ITIN or ATIN as a result of the application, the IRS will consider the ITIN or ATIN as issued on or before the due date of your return. Improper ClaimsIf you erroneously claim the RCTC, NCTC, ACTC, or ODC, and it is later determined that your error was due to reckless or intentional disregard of the RCTC, NCTC, ACTC, or ODC rules, you will not be allowed to claim any of these credits for 2 years. If it is determined that your error was due to fraud, you will not be allowed to claim any of these credits for 10 years. You may also have to pay penalties. Form 8862 may be required. If your RCTC, NCTC, ACTC, or ODC for a year after 2015 was denied or reduced for any reason other than a math or clerical error, you must attach Form 8862 to your tax return to claim the RCTC, NCTC, ACTC, or ODC, unless an exception applies. See Form 8862, Information To Claim Certain Credits After Disallowance, and its instructions for more information, including whether an exception applies. Advance Child Tax Credit Payments and Additional TaxBeginning in July and through December 2021, the IRS issued advance payments of the 2021 RCTC to taxpayers with qualifying children. The advance payments were early payments of 50% of the amount of RCTC estimated to be claimed on the 2021 tax return based on information from either a 2019 or 2020 tax return, including information provided to the IRS through an online non-filer tool to receive economic impact payments or advance child tax credit payments, and information provided in the child tax credit update portal on IRS.gov/CTCPortal. Changes throughout the year, such as a change in filing status or change in the number of qualifying children, could impact the amount of child tax credit you are eligible to receive on your 2021 tax return. . If you received advance child tax credit payments during 2021 but the amount of the credits you are eligible for on your 2021 tax return are less than what you received, you may owe an additional tax. See Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) and its instructions for more information. Letter 6419The IRS will issue Letter 6419, which will report the total amount of advance child tax credit payments issued to you and the number of qualifying children the IRS used to figure your advance child tax credit payments. You will need Letter 6419 to figure the amount of child tax credit to claim on your tax return or the amount of additional tax you must report. If you did not receive Letter 6419, go to the child tax credit update portal at IRS.gov/CTCPortal or call 800-908-4184 to get the information needed. See Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) and its instructions for more information. Married filing jointly. If you filed as married filing jointly on your prior-year return, then both you and your spouse will receive a Letter 6419. Child Tax Credit (CTC)The CTC is for individuals who claim a child as a dependent if the child meets additional conditions (described later). Note.This credit is different from and in addition to the credit for child and dependent care expenses and the earned income credit that you may also be eligible to claim. The maximum amount you can claim for the credit is $3,000 ($3,600 in the case of a qualifying child who has not attained age 6 as of the close of the calendar year in which the tax year of the taxpayer begins) for each child who qualifies you for the CTC. But, see Limits on the RCTC, NCTC, and ODC, later. For more information about claiming the CTC, see Claiming the RCTC, NCTC, and ODC, later. Qualifying Child for the CTCA child qualifies you for the CTC if the child meets all of the following conditions.
Example. Your son turned 18 on December 30, 2021. He is a citizen of the United States and you claimed him as a dependent on your return. You can't use him to claim the RCTC, NCTC, or ACTC because he was not under age 18 at the end of 2021. . Adopted child. An adopted child is always treated as your own child. An adopted child includes a child lawfully placed with you for legal adoption. If you are a U.S. citizen or U.S. national and your adopted child lived with you all year as a member of your household in 2021, that child meets condition 7, earlier, to be a qualifying child for the child tax credit (or condition 3, later, to be a qualifying person for the ODC). Exceptions to time lived with you. A child is considered to have lived with you for more than half of 2021 if the child was born or died in 2021 and your home was this child's home for more than half the time he or she was alive. Temporary absences by you or the child for special circumstances, such as school, vacation, business, medical care, military service, or detention in a juvenile facility, count as time the child lived with you. There are also exceptions for kidnapped children and children of divorced or separated parents. For details, see Residency Test in chapter 3. Qualifying child of more than one person. A special rule applies if your qualifying child is the qualifying child of more than one person. For details, see Qualifying Child of More Than One Person in chapter 3. Required SSNIn addition to being a qualifying child for the CTC, your child must have the required SSN. The required SSN is one that is valid for employment and that is issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) before the due date of your 2021 return (including extensions). . If your child was a U.S. citizen when the child received the SSN, the SSN is valid for employment. If “Not Valid for Employment” is printed on your child’s social security card and your child’s immigration status has changed so that your child is now a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, ask the SSA for a new social security card without the legend. However, if “Valid for Work Only With DHS Authorization” is printed on your child’s social security card, your child has the required SSN only as long as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) authorization is valid. If your child doesn’t have the required SSN, you can't use the child to claim the CTC (or ACTC) on either your original or amended 2021 tax return. Credit for Other Dependents (ODC)This credit is for individuals with a dependent who meets additional conditions (described later). Note.This credit is different from and in addition to the credit for child and dependent care expenses that you may also be eligible to claim. The maximum amount you can claim for this credit is $500 for each qualifying dependent. See Limits on the RCTC, NCTC, and ODC, later. For more information about claiming the ODC, see Claiming the RCTC, NCTC, and ODC, later. Qualifying Person for the ODCA person qualifies you for the ODC if the person meets all of the following conditions.
Example. Your 10-year-old nephew lives in Mexico and qualifies as your dependent. He is not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident alien. You can’t use him to claim the ODC. . Timely Issued TINIn addition to being a qualifying person for the ODC, the person must have an SSN, ITIN, or ATIN issued to the dependent on or before the due date of your 2021 return (including extensions). If the person has not been issued an SSN, ITIN, or ATIN by that date, you can’t use the person to claim the ODC on either your original or amended 2021 return. For more information, see Taxpayer Identification Number Requirements, earlier. Limits on the RCTC, NCTC, and ODCThe credit amount of your RCTC, NCTC, or ODC may be reduced if your modified adjusted gross income (AGI) is more than the amounts shown below for your filing status.
AGI. Your AGI is the amount on line 11 of your Form 1040, 1040-SR, or 1040-NR. For more information about limits on the RCTC, NCTC, and ODC, see the Instructions for Schedule 8812 (Form 1040). Claiming the RCTC, NCTC, and ODCTo claim the RCTC, NCTC, or ODC, be sure you meet the following requirements.
. Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)This credit is for certain individuals who get less than the full amount of the CTC. . Foreign earned income. If you file Form 2555 (relating to foreign earned income), you can’t claim the ACTC. How to claim the ACTC. To claim the ACTC, see Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) and its instructions. Publication 17 - Additional MaterialTax Tables
2021 Tax Computation Worksheet—Line 16
Section A—Use if your filing status is Single. Complete the row below that applies to you.
Section B—Use if your filing status is Married filing jointly or Qualifying widow(er). Complete the row below that applies to you.
Section C—Use if your filing status is Married filing separately. Complete the row below that applies to you.
Section D—Use if your filing status is Head of household. Complete the row below that applies to you.
2021 Tax Rate Schedules
Schedule X —If your filing status is Single
Schedule Y-1 —If your filing status is Married filing jointly or Qualifying widow(er)
Schedule Y-2 —If your filing status is Married filing separately
Schedule Z —If your filing status is Head of household
Your Rights as a TaxpayerThis section explains your rights as a taxpayer and the processes for examination, appeal, collection, and refunds. The Taxpayer Bill of Rights1. The Right to Be Informed. Taxpayers have the right to know what they need to do to comply with the tax laws. They are entitled to clear explanations of the laws and IRS procedures in all tax forms, instructions, publications, notices, and correspondence. They have the right to be informed of IRS decisions about their tax accounts and to receive clear explanations of the outcomes. 2. The Right to Quality Service. Taxpayers have the right to receive prompt, courteous, and professional assistance in their dealings with the IRS, to be spoken to in a way they can easily understand, to receive clear and easily understandable communications from the IRS, and to speak to a supervisor about inadequate service. 3. The Right to Pay No More than the Correct Amount of Tax. Taxpayers have the right to pay only the amount of tax legally due, including interest and penalties, and to have the IRS apply all tax payments properly. 4. The Right to Challenge the IRS’s Position and Be Heard. Taxpayers have the right to raise objections and provide additional documentation in response to formal IRS actions or proposed actions, to expect that the IRS will consider their timely objections and documentation promptly and fairly, and to receive a response if the IRS does not agree with their position. 5. The Right to Appeal an IRS Decision in an Independent Forum. Taxpayers are entitled to a fair and impartial administrative appeal of most IRS decisions, including many penalties, and have the right to receive a written response regarding the Office of Appeals' decision. Taxpayers generally have the right to take their cases to court. 6. The Right to Finality. Taxpayers have the right to know the maximum amount of time they have to challenge the IRS’s position as well as the maximum amount of time the IRS has to audit a particular tax year or collect a tax debt. Taxpayers have the right to know when the IRS has finished an audit. 7. The Right to Privacy. Taxpayers have the right to expect that any IRS inquiry, examination, or enforcement action will comply with the law and be no more intrusive than necessary, and will respect all due process rights, including search and seizure protections, and will provide, where applicable, a collection due process hearing. 8. The Right to Confidentiality. Taxpayers have the right to expect that any information they provide to the IRS will not be disclosed unless authorized by the taxpayer or by law. Taxpayers have the right to expect appropriate action will be taken against employees, return preparers, and others who wrongfully use or disclose taxpayer return information. 9. The Right to Retain Representation. Taxpayers have the right to retain an authorized representative of their choice to represent them in their dealings with the IRS. Taxpayers have the right to seek assistance from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic if they cannot afford representation. 10. The Right to a Fair and Just Tax System. Taxpayers have the right to expect the tax system to consider facts and circumstances that might affect their underlying liabilities, ability to pay, or ability to provide information timely. Taxpayers have the right to receive assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service if they are experiencing financial difficulty or if the IRS has not resolved their tax issues properly and timely through its normal channels. Examinations (Audits)We accept most taxpayers’ returns as filed. If we inquire about your return or select it for examination, it does not suggest that you are dishonest. The inquiry or examination may or may not result in more tax. We may close your case without change; or, you may receive a refund. The process of selecting a return for examination usually begins in one of two ways. First, we use computer programs to identify returns that may have incorrect amounts. These programs may be based on information returns, such as Forms 1099 and W-2, on studies of past examinations, or on certain issues identified by compliance projects. Second, we use information from outside sources that indicates that a return may have incorrect amounts. These sources may include newspapers, public records, and individuals. If we determine that the information is accurate and reliable, we may use it to select a return for examination. Publication 556, Examination of Returns, Appeal Rights, and Claims for Refund, explains the rules and procedures that we follow in examinations. The following sections give an overview of how we conduct examinations. By mail. We handle many examinations and inquiries by mail. We will send you a letter with either a request for more information or a reason why we believe a change to your return may be needed. You can respond by mail or you can request a personal interview with an examiner. If you mail us the requested information or provide an explanation, we may or may not agree with you, and we will explain the reasons for any changes. Please do not hesitate to write to us about anything you do not understand. By interview. If we notify you that we will conduct your examination through a personal interview, or you request such an interview, you have the right to ask that the examination take place at a reasonable time and place that is convenient for both you and the IRS. If our examiner proposes any changes to your return, he or she will explain the reasons for the changes. If you do not agree with these changes, you can meet with the examiner's supervisor. Repeat examinations. If we examined your return for the same items in either of the 2 previous years and proposed no change to your tax liability, please contact us as soon as possible so we can see if we should discontinue the examination. AppealsIf you do not agree with the examiner's proposed changes, you can appeal them to the Appeals Office of the IRS. Most differences can be settled without expensive and time-consuming court trials. Your appeal rights are explained in detail in both Publication 5, Your Appeal Rights and How To Prepare a Protest If You Don't Agree, and Publication 556, Examination of Returns, Appeal Rights, and Claims for Refund. If you do not wish to use the Appeals Office or disagree with its findings, you may be able to take your case to the U.S. Tax Court, U.S. Court of Federal Claims, or the U.S. District Court where you live. If you take your case to court, the IRS will have the burden of proving certain facts if you kept adequate records to show your tax liability, cooperated with the IRS, and meet certain other conditions. If the court agrees with you on most issues in your case and finds that our position was largely unjustified, you may be able to recover some of your administrative and litigation costs. You will not be eligible to recover these costs unless you tried to resolve your case administratively, including going through the appeals system, and you gave us the information necessary to resolve the case. CollectionsPublication 594, The IRS Collection Process, explains your rights and responsibilities regarding payment of federal taxes. It describes:
Your collection appeal rights are explained in detail in Publication 1660, Collection Appeal Rights. Innocent spouse relief. Generally, both you and your spouse are each responsible for paying the full amount of tax, interest, and penalties due on your joint return. However, if you qualify for innocent spouse relief, you may be relieved of part or all of the joint liability. To request relief, you must file Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief. For more information on innocent spouse relief, see Publication 971, Innocent Spouse Relief, and Form 8857. Potential third party contacts. Generally, the IRS will deal directly with you or your duly authorized representative. However, we sometimes talk with other persons if we need information that you have been unable to provide, or to verify information we have received. If we do contact other persons, such as a neighbor, bank, employer, or employees, we will generally need to tell them limited information, such as your name. The law prohibits us from disclosing any more information than is necessary to obtain or verify the information we are seeking. Our need to contact other persons may continue as long as there is activity in your case. If we do contact other persons, you have a right to request a list of those contacted. Your request can be made by telephone, in writing, or during a personal interview. RefundsYou may file a claim for refund if you think you paid too much tax. You must generally file the claim within 3 years from the date you filed your original return or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. The law generally provides for interest on your refund if it is not paid within 45 days of the date you filed your return or claim for refund. Publication 556, Examination of Returns, Appeal Rights, and Claims for Refund, has more information on refunds. If you were due a refund but you did not file a return, you generally must file your return within 3 years from the date the return was due (including extensions) to get that refund. Taxpayer Advocate ServiceTAS is an independent organization within the IRS that can help protect your taxpayer rights. We can offer you help if your tax problem is causing a hardship, or you've tried but haven't been able to resolve your problem with the IRS. If you qualify for our assistance, which is always free, we will do everything possible to help you. Visit TaxpayerAdvocate.IRS.gov or call 1-877-777-4778. Tax InformationThe IRS provides the following sources for forms, publications, and additional information.
How To Get Tax HelpIf you have questions about a tax issue; need help preparing your tax return; or want to download free publications, forms, or instructions, go to IRS.gov to find resources that can help you right away. Preparing and filing your tax return. After receiving all your wage and earnings statements (Forms W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, etc.); unemployment compensation statements (by mail or in a digital format) or other government payment statements (Form 1099-G); and interest, dividend, and retirement statements from banks and investment firms (Forms 1099), you have several options to choose from to prepare and file your tax return. You can prepare the tax return yourself, see if you qualify for free tax preparation, or hire a tax professional to prepare your return. . Free options for tax preparation. Go to IRS.gov to see your options for preparing and filing your return online or in your local community, if you qualify, which include the following.
Using online tools to help prepare your return. Go to IRS.gov/Tools for the following.
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. Need someone to prepare your tax return? There are various types of tax return preparers, including tax preparers, enrolled agents, certified public accountants (CPAs), attorneys, and many others who don’t have professional credentials. If you choose to have someone prepare your tax return, choose that preparer wisely. A paid tax preparer is:
Although the tax preparer always signs the return, you're ultimately responsible for providing all the information required for the preparer to accurately prepare your return. Anyone paid to prepare tax returns for others should have a thorough understanding of tax matters. For more information on how to choose a tax preparer, go to Tips for Choosing a Tax Preparer on IRS.gov. Advance child tax credit payments. From July through December 2021, advance payments were sent automatically to taxpayers with qualifying children who met certain criteria. The advance child tax credit payments were early payments of up to 50% of the estimated child tax credit that taxpayers may properly claim on their 2021 returns. Go to IRS.gov/AdvCTC for more information about these payments and how they can affect your taxes. Coronavirus. Go to IRS.gov/Coronavirus for links to information on the impact of the coronavirus, as well as tax relief available for individuals and families, small and large businesses, and tax-exempt organizations. Employers can register to use Business Services Online. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers online service at SSA.gov/employer for fast, free, and secure online W-2 filing options to CPAs, accountants, enrolled agents, and individuals who process Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, and Form W-2c, Corrected Wage and Tax Statement. IRS social media. Go to IRS.gov/SocialMedia to see the various social media tools the IRS uses to share the latest information on tax changes, scam alerts, initiatives, products, and services. At the IRS, privacy and security are our highest priority. We use these tools to share public information with you. Don’t post your social security number (SSN) or other confidential information on social media sites. Always protect your identity when using any social networking site. The following IRS YouTube channels provide short, informative videos on various tax-related topics in English, Spanish, and ASL.
Watching IRS videos. The IRS Video portal (IRSVideos.gov) contains video and audio presentations for individuals, small businesses, and tax professionals. Online tax information in other languages. You can find information on IRS.gov/MyLanguage if English isn’t your native language. Free Over-the-Phone Interpreter (OPI) Service. The IRS is committed to serving our multilingual customers by offering OPI services. The OPI Service is a federally funded program and is available at Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs), other IRS offices, and every VITA/TCE return site. OPI Service is accessible in more than 350 languages. Accessibility Helpline available for taxpayers with disabilities. Taxpayers who need information about accessibility services can call 833-690-0598. The Accessibility Helpline can answer questions related to current and future accessibility products and services available in alternative media formats (for example, braille, large print, audio, etc.). Getting tax forms and publications. Go to IRS.gov/Forms to view, download, or print all of the forms, instructions, and publications you may need. Or, you can go to IRS.gov/OrderForms to place an order. Getting tax publications and instructions in eBook format. You can also download and view popular tax publications and instructions (including the Instructions for Form 1040) on mobile devices as eBooks at IRS.gov/eBooks. Note.IRS eBooks have been tested using Apple's iBooks for iPad. Our eBooks haven’t been tested on other dedicated eBook readers, and eBook functionality may not operate as intended. Access your online account (individual taxpayers only). Go to IRS.gov/Account to securely access information about your federal tax account.
Using direct deposit. The fastest way to receive a tax refund is to file electronically and choose direct deposit, which securely and electronically transfers your refund directly into your financial account. Direct deposit also avoids the possibility that your check could be lost, stolen, or returned undeliverable to the IRS. Eight in 10 taxpayers use direct deposit to receive their refunds. If you don’t have a bank account, go to IRS.gov/DirectDeposit for more information on where to find a bank or credit union that can open an account online. Getting a transcript of your return. The quickest way to get a copy of your tax transcript is to go to IRS.gov/Transcripts. Click on either “Get Transcript Online” or “Get Transcript by Mail” to order a free copy of your transcript. If you prefer, you can order your transcript by calling 800-908-9946. Reporting and resolving your tax-related identity theft issues.
Ways to check on the status of your refund.
Note.The IRS can’t issue refunds before mid-February 2022 for returns that claimed the EIC or the additional child tax credit (ACTC). This applies to the entire refund, not just the portion associated with these credits. Making a tax payment. Go to IRS.gov/Payments for information on how to make a payment using any of the following options.
Note.The IRS uses the latest encryption technology to ensure that the electronic payments you make online, by phone, or from a mobile device using the IRS2Go app are safe and secure. Paying electronically is quick, easy, and faster than mailing in a check or money order. What if I can’t pay now? Go to IRS.gov/Payments for more information about your options.
Filing an amended return. You can now file Form 1040-X electronically with tax filing software to amend 2019 or 2020 Forms 1040 and 1040-SR. To do so, you must have e-filed your original 2019 or 2020 return. Amended returns for all prior years must be mailed. Go to IRS.gov/Form1040X for information and updates. Checking the status of your amended return. Go to IRS.gov/WMAR to track the status of Form 1040-X amended returns. Note.It can take up to 3 weeks from the date you filed your amended return for it to show up in our system, and processing it can take up to 16 weeks. Understanding an IRS notice or letter you’ve received. Go to IRS.gov/Notices to find additional information about responding to an IRS notice or letter. You can use Schedule LEP, Request for Change in Language Preference, to state a preference to receive notices, letters, or other written communications from the IRS in an alternative language, when these are available. Once your Schedule LEP is processed, the IRS will determine your translation needs and provide you translations when available. If you have a disability requiring notices in an accessible format, see Form 9000. Contacting your local IRS office. Keep in mind, many questions can be answered on IRS.gov without visiting an IRS TAC. Go to IRS.gov/LetUsHelp for the topics people ask about most. If you still need help, IRS TACs provide tax help when a tax issue can’t be handled online or by phone. All TACs now provide service by appointment, so you’ll know in advance that you can get the service you need without long wait times. Before you visit, go to IRS.gov/TACLocator to find the nearest TAC and to check hours, available services, and appointment options. Or, on the IRS2Go app, under the Stay Connected tab, choose the Contact Us option and click on “Local Offices.” The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) Is Here To Help YouWhat Is TAS?TAS is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers and protects taxpayer rights. Their job is to ensure that every taxpayer is treated fairly and that you know and understand your rights under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. How Can You Learn About Your Taxpayer Rights?The Taxpayer Bill of Rights describes 10 basic rights that all taxpayers have when dealing with the IRS. Go to TaxpayerAdvocate.IRS.gov to help you understand what these rights mean to you and how they apply. These are your rights. Know them. Use them. What Can TAS Do for You?TAS can help you resolve problems that you can’t resolve with the IRS. And their service is free. If you qualify for their assistance, you will be assigned to one advocate who will work with you throughout the process and will do everything possible to resolve your issue. TAS can help you if:
How Else Does TAS Help Taxpayers?TAS works to resolve large-scale problems that affect many taxpayers. If you know of one of these broad issues, report it to them at IRS.gov/SAMS. TAS for Tax ProfessionalsTAS can provide a variety of information for tax professionals, including tax law updates and guidance, TAS programs, and ways to let TAS know about systemic problems you’ve seen in your practice. Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs)LITCs are independent from the IRS. LITCs represent individuals whose income is below a certain level and need to resolve tax problems with the IRS, such as audits, appeals, and tax collection disputes. In addition, LITCs can provide information about taxpayer rights and responsibilities in different languages for individuals who speak English as a second language. Services are offered for free or a small fee for eligible taxpayers. To find an LITC near you, go to TaxpayerAdvocate.IRS.gov/about-us/Low-Income-Taxpayer-Clinics-LITC or see IRS Pub. 4134, Low Income Taxpayer Clinic List. Where To File
IndexAAbroad, citizens traveling or working, Employees of foreign governments or international organizations., Foreign Employer(see also Foreign employment)Absence, temporary, Temporary absences., Temporary absences.Accelerated death benefits, Accelerated Death Benefits, Exclusion for terminal illness.Accident insurance, Accident or Health PlanCafeteria plans, Cafeteria plans.Long-term care, Long-term care coverage., Long-Term Care Insurance ContractsAccidental death benefits, Accidental death benefits.Accounting methods, Accounting MethodsAccrual method (see Accrual method taxpayers)Cash method (see Cash method taxpayers)Accounting periods, Accounting Periods Calendar year, When Do I Have To File?, Accounting Periods, Accounting period.Change in, standard deduction not allowed, Persons not eligible for the standard deduction.Fiscal year, Accounting Periods, Fiscal year taxpayers.Fringe benefits, Accounting period.Accrual method taxpayers, Accrual method.Taxes paid during tax year, deduction of, You must pay the tax during your tax year. Accuracy-related penalties, Accuracy-related penalty.Activities not for profit, Activity not for profit.Address, Name and AddressChange of, Change of AddressForeign, Foreign address.P.O. box, P.O. box.Address, filing, Where To FileAdjusted gross income (AGI)Retirement savings contribution credit, Special RulesAdjustments, Adjustments and tax preference items.Administrators, estate (see Executors and administrators)Adopted child, Exception for adopted child., Adopted child., Adopted child., Taxpayer identification numbers for adoptees.AdoptionATIN, Adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN).Child tax credit, Adopted child.(see also Child tax credit)CreditsMarried filing separately, Special RulesEmployer assistance, Adoption AssistanceTaxpayer identification number, Adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN)., Taxpayer identification numbers for aliens.AgeChildren's investments (see Children, subheading: Investment income of child under age 18)Gross income and filing requirements (Table 1-1),IRAsDistribution prior to age 59 1/2, Age 59½ rule.Distribution required at age 72, IRA owners., Excess Accumulations (Insufficient Distributions)Roth IRAs, Is there an age limit for contributions?, Must you withdraw or use Roth IRA assets?Standard deduction for age 65 or older, Higher Standard Deduction for Age (65 or Older)Age test, Age TestAgentsIncome paid to, Payment to an agent.Signing return, When someone can sign for you. Agricultural workers (see Farmers) (see Farmworkers)Agriculture (see Farming)Alaska Permanent Fund dividends, Alaska Permanent Fund dividend.Alaska Unemployment Compensation Fund, Contributions to state benefit funds.Alcoholic beveragesIRA prohibited transactions in, Collectibles.AliensDual-status (see Dual-status taxpayers)Filing required, AliensNonresident (see Nonresident aliens)Resident (see Resident aliens)AlimonyReporting of income, Alimony.Alternative filing methodsElectronic (see E-file)Alternative minimum tax (AMT), Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)Ambulance service personnelLife insurance proceeds when death in line of duty, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyAmended returns, Amended Returns and Claims for Refund, Form 1040-X., Filing Form 1040-X.(see also Form 1040-X)Itemized deduction, change to standard deduction, Changing your mind.Standard deduction, change to itemized deductions, Changing your mind.American citizens abroad, U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Living Abroad(see also Citizens outside U.S.)Employment (see Foreign employment)American Indians (see Indians)American SamoaIncome from, Individuals With Income From U.S. PossessionsAnnuitiesDecedent's unrecovered investment in, Form W-2.IRAs as, Kinds of traditional IRAs.Unrecovered investment, Unrecovered Investment in AnnuityWithholding, Form W-2., Pensions and AnnuitiesAnnulled marriagesFiling status, Annulled marriages.Anthrax incidents (see Terrorist attacks)Antiques (see Collectibles)Appraisal fees, Appraisal FeesArcher MSAs, Medical savings accounts (Archer MSAs and Medicare Advantage MSAs).Contributions, Archer MSA contributions.Armed ForcesCombat zoneExtension to file return, Individuals Serving in Combat ZoneSigning return for spouse, Spouse in combat zone.Dependency allotments, Armed Forces dependency allotments.Disability pay, Disability.Disability pensions, Military and Government Disability PensionsGI Bill benefits, Tuition payments and allowances under the GI Bill.Military quarters allotments, Tax-exempt military quarters allowances.Real estate taxes when receiving housing allowance, Ministers’ and military housing allowances.Rehabilitative program payments, Veterans' benefits. Retiree's pay withholding, Military retirees.Retirees' payTaxable income, Military retirement pay.Wages, MilitaryAssistance (see Tax help)Assistance, tax (see Tax help)ATIN (Adoption taxpayer identification number), Adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN).Attachment of wages, Garnished wages.Attachments to return, AttachmentsAttorney contingency feeAs income, Court awards and damages.Attorney fees, whistleblower awardsAs income, Court awards and damages.Attorneys' fees, Legal Expenses, Personal Legal ExpensesAutomatic extension of time to file, Automatic Extension, When to file.Form 4868, E-file options.Awards (see Prizes and awards)BBabysitting, Babysitting.Back pay, award for, Back pay awards.Emotional distress damages under title VII of Civil Rights Act of 1964, Court awards and damages. Backup withholding, Backup Withholding, Backup withholding., Backup withholding.Penalties, Penalties.Bad debtsClaim for refund, Exceptions for special types of refunds.Recovery, RecoveriesBalance due, Refund or balance due.BankruptcyCanceled debt not deemed to be income, Excluded debt.BanksIRAs with, When and How Can a Traditional IRA Be Opened?Barter income, BarteringDefinition of bartering, BarteringForm 1099-B, Form 1099-B from barter exchange.BasisCost basisIRAs for nondeductible contributions, Cost basis., Partly taxable.Beneficiaries, Estate and trust income., Losses.(see also Estate beneficiaries)(see also Trust beneficiaries)Bequests, Estate and trust income., Losses., Gifts and inheritances.(see also Estate beneficiaries)(see also Inheritance)Birth of child, Death or birth of child.Head of household, qualifying person to file as, Death or birth., Death or birth.Social security number to be obtained, Born and died in 2021.Birth of dependent, Death or birth.Blind personsExemption from withholding, Age 65 or older or blind.Standard deduction for, , Higher Standard Deduction for Blindness BondsAmortization of premium, Amortizable Premium on Taxable BondsIssued at discount, Original Issue Discount (OID)Original issue discount, Original Issue Discount (OID)Sale of, Bonds Sold Between Interest DatesSavings, U.S. Savings Bonds, Series H and HH bonds., Series EE and Series I bonds.Tax-exempt, State or Local Government ObligationsBonuses, Supplemental Wages, Bonuses and awards., Employee awards or bonuses.Bookkeeping (see Recordkeeping requirements)Breach of contractDamages as income, Court awards and damages.Bribes, Bribes., List of Nondeductible ExpensesBrokersIRAs with, When and How Can a Traditional IRA Be Opened?Commissions, Brokers' commissions., Brokers' commissions.Burial expenses, List of Nondeductible ExpensesBusiness expensesJob search expenses, Job interview expenses.Reimbursements, Expense allowances., Allowances and reimbursements.Returning excess business expenses, Expense allowances.Business tax creditsClaim for refund, Exceptions for special types of refunds.CCafeteria plans, Cafeteria plans.Calendar year taxpayersAccounting periods, When Do I Have To File?, Accounting Periods, Accounting period.Filing due date, When Do I Have To File?California Nonoccupational Disability Benefit Fund, Contributions to state benefit funds. Campaign contributions, Campaign contributions.Presidential Election Campaign Fund, Presidential Election Campaign FundCampaign expenses, Campaign ExpensesCanadaResident of, Citizen or Resident Test, Child in Canada or Mexico.Cancellation of debt, Canceled DebtsExceptions to treatment as income, ExceptionsCapital assetsCoal and iron ore, Coal and iron ore. Capital expenses, Capital expenses.Capital gains or lossesHobbies, sales from collections, Hobby losses.Sale of personal items, Sale of personal items.Carpools, Carpools.CarrybacksBusiness tax credit carrybacks, Exceptions for special types of refunds.Cars, Transportation, Transporting school children.(see also Travel and transportation)Personal property taxes on, deduction of, Personal Property TaxesCashRebates, Cash rebates.Cash method taxpayers, Cash method. Real estate transactions, tax allocation, Division of real estate taxes between buyers and sellers.Taxes paid during tax year, deduction of, You must pay the tax during your tax year.Cash rebates, Cash rebates.Casualty insuranceReimbursements from, Casualty insurance and other reimbursements.Casualty losses, Casualty and Theft Losses, Casualty and Theft Losses of Income-Producing PropertyCertificates of deposit (CDs), Certificates of deposit (CDs)., Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs)(see also Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs))Change of address, Change of AddressChange of name, Name change., Name changed.ChaplainsLife insurance proceeds when death in line of duty, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyCharitable contribution deductionStandard deduction, What's NewCharitable contributionsGifts to reduce public debt, Gift To Reduce Debt Held by the PublicCharitable distributions, qualified, Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs).Check-writing fees, Check-Writing Fees on Personal AccountChecks Constructive receipt of, Check received or available.Child and dependent care creditMarried filing separately, Special RulesChild born alive, Child born alive.Child careBabysitting, Babysitting.Care providers, Childcare providers.Expenses, Child care expenses.Child custody, Custodial parent and noncustodial parent.Child support, Child support payments.Child tax credit, Who Should File, Child tax credit., Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents, Qualifying Child for the CTC, Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)Claiming the credit, Claiming the RCTC, NCTC, and ODCLimit on credit, Limits on the RCTC, NCTC, and ODCLimits, Special RulesMarried filing separately, Special RulesChild, qualifying, Qualifying ChildChildren, Adoption Assistance(see also Adoption)Additional child tax credit, Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)Adoption (see Adopted child)Babysitters, Babysitting.Birth of childHead of household, qualifying person to file as, Death or birth., Death or birth.Social security number to be obtained, Born and died in 2021.Care providers, Childcare providers.(see also Child care)Credit for, Who Should File(see also Child tax credit)Custody of, Custodial parent and noncustodial parent.Death of childHead of household, qualifying person to file as, Death or birth., Death or birth.Dividends of (see this heading: Investment income of child under age 18)Earnings of, Child's earnings.Filing requirements, Child's earnings.As dependents (Table 1-2), Do I Have To File a Return?Gifts to, Income from property given to a child.Investment income of child under age 18Dependent filing requirements (Table 1-2), Do I Have To File a Return?Interest and dividends, Certain Children Under Age 19 or Full-Time StudentsParents' election to report on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, Certain Children Under Age 19 or Full-Time StudentsKidnapped, Kidnapped child., Kidnapped child.Signing return, parent for child, Spouse unable to sign.Standard deduction for, , Standard Deduction for DependentsStillborn, Stillborn child.Support of (see Child support)Tax credit (see Child tax credit)Transporting school children, Transporting school children.Unearned income of, Tax on unearned income of certain children.Chronic illnessAccelerated payment of life insurance proceeds (see Accelerated death benefits)Long-term care (see Long-term care insurance contracts)Citizen or resident test, Citizen or Resident TestCitizens outside U.S.Earned income exclusion, RemindersEmployment (see Foreign employment)Extension of time to file, Individuals Outside the United StatesFiling requirements, U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Living AbroadWithholding from IRA distributions, IRA distributions delivered outside the United States.Civil suits, Court awards and damages.(see also Damages from lawsuits)Civil tax penalties (see Penalties)Clergy, Ministers.Housing, ClergyReal estate taxes when receiving housing allowance, Ministers’ and military housing allowances.Life insurance proceeds when chaplain died in line of duty, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyPensions, Pension. Special income rules, ClergyClerical help, deductibility of, Clerical Help and Office RentCoal and iron ore, Coal and iron ore.CollectiblesIRA investment in, Investment in Collectibles, Exception.Colleges and universitiesEducation costs, Qualified tuition programs (QTPs).(see also Qualified tuition programs)Combat zoneExtension to file return, Individuals Serving in Combat ZoneSigning return for spouse, Spouse in combat zone.Commissions, Supplemental WagesAdvance, Advance commissions and other earnings.IRAs with brokers, Brokers' commissions., Brokers' commissions.Sharing of (kickbacks), Kickbacks.Unearned, deduction for repayment of, Advance commissions and other earnings.Common law marriage, Considered married.Community property, Community property states., Community property.IRAs, Community property laws.Married filing separately, Community property states.Commuting expenses, Commuting ExpensesEmployer-provided commuter vehicle, Commuter highway vehicle.Compensation, Wages, Salaries, and Other Earnings(see also Wages and salaries)Defined for IRA purposes, What is compensation?Defined for Roth IRA purposes, Compensation.Employee, Employee CompensationMiscellaneous compensation, Miscellaneous CompensationNonemployee, Nonemployee compensation.Unemployment, Unemployment compensation.Computation of tax, ComputationsEqual amounts, Equal amounts.Negative amounts, Negative amounts.Rounding off dollars, Rounding off dollars.Confidential informationPrivacy Act and paperwork reduction information, RemindersConstructive receipt of income, Constructive receipt., Payment to an agent., Constructive receipt.Contributions, Gift To Reduce Debt Held by the Public, Campaign contributions.(see also Campaign contributions)(see also Charitable contributions)Nontaxable combat pay, Nontaxable combat pay.Political, Political ContributionsReservist repayments, Qualified reservist repayments.Convenience fees, Credit or Debit Card Convenience FeesConversion (see specific retirement or IRA plan)Cooperative housingReal estate taxes, deduction of, Tenant-shareholders in a cooperative housing corporation.CopyrightsInfringement damages, Court awards and damages.Royalties, RoyaltiesCorporations, S Corporation Income(see also S corporations)Director fees as self-employment income, Corporate director.Corrections (see Errors)Cost basis IRAs for nondeductible contributions, Cost basis., Partly taxable.Cost-of-living allowances, Government cost-of-living allowances.Coupon bonds, Coupon bonds.Court awards and damages (see Damages from lawsuits)Cousin, Cousin.Credit cardsBenefits, taxability of insurance, Credit card insurance.Payment of taxes, RemindersCredit for child and dependent care expenses, Credit for child and dependent care expenses.Credit for other dependents, Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents, Credit for Other Dependents (ODC) Claiming the credit, Claiming the RCTC, NCTC, and ODCLimit on credit, Limits on the RCTC, NCTC, and ODCQualifying person, Qualifying Person for the ODCCredit for the elderly or the disabled, Credit for the elderly or the disabled.Credit or debit cardsPayment of taxes, E-file and pay by credit or debit card or by direct transfer from your bank account. Credits, Credits., Credit for child and dependent care expenses., Credit for the elderly or the disabled., Earned income credit.American opportunity, Special RulesChild tax (see Child tax credit)Credit for other dependents, Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other DependentsEarned income (see Earned income credit)Lifetime learning (see Lifetime learning credit)Custodial fees, Investment Fees and ExpensesCustody of child, Custodial parent and noncustodial parent.DDamages from lawsuits, Court awards and damages.Dating your return, SignaturesDaycare centers, Childcare providers.(see also Child care)De minimis benefits, De Minimis (Minimal) BenefitsDeadlines (see Due dates)Death (see Decedents)Death benefitsAccelerated, Accelerated Death Benefits, Exclusion for terminal illness.Life insurance proceeds (see Life insurance)Public safety officers who died or were killed in line of duty, tax exclusion, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyDeath of child, Death or birth of child.Death of dependent, Death or birth.Debt instruments (see Bonds or Notes)Debts, Exceptions for special types of refunds., Recoveries(see also Bad debts)Canceled (see Cancellation of debt)Nonrecourse, Mortgage relief upon sale or other disposition.Paid by another, Debts paid for you.Public, gifts to reduce, Gift To Reduce Debt Held by the PublicRecourse, Mortgage relief upon sale or other disposition.Refund offset against, Refunds., Offset against debts.Deceased taxpayers (see Decedents)Decedents, Surviving Spouses, Executors, Administrators, and Legal Representatives(see also Executors and administrators)Deceased spouse, Surviving Spouses, Executors, Administrators, and Legal RepresentativesDue dates, Filing for a decedent.Filing requirements, Surviving Spouses, Executors, Administrators, and Legal RepresentativesSavings bonds, Decedents.Spouse's death, Spouse died during the year., Spouse died.Standard deduction, Decedent's final return.Declaration of rights of taxpayersIRS request for information, RemindersDeductions, Recoveries, Standard Deduction(see also Recovery of amounts previously deducted)Casualty losses, Casualty and Theft Losses of Income-Producing PropertyChanging claim after filing, need to amend, Amended Returns and Claims for Refund Itemizing (see Itemized deductions)Pass-through entities, Indirect Deductions of Pass-Through EntitiesRepayments, RepaymentsSocial security and railroad retirement benefits, Deductions Related to Your BenefitsStandard deduction, Standard Deduction, Married persons who filed separate returns.Student loan interest deduction (see Student loans)Theft loss, Casualty and Theft Losses of Income-Producing PropertyDeferred compensationLimit, Elective deferrals.Nonqualified plans, Nonqualified deferred compensation plans.Delinquent taxesReal estate transactions, tax allocation, Real estate taxes for prior years.Delivery services, Private delivery services.Dependent taxpayer test, Dependent Taxpayer TestDependents, Who Should File, Dependents(see also Child tax credit)Birth of, Death or birth.Born and died within year, Exception., Born and died in 2021.Death of, Death or birth.Filing requirements, Child's earnings. Earned income, unearned income, and gross income levels (Table 1-2), Do I Have To File a Return?Married, filing joint return, Joint Return Test, Joint Return Test (To Be a Qualifying Child)Qualifying child, Qualifying ChildQualifying relative, Qualifying RelativeSocial security number, Dependent's SSN.Adoption taxpayer identification number, Adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN)., Taxpayer identification numbers for aliens.Alien dependents, Born and died in 2021.Standard deduction for, Standard Deduction for DependentsDependents not allowed to claim dependents, Dependent Taxpayer TestDepletion allowance, Depletion.DepositsLoss on, Loss on DepositsDepreciationHome computer, Depreciation on Home ComputerDifferential wage payments, Differential wage payments.Differential wagesWages for reservistsMilitary reserves, Differential wage payments.Direct deposit of refunds, RefundsDirectors' fees, Corporate director.Disabilities, persons withAccrued leave payment, Accrued leave payment. Armed Forces, Disability.Blind (see Blind persons)Cafeteria plans, Cafeteria plans.Credit for (see Elderly or disabled, credit for)Insurance costs, Cost paid by you.Military and government pensions, Military and Government Disability PensionsPublic assistance benefits, Persons with disabilities.Reporting of disability pension income, Disability PensionsRetirement, pensions, and profit-sharing plans, Sickness and Injury Benefits, Retirement and profit-sharing plans.Signing of return by court-appointed representative, Court-appointed conservator, guardian, or other fiduciary.Social security and railroad retirement benefits, deductions for, Disability payments.Workers' compensation, Workers' Compensation DisabledChild, Permanently and totally disabled.Dependent, Disabled dependent working at sheltered workshop.Disaster Assistance Act of 1988Withholding, Federal PaymentsDisaster relief, Terrorist attack or military action., Disaster relief payments.(see also Terrorist attacks)Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance ActGrants, Disaster relief grants.Unemployment assistance, Types of unemployment compensation.Grants or payments, Disaster relief grants.Disclosure statement, Disclosure statement.Discount, bonds and notes issued at, Original Issue Discount (OID)DistributionsQualified charitable, Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs).Required minimum distributions, Required distributions., When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions)(see also Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs))DividendsAlaska Permanent Fund (see Alaska Permanent Fund dividends)Fees to collect, Fees To Collect Interest and DividendsStockholder debts when canceled as, Stockholder debt.Divorced parents, Children of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart)., Applying the tiebreaker rules to divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart).Divorced taxpayers, Alimony.(see also Alimony)Child custody, Custodial parent and noncustodial parent.Estimated tax payments, Divorced TaxpayersFiling status, Divorced persons., Divorced persons.IRAs, Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA., Transfers Incident to DivorceReal estate taxes, allocation of, Divorced individuals.Domestic helpWithholding, Household workers.Domestic help, can’t be claimed as dependent, Housekeepers, maids, or servants.Donations (see Charitable contributions)Down payment assistance, Down payment assistance.Dual-status taxpayers, Dual-status taxpayer.Joint returns not available, Nonresident alien or dual-status alien.Standard deduction, Persons not eligible for the standard deduction.Due dates, Amount you owe., When Do I Have To File?, Private delivery services.Extension (see Extension of time to file)Nonresident aliens' returns, Nonresident alien.DuesClub, Club DuesDwelling unitsCooperative (see Cooperative housing)EE-file, Reminders, What's New, Electronic FilingExtensions of time to file, How to get the automatic extension.On time filing, Filing electronic returns on time.Early withdrawal from deferred interest accountHigher education expenses, exception from penalty, RemindersIRAsEarly distributions, defined, Early distributions defined.Penalties, Early distributions tax., Early DistributionsEarned incomeDefinedFor purposes of standard deduction, Earned income defined.Dependent filing requirements (Table 1-2), Do I Have To File a Return?Earned income credit, Earned income credit.Filing claim, Who Should FileMarried filing separately, Special RulesEducationSavings bond program, Education Savings Bond ProgramEducation creditsMarried filing separately, Special RulesEducation expensesEmployer-provided (see Educational assistance)Tuition (see Qualified tuition programs)Educational assistanceEmployer-provided, Educational AssistanceScholarships (see Scholarships and fellowships)Tuition (see Qualified tuition programs)EIC (see Earned income credit)Elderly or disabled, credit forMarried filing separately, Special RulesElderly personsCredit for (see Elderly or disabled, credit for)Exemption from withholding, Age 65 or older or blind.Home for the aged, Home for the aged.Long-term care (see Long-term care insurance contracts)Nutrition Program for the Elderly, Nutrition Program for the Elderly.Standard deduction for age 65 or older, , Higher Standard Deduction for Age (65 or Older)Tax Counseling for the Elderly, Free Help With Your ReturnElection precinct officialsFees, reporting of, Election precinct official.Elective deferralsLimits, Elective deferrals.Electronic filing (see E-file)Electronic payment options, RemindersElectronic reportingReturns (see E-file)EmbezzlementReporting embezzled funds, Illegal activities.Emergency medical service personnelLife insurance proceeds when death in line of duty, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyEmotional distress damages, Emotional distress.Employee benefits, Fringe Benefits, De Minimis (Minimal) Benefits(see also Fringe benefits)Employee business expensesReimbursements, Expense allowances., Allowances and reimbursements. Returning excess, Expense allowances.Employee expensesHome computer, Depreciation on Home ComputerMiscellaneous, Unreimbursed Employee ExpensesEmployees, Expense allowances., Fringe Benefits, De Minimis (Minimal) Benefits(see also Fringe benefits)Awards for service, Bonuses and awards.Business expenses (see Employee business expenses)Form W-4 to be filled out when starting new job, New Form W-4.Fringe benefits, Taxable Fringe BenefitsJury duty pay, Jury duty.Overseas employment (see Foreign employment)EmployersE-file options, Through Employers and Financial InstitutionsEducational assistance from (see Educational assistance)Form W-4, having new employees fill out, New Form W-4.Overseas employment (see Foreign employment)Withholding rules, Rules Your Employer Must FollowEmploymentAgency fees, Employment agency fees.Taxes, Social security and Medicare taxes paid by employer.(see also Social security and Medicare taxes)FICA withholding, Form W-2.(see also Withholding)Employment taxes, , Determining Amount of Tax Withheld Using Form W-4, Credit for Withholding and Estimated Tax for 2021, WithholdingEndowment proceeds, Endowment Contract ProceedsEnergy assistance, Payments to reduce cost of winter energy.Energy conservationMeasures and modifications, Energy conservation measure.Subsidies, Energy conservation subsidies.Utility rebates, Utility rebates.Equitable relief (see Innocent spouse relief)ErrorsCorrected wage and tax statement, Form Not CorrectDiscovery after filing, need to amend return, What if I Made a Mistake?Refunds, Interest on erroneous refund.Escrow Taxes placed in, when deductible, Taxes placed in escrow.Estate beneficiariesIRAs (see Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs))Losses of estate, Losses.Receiving income from estate, Estate and trust income., Current income not required to be distributed.Estate taxDeduction, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductEstates, Estate and trust income.(see also Estate beneficiaries)Income, Estate and trust income.Tax, Taxes and Fees You Can’t Deduct, Federal Estate Tax on Income in Respect of a Decedent(see also Estate tax)EstimatedCredit for, Estimated TaxPayment vouchers, How To Pay Estimated TaxEstimated tax, Tax Withholding and Estimated TaxAmount to pay to avoid penalty, How much to pay to avoid a penalty.Avoiding, Who Doesn't Have To Pay Estimated TaxChange in estimated tax, Change in estimated tax.Credit for, , Credit for Withholding and Estimated Tax for 2021Definition,Divorced taxpayers, Divorced TaxpayersFiguring amount of tax, How To Figure Estimated TaxFirst period, no income subject to estimated tax in, No income subject to estimated tax during first period.Fiscal year taxpayers, Fiscal year taxpayers. Married taxpayers, Married taxpayers.Name change, Name changed.Not required, Estimated tax not required.Overpayment applied to, RefundsPayment vouchers, Pay by Check or Money Order Using the Estimated Tax Payment VoucherPayments, Estimated tax payments., How To Pay Estimated TaxFiguring amount of each payment, How To Figure Each PaymentSchedule, When To Pay Estimated Tax, No income subject to estimated tax during first period.When to start, When To StartWho must make, Who Must Pay Estimated TaxPenalty for underpayment, , Underpayment penalty., Underpayment Penalty for 2021, IRS can figure the penalty for you.Saturday, Sunday, holiday rule, Saturday, Sunday, holiday rule.Separate returns, Separate ReturnsSocial security or railroad retirement benefits, Tax withholding and estimated tax.State and local income taxes, deduction of, Estimated tax payments.Unemployment compensation, Tax withholding.Excise taxes, When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions) (see also Penalties)IRAs for failure to take minimum distributions, When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions)Roth IRAs, What if You Contribute Too Much? Exclusions from gross incomeAccelerated death benefits, Accelerated Death BenefitsCanceled debt, Excluded debt.Commuting benefits for employees, Exclusion limit.De minimis benefits, De Minimis (Minimal) BenefitsDisability pensions of federal employees and military, Military and Government Disability Pensions, Conditions for exclusion.Education Savings Bond Program, Interest on qualified savings bonds.Educational assistance from employer, Educational AssistanceElective deferrals, limit on exclusion, Elective deferrals.Employee awards, Employee achievement award.Energy conservation subsidies, Energy conservation subsidies., Utility rebates.Foreign earned income, RemindersFrozen deposit interest, Interest on frozen deposits.Group-term life insurance, Entire cost excluded.Long-term care insurance contracts, Long-Term Care Insurance Contracts, Limit on exclusion.Parking fees, employer-provided, TransportationPublic safety officers who died or were killed in line of duty, death benefits, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutySale of home, Sale of home.Scholarships, Scholarships and fellowships.Strike benefits, Strike and lockout benefits.Executors and administrators, Surviving Spouses, Executors, Administrators, and Legal RepresentativesExempt-interest dividends, Exempt-interest dividends.ExemptionsFrom withholding, Exemption From WithholdingExpenses paid by another, Expenses paid by another.Extension of time to file, Extensions of Time To FileAutomatic, Automatic Extension, When to file.Citizens outside U.S., Individuals Outside the United StatesE-file options, How to get the automatic extension.Inclusion on return, When you file your return.FFailure to comply with tax laws (see Penalties)Fair rental value, Fair rental value defined.Family, Child's earnings., Adopted child.(see also Child tax credit)(see also Children)FarmersEstimated tax, Special rules for farmers, fishermen, and higher income taxpayers.Withholding, Farmworkers.FarmingActivity not for profit, Activity not for profit.Canceled debt, treatment of, Excluded debt.Federal employeesAccrued leave payment, Accrued leave payment.Cost-of-living allowances, Government cost-of-living allowances.Disability pensions, Military and Government Disability PensionsBased on years of service, Pension based on years of service.Exclusion, conditions for, Conditions for exclusion.Terrorist attack, Terrorist attack or military action.FECA payments, Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA).Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA) payments, Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA).Federal governmentEmployees (see Federal employees)Federal income taxNot deductible, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductFederal judgesEmployer retirement plan coverage, Federal judges.Fees, Fees for services.(see also specific types of deductions and income)Professional license, Professional Accreditation FeesFellowships (see Scholarships and fellowships)FICA withholding, Form W-2., , Social security and Medicare taxes paid by employer.(see also Social security and Medicare taxes)(see also Withholding)Fiduciaries, Surviving Spouses, Executors, Administrators, and Legal Representatives, Trustees' fees., Trustees' fees.(see also Executors and administrators)(see also Trustees)Fees for services, Personal representatives.Prohibited transactions, Prohibited TransactionsFiguring taxes and credits, Worksheet 7-1., Figuring Your Tax(see also Worksheets)Filing requirements, Filing Information, Criminal Penalties, Married Filing Separately(see also Married filing separately) Calendar year filers, When Do I Have To File?Citizens outside U.S., U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Living AbroadDependents, Do I Have To File a Return?, Child's earnings.Electronic (see E-file)Extensions, Extensions of Time To FileGross income levels (Table 1-1),Individual taxpayers, Individuals—In GeneralJoint filing, Married Filing Jointly, Accounting period., Relief from joint responsibility.(see also Joint returns)Late filing penalties (see Penalties)Most taxpayers (Table 1-1),Unmarried persons (see Single taxpayers)When to file, When Do I Have To File?Where to file, Where Do I File?Who must file, Do I Have To File a Return?, Who Should FileFiling status, Filing status., Filing Status, Death or birth.Annulled marriages, Annulled marriages.Change to, after time of filing, Amended Returns and Claims for RefundDivorced taxpayers, Divorced persons.Head of household, Head of household or qualifying widow(er)., Head of HouseholdQualifying person to file as, Qualifying PersonJoint returns, Married Filing JointlyMarried filing separately, Married Filing SeparatelySurviving spouse, Head of household or qualifying widow(er).Unmarried persons, Individuals—In General, Unmarried persons.(see also Single taxpayers)Final return for decedentStandard deduction, Decedent's final return.Financial institutions, When and How Can a Traditional IRA Be Opened?(see also Banks)Financially disabled persons, Financially disabled.Fines, Filing late., Filing late., Paying tax late., Criminal Penalties(see also Penalties)Deductibility, Fines and Penalties FirefightersLife insurance proceeds when death in line of duty, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyVolunteer firefightersIRAs, Volunteer firefighters.Fiscal year, Accounting Periods, Fiscal year taxpayers.FishermenEstimated tax, Special rules for farmers, fishermen, and higher income taxpayers.Indian fishing rights, Indian fishing rights.Food benefitsNutrition program for the elderly, Nutrition Program for the Elderly.Food stamps, Support provided by the state (welfare, food stamps, housing, etc.).Foreign employment, Employees of foreign governments or international organizations., Foreign Employer Employment abroad, Employment abroad.Social security and Medicare taxes, Social security and Medicare taxes.U.S. citizen, U.S. citizen.Waiver of alien status, Waiver of alien status.Foreign governments, employees of, Employees of international organizations or foreign governments.Foreign incomeEarned income exclusion, RemindersReporting of, RemindersForeign income taxesDeduction of, Foreign Income TaxesForm 1116 to claim credit, Foreign income taxes.Schedule A or Form 1040 or 1040-SR reporting, Foreign income taxes.Definition of, Foreign taxes.Foreign nationals (see Resident aliens)Foreign students, Foreign students' place of residence.Forgiveness of debt (see Cancellation of debt)Form, Nonresident alien., Pension., What isn’t covered in this chapter.1040, How to claim dependents., Form 1040 or 1040-SR Line EntriesAlien taxpayer identification numbers, Born and died in 2021.Armed Forces' retirement pay, Military retirement pay.Child care providers, Childcare providers.Clergy pension, Pension.Corporate director fees, Corporate director.Disability retirement pay, Disability PensionsFECA benefits, Railroad sick pay.Foster-care providers, Reporting taxable payments.Kickbacks, Kickbacks.Notary fees, Notary public.Oil, gas, or mineral interest royalties, RoyaltiesRental income and expenses, Reporting business income and expenses.Wages and salary reporting, Form W-2.Workers' compensation, Return to work.1040 or 1040-SRAddress, Name and AddressAttachments to, Form 1040 or 1040-SR.IRAs, Reporting taxable distributions on your return., Filing a tax return.Presidential Election Campaign Fund, Presidential Election Campaign FundRailroad retirement benefits, reporting on, Reporting on Form 1040 or 1040-SR.Social security benefits, reporting on, Reporting on Form 1040 or 1040-SR.Use of, Widow(er)., Married Filing Jointly, How to file.1040 or 1040-SR, Schedule ACharitable contributions, Gift To Reduce Debt Held by the Public1040 or 1040-SR, Schedule SE, Self-Employed Persons1040, Schedule AUnearned commission, deduction for repayment of, Advance commissions and other earnings.1040, Schedule CBarter income, BarteringChild care providers, Childcare providers.Corporate director fees, Corporate director.Forgiveness of debts, Canceled DebtsFoster-care providers, Reporting taxable payments.Kickbacks, Kickbacks.Notary fees, Notary public.Oil, gas, or mineral interest royalties, RoyaltiesRental income and expenses, Reporting business income and expenses.1040, Schedule ERoyalties, Royalties1040, Schedule SE, Housing.1040-NRNonresident alien return, Nonresident alien.1040-XAmended individual return, Form 1040-X.Annulled marriages, Annulled marriages.Change of filing status, Joint Return After Separate ReturnsCompleting, Completing Form 1040-X.Filing, Filing Form 1040-X.Itemized deduction, change to standard deduction, Changing your mind.Standard deduction, change to itemized deductions, Changing your mind.1065Partnership income, Schedule K-1 (Form 1065).1098Mortgage interest statement, Mortgage interest refund. 1099Taxable income report, Form 1099.1099-BBarter income, Form 1099-B from barter exchange.1099-CCancellation of debt, Form 1099-C.1099-DIVDividend income statement, Stock you elected to include in income.1099-GState tax refunds, State tax refund. 1099-INT, Form 1099-INT., Form 1099-INT.1099-MISCNonemployee compensation, Nonemployee compensation.1099-OID, Form 1099-OID.1099-R, Form 1099-INT for U.S. savings bonds interest.IRA distributions, Distributions reported on Form 1099-R., Form 5329 not required.Life insurance policy surrendered for cash, Surrender of policy for cash.Retirement plan distributions, Form W-2.1120SS corporation income, Schedule K-1 (Form 1120-S).2555, Foreign earned income.2848Power of attorney and declaration of representative, Power of attorney., Power of attorney.3115, Change from method 2.3800General business credit, Exceptions for special types of refunds.4506, Copies of tax returns.4506-TTax return transcript request, Copies of tax returns.4868, E-file options., No SSN.Automatic extension of time to file, E-file options., No SSN.Filing electronic form, E-file using your personal computer or a tax professional.Filing paper form, Filing a paper Form 4868.5329Required minimum distributions, failure to take, Reporting Additional Taxes, Not filing a tax return., Form 5329 not required.56Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship, Court-appointed conservator, guardian, or other fiduciary.6251, More information.8275Disclosure statement, Disclosure statement.8275-RRegulation disclosure statement, Disclosure statement.8379 Injured spouse claim, Joint return and injured spouse.8606IRA contributions, Nondeductible, Reminders, Form 8606., Form 8606.IRA contributions, Recharacterization of, Reporting a recharacterization.8615, Tax on unearned income of certain children.8814, Tax on unearned income of certain children.8815, Form 8815.8818, Education Savings Bond Program8822Change of address, Change of Address8839Qualified adoption expenses, Adoption Assistance8853Accelerated death benefits, Form 8853.Archer MSAs and long-term care insurance contracts, Archer MSA contributions.8857Innocent spouse relief, Relief from joint responsibility.8879Authorization for E-file provider to use self-selected PIN, Using a Tax Professional9465Installment agreement request, Installment AgreementForm 8919Uncollected social security and Medicare tax on wages, Form W-2.RRB-1042SRailroad retirement benefits for nonresident aliens, What isn’t covered in this chapter.RRB-1099Railroad retirement benefits, , What isn’t covered in this chapter.SS-5Social security number request, No SSN., No SSN.SSA-1042SSocial security benefits for nonresident aliens, What isn’t covered in this chapter.SSA-1099Social security benefits,W-2Election precinct officials' fees, Election precinct official.Employer retirement plan participation indicated, Are You Covered by an Employer Plan?Employer-reported income statement, Form W-2., Form W-2., Form W-2., Back pay awards., Accrued leave payment., Restricted Property, Stock you elected to include in income.Fringe benefits, Form W-2., Long-term care coverage., Archer MSA contributions., Adoption AssistanceW-2G Gambling winnings withholding statement, Form W-2G.W-4VVoluntary withholding request, Tax withholding.W-7Individual taxpayer identification number request, Born and died in 2021.W-7AAdoption taxpayer identification number request, Adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN)., Taxpayer identification numbers for aliens. Form 1040Estimated tax payments, Estimated TaxGambling winnings, Form W-2G.Overpayment offset against next year's tax, Credit an OverpaymentForm 1040 or 1040-SRForeign income taxes, deduction of, Foreign income taxes.Schedule AState and local income taxes, deduction of, State and local income taxes.State benefit funds, mandatory contributions to, Contributions to state benefit funds.Taxes, deduction of, Other taxes.Schedule CReal estate or personal property taxes on property used in business, deduction of, Real estate taxes and personal property taxes.Schedule EReal estate or personal property taxes on rental property, deduction of, Real estate taxes and personal property taxes.Schedule FReal estate or personal property taxes on property used in business, deduction of, Real estate taxes and personal property taxes.Self-employment tax, deduction of, Self-employment tax.Form 1040-ESEstimated tax, How To Figure Estimated Tax, Pay by Check or Money Order Using the Estimated Tax Payment VoucherForm 1099-KPayment card and third-party network transactions, Sharing/gig economy.Form 1099-MISCWithheld state and local taxes, Withheld taxes.Form 1099-NECWithheld state and local taxes, Withheld taxes.Form 1099-RWithheld state and local taxes shown on, Withheld taxes.Form 1099-SReal estate transactions proceeds, Form 1099-S.Form 1116Foreign tax credit, Foreign income taxes.Form 8332Release of exemption to noncustodial parent, Written declaration.Form W-2Employer-reported income statement, WithholdingFiling with return, Forms W-2 and W-2G.Separate form from each employer, Form W-2Withheld state and local taxes, Withheld taxes.Form W-2cCorrected wage and tax statement, Form Not Correct Form W-2GGambling winnings withholding statement, Form W-2G., Form W-2GWithheld state and local taxes shown on, Withheld taxes. Form W-4Employee withholding allowance certificate, Determining Amount of Tax Withheld Using Form W-4, New Form W-4., Who Doesn't Have To Pay Estimated Tax Form W-4SSick pay withholding request, Form W-4S.Form W-4V, Federal PaymentsUnemployment compensation, voluntary withholding request, Unemployment CompensationForm(s) 1099, The 1099 SeriesFoster careCare providers' payments, Foster care providers.Child tax credit, Qualifying Child for the CTCDifficulty-of-care payments, Difficulty-of-care payments.Emergency foster care, maintaining space in home for, Maintaining space in home.Foster care payments and expenses, Foster care payments and expenses., Foster care.Foster child, Foster child., Foster care payments and expenses., Foster child., Foster care.Foster Grandparent Program, National Senior Services Corps programs.Found property, Found property.FraudPenalties, Fraud., PenaltiesReporting anonymously to IRS, RemindersFringe benefitsAccident and health insurance, Accident or Health PlanAccounting period, Accounting period.Adoption, employer assistance, Adoption AssistanceArcher MSA contributions, Archer MSA contributions.De minimis benefits, De Minimis (Minimal) BenefitsEducation assistance, Educational AssistanceForm W-2, Form W-2.Group-term life insurance premiums, Group-Term Life InsuranceHoliday gifts, Holiday gifts.Retirement planning services, Retirement Planning ServicesTaxable income, Fringe BenefitsTransportation, TransportationWithholding, Taxable Fringe BenefitsFrozen depositsInterest on, Interest on frozen deposits.IRA rollover period extension, Extension of rollover period.Funeral expenses, Don’t Include in Total SupportFuneralsClergy, payment for, ClergyExpenses, List of Nondeductible ExpensesGGains and losses, Special Rules(see also Losses)Claim for refund for loss, Exceptions for special types of refunds.Gambling, Gambling Losses up to the Amount of Gambling Winnings (see Gambling winnings and losses)Hobby losses, Hobby losses.Passive activity, Rental activity losses.(see also Passive activity)Gambling winnings and losses, Gambling winnings., Gambling Losses up to the Amount of Gambling WinningsWithholding, Gambling Winnings, Form W-2GGarnishment and attachment, Garnished wages.Gas royalties, Oil, gas, and minerals.GemsIRA prohibited transactions in, Collectibles. GI Bill benefits, Tuition payments and allowances under the GI Bill.Gift taxesNot deductible, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductGiftsHoliday gifts, Holiday gifts.Not taxed, Gifts and inheritances.To reduce the public debt, Gift To Reduce Debt Held by the PublicGold and silver IRA investments in, Exception.Government employeesFederal (see Federal employees)Grants, disaster relief, Disaster relief grants.Gratuities (see Tip income)Gross incomeAge, higher filing threshold after 65, Age.Defined, Gross income.Filing requirements (Table 1-1),Dependent filing requirements (Table 1-2), Do I Have To File a Return?Gross income test, Gross Income TestGroup-term life insuranceAccidental death benefits, Accidental death benefits.Definition, Group-term life insurance.Exclusion from income, Entire cost excluded.Limitation on, Group-Term Life InsurancePermanent benefits, Permanent benefits.Taxable cost, calculation of, Figuring the taxable cost.GuamIncome from, Individuals With Income From U.S. PossessionsHHAMPHome affordable modificationPay-for-performance, Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP).Handicapped persons (see Disabilities, persons with)Head of household, Head of household or qualifying widow(er)., Head of HouseholdHealthFlexible spending arrangement, Health flexible spending arrangement (health FSA).Health insurance, Accident or Health Plan (see also Accident insurance)Reimbursement arrangement, Health reimbursement arrangement (HRA).Savings account, Health savings account (HSA).Health coverage tax credit, Who Should FileHealth insurance premiums, Medical insurance premiums.Health Spa, Health Spa ExpensesHelp (see Tax help)High income taxpayersEstimated tax, Special rules for farmers, fishermen, and higher income taxpayers.Hobbies, Hobby ExpensesActivity not for profit, Activity not for profit.Losses, Hobby losses.Holiday gifts, Holiday gifts.Holiday, deadline falling on, Saturday, Sunday, holiday rule.HomeAged, home for, Home for the aged.Cost of keeping up, Keeping Up a HomeSecurity system, Home Security SystemHomeowners' associationsCharges, Homeowners' association charges.Hope creditMarried filing separately, Special RulesHost or hostess, Host or HostessHousehold furnishingsAntiques (see Collectibles)Household members, Head of household or qualifying widow(er).(see also Head of household)Household workers (see Domestic help)Household workers, can’t claim as dependent, Housekeepers, maids, or servants.Housing, Keeping Up a Home(see also Home)Clergy, ClergyCooperative (see Cooperative housing)IIcons, use of, Icons.,Identity theft, Reminders, Identity TheftIllegal activitiesReporting of, Illegal activities.Income, Wages, Salaries, and Other Earnings, Other Income, Alimony.(see also Alimony)(see also Wages and salaries)Bartering, BarteringCanceled debts, Canceled DebtsConstructive receipt of, Constructive receipt., Payment to an agent., Constructive receipt.Gross, Gross Income TestIllegal activities, Stolen property.Interest, Interest IncomeJury duty pay, Jury duty.Life insurance proceeds, Life Insurance ProceedsNonemployee compensation, Nonemployee compensation.Paid to agent, Payment to an agent.Paid to third party, Payment to third party.Partnership, Partnership IncomePrepaid, Income paid in advance.Recovery, RecoveriesRoyalties, RoyaltiesS corporation, S Corporation IncomeTax exempt, Tax-exempt income.Underreported, Amended Returns and Claims for RefundIncome taxesFederal (see Federal income tax)Foreign (see Foreign income taxes)State or local (see State or local income taxes)Income-producing expenses, Expenses You Can’t DeductIndiansFishing rights, Indian fishing rights.Taxes collected by tribal governments, deduction of, Indian tribal government.Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs), Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs), Reminders, Rollovers, Roth IRAs(see also Rollovers)(see also Roth IRAs)Administrative fees, Trustees' fees., Trustees' fees., Trustee's Administrative Fees for IRA Age 59 1/2 for distribution, Age 59½ rule.Exception to rule, Exceptions.Age 72Distributions required at, IRA owners., Excess Accumulations (Insufficient Distributions)Compensation, defined, What is compensation?Contribution limits, How Much Can Be Contributed?, General limit.Age 50 or older,, General limit.Under age 50,, General limit.Contributions, Special Rules, Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs).Designating year for which contribution is made, Designating year for which contribution is made.Excess, Excess ContributionsFiling before contribution is made, Filing before a contribution is made.Nondeductible, Nondeductible ContributionsNot required annually, Contributions not required.Roth IRA contribution for same year, Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs.Time of, When Can Contributions Be Made?Withdrawal before filing due date, Contributions returned before the due date of return.Cost basis, Cost basis., Partly taxable.Deduction for, How Much Can You Deduct?Phaseout, Deduction phaseout.Definition of, Traditional IRAsDistributionsAt age 59 1/2, Age 59½ rule., Exceptions.Required minimum distributions (see this heading: Required distributions) (see this heading: Required distributions)Divorced taxpayers, Transfers Incident to DivorceEarly distributions (see Early withdrawal from deferred interest account)Employer retirement plan participants, Covered by an employer retirement plan., Limit if Covered by Employer Plan Establishing account, Who Can Open a Traditional IRA?Time of, When and How Can a Traditional IRA Be Opened?Where to open account, When and How Can a Traditional IRA Be Opened? Excess contributions, Excess ContributionsForms to useForm 1099-R for reporting distributions, Distributions reported on Form 1099-R.Form 8606 for nondeductible contributions, RemindersInherited IRAs, Inherited pension or individual retirement arrangement (IRA)., Inherited IRAs, Inherited IRAs.Required distributions, Beneficiaries.Interest on, treatment of, RemindersKay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRAs, Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA limit., Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA., If your spouse is covered.Married couples (see this heading: Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRAs)Modified adjusted gross income (MAGI)Computation of, Modified adjusted gross income (AGI).Nondeductible contributions, Nondeductible ContributionsEarly withdrawal, Nondeductible contributions.Tax on earnings on, Tax on earnings on nondeductible contributions.Ordinary income, distributions as, Ordinary income.Penalties, What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes?Early distributions (see Early withdrawal from deferred interest account)Excess contributions, Excess ContributionsForm 8606 not filed for nondeductible contributions, Reminders, Penalty for failure to file Form 8606.Overstatement of nondeductible contributions, Penalty for overstatement.Prohibited transactions, Effect on an IRA account.Required distributions, failure to take, When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions), Excess Accumulations (Insufficient Distributions)Prohibited transactions, Prohibited TransactionsRecharacterization of contribution, RecharacterizationsReporting ofDistributions, Reporting taxable distributions on your return.Recharacterization of contributions, Reporting a recharacterization.Required distributions, Required distributions., When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions)Excess accumulations, Excess Accumulations (Insufficient Distributions)Retirement savings contribution credit, Special RulesSelf-employed persons, Self-employment income.Taxability, Exceptions.Distributions, Are Distributions Taxable?Time of taxation, Traditional IRAsTransfers permitted, Can You Move Retirement Plan Assets?To Roth IRAs, Transfers to Roth IRAs., Converting From Any Traditional IRA to a Roth IRATrustee administrative fees, Trustee's Administrative Fees for IRATrustee-to-trustee transfers, Trustee-to-Trustee TransferIRA to Roth IRA, Conversion methods.Types of, Kinds of traditional IRAs.Withdrawals, When Can You Withdraw or Use IRA Assets?, How to treat withdrawn contributions.Early (see Early withdrawal from deferred interest account)Required (see this heading: Required distributions)Withholding, Form W-2., Pensions and Annuities, Withholding.Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN), Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN)., Born and died in 2021.Individual taxpayers (see Single taxpayers)Information returns, Form W-2., Form 1099., Form W-2., Back pay awards., Accrued leave payment., Stock you elected to include in income.(see also Form 1099)(see also Form W-2)Partnerships to provide, Schedule K-1 (Form 1065).Inheritance, Estate and trust income.(see also Estate beneficiaries)IRAs (see Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs))Not taxed, Gifts and inheritances.Inheritance taxDeductibility of, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductDeduction, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductInjured spouse, Joint return and injured spouse.Claim for refund, Joint return and injured spouse.Innocent spouse reliefForm 8857, Relief from joint responsibility.Joint returns, Relief from joint responsibility.InsolvencyCanceled debt not deemed to be income, Excluded debt.Installment agreements, Installment AgreementInsurance Accident (see Accident insurance)Life, Pensions and Annuities, Group-term life insurance.(see also Group-term life insurance)(see also Life insurance)ReimbursementsFrom casualty insurance, Casualty insurance and other reimbursements.Insurance companiesState delinquency proceedings, IRA distributions not made due to, Exemption from tax.Insurance premiumsLife, Don’t Include in Total Support, Life Insurance PremiumsMedical, Medical insurance premiums.Paid in advance, Prepaid insurance premiums.Insurance proceedsDividends, interest on, Interest on insurance dividends.Installment payments, InsuranceLife, InsuranceInterestFees to collect, Fees To Collect Interest and DividendsFrozen deposits, Interest income on frozen deposits.Usurious, Usurious interest.Interest income, Interest IncomeForm 1099-INT, Form 1099.Frozen deposits, from, Interest on frozen deposits.Recovery of income, on, Interest on recovery.Savings bonds, Interest on qualified savings bonds.(see also U.S. savings bonds)Tax refunds, from, Interest on erroneous refund.Interest payments, Mortgage interest refund.(see also Mortgages)Canceled debt including, Interest included in canceled debt.Student loans deduction, Special RulesInterference with business operationsDamages as income, Court awards and damages.Internal Revenue Service (IRS)Fraud or misconduct of employee, reporting anonymously, RemindersInternational employment (see Foreign employment)International organizations, employees of, Employees of international organizations or foreign governments.InternetElectronic filing over (see E-file)Investments Fees, Investment Fees and ExpensesSeminars, Investment-Related SeminarsIRAs (see Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs))Itemized deductionsChanging from standard to itemized deduction (or vice versa), Changing your mind.Choosing to itemize, Who Should Itemize, When to itemize.Form 1040 to be used, Where to report.Married filing separately, Special Rules, Married persons who filed separate returns.One spouse has itemized, Persons not eligible for the standard deduction.Recovery, Itemized Deduction RecoveriesStandard deduction to be compared with, Who Should ItemizeState tax, for, Electing to itemize for state tax or other purposes.ITIN (see Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN))ITINs (see Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN))JJob searchDeduction of expenses for Interviews, Job interview expenses.Joint accounts, Joint accounts.Joint return test, Joint Return Test, Joint Return Test (To Be a Qualifying Child)Joint returnsAccounting period, Accounting period.After separate return, Joint Return After Separate ReturnsDeceased spouse, Spouse died.Dependents on, Joint return.Divorced taxpayers, Divorced persons., Divorced taxpayer.Estimated tax, Married taxpayers.Extension for citizens outside U.S., Married taxpayers.Filing status, Married Filing JointlyFraud penalty, Joint return.Guardian of spouse, signing as, Signing as guardian of spouse.Injured spouse, Joint return and injured spouse.Innocent spouse, Relief from joint responsibility.Nonresident or dual-status alien spouse, Nonresident alien or dual-status alien.Responsibility for, Accounting period.Separate return after joint, Separate Returns After Joint ReturnSigning, Spouse unable to sign., Signing a joint return.Social security and railroad retirement benefits, Joint return.State and local income taxes, deduction of, Joint federal return.Judges, federalEmployer retirement plan coverage, Federal judges.Jury duty pay, Jury duty.LLabor unions, Union agreements.Dues and fees, Union benefits and dues.Sick pay withholding under union agreements, Union agreements.Strike and lockout benefits, Strike and lockout benefits.Unemployment compensation payments from, Payments by a union.Late filing, RemindersPenalties, Filing late., Filing late., Return over 60 days late.Late paymentPenalties on tax payments, Paying tax late.Law enforcement officersLife insurance proceeds when death in line of duty, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyLegal expenses, Legal Expenses, Personal Legal ExpensesLiability insuranceReimbursements from, Casualty insurance and other reimbursements.License feesDeductibility of, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductNondeductibility of, List of Nondeductible ExpensesLife insurance, Group-term life insurance., Accelerated Death Benefits(see also Accelerated death benefits)(see also Group-term life insurance)Form 1099-R for surrender of policy for cash, Surrender of policy for cash.Premiums, Life Insurance PremiumsProceeds, InsuranceAs income, Life Insurance ProceedsPublic safety officers who died or were killed in line of duty, tax exclusion, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutySurrender of policy for cash, Surrender of policy for cash.Withholding, Pensions and AnnuitiesLife insurance premiums, Don’t Include in Total SupportLifetime learning creditMarried filing separately, Special RulesLimitsMiscellaneous deductions, Miscellaneous Itemized DeductionsLoans, Exceptions for special types of refunds.(see also Debts)Lobbying expenses, Lobbying ExpensesLocal assessmentsDeductibility of, Taxes for local benefits.Local income taxes, itemized deductions, Electing to itemize for state tax or other purposes.Local law violated, Local law violated.Lockout benefits, Strike and lockout benefits.Lodging, Lodging.Long-term care insurance contracts, Long-Term Care Insurance ContractsChronically ill individual, Chronically ill individual., Exclusion for chronic illness.Exclusion, limit of, Limit on exclusion.Qualified services defined, Qualified long-term care services.Losses, Exceptions for special types of refunds., Rental activity losses.(see also Gains and losses)Capital, Special RulesCasualty, Casualty and Theft Losses, Casualty and Theft Losses of Income-Producing PropertyGambling (see Gambling winnings and losses)Theft, Casualty and Theft Losses, Casualty and Theft Losses of Income-Producing PropertyLost property, Lost or Mislaid Cash or PropertyLotteries and raffles, Gambling winnings., Lotteries and raffles.(see also Gambling winnings and losses)MMailing addresses, Where To FileMailing returns (see Tax returns)Married dependents, filing joint return, Joint Return Test, Joint Return Test (To Be a Qualifying Child)Married filing separately, Married Filing SeparatelyCommunity property states, Community property states.Credits, treatment of, Special RulesDeductionsChanging method from or to itemized deductions, Married persons who filed separate returns.Treatment of, Special RulesEarned income credit, Special RulesHow to file, How to file.Itemized deductions, Special Rules, Married persons who filed separate returns.One spouse has itemized so other must as well, Persons not eligible for the standard deduction.Joint state and local income taxes filed, but separate federal returns, Joint state and local returns.Rollovers, Special RulesSocial security and railroad retirement benefits, Benefits not taxable.State and local income taxes, Separate federal returns.Tenants by the entirety, allocation of real estate taxes, Tenants by the entirety.Married taxpayers, Married Filing Jointly, Accounting period., Married Filing Separately, Considered Unmarried(see also Joint returns)(see also Married filing separately)Age 65 or older spouseStandard deduction, Spouse 65 or Older or BlindBlind spouseStandard deduction, Spouse 65 or Older or BlindDeceased spouse, , Surviving Spouses, Executors, Administrators, and Legal Representatives, Head of household or qualifying widow(er)., Spouse died during the year., Spouse died.(see also Surviving spouse)Dual-status alien spouse, Nonresident alien or dual-status alien.Estimated tax, Married taxpayers., 2021 separate returns and 2022 joint return.Filing status, , Filing status., Married persons.IRAs, Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA limit., Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA.Spouse covered by employer plan, How Much Can You Deduct?, If your spouse is covered.Living apart, Married persons living apart.Nonresident alien spouse, Nonresident alien spouse., Nonresident alien or dual-status alien.Roth IRAs, Can you contribute to a Roth IRA for your spouse?Signatures when spouse unable to sign, Spouse unable to sign.Social security or railroad retirement benefits, taxability, Figuring total income.Mass transit passes, employer-provided, Transit pass.Maximum age. The age restriction for contributions to a traditional IRA has been eliminated.Traditional IRA contributions, RemindersMedical and dental expensesReimbursements, treatment of, Reimbursement for medical care.Medical insurance (see Accident insurance)Medical insurance premiums, Medical insurance premiums.Medical savings accounts (MSAs), Archer MSA contributions., Medical savings accounts (Archer MSAs and Medicare Advantage MSAs).(see also Archer MSAs)Medicare Advantage MSA, Medical savings accounts (Archer MSAs and Medicare Advantage MSAs).Medicare, Social security and Medicare taxes paid by employer., Social security and Medicare taxes.(see also Social security and Medicare taxes)Benefits, Medicare.Medicare Advantage MSA (see Medical savings accounts (MSAs))Medicare taxes, not support, Don’t Include in Total SupportMember of household or relationship test, Member of Household or Relationship TestMentally incompetent persons, Disability Pensions(see also Disabilities, persons with)Signing of return by court-appointed representative, Court-appointed conservator, guardian, or other fiduciary.MexicoResident of, Citizen or Resident Test, Child in Canada or Mexico. Military (see Armed forces) (see Armed Forces)Mineral royalties, Oil, gas, and minerals.Ministers (see Clergy)Miscellaneous deductions, Other Itemized DeductionsMissing childrenPhotographs of, included in IRS publications, RemindersMistakes (see Errors)Modified adjusted gross income (MAGI)Roth IRAs, computation for, Modified AGI. Phaseout (Table 9-3), Contributions not reported.Worksheet 9-2, More information.Money market certificates, Certificates of deposit and other deferred interest accounts.MortgageRelief, Mortgage relief upon sale or other disposition.MortgagesAssistance payments, Mortgage assistance payments under section 235 of the National Housing Act.Discounted mortgage loan, Discounted mortgage loan.InterestRefund of, Mortgage interest refund.MSAs (see Medical savings accounts (MSAs))Multiple support agreement, Multiple Support AgreementMunicipal bonds, State or Local Government ObligationsMutual fundsNonpublicly offered, Nonpublicly offered mutual funds.NName change, Name change., Name changed.National Housing ActMortgage assistance, Mortgage assistance payments under section 235 of the National Housing Act.National of the United States, U.S. national.Native Americans (see Indians)Negligence penalties, Negligence or disregard.Net operating lossesRefund of carryback, Exceptions for special types of refunds.New Jersey Nonoccupational Disability Benefit Fund, Contributions to state benefit funds.New Jersey Unemployment Compensation Fund, Contributions to state benefit funds.New York Nonoccupational Disability Benefit Fund, Contributions to state benefit funds.Nobel Prize, Pulitzer, Nobel, and similar prizes.Nominees, Nominees., Nominee.Nonemployee compensation, Nonemployee compensation.Nonresident aliens, Nonresident alien.Due dates, Nonresident alien.Estimated tax, Aliens.Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN), Nonresident alien spouse.Spouse, Nonresident alien spouse.Joint returns not available, Nonresident alien or dual-status alien.Separated, Nonresident alien spouse.Standard deduction, Persons not eligible for the standard deduction.Taxpayer identification number, Taxpayer identification numbers for aliens.Waiver of alien status, Waiver of alien status.Northern Mariana IslandsIncome from, Individuals With Income From U.S. PossessionsNot-for-profit activities, Activity not for profit.Notary fees, Notary public.NotesDiscounted, Note received for services., Original Issue Discount (OID)Received for services, Note received for services.Nursing homesInsurance for care in (see Long-term care insurance contracts)Nutrition Program for the Elderly, Nutrition Program for the Elderly.OOASDI, Social security benefits (including lump-sum payments attributable to prior years), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, and lump-sum death benefits.Office rent, deductibility of, Clerical Help and Office RentOffset against debts, Refunds., Offset against debts.Oil, gas, and mineralsFuture production sold, Part of future production sold.Royalties from, Oil, gas, and minerals.Schedule C or C-EZ, RoyaltiesSale of property interest, Sale of property interest.Options, Stock OptionsOrdinary gain and loss (see Gains and losses)Original issue discount (OID), Original Issue Discount (OID)Other taxes, Other taxes.Outplacement services, Outplacement services.Overpayment of tax, Refunds (see also Tax refunds)Overseas work (see Foreign employment)Overtime pay, Supplemental WagesPPaper vs. electronic return (see E-file)Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, RemindersParental responsibility (see Children)Parents who never married, Parents who never married.Parents, divorced or separated, Children of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart).Parking feesEmployer-provided fringe benefitExclusion from income, TransportationPartners and partnerships, Indirect Deductions of Pass-Through EntitiesIncome, Partnership IncomePass-through entities, Indirect Deductions of Pass-Through EntitiesPassive activityLosses, Rental activity losses.PatentsInfringement damages, Court awards and damages.Royalties, Copyrights and patents.Payment of estimated tax, How To Pay Estimated TaxBy check or money order, How To Pay Estimated TaxCredit an overpayment, How To Pay Estimated Tax Payment of tax, Reminders, Amount you owe., Amount You Owe, Installment Agreement, Tax paid., Pay by Check or Money Order Using the Estimated Tax Payment VoucherBy credit or debit card, E-file and pay by credit or debit card or by direct transfer from your bank account.Delivery services, Private delivery services.Estimated tax, Estimated tax payments.Installment agreements (see Installment agreements)Late payment penalties, Paying tax late.Payments, Payments., Payments.Disaster relief, Disaster relief payments.Payroll deductions, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductPayroll taxes, Social security and Medicare taxes paid by employer.(see also Social security and Medicare taxes)Peace Corps allowances, Peace Corps.Penalties, Underpayment penalty., Underpayment Penalty for 2021Accuracy-related, Accuracy-related penalty.Backup withholding, Penalties.Civil penalties, Civil PenaltiesCriminal, Criminal PenaltiesDeductibility, Fines and PenaltiesDefenses, Adequate disclosure.Estimated tax (see this heading: Underpayment of estimated tax)Failure to include social security number, Penalty for not providing social security number., Failure to supply SSN.Failure to pay tax, Paying tax late.Form 8606 not filed for nondeductible IRA contributions, Reminders, Penalty for failure to file Form 8606.Fraud, Fraud., Fraud., Criminal PenaltiesFrivolous tax submission, Frivolous tax submission.Interest on, Interest on penalties.IRAs, What Acts Result in Penalties or Additional Taxes?Early distributions, Early DistributionsExcess contributions, Excess ContributionsForm 8606 not filed for nondeductible contributions, Reminders, Penalty for failure to file Form 8606.Overstatement of nondeductible contributions, Penalty for overstatement.Required distributions, failure to take, When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions)Late filing, Filing late., Filing late., Return over 60 days late.Exception, Exception.Late payment, Paying tax late.Negligence, Negligence or disregard.Reportable transaction understatements, Substantial understatement of income tax.Roth IRAsConversion contributions withdrawn in 5-year period, Additional tax on distributions of conversion and certain rollover contributions within 5-year period.Excess contributions, What if You Contribute Too Much?Substantial understatement of income tax, Substantial understatement of income tax.Tax evasion, Criminal PenaltiesUnderpayment of estimated tax, , Underpayment penalty., Underpayment Penalty for 2021Willful failure to file, Criminal PenaltiesWithholding, Penalties, Penalties.Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Fund, Contributions to state benefit funds.Pensions, Military retirees., Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits(see also Railroad retirement benefits)Clergy, Pension.ContributionsRetirement savings contribution credit, Special RulesTaxation of, Retirement Plan ContributionsDecedent's unrecovered investment in, Form W-2.Disability pensions, Sickness and Injury BenefitsElective deferral limitation, Elective deferrals.Employer plansBenefits from previous employer's plan, Benefits from a previous employer's plan.Rollover to IRA, Rollover From Employer's Plan Into an IRA, Rollover from a qualified retirement plan into a Roth IRA.Situations in which no coverage, Situations in Which You Aren’t CoveredInherited pensions, Inherited pension or individual retirement arrangement (IRA).Military (see Armed Forces)Unrecovered investment in, Unrecovered Investment in AnnuityWithholding, Form W-2., Pensions and AnnuitiesPer capita taxesDeductibility of, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductPersonal exemption, Taxpayer identification numbers for aliens.Personal injury suitsDamages from, Court awards and damages.Personal propertyRental income from, Rents From Personal PropertyPersonal property taxesDeduction of, Personal Property TaxesSchedule A, C, E, or F (Form 1040), Real estate taxes and personal property taxes.Taxes (see Personal property taxes)Personal representatives (see Fiduciaries)Persons with disabilities (see Disabilities, persons with)Place for filing, Where Do I File?Political campaign expenses, Campaign Expenses, Political ContributionsPolitical contributions (see Campaign contributions)Power of attorney, Power of attorney., Power of attorney.Premature distributions (see Early withdrawal from deferred interest account)Prepaid Insurance, Prepaid insurance premiums.Preparers of tax returns, Paid PreparerPresidential Election Campaign Fund, Presidential Election Campaign FundPrice reduced after purchase, Price reduced after purchase.Principal residence (see Home)Privacy Act and paperwork reduction information, RemindersPrivate delivery services, Private delivery services.Prizes and awards, Bonuses and awards., Prizes and awards., Employee awards or bonuses.(see also Bonuses)Exclusion from income, Employee achievement award.Pulitzer, Nobel, and similar prizes, Pulitzer, Nobel, and similar prizes.Scholarship prizes, Prizes.Professional license fees, Professional Accreditation FeesProfessional Reputation, Professional ReputationProfit-sharing plansWithholding, Form W-2., Pensions and AnnuitiesPropertyFound, Found property.Stolen, Stolen property.Public assistance benefits, Welfare and Other Public Assistance BenefitsPublic debtGifts to reduce, Gift To Reduce Debt Held by the PublicPublic transportation passes, employer-provided, Transit pass.Publications (see Tax help)Puerto RicoResidents of, Residents of Puerto RicoPulitzer Prize, Pulitzer, Nobel, and similar prizes.Punitive damagesAs income, Court awards and damages.RRaffles, Lotteries and raffles.Railroad retirement benefits, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits, Deduction more than $3,000., Railroad retirement annuities.Deductions related to, Deductions Related to Your BenefitsEmployer retirement plans different from, Social security or railroad retirement.Equivalent tier 1 (social security equivalent benefit (SSEB)), , Railroad retirement annuities.Estimated tax, Tax withholding and estimated tax.Form RRB-1042S for nonresident aliens, What isn’t covered in this chapter.Form RRB-1099,Joint returns, Joint return.Lump-sum election, Lump-sum election. Married filing separately, Special Rules, Benefits not taxable.Repayment of benefits, Repayment of benefits.Reporting of, How To Report Your BenefitsTaxability of, Are Any of Your Benefits Taxable?, How Much Is Taxable?Withholding, Federal PaymentsNot tax deductible, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductWithholding for, Tax withholding and estimated tax.Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, Railroad sick pay.Real estateCanceled business debt, treatment of, Excluded debt.Division of real estate taxes, Division of real estate taxes between buyers and sellers.Form 1099-S to report sale proceeds, Form 1099-S.Itemized charges for services not deductible, Itemized charges for services.Real estate-related items not deductible, Real Estate-Related Items You Can’t DeductTransfer taxes, Transfer taxes (or stamp taxes).Real estate taxesAssessments (see Local assessments)Cooperative housing, Tenant-shareholders in a cooperative housing corporation. (see Cooperative housing)deduction of, State and Local Real Estate TaxesDeduction of Schedule A, C, E, or F (Form 1040), Real estate taxes and personal property taxes.Refund, treatment of, Refund (or rebate).Rebates (see Refunds)RecharacterizationIRA contributions, RecharacterizationsRecordkeepingGambling, Gambling Losses up to the Amount of Gambling WinningsSavings bonds used for education, Education Savings Bond ProgramRecordkeeping requirements, What Records Should I Keep?Basic records, Basic RecordsCopies of returns, Copies of tax returns.Electronic records, Electronic records.Gambling, Gambling winnings.Period of retention, How Long To Keep RecordsProof of payments, Proof of PaymentWhy keep records, Why Keep Records?Recovery of amounts previously deducted, RecoveriesItemized deductions, Itemized Deduction RecoveriesMortgage interest refund, Mortgage interest refund.Over multiple years, Recovery for 2 or more years.Tax refunds, Federal income tax refund.Refunds, Refund or balance due.State tax, State tax refund.Taxes (see Tax refunds)Rehabilitative program payments, Veterans' benefits.Reimbursement, Recoveries(see also Recovery of amounts previously deducted)Employee business expenses, Allowances and reimbursements.Relationship test, Relationship Test, Member of Household or Relationship TestRelative, qualifying, Qualifying RelativeRelief fund contributions, Relief Fund ContributionsReligious organizations, Ministers., Clergy, Pension.(see also Clergy)Rental income and expensesIncrease due to higher real estate taxes, Rent increase due to higher real estate taxes.Losses from rental real estate activities, Rental activity losses.Personal property rental, Rents From Personal PropertyRepayments, RepaymentsAmount previously included in income, Repayments Under Claim of RightRailroad retirement benefits, Repayment of benefits.Social security benefits, Repayment of benefits., Repaid social security benefits.Unemployment compensation, Repayment of unemployment compensation., Repayment of benefits.ReportingRollovers, Reporting rollovers from employer plans.Required minimum distributions, Required distributions., When Must You Withdraw IRA Assets? (Required Minimum Distributions)(see also Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs))Required minimum distributions (RMDs), RemindersRescue squad membersLife insurance proceeds when death in line of duty, Public Safety Officer Killed or Injured in the Line of DutyReservistsIRAs, Reservists.Repayments, Qualified reservist repayments.ResidencyHome outside U.S. (see Citizens outside U.S.)Residency test, Residency TestResident aliensEstimated tax, Aliens.IRA distributions, withholding from, IRA distributions delivered outside the United States.Social security number (SSN), No SSN.Spouse treated as, Choice to treat spouse as resident.Retired Senior Volunteer Program, National Senior Services Corps programs.RetireesArmed ForcesTaxable income, Military retirement pay.Retirement planning services, Retirement Planning ServicesRetirement plans, Special Rules, Military retirees., Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits(see also Railroad retirement benefits)(see also Roth IRAs)Clergy, Pension.Contributions, Retirement Plan ContributionsCredit for (see Retirement savings contribution credit)Taxation of, Retirement Plan ContributionsDecedent's unrecovered investment in, Form W-2.Disability pensions, Sickness and Injury BenefitsElective deferral limitation, Elective deferrals.Employer plansBenefits from previous employer's plan, Benefits from a previous employer's plan.Rollover to IRA, Rollover From Employer's Plan Into an IRA, Rollover from a qualified retirement plan into a Roth IRA.Situations in which no coverage, Situations in Which You Aren’t CoveredInherited pensions, Inherited pension or individual retirement arrangement (IRA).IRAs (see Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs))Military (see Armed Forces)Withholding, Form W-2., Pensions and AnnuitiesRetirement savings contribution creditAdjusted gross income limit, Special RulesReturns, tax (see Tax returns)Rewards, Rewards.Rhode Island Temporary Disability Benefit Fund, Contributions to state benefit funds.Rollovers, RolloversDefinition of, RolloversExcess due to incorrect rollover information, Excess due to incorrect rollover information.From 403 plan to IRA, Kinds of rollovers to a traditional IRA.From employer's plan to IRA, Kinds of rollovers to a traditional IRA., Rollover From Employer's Plan Into an IRAFrom IRA to IRA, Kinds of rollovers to a traditional IRA., Rollover From One IRA Into AnotherFrom IRA to Roth IRA, Conversion methods.From Roth IRA to Roth IRA, Rollover From a Roth IRAFrom section 457 plan to IRA, Kinds of rollovers to a traditional IRA.From SIMPLE IRA to Roth IRA, Converting from a SIMPLE IRA.Inherited IRAs, Inherited IRAs.Married filing separately, Special RulesPartial rollovers, Partial rollovers.ReportingFrom employer's plan to IRA, Reporting rollovers from employer plans.IRA to IRA, Reporting rollovers from IRAs.Taxability, Rollovers, Form 5329 not required.Time limits (60-day rule), Time limit for making a rollover contribution., RolloversTreatment of, Treatment of rollovers.Waiting period between, Waiting period between rollovers.Roth IRAs, Roth IRAs, Rollover From a Roth IRA, More information.(see also Rollovers)AgeDistributions after age 59 1/2, What are qualified distributions?No limit for contributions, Is there an age limit for contributions?No required distribution age, Must you withdraw or use Roth IRA assets?Compensation, defined, Compensation.Contribution limits, How Much Can Be Contributed?Age 50 or older,, Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs.Under age 50,, Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs.Contributions, Can You Contribute to a Roth IRA?No deduction for, What Is a Roth IRA?Roth IRA only, Roth IRAs only.Time to make, When Can You Make Contributions?To traditional IRA for same year, Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs.Conversion, ConversionsDefinition of, What Is a Roth IRA?DistributionsQualified distributions, What are qualified distributions?Effect of modified AGI on contributions (Table 9-3), Contributions not reported.Establishing account, When Can a Roth IRA Be Opened?Excess contributions, What if You Contribute Too Much?IRA transfer to, Transfers to Roth IRAs., Converting From Any Traditional IRA to a Roth IRAModified adjusted gross income (MAGI), Modified AGI.Computation (Worksheet 9-2), More information.Phaseout (Table 9-3), Contributions not reported.PenaltiesConversion contributions withdrawn in 5-year period, Additional tax on distributions of conversion and certain rollover contributions within 5-year period.Excess contributions, What if You Contribute Too Much?Recharacterizations, RecharacterizationsSpousal contributions, Can you contribute to a Roth IRA for your spouse?Taxability, Are Distributions Taxable?Withdrawals, Must you withdraw or use Roth IRA assets?Excess contributions, Withdrawal of excess contributions.Not taxable, Are Distributions Taxable?Rounding off dollars, Rounding off dollars.Royalties, RoyaltiesSS corporations, Indirect Deductions of Pass-Through EntitiesShareholders, S Corporation IncomeSafe deposit box, Safe Deposit Box Rent, Tax Preparation FeesSalaries (see Wages and salaries)Sale of home, Sale of home.Division of real estate taxes, Division of real estate taxes between buyers and sellers.Sale of propertyPersonal items, Sale of personal items.Sales and exchangesBonds, Bonds Sold Between Interest DatesSaturday, deadline falling on, Saturday, Sunday, holiday rule.SavingsBonds, U.S. Savings Bonds, U.S. savings bond interest previously reported.Bonds used for education, Education Savings Bond ProgramCertificate, Certificates of deposit and other deferred interest accounts., Certificates of deposit (CDs).Schedule, Gift To Reduce Debt Held by the Public, Childcare providers., Housing., Railroad sick pay.(see also Form 1040)(see also Form 1040 or 1040-SR)Form 1040, A-F, R, SE (see Form 1040)K-1Partnership income, Schedule K-1 (Form 1065).S corporation income, Schedule K-1 (Form 1120-S).K-1, Form 1041, Beneficiary of an estate or trust.Schedule A (Form 1040)Itemized deductions, When to itemize.Schedules A–F, R, SE (Form 1040) (see Form 1040)Scholarships, Scholarships., Gross income defined., Don’t Include in Total SupportScholarships and fellowshipsEarned income including, Earned income defined.Exclusion from gross income, Scholarships and fellowships.Teaching or research fellowships, Payment for services.Section 457 deferred compensation plansRolloversTo IRAs, Rollover From Employer's Plan Into an IRA, Rollover from a qualified retirement plan into a Roth IRA.SecuritiesClaim for refund, Exceptions for special types of refunds.Options, Stock OptionsStock appreciation rights, Stock appreciation rights.Self-employed persons, Self-employment tax.(see also Self-employment tax)Corporate directors as, Corporate director.Definition, Self-Employed PersonsForeign government or international organizations, U.S. citizens employed by, Employees of foreign governments or international organizations.Gross income, Self-employed individuals.IRAs, Self-employment income.Ministers, Ministers.Nonemployee compensation, Nonemployee compensation.Self-employment taxDeduction of, Self-employment tax.SeminarsInvestment-related, Investment-Related SeminarsSenior Companion Program, National Senior Services Corps programs.Separate returns (see Married filing separately)Separated parents, Children of divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart)., Applying the tiebreaker rules to divorced or separated parents (or parents who live apart).Separated taxpayers, Married persons living apart.Filing status, Married Filing Separately, Considered UnmarriedIRAs, Kay Bailey Hutchison Spousal IRA.Nonresident alien spouse, Nonresident alien spouse.SEPs (see Simplified employee pensions (SEPs))Series EE and E savings bonds, Series EE and Series I bonds.Series HH and H savings bonds, Series H and HH bonds.Series I savings bonds, Series EE and Series I bonds.Service charges, Service Charges on Dividend Reinvestment PlansService Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE).Severance pay, Severance pay.Accrued leave payment, Accrued leave payment.Outplacement services, Outplacement services.Short tax yearChange in annual accounting period, Persons not eligible for the standard deduction.Sick payCollective bargaining agreements, Sick PayFECA payments, Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA).Income, Sick pay.Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, Railroad sick pay.Withholding, Supplemental Wages, Sick PaySignatures, SignaturesAgent, use of, When someone can sign for you.Joint returns, Signing a joint return.Mentally incompetent, Court-appointed conservator, guardian, or other fiduciary.Parent for child, Spouse unable to sign.Physically disabled, Court-appointed conservator, guardian, or other fiduciary.Signing your return, Form 8453.Silver (see Gold and silver)SIMPLE plansRollover to Roth IRA, Converting from a SIMPLE IRA.Simplified employee pensions (SEPs)IRAs as, Kinds of traditional IRAs.Single taxpayers, Widow(er).Filing requirements, Individuals—In GeneralFiling status, Filing status., Unmarried persons., SingleGross income filing requirements (Table 1-1),Social security and Medicare taxesSupport, not included in, Don’t Include in Total SupportSocial security benefits, Social security benefits., Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits, Deduction more than $3,000.Deductions related to, Deductions Related to Your BenefitsEmployer retirement plans different from, Social security or railroad retirement.Estimated tax, Tax withholding and estimated tax.Foreign employer, Social security and Medicare taxes.Form SSA-1042S for nonresident aliens, What isn’t covered in this chapter.Form SSA-1099, IRAs for recipients of benefits, Social security recipients.Joint returns, Joint return.Lump-sum election, Lump-sum election.Married filing separately, Special Rules, Benefits not taxable.Paid by employer, Social security and Medicare taxes paid by employer.Repayment of benefits, Repayment of benefits., Repaid social security benefits.Repayments, Repayments of Social Security BenefitsReporting of, How To Report Your BenefitsTaxability of, Are Any of Your Benefits Taxable?, How Much Is Taxable?Withholding, Federal PaymentsWithholding for, Tax withholding and estimated tax.Not deductible, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductSocial security number (SSN), Social Security Number (SSN)Child's, RemindersNumber to be obtained at birth, Born and died in 2021.Correspondence with IRS, include SSN, SSN on correspondence.Dependents, Reminders, Dependent's SSN.Exception, Exception. Failure to include penalty, Penalty for not providing social security number.Form SS-5 to request number, No SSN.Nonresident alien spouse, Nonresident alien spouse.Resident aliens, No SSN.Spouse, Surviving Spouses, Executors, Administrators, and Legal Representatives, Nonresident alien spouse., Spouse unable to sign., Head of household or qualifying widow(er)., Spouse died during the year., Spouse died., Nonresident alien or dual-status alien., Surviving spouse.(see also Married taxpayers)(see also Married taxpayers)(see also Surviving spouse)Spouse's death, Death of a spouse.SSN (see Social security number (SSN)) Stamp taxesReal estate transactions and, Transfer taxes (or stamp taxes).Stamps (see Collectibles)Standard deduction, Standard Deduction, Persons not eligible for the standard deduction., Decedent's final return., Higher Standard Deduction for Age (65 or Older), Married persons who filed separate returns.StateObligations, interest on, State or Local Government ObligationsState or local governmentsEmployees Unemployment compensation, State employees.State or local income taxes, Electing to itemize for state tax or other purposes.Deduction of, State or local taxes., State and Local Income TaxesSchedule A (Form 1040), State and local income taxes.Electronic returns filed with federal, State returns.Exception to deduction, Exception.Federal changes, effect on, Effect on state tax liability.Form W-2 to show withheld taxes, Withheld taxes.Joint state and local returns but federal returns filed separately, Joint state and local returns.Married filing separately, Separate federal returns.Refunds, treatment of, Refund applied to taxes., Refund (or credit) of state or local income taxes.State or local taxesRefunds, State tax refund.Statute of limitationsClaim for refund, Joint return and injured spouse.Claim for refunds, Time for filing a claim for refund.Stillborn child, Stillborn child.Stock appreciation rights, Stock appreciation rights.Stock bonus plans, Pensions and AnnuitiesStock options, Stock OptionsStockholders, Exceptions for special types of refunds.(see also Securities)Debts, Stockholder debt.Stockholders' meeting expenses, Stockholders' MeetingsStocks, Exceptions for special types of refunds. (see also Securities)Stolen fundsReporting of, Stolen property.Stolen property, Stolen property.Strike benefits, Strike and lockout benefits.Student loansCancellation of debt, Student loans.Interest deductionMarried filing separately, Special RulesStudentsDefined, Student defined.Exemption from withholding, Students.Foreign, Foreign students' place of residence.Loans (see Student loans)Scholarships (see Scholarships and fellowships)Tuition programs, qualified (see Qualified tuition programs)Substitute forms, Substitute tax forms.Sunday, deadline falling on, Saturday, Sunday, holiday rule. Supplemental wages, Supplemental WagesSupport testQualifying child, Support Test (To Be a Qualifying Child)Qualifying relative, Support Test (To Be a Qualifying Relative)Surviving spouseFiling status, Head of household or qualifying widow(er).With dependent child, Qualifying Widow(er)Gross income filing requirements (Table 1-1),Life insurance proceeds paid to, Surviving spouse.Single filing status, Widow(er).Tax (see Estate tax)TTables and figuresEstimated tax, who must make payments (Figure 4-A), How To Figure Estimated TaxFiling requirementsDependents (Table 1-2), Do I Have To File a Return?Gross income levels (Table 1-1),Head of household, qualifying person (Table 2-1), Nonresident alien spouse.Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs)Roth IRAs, effect of modified AGI on contributions (Table 9-3), Contributions not reported.Roth IRAs, modified AGI (Worksheet 9-2), More information.Roth IRA and modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) phaseout (Table 9-3), Contributions not reported.Standard deduction tables, 2021 Standard Deduction TablesTax returnsSteps to prepare (Table 1-6), Table 1-6. Six Steps for Preparing Your Paper ReturnTax Counseling for the Elderly, Free Help With Your ReturnTax credits (see Credits)Tax evasion, Criminal PenaltiesTax figured by IRS, Tax Figured by IRSTax help, Help from the IRS., Free Help With Your Return, How To Get Tax HelpTax Counseling for the Elderly, Free Help With Your ReturnVolunteer counseling (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program), Free Help With Your Return, Volunteer tax counseling.Tax preference items, Adjustments and tax preference items.Tax rates, Widow(er). Married filing separately (Schedule Y-2), How to file.Tax refundsAgreement with IRS extending assessment period, claim based on, Exceptions for special types of refunds.Bad debts, Exceptions for special types of refunds.Business tax credit carrybacks, Exceptions for special types of refunds.Cashing check, Cashing your refund check.Check's expiration date, Cashing your refund check.Claim for, Interest on Refunds, Amended Returns and Claims for Refund, Processing claims for refund.Limitations period, Time for filing a claim for refund.Litigation, Taking your claim to court.Direct deposit, RefundsErroneous refunds, Interest on erroneous refund.Federal income tax refunds, Federal income tax refund.Financially disabled, Financially disabled.Foreign tax paid or accrued, Exceptions for special types of refunds.General rules, Refunds.Inquiries, Refund inquiries.Interest on, Interest on Refunds, Interest on refund., Interest on tax refunds.Late filed returns, RemindersLimits, Limit on amount of refund., Tax paid.Exceptions, Exceptions for special types of refunds.More or less than expected, Refund more or less than expected.Net operating loss carryback, Exceptions for special types of refunds.OffsetAgainst debts, Refunds., Offset against debts.Against next year's tax, RefundsOffset against next year's tax, How To Pay Estimated TaxPast-due, Refund inquiries., Refund InformationReal estate taxes, treatment of, Refund (or rebate).Reduced, Reduced refund.State and local income tax refunds, Refund applied to taxes., Refund (or credit) of state or local income taxes.State liability, effect on, Effect on state tax liability.Under $1, Overpayment less than one dollar.Withholding, Who Should FileWorthless securities, Exceptions for special types of refunds.Tax returns, Signatures, Accounting period.(see also Joint Returns)(see also Signatures)Aliens, AliensAmended, Amended Returns and Claims for Refund, Form 1040-X., Filing Form 1040-X., Changing your mind.(see also Form 1040-X)Attachments to returns, AttachmentsChild, Spouse unable to sign.Copies of, Copies of tax returns.Dating of, SignaturesFiling of, Filing Information(see also Filing requirements)Forms to use, Form 1040 or 1040-SRFree preparation help, Free Help With Your ReturnHow to file, How Do I Prepare My Return?Mailing of, Mailing your paper return.Paid preparer, Paid PreparerPayment with, Amount You OwePrivate delivery services, Private delivery services.Steps to prepare (Table 1-6), Table 1-6. Six Steps for Preparing Your Paper ReturnThird party designee, Third Party DesigneeWho must file, Do I Have To File a Return?, Who Should FileTax ReturnsTranscript of, Copies of tax returns.Tax table, Tax TablesTax year, When Do I Have To File?, When Do I Report My Income and Expenses?, Accounting Periods(see also Accounting periods)Tax-exemptBonds and other obligations, State or Local Government ObligationsIncome, Tax-Exempt Income ExpensesInterest, State or Local Government ObligationsTax-exempt income, Tax-exempt income.Taxes, Household workers., Taxes, Other taxes., Tax.Alternative minimum, Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)Business taxes, deduction of, Business taxes.Deduction of, Tests To Deduct Any TaxSchedules to use, Where To DeductEstate (see Estate tax)Excise (see Excise taxes)Federal income taxes, not deductible, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductForeign taxes, Foreign taxes.Income tax, deduction of, Foreign Income TaxesGift taxes, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductIncome taxes, deduction of, Income TaxesIndian tribal government taxes, deduction of, Indian tribal government.Inheritance tax, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductKiddie tax (see Children, subheading: Unearned income of)Not deductible, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductPersonal property taxesDeduction of, Personal Property TaxesReal estate taxes (see Real estate taxes)Taxes, not support, Don’t Include in Total SupportTaxpayer identification number (TIN)Adoption (ATIN), Adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN).Individual (ITIN), Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN)., Born and died in 2021.Social security number (see Social security number (SSN))Telephones, Residential Telephone ServiceFraud or misconduct of IRS employee, number for reporting anonymously, RemindersTemporary absences, Temporary absences., Temporary absences.TenantsBy the entirety, General InformationIn common, General InformationTenants by the entiretyReal estate taxes, allocation when filing separately, Tenants by the entirety.Terminal illnessAccelerated payment of life insurance proceeds (see Accelerated death benefits)Viatical settlements, Viatical settlement.Terrorist attacksDisability pensions for federal employees, Terrorist attack or military action.Theft losses, Casualty and Theft Losses, Casualty and Theft Losses of Income-Producing PropertyThird partiesDesignee for IRS to discuss return with, Third Party Designee Income from taxpayer's property paid to, Payment to third party.Tiebreaker rules, Tiebreaker rules.Tip incomeAllocated tips, Allocated tips.Withholding, TipsUnderwithholding, Not enough pay to cover taxes.Total support, Total SupportTour guidesFree tour for organizing tour, Free tour.Trade Act of 1974Trade readjustment allowances under, Types of unemployment compensation.Traditional IRAs (see Individual retirement arrangements (IRAs))Transfer taxesReal estate transactions and, Transfer taxes (or stamp taxes).Transit passes, Transit pass.Travel and transportation expensesCommuting expensesEmployer-provided commuter vehicle, Commuter highway vehicle.Expenses paid for others, Travel Expenses for Another IndividualFringe benefits, TransportationJob search expenses, Job interview expenses.Parking feesEmployer-provided fringe benefit, Qualified parking.School children, transporting of, Transporting school children.Transit pass, Transit pass.Treasury bills, notes, and bonds, U.S. Treasury Bills, Notes, and BondsTreasury Inspector GeneralTelephone number to report anonymously fraud or misconduct of IRS employee, RemindersTreasury notes, U.S. obligations.Trust beneficiariesLosses of trust, Losses.Receiving income from trust, Estate and trust income., Current income required to be distributed., Current income not required to be distributed., Gifts and inheritances.TrusteesAdministrative fees, Trustee's Administrative Fees for IRAIRA, Trustee's Administrative Fees for IRA IRAsFees, Trustees' fees., Trustees' fees.Transfer from trustee to trustee, Trustee-to-Trustee Transfer, Conversion methods.Trusts, Current income required to be distributed., Losses.(see also Trust beneficiaries)Grantor trusts, Grantor trust.Income, Estate and trust income.TTY/TDD information, Tax InformationTuitionQualified programs (see Qualified tuition programs)Tuition programs, qualified (see Qualified tuition programs)Tuition, benefits under GI Bill, Tuition payments and allowances under the GI Bill.UU.S. citizen or resident, Citizen or Resident TestU.S. national, U.S. national.U.S. obligations, interest, U.S. obligations., U.S. Savings BondsU.S. possessionsDeduction of income tax paid to, Foreign Income TaxesIncome from, Individuals With Income From U.S. PossessionsU.S. savings bondsEducation, used for, Special RulesInterest on, Interest on qualified savings bonds.U.S. Treasury bills, notes, and bonds, U.S. Treasury Bills, Notes, and BondsU.S. Virgin IslandsIncome from, Individuals With Income From U.S. PossessionsUnderpayment penalties, , Underpayment penalty., Underpayment Penalty for 2021IRS computation, IRS can figure the penalty for you.Unearned incomeChildren, Tax on unearned income of certain children.Unearned income of child (see Children, subheading: Unearned income of)Unemployment compensation, Unemployment BenefitsCredit card insurance paying, Credit card insurance.Mandatory contributions to state funds, deduction of, Contributions to state benefit funds.Private fund, from, Private unemployment fund.Repayment of benefits, Repayment of unemployment compensation., Repayment of benefits.Reporting on Form 1040, Supplemental unemployment benefits.Supplemental benefits, Supplemental unemployment benefits.Voluntary benefit fund contributions, Voluntary Unemployment Benefit Fund ContributionsWithholding, Unemployment Compensation, Tax withholding.Unions, Union agreements., Payments by a union., Union benefits and dues., Strike and lockout benefits.(see also Labor unions)Unmarried persons (see Single taxpayers)Usurious interest, Usurious interest.UtilitiesEnergy conservation subsidies, Energy conservation subsidies., Utility rebates.Rebates, Utility rebates.VVeterans benefits, Veterans' benefits.Retroactive determination, Retroactive VA determination.Special statute of limitations., Special period of limitation.Veterans' benefitsEducational assistance, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) payments.Viatical settlements, Viatical settlement., Exclusion for terminal illness.VISTA volunteers, Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA).Volunteer firefightersIRAs, Volunteer firefighters.Volunteer work, VolunteersTax counseling (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program), Free Help With Your Return, Volunteer tax counseling.Vouchers for payment of tax, How To Pay Estimated Tax, Pay by Check or Money Order Using the Estimated Tax Payment VoucherWW-2 form (see Form W-2)Wages and salaries, Form W-2., Wages, Salaries, and Other Earnings, Restricted Property, Reimbursement for medical care.(see also Form W-2)Accident and health insurance, Accident or Health PlanAccrued leave payment, Accrued leave payment.Adoption, employer assistance, Adoption AssistanceAdvance commissions, Advance commissions and other earnings.Allowances and reimbursements, Expense allowances., Allowances and reimbursements.Archer MSA contributions, Archer MSA contributions.Awards and prizes, Bonuses and awards.Babysitting, Childcare providers.Back pay awards, Back pay awards.Bonuses, Bonuses and awards.Child care providers, Childcare providers.Children's earnings, Child's earnings.Clergy, ClergyDe minimis benefits, De Minimis (Minimal) BenefitsElective deferrals, Elective deferrals.Employee achievement award, Employee achievement award.Employee compensation, Employee CompensationFarmworkers, Farmworkers.Foreign employer, Foreign EmployerForm W-2 (see Form W-2)Fringe benefits, Fringe BenefitsGarnished, Garnished wages.Government cost-of-living allowances, Government cost-of-living allowances.Household workers, Household workers.Long-term care coverage, Accident or Health PlanMilitary retirees, Military retirees., Military retirement pay.Military service, MilitaryMiscellaneous compensation, Miscellaneous CompensationNote for services, Note received for services.Outplacement services, Outplacement services.Religious orders, Members of Religious OrdersRestricted property, Restricted PropertyDividends on restricted stock, Stock you elected to include in income.Retirement plan contributions by employer, Retirement Plan ContributionsSeverance pay, Severance pay.Sick pay, Sick pay., Other compensation.Social security and Medicare taxes paid by employer, Social security and Medicare taxes paid by employer.Stock appreciation rights, Stock appreciation rights.Stock options, Stock OptionsSupplemental, Supplemental WagesVolunteer work, VolunteersWithholding (see Withholding)War zone (see Combat zone)Washington State Supplemental Workmen's Compensation Fund, Contributions to state benefit funds.Welfare benefits, Support provided by the state (welfare, food stamps, housing, etc.)., Welfare and Other Public Assistance BenefitsWhat's new, What's NewWhere to file, Where Do I File?, Where To FileWidow/widower (see Surviving spouse)Winter energy payments, Energy conservation subsidies.Withholding, Form W-2., Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax(see also Form W-2)Agricultural Act of 1949 payments, Federal PaymentsChanging amount withheld, Changing Your WithholdingFor 2022, Changing your withholding for 2023.Checking amount of, Checking Your WithholdingClaim for refund, Who Should FileCommodity credit loans, Federal PaymentsCredit for, , Credit for Withholding and Estimated Tax for 2021Cumulative wage method, Cumulative wage method.Definition,Determining amount to withhold, Determining Amount of Tax Withheld Using Form W-4, Getting the Right Amount of Tax WithheldDisaster Assistance Act of 1988 payments, Federal PaymentsEmployers, rules for, Rules Your Employer Must FollowExemption from, Exemption From WithholdingFederal income taxes, not deductible, Taxes and Fees You Can’t DeductForm W-4Provided by employer, New Form W-4.Fringe benefits, Taxable Fringe BenefitsGambling winnings, Gambling Winnings, Form W-2GGeneral rules, Tax Withholding for 2022Highest rate, employer must withhold at if no W-4, No Form W-4.Incorrect form, Form Not CorrectIRA distributions, Withholding.New job, New Job Penalties, , Penalties, Penalties.Pensions and annuities, Form W-2., Pensions and AnnuitiesRailroad retirement benefits, Federal Payments, Tax withholding and estimated tax.Repaying withheld tax, Repaying withheld tax.Salaries and wages, Salaries and WagesSeparate returns, Separate ReturnsSick pay, Sick PaySocial security benefits, Federal Payments, Tax withholding and estimated tax.State and local income taxes, deduction for, Withheld taxes.Supplemental wages, Supplemental WagesTips (see Tip income)Unemployment compensation, Unemployment Compensation, Tax withholding.Workers' compensation, Workers' CompensationMandatory contributions to state funds, deduction of, Contributions to state benefit funds.Return to work, Return to work.WorksheetsRoth IRA modified adjusted gross income (MAGI), computation (Worksheet 9-2), More information.Social security or railroad retirement benefits, to figure taxability, Worksheet 7-1., Which worksheet to use.Support test, Worksheet 3-1. Worksheet for Determining SupportWristwatch, WristwatchesWrite-offs (see Cancellation of debt)Page Last Reviewed or Updated: 20-Dec-2021 Who pays property tax Singapore?4. Why do I have to pay property tax on my home when I am an owner-occupier and not deriving rental income? Property tax is based on property ownership and therefore is levied regardless of whether the property is owner-occupied, vacant or rented out.
How does property tax work in Singapore?Annual Value (AV) x Property Tax Rate = Property Tax Payable
For example, if the AV of your property is $30,000 and your tax rate is 10%, you would pay $30,000 x 10% = $3,000. You may also consider using the IRAS property tax calculator.
Which term describes taxes based on the value of the property?An ad valorem tax is a form of taxation based on the value of a transaction or a property, either real estate or personal property. It is generally calculated as a percentage of the value of the property, rather than on size, weight, or quantity. Ad valorem is Latin for “according to value.”
What is the tax base of a property tax quizlet?The tax base equals the assessed values minus any exemptions. How is a tax rate calculated? The rate is calculated by first dividing the total net assessed value by 100 and then dividing the tax levy (or tax requirement) by that total.
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