What is an injured spouse refund?
An injured spouse refund is a process by which the IRS allows a taxpayer to claim their share of a joint tax refund if the refund would otherwise be used to offset their spouse’s past-due debts, such as unpaid child support, federal taxes, or student loans. If one spouse has separate income or tax withholdings, they may be entitled to receive their portion of the refund.
How do I qualify for an injured spouse refund?
To be eligible for an injured spouse refund, you and your spouse must have filed a joint tax return, and all or part of your refund must be withheld to cover the debts of one spouse. Additionally, the injured spouse should have had income or tax withholdings during the tax year.
How do I calculate an injured spouse refund?
To calculate the injured spouse refund, you need to determine the portion of the refund attributable to the injured spouse. First, calculate the total amount of income and credits for each spouse separately. Then, divide the injured spouse’s income by the total income of both spouses to find their share. Multiply this share by the refund withheld to obtain the injured spouse refund amount.
Can I file for an injured spouse refund electronically?
Yes, you can file for an injured spouse refund electronically. When you file your joint tax return, the IRS will automatically calculate the injured spouse’s refund if you complete the appropriate forms. Electronically filing your tax return and specifying an injured spouse claim will speed up the refund process.
Is there a specific form to request the injured spouse refund?
Yes, to claim an injured spouse refund, you need to complete Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation. This form allows you to allocate the appropriate portion of the refund to the injured spouse. It should be attached to your joint tax return when you file. Keep in mind that filing Form 8379 may extend the processing time of your return.
How long does it take to receive an injured spouse refund?
The timeframe for receiving an injured spouse refund can vary. Typically, if you file electronically, it may take the IRS around 11 weeks to process the refund. However, it could take longer if there are any issues with your tax return or supporting documents.
What happens if my injured spouse refund is denied?
If your injured spouse refund is denied, the IRS will send you a notice explaining the reason for the denial. Common reasons include mistakes on your tax return, incomplete or missing information, or failing to meet the criteria for an injured spouse refund. You can make corrections and refile if necessary or seek professional assistance to resolve any issues.
Calculating an injured spouse refund can be complicated, but understanding the process and requirements can help you protect your share of the refund. By following the steps outlined in this article and consulting with a tax professional when needed, you can ensure a smooth and successful claim for your injured spouse refund.