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3.11.3  Individual Income Tax Returns

All Official Use Only content has been replaced with ≡.

3.11.3.1  (01-01-2010)
Introduction

  1. This section of the Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) provides instructions for coding and editing individual income tax returns for computer processing. Special codes are entered into the computer to perform specific functions. Editing is necessary because many returns are incomplete, contain invalid or misplaced entries or are computed incorrectly. When processing Forms 1040, supporting forms and schedules must be in order by form sequence code. This requirement is not applicable when processing Forms 1040A or Forms 1040EZ.

  2. Instructions in this manual are for Forms 1040, 1040A, and 1040EZ (1040/A/EZ).

    Note:

    See Exhibit 3.11.3-12 for a glossary of frequently used terms and acronym listing.

  3. A Coding and Editing Job Aid was developed as a reference guide for this manual. This manual refers the tax examiner to clarifying information or exhibits in the Job Aid, where appropriate. When a conflict between any referenced material and the IRM instructions occur, the IRM instructions take precedence.

3.11.3.2  (01-01-2010)
General Guidelines

  1. Instructions in this manual are for a typical return. Apply the instructions as far as possible when a situation is not explained.

  2. Take no action when there is not a specific instruction for a situation.

  3. Refer conflicts between general and specific instructions, unusual situations, and complex cases to your work leader.

  4. Any line in this manual which is marked with a "#" is for official use only and must not be disclosed.

  5. The general guidelines described in more detail in this subsection of the manual are:

    • Programs worked in Code & Edit

    • Identifying "numbered" and "unnumbered " returns

    • Routing completed work

3.11.3.2.1  (01-01-2010)
Programs Worked

  1. Code & Edit works the Form 1040/A/EZ programs listed below:

    Program Code Description
    4311X Other-than-full-paid Forms 1040
    4321X Full-paid Forms 1040
    4411X Other-than-full-paid Forms 1040A
    4412X Full-paid Forms 1040A
    4713X Other-than-full-paid Forms 1040EZ

3.11.3.2.2  (01-01-2010)
Identifying "Numbered" and "Unnumbered " Returns

  1. A "numbered" return has a fourteen-digit Document Locator Number (DLN) imprinted in the top right margin. Do not remove a numbered return from the block.

  2. An "unnumbered" return has no DLN. These documents are numbered after coding and editing. Unnumbered returns may be removed from the block, as instructed.

3.11.3.2.2.1  (01-01-2010)
Document Locator Number (DLN)

  1. DLNs are unique numbers assigned to every return processed by the Automatic Data Processing (ADP) Systems. The DLN is used to control, identify, and locate the document.

3.11.3.2.2.1.1  (01-01-2010)
Julian Date

  1. A Julian date is the numeric day of the year. For example, April 15, 2010, is Julian date 105, the 105th day of 2010.

    1. The sixth, seventh, and eighth digits in the DLN make up the Julian date.

3.11.3.2.2.1.2  (01-01-2010)
Sequence Number

  1. The twelfth and thirteenth digits of the DLN are the sequence number.

    1. Returns in a block are numbered from "00" to "99" . The maximum number of returns in a numbered block is 100.

    2. Numbered returns in a block must be kept in sequence number order.

3.11.3.2.3  (01-01-2010)
Routing Completed Work

  1. After coding and editing:

    If the returns are Then
    Numbered and blocked, Send them to be transcribed.
    Unnumbered and not blocked, Send them to be numbered and blocked.

3.11.3.3  (01-01-2010)
General Instructions

  1. The general instructions for all Form 1040-series returns are provided here. The general instructions in this section include:

    • Perfecting transcription lines

    • Putting forms and schedules in transcription sequence

    • Preparing Forms 3471– Edit Sheet and 4227– Intra-SC Reject or Routing Slip

    • Editing "Action Trails"

    • Handling attachments to returns

    • Editing special processing and unallowable codes

    • Identifying unprocessable and uncomputed returns

3.11.3.3.1  (01-01-2010)
Computer Assisted Pipeline Review (CAPR)

  1. CAPR is the computer-based system for tracking the causes of errors on returns processed to the Error Resolution System (ERS).

3.11.3.3.2  (01-01-2010)
Stamping Tax Examiner (TE) Numbers

  1. Every Code & Edit Tax Examiner (TE) is assigned a unique, 3-digit TE Number.

  2. Stamp your TE number in the upper left-hand corner of the document. All returns must be stamped with your TE number.

    Exception:

    It is only necessary to stamp the first document when working numbered returns.

  3. Line through the TE number when corresponding and the return is going to be sent to the taxpayer.

  4. Line through the old TE number and stamp the document with your TE number when working returns which were TE stamped before (e.g., misblocked, converted or correspondence returns).

3.11.3.3.3  (01-01-2010)
Transcription Lines (T–Lines) and Transcription Compute Lines (T–COMPUTE Lines)

  1. Not all entries on forms and schedules are entered into the computer during processing. Only the information from transcription lines (T–lines) or computed transcription lines (T–COMPUTE lines) is entered into the computer after coding and editing.

  2. T–lines and T–COMPUTE lines are listed in this manual in the overview information for each form or schedule. The edited locations of all T–lines and T–COMPUTE lines are illustrated in the Job Aid.

  3. Always compute and enter a T-COMPUTE line when it is blank and there are entries leading to a total. Compute and enter a T-COMPUTE line that is not blank only when required to do so in the line-by-line instructions.

    Note:

    Use the tax form instructions when computing T-COMPUTE line totals unless other directions are provided in the line-by-line instructions.

  4. Enter T–line and T–COMPUTE line amounts when they are illegible, obviously misplaced, or when instructed to do so in the line-by-line instructions. Correct the entry by referring to other schedules, attachments, or entries on the return only when directed.

  5. Delete an entry on a transcribed line when the meaning of the line has been changed, unless otherwise instructed. (See Figure 3.11.3-1a). Also, edit an obviously misplaced amount to the correct T-line or T-COMPUTE line when appropriate. (See Figure 3.11.3–1b.)

  6. Use attachments to prepare "dummy" forms or schedules when they are required to support entries on transcribed lines.

  7. Edit the combined total of the amounts when a T–line or T–COMPUTE line has multiple entries. (See Figure 3.11.3–2.)

  8. DO NOT MATH VERIFY the transcribed lines on forms or schedules unless specifically directed to do so in the line-by-line instructions.

    Figure 3.11.3-1
    Title reads,   
 "Editing Misplaced Entries"
.
    Please click here for the text description of the image.

    Title reads, "Editing Misplaced Entries" .

    Figure 3.11.3-2

3.11.3.3.4  (01-01-2010)
Sequence of Transcribed Schedules and Forms

  1. Organize the Form 1040 return and its transcribed schedules and forms according to sequence code. Sequence Codes are preprinted numbers, usually present in the upper right margin. See the table at the end of this subsection for a list of the Sequence Codes of all transcribed schedules and forms. Any document not on the list is not a transcribed form or schedule and should be deleted or moved. Also delete any form that shares a sequence number with a transcribed form. Examples include, but are not limited to, Forms 3468 (Seq. 52), Forms 3903 (Seq. 62), and prior years Forms 2106 (Seq. 54).

    Note:

    "X" a transcribed schedule or form if it is blank or has no significant T–line entries, unless specifically instructed otherwise.

  2. Leave Forms W–2 and 1099, Form 1040V, taxpayer statements, deposit slips, small forms, and other items where found when they do not obstruct T–lines or any part of the caption area.

  3. Delete or move any document which will not be transcribed. Documents which are not transcribed may be in any order behind the last transcribed page.

    Form 1040
    Transcribed Form or Schedule Sequence Code
    Schedule A 07
    Schedule B 08
    Schedule C / C-EZ 09, 10, 11
    Schedule D 12
    Schedule E 13
    Schedule F 14,15
    Schedule R 16
    Schedule SE 17, 18
    Form 1116 19
    Schedule J 20
    Form 2441 21
    Form 3800 22
    Form 4136 23
    Form 4137 24, 25
    Form 4684 26
    Form 4797 27
    Form 4972 28
    Form 5329 29, 30
    Form 6198 31
    Form 6251 32
    Form 8615 33
    Form 4835 37
    Form 8839 38
    Form 8853 39
    Form 8814 40, 41, 42
    Schedule EIC 43
    Schedule H 44, 45
    Form 8812 47
    Form 8606 48, 49
    Form 8863 50
    Form 4952 51
    Form 8889 52, 53
    Form 8880 54
    Form 8888 56
    Schedule L 57
    Form 5405 58, 59
    Form 8917 60
    Form 8919 61, 62

    Form 1040A
    Transcribed Form or Schedule Sequence Code
    Form 8615 33
    Schedule EIC 43
    Form 8812 47
    Form 8606 48, 49
    Form 8863 50
    Form 8880 54
    Form 8888 56
    Schedule L 57
    Form 8917 60

    Note:

    Sequencing of supporting forms and schedules is not required when processing Form 1040A..

  4. Form 8888 is the only valid attachment for Form 1040EZ.

3.11.3.3.5  (01-01-2010)
Forms 3471 and 4227, Internal-Use Forms

  1. Two general internal-use forms are used in Code & Edit. They are:

    • Form 3471—Edit Sheet

    • Form 4227—Intra–SC Reject/Routing Slip

  2. The conditions requiring these forms are found in the line-by-line instructions.

3.11.3.3.5.1  (01-01-2010)
Form 3471—Edit Sheet

  1. Edit money amounts on Form 3471 in dollars only for all form types (1040/A/EZ).

  2. Position the Form 3471 on the left side of page 1, Form 1040/A/EZ, even though it has a Sequence Code of "02" . Staple Form 3471 to the first page margin of:

    1. Forms 1040/A, just below the filing status area.

    2. Form 1040EZ, just below the Presidential Election Campaign Fund (PECF) area.

  3. Enter line 4, Return Processable Date (RPD), in "MMDDYY" format. An entry is required when a reply to correspondence is received after the due date for a return. See the instructions for general response procedures in IRM 3.11.3.6.3 for additional information.

3.11.3.3.5.1.1  (01-01-2010)
Unallowables

  1. Edit Form 3471, lines 1, 2, and 3—Unallowable Items—as follows:

    1. Enter all codes in the order the unallowables are found.

    2. Edit the first two unallowables on lines 1 and 2 when there are more than three and enter Unallowable Code " 98" on line 3 with no money amount. Enter the remaining Unallowable Codes and amounts in the "Processing Memo" space.

    Note:

    Refer to the instructions on Unallowable Codes in IRM 3.11.3.3.9 for more information.

3.11.3.3.5.1.2  (01-01-2010)
Late Filing/Late Payment Penalties and Interest

  1. Returns may be received from Examination or Collection with penalty and interest amounts entered. These amounts will usually be present on Form 4364, Delinquency Computations.

    Note:

    Use the instructions in IRM 3.11.3.14.8.5 when penalty and interest amounts are entered by the taxpayer.

  2. Enter a "1" on line 6, Late Filing Code, when Failure to File (FTF) or Failure to Pay (FTP) penalties or interest have been entered on a full- or part-paid return and≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  3. Enter an amount on line 7, Pre-Delinquent Penalty (Late Filing Penalty), when both of the following apply:

    1. The return has a received date ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    2. There is a notation that this penalty is to be applied.

3.11.3.3.5.1.3  (01-01-2010)
Identification Number Penalty

  1. Enter an amount on line 11, Identification Number Penalty, when there is a notation on the return that this penalty is to be assessed and an amount is present.

    Note:

    Examination or Collection will indicate when this penalty is to be assessed.

3.11.3.3.5.2  (01-01-2010)
Form 4227—Intra–SC Reject/Routing Form

  1. Some returns need research, referral, or action before they can be processed. Form 4227 is often used to identify these special conditions and initiate actions.

  2. Take the following actions when a numbered return needs research, referral, or action before further processing:

    1. Edit the appropriate Action Code.

    2. Prepare Form 4227 and note the reason for rejection.

    3. Leave the return in the block.

  3. Prepare Form 4227 when an unnumbered return/document is withdrawn from processing, and:

    If the return/document is Then
    Leaving the campus, Pull the document for routing to Receipt and Control for shipment.
    Not leaving the campus, Pull the document for routing to the appropriate function.

3.11.3.3.6  (01-01-2010)
Action Trails

  1. An "Action Trail" is written on a return/document as a record of actions taken.

  2. Always leave an Action Trail when Computer Condition Code "Y" is edited. Give the reason for the "Y" code in the Action Trail.

  3. Edit an Action Trail when a return/document is detached. For example, notations such as "detached 1040X" or "detached taxpayer correspondence" must be made.

  4. The Action Trail is written on Forms 1040/A/EZ in the lower-left margin of page 1. Refer to the Job Aid for an illustration of the editing location.

3.11.3.3.7  (01-01-2010)
Attachments to Return

  1. Examine all attachments to the return. Leave the attachments with the return unless specifically instructed otherwise. Refer to the Attachment Guide in Exhibit 3.11.3–1 for specific attachment-by-attachment instructions. Research either an attachment or a notation on the return, as appropriate.

  2. Immediately take any discovered remittance to the work leader. (Work leader shall refer to IRM 3.8.46, Discovered Remittance and IRM 3.0.273, Administrative Reference Guide).

  3. Take either of the following actions when there is a notation on the return that indicates it needs to be routed elsewhere:

    1. Edit the information on a blank piece of paper.

    2. Photocopy the notation.

  4. Generally, all taxpayer-initiated correspondence must be responded to within 30 days.

    1. Detach and route all correspondence addressing an issue not directly related to the processing of the return.

      Note:

      Examples include, "I didn't receive my refund last year" , or "I need a payment plan" , etc.

    2. Do not detach correspondence attached to an original return which asks a question or raises an issue about the processing of the return or if the correspondence contains only a general comment submitted with a payment.

      Note:

      Examples include, "Here is my payment" , "I will pay you in two months" , or "Apply my refund to the amount that I owe from last year" , etc.

  5. Route to Examination any taxpayer-initiated correspondence related to Earned Income Credit fraud. Use Form 4227 and notate "EIC fraud informant" . Correspondence that must be routed to Examination will state the following:

    1. The taxpayer was unable to file electronically because another taxpayer had already filed and claimed the same qualifying exemption(s), and/or

    2. The name and/or Social Security Number of the other taxpayer involved.

  6. When a taxpayer submits a credit card and/or credit card number, immediately take the return and all attachments to your work leader. The work leader will:

    1. Edit Action Code "460" , sanitize any credit card information on the return and continue processing.

    2. Prepare Form 4287, a photocopy of page one of the return, and route to Receipt & Control with the credit card to be returned to the taxpayer via Express Mail.

    3. Prepare Letter 3956C and send to the taxpayer via 1st Class Mail.

    Note:

    Alert your work leader of the need to notify the taxpayer and the work leader will ensure that the appropriate letter is prepared and sent. DO NOT take returns to your work leader when it can be determined that the number written on the return is the credit card payment confirmation number (not the actual credit card number). The confirmation number will be in the top-left margin of the front page of the return. These returns must be batched as remittance returns so that they will receive the remittance indicator. If the return is received with a credit card confirmation number and No amount is indicated, or the amount does not match the balance due line on the return, batch as "Part Paid" .

3.11.3.3.7.1  (01-01-2010)
Detached Documents

  1. Always leave an Action Trail on the return when an attachment is removed. For example, when a form or letter is detached from a return, notations such as "detached 1040X" or "detached TP correspondence " must be made.

  2. An Action Trail must also be written on the detached document. If present on the return, all of the following must be present or edited on all detached items:

    • Current date if before ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ , otherwise use the received date in "MMDDYY" format.

    • Tax period in "YYMM" format.

    • Form from which detached.

    • Taxpayer's name(s).

    • Primary/secondary taxpayer's identification number(s).

    • Taxpayer's address.

    Note:

    When sending a return back to a taxpayer, do not detach documents. Examples include, but are not limited to Powers of Attorney (POA) and taxpayer inquiries (TPI).

  3. Route detached items using Form 4227.

3.11.3.3.8  (01-01-2010)
Processing Codes

  1. Certain conditions require the editing of processing codes. There are five types of processing codes. They are:

    • Computer Condition Code (CCC)

    • Return Processing Code (RPC)

    • Action Code

    • Audit Code

    • Special Processing Code

  2. Processing codes may be either letters or numbers. Use CAPITAL BLOCK LETTERS when editing codes which are letters. Write the codes legibly.

  3. The edited location of most of these codes varies by return type.

  4. Refer to the Job Aid for an illustration of the editing locations of processing codes.

  5. The conditions for editing processing codes can be found in the line-by-line instructions.

3.11.3.3.8.1  (01-01-2010)
Computer Condition Code (CCC)

  1. A CCC is used to identify a special condition or computation. CCCs post to the Master File.

  2. When CCC "3" is edited, it MUST be first.

  3. Always edit an Action Trail when CCC " Y" is edited.

  4. Edit the CCC (horizontally) in the following location on:

    1. Forms 1040/A—in the upper center portion of the filing status area.

    2. Form 1040EZ—above the dotted line of the PECF area.

  5. Refer to the table in Exhibit 3.11.3–2 for conditions for editing CCCs and an explanation of each CCC action.

3.11.3.3.8.2  (01-01-2010)
Return Processing Code (RPC)

  1. An RPC is used to identify a special condition or computation for the computer. An RPC does not post to the Master File.

  2. Edit the RPC vertically in the margin on:

    1. Form 1040 to the right of line 22

    2. Form 1040A to the right of line 15

    3. Form 1040EZ to the right of line 10

  3. Refer to the table in Exhibit 3.11.3–3 for conditions for editing each RPC and an explanation of each RPC action.

3.11.3.3.8.3  (01-01-2010)
Action Code

  1. An Action Code is used to reject a document and identify the reason for rejection.

  2. It is critical that Action Codes are edited legibly.

  3. Assign only one Action Code to a document. Edit Action Codes in the following priority:

    1. "310"

    2. "4XX"

    3. "6XX"

    4. "2XX"

    5. "3XX"

  4. Continue perfecting returns assigned any Action Code except "6XX" . Edit only the caption area when an Action Code of "6XX" is edited.

  5. Edit the Action Code in the center of the bottom margin on page 1 of Forms 1040/A/EZ.

  6. Refer to the table in Exhibit 3.11.3–4 for an explanation of each Action Code.

3.11.3.3.8.4  (01-01-2010)
Audit Code

  1. Audit Codes identify questionable conditions for Examination.

  2. These codes are edited horizontally in the right-bottom margin of page 1 on Forms 1040/A/EZ.

  3. Refer to the table in Exhibit 3.11.3–5 for the explanation of each Audit Code.

3.11.3.3.9  (01-01-2010)
Unallowable Code

  1. Certain conditions on a tax return are unallowable by law. Search all attachments to find unallowable items.

  2. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Exception:

    The ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  3. Do not edit unallowable codes (UACs) when the only dollar amount is a total of allowable and unallowable items. There must be separate dollar figures for unallowable coding, unless otherwise instructed.

  4. Prepare Form 3471 when coding unallowables. Enter amounts on Form 3471 in dollars only.

  5. Pull unnumbered returns from the block for post-edit review. Leave numbered returns with the block for review. Use local procedures for flagging these returns for review.

  6. The unallowable conditions are described in the specific line-by-line instructions and in the table in Exhibit 3.11.3–6.

3.11.3.3.9.1  (01-01-2010)
Special Processing Code

  1. Special Processing Codes (SPCs) are edited vertically in the right margin between the secondary taxpayer identification number (TIN) and the PECF designation.

  2. Conditions for editing Special Processing Codes are described in the specific line-by-line instructions and in the table in Exhibit 3.11.3-7.

3.11.3.3.9.2  (01-01-2010)
Post-Editing Unallowable Review

  1. Review all returns with edited unallowables.

  2. Review each return closely for additional unallowables or frivolous conditions. Correct any unallowables which have been improperly coded.

3.11.3.3.10  (01-01-2010)
Unprocessable Return

  1. A return is unprocessable when all of the entity data is missing or illegible and the entity cannot be perfected from attachments or through research.

  2. Handle unprocessable returns as follows:

    If the return is Then
    Numbered, 1. Edit Action Code "640" .
    2. Prepare Form 4227 instructing the Reject Unit to void the DLN and dispose of the return.
    Unnumbered, Give the return to your work leader. The work leader will refer to IRM 3.11.3.7.2.3 and IRM 3.0.273, Administrative Reference Guide for instructions on proper disposal.

3.11.3.3.11  (01-01-2010)
Uncomputed Return

  1. An uncomputed return is one filed by a taxpayer expecting the IRS to figure his/her tax. Do not confuse an uncomputed return with a return that has no tax due.

  2. An uncomputed return can be identified as follows:

    1. Form 1040 has no entries on lines 44, 45, 46, 55, 60, 72, 73a, 74 and 75 (See Figure 3.11.3–3).

    2. Form 1040A has no entries on lines 28, 35, 37, 45, 46a, 47 and 48.

    3. Form 1040EZ has no entries on lines 11, 12a, and 13.

  3. An unnumbered, uncomputed return can be sent back to the taxpayer when corresponding.

    Note:

    When the return is with remit, do not mail it back to the taxpayer. Use the correspondence procedures for a return that is not sent back to the taxpayer.

  4. Edit CCC "Y" —and enter an Action Trail—on an uncomputed return when both of the following conditions are present:

    1. Separate income amounts are shown for the husband and wife on a joint return, and

    2. No exemptions are claimed in positions 2 through 7, or an allocation of exemptions is indicated.

      Example:

      The taxpayer notes "My wife has the exemptions for our two children" .

    Figure 3.11.3-3
    This image is too large to be displayed in the current screen. Please click the link to view the image.

    Identifying an uncomputed return: Blank lines 44, 45, 46, 55, 60, 72, 73a, 74 and 75

3.11.3.4  (01-01-2010)
Editing

  1. Editing is done to prepare returns and attachments for transcription and computer processing.

  2. The editing instructions described in more detail in this subsection are about:

    • Types and uses of specific edit markings

    • Dollars and cents editing

3.11.3.4.1  (01-01-2010)
Edit Markings, General

  1. Always use red for edit markings. Perfect taxpayer-entered red marks which might interfere with transcription.

  2. Never alter, erase, or obliterate a taxpayer's entry.

  3. Any reference to "significant entry" or "significant amount" is defined as a positive or negative number/dollar amount other than zero.

3.11.3.4.2  (01-01-2010)
Types of Edit Markings

  1. Different edit conditions require different types of edit markings. Edit markings consist of:

    • Circling

    • Underlining

    • Arrowing

    • "X" -ing

    • Bracketing

    • Checking

3.11.3.4.2.1  (01-01-2010)
Circling

  1. Circle information that is not to be transcribed when editing:

    • Entity data (except date of death)

    • Received dates

    • Filing status boxes

    • Other cases described in the line-by-line instructions

      Note:

      NEVER circle dollar amounts.

3.11.3.4.2.2  (01-01-2010)
Underlining

  1. Underline when editing:

    • The additional information line and other caption data

    • Prior year return tax periods

    • Other cases specified in this manual

3.11.3.4.2.3  (01-01-2010)
Arrowing

  1. Use arrowing when indicating:

    • The correct T–line for a misplaced entry

    • Transcription is to continue (where indicated in line by line instructions)

    Note:

    A double-ended arrow or "underline with arrow" may be used to edit a dollar amount to multiple T-lines.

3.11.3.4.2.4  (01-01-2010)
"X" –ing

  1. An "X" may be used to delete an entry or an entire form or schedule.

    1. Place an "X" to the left of an amount on a T–line when it is not to be transcribed.

    2. "X" an illegible amount and re-enter the information above or to the left of the "X " –ed entry. Be careful to enter the amount where it will not be mistaken for an entry on another T–line.

    3. Edit an "X" across the form or schedule if it must be deleted.

    4. "X" a transcribed schedule or form when it is blank or has no significant T–line entry, unless specifically instructed otherwise.

      Note:

      Move documents which are not transcribed forms or schedules behind the last transcribed page if not deleted.

    5. "X" any transcribed schedule or form with "Alt–Min Tax" , "AMT" , or "AMT–CR" across the top.

    Exception:

    Do not delete Form 6251, Alternative Minimum Tax—Individuals.

3.11.3.4.2.5  (01-01-2010)
Bracketing

  1. Use the bracket to indicate:

    • A negative dollar amount when determining a T-COMPUTE line amount.

      Note:

      Bracketing (as it relates to dollar amounts) is ONLY necessary when the tax examiner is computing the line. Existing negative amounts on a return do NOT require bracketing.

3.11.3.4.2.6  (01-01-2010)
Checking

  1. Use the check mark as directed in line-by-line instructions to indicate information that needs to be picked up by data transcribers.

3.11.3.4.3  (01-01-2010)
Dollars and Cents Editing

  1. Allow taxpayers to round or truncate (i.e., "drop the cents" ) amounts. Use only dollar amounts when computing amounts on forms or schedules.

    Exception:

    Use dollars and cents when computing withholding and excess social security tax.

  2. Draw a vertical line between the dollars and cents figures when dollars or cents are in the wrong column:

    1. On each line that is to be transcribed, or

    2. Down the entire front of the form or schedule.

  3. Dollars and cents editing is required on certain T–lines for any of the following conditions:

    1. A substitute form is used with dollars and cents not clearly separated by a decimal point or slash.

      Exception:

      Do not draw a vertical line to separate dollars and cents when only dollar amounts are present on a dollars and cents T–line.

    2. An entry is illegible.

    3. Other editing requires a change to the taxpayer's entries.

  4. Edit all forms and schedules in dollars only, WITH THE FOLLOWING EXCEPTIONS:

    • Forms 1040—Lines 60 through 76

    • Form 1040A—Lines 37 through 49

    • Form 1040EZ—All lines

3.11.3.5  (01-01-2010)
Received Dates

  1. The received date is the date that a return was received by the IRS.

  2. Information and instructions about received dates included in this subsection of the manual include:

    • General instructions

    • Timely received dates

    • Determining the received date

    • ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    • Late-filed returns

    • Extensions

    • Reasonable cause criteria

3.11.3.5.1  (01-01-2010)
Received Dates, General Instructions

  1. A received date is always required when the return is:

    • Amended

    • ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    • For a fiscal year, prior year, or short year

    • Early-filed for a decedent (filed before the close of the current year)

    • Processed after June 3, or the Julian date in the DLN is 155 or later

    • International returns transshipped to and from other processing campuses

    Exception:

    See IRM 3.11.3.5.5(3) Exception Note.

  2. Circle a received date when it is present on a return that does not need one. (See Figure 3.11.3-4).

    Reminder:

    Circle all but the earliest valid received dates (including Statute and Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) received dates) when there are multiple received dates present and a received date is required. (See IRM 3.11.3.5.2.1(2).

    Exception:

    Austin Submission Processing Center (AUSPC) will refer to IRM 3.21.3 for received date editing and deletion procedures specific to international returns transshipped from other processing centers.

  3. Enter the received date in "MMDDYY" format when it is required but not already present. MMDDYY format is Month Month Day Day Year Year. For example, April 23, 2010, when edited in MMDDYY format is "042310" .

  4. Edit the received date on the front of the return in the following locations:

    1. Form 1040 to the right of line 6d

    2. Form 1040A to the right of line 6d

    3. Form 1040EZ to the left of line 6

    Note:

    If a return contains a valid received date on any page other than the front of the return or in the caption area, circle the received date and edit the same received date as instructed above.

  5. Perfect the received date when it is required and not legible and in complete MMDDYY format.

    Figure 3.11.3-4
    This image has been removed because it contains Official Use Only.
    Please click here for the text description of the image.

    This image has been removed because it contains Official Use Only.

3.11.3.5.2  (01-01-2010)
Determining the Received Date

  1. Determine the received date in the following priority when it is required and there is no valid date stamp (e.g., TAS date stamp) or handwritten received date:

    1. Latest postmark on the envelope or latest date from a private delivery service mark. (See Figure 3.11.3–5a.)

      Note:

      When the envelope, label, or certified mail receipt is not attached, use the postmark date stamped or handwritten on the return to determine the received date.

    2. Service Center Automated Mail Processing System (SCAMPS) digital dates.

    3. Latest date by the taxpayer's signature(s). (See Figure 3.11.3–5b.)

      Exception:

      Use the signature date on prior year returns only when it is signed this year. DO NOT use the signature date to determine the received date for replies to correspondence.

    4. Julian date minus 10 days in the DLN.

    5. Today's date minus 10 days.

    Exception:

    See the instructions in IRM 3.11.3.7.2.14 when determining the received date for a reinput return.

    Figure 3.11.3-5

    Graphic is titled,   
 "Editing a Received Date"
    Please click here for the text description of the image.

    Graphic is titled, "Editing a Received Date"

3.11.3.5.2.1  (01-01-2010)
Types of Received Dates

  1. Accept these three types of received dates:

    • IRS campus date stamp

    • IRS area/territory office date stamp

    • Valid handwritten received date

  2. To be valid, the handwritten received date must include both of the following:

    1. The word "Received" or any abbreviations of the word received and a date.

    2. A signature with an abbreviated title such as "RO" , "RA" , "RR" , "OCR" , "TSR" , or "TSSP" on the front page of the return.

    Exception:

    A handwritten received date edited in the line 6d area, Form 1040/A (Line 6 on Form 1040EZ) by an IRS employee in Submission Processing is valid.

  3. When there is no valid date stamp and the handwritten received date is not valid, determine the received date using the instructions in IRM 3.11.3.5.2.

3.11.3.5.2.2  (01-01-2010)
Post Office Marks

  1. Accept all valid post office marks whether United States Postal Service (USPS), foreign country postmarks, or USPS private meter marks.

  2. Valid Post Office marks are:

    • Postage Validation Imprinter (PVI) labels displaying the USPS eagle

    • Killer bar strips or other cancellation marks with a date, city, and state

    • USPS Metered postmarks

    • Private Metered Marks (identified by the absence of "USPS " in the postmark).

  3. Use the following chart to determine the correct editing when only a private meter postmark is present.

    If the document is Then
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

3.11.3.5.2.3  (01-01-2010)
Private Delivery Service (PDS) Marks

  1. A private delivery service (PDS) is a business which delivers mail or packages within an agreed upon schedule (e.g. overnight or same day delivery). The "timely mailing as timely filing" rule now applies to some PDSs. When the rule applies to a PDS, it is referred to as a "designated" PDS.

  2. Do not use marks from a non-designated PDS to determine whether a return is timely filed. The "timely mailing as timely filing" rule applies only to the USPS and to designated PDSs.

  3. Accept all designated PDS marks. The only designated delivery services are listed below:

    1. DHL Express (DHL)
      • DHL Same Day Service
      • DHL Next Day 10:30 am
      • DHL Next Day 12:00 pm
      • DHL Next Day 3:00 pm
      • DHL 2nd Day Service

    2. United Parcel Service (UPS)
      • UPS Next Day Air
      • UPS Next Day Air Saver
      • UPS Second Day Air
      • UPS Second Day Air A.M.
      • UPS Worldwide Express
      • UPS Worldwide Express Plus

    3. Federal Express (FedEx)
      • Fed Ex Priority Overnight
      • Fed Ex Standard Overnight
      • Fed Ex Two Day
      • Fed Ex International Priority
      • Fed Ex International First

      Note:

      Do not use "FedEx Powership 3" labels for determining the mail date. (See Figure 3.11.3-6.)

  4. Use the instructions in IRM 3.11.3.5.2 for determining the date a return was received whether the mail marks are from a designated or non-designated PDS.

    Figure 3.11.3-6

    This image is too large to be displayed in the current screen. Please click the link to view the image.

    Identifying Elements on a FEDEX Label.

3.11.3.5.3  (01-01-2010)
Timely-Filed Returns

  1. For 2010, a current-year return is a return filed for tax year 2009. A current calendar-year return (0912) is considered to be timely filed when it is mailed on or before the due date of April 15, 2010.

  2. Any return—other than a current calendar-year timely-filed return—always requires a received date.

  3. Generally, a current calendar-year (0912) return received on or before April 15, 2010, does not require a received date.

  4. For current calendar-year (0912) other than full paid returns, received on or before April 15, 2010:

    If the document is Then
    Unnumbered and being processed before June 4, 2010, Circle the received date when present.

    Exception:

    NEVER circle a received date that has been edited in green ink.

    Numbered with a Julian date of 154 or earlier in the DLN, Circle the received date when present.

    Exception:

    NEVER circle a received date that has been edited in green ink.

    Unnumbered and being processed on June 4, 2010, or later, Edit "041510" as the received date if one is not present.
    Numbered with a Julian date of 155 or later in the DLN, Edit "041510" as the received date if one is not present.

3.11.3.5.4  ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
"≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "

  1. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  2. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  3. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  4. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  5. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Exception:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Exception:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡

    ≡ ≡ ≡

    Exception:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

3.11.3.5.5  (01-01-2010)
Late-Filed Returns

  1. A return is delinquent when it is filed after the due date without an approved extension.

  2. ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    1. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    2. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  3. When the received date on a current calendar-year (0912) return ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " or later), examine the envelope and:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡   ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Exception:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    "≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Note:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Exception:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    "≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Note:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Exception:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  4. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

3.11.3.5.6  (01-01-2010)
Extensions

  1. Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, may be filed to extend the due date for filing an individual tax return until October 15, 2010.

  2. Extension forms are not required to be attached to the return when filed.

  3. Take one of the following actions when an original Form 4868 is attached to a return:

    If the Form 4868 is Then
    Not for the Form 1040/A/EZ to which it is attached (e.g., another tax period, another taxpayer), Detach the form and route it to Receipt and Control.
    For the Form 1040/A/EZ to which it is attached, Leave the form attached to the return.

  4. Edit CCC "R" when the taxpayer has a Form 4868 or Form 6401 attached to the return and an ITIN or IRSN is present in the primary SSN field. Both Individual Tax Identification Numbers (ITINs) and Internal Revenue Service Numbers (IRSNs) begin with the digit, "9" .

    Note:

    Delete CCC "N" if it has been edited. CCC "N" is only valid on returns as outlined at IRM 3.11.3.5.7(3).

  5. Examine the envelope postmark date. If the received date is "≡ ≡ ≡ " or later, and the postmark date or designated PDS mark date is on or before October 15, 2010, edit the postmark date as the received date.

    Exception:

    Edit a timely received date on the return when the taxpayer explains that the return is late due to the rejection of a timely-filed electronic return. Postmark date must be within 10 calendar days of notification from the Service that the electronic portion of the return has been rejected or cannot be accepted for processing. (Rev. Proc. 2009-40 and Publication 1345).

  6. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    Note:

    Use the instructions in IRM 3.11.3.3.5.1 to prepare Form 3471 when returns are received from Examination or Collection with penalty and interest amounts entered. These amounts will usually be present on Form 4364, Delinquency Computations. Use the instructions in IRM 3.11.3.14.8.5 when penalty and interest amounts are entered by the taxpayer.

3.11.3.5.7  (01-01-2010)
Reasonable Cause

  1. Taxpayers are liable for delinquency penalties and interest on the unpaid taxes on returns received after the due date. However, penalties for late filing, or late payment, may be excused when the taxpayer has a reasonable cause for the delay. See Exhibit 3.11.3–8 for examples of reasonable cause.

    Note:

    Reasonable cause does not excuse penalties for failure to make estimated (ES tax) payments properly UNLESS the taxpayer became 62 years old during the year or became disabled during the preceding year. See Exhibit 3.11.3-8.

  2. Failure to make estimated (ES tax) payments can not be waived due to reasonable cause. See IRM 3.11.3.14.8.5 for waivers of the estimated tax penalty.

  3. Edit CCC "N" when the taxpayer is qualified for an automatic two-month extension. A taxpayer qualifies for this special extension if—on the date his/her return is due—the taxpayer meets any of the following criteria:

    • Indication the taxpayer lives outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico and main place of work is outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico

    • Indication the taxpayer is on military or naval duty outside of the U.S. and Puerto Rico

    • Indication of taxpayer "abroad" or " overseas" .

    • APO/FPO/DPO address.

    Note:

    ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ " ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

  4. When the taxpayer's reasonable cause statement is not acceptable:

    1. Edit CCC "7" .

    2. Correspond using Letter 854C (Penalty Waiver or Abatement Disallowed/Appeals Procedure Explained).

    Note:

    See the correspondence instructions in IRM 3.11.3.6.

  5. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

    If the reasonable cause is for Then
    Late filing, Edit CCC "R" , unless CCC "N" has been edited.
    Late payment or a "Section 6020(b)" notation is present, Edit CCC "M" .

3.11.3.6  (01-01-2010)
Correspondence

  1. Correspondence is necessary when a return is so incomplete or illegible that it cannot be processed.

  2. The correspondence instructions in this subsection of the manual are:

    • General correspondence information and procedures

    • Sending incomplete returns back to the taxpayer

    • Correspondence action sheets

    • General response procedures

    • No reply and reply to correspondence

3.11.3.6.1  (01-01-2010)
General Correspondence Information

  1. Correspondence conditions are listed in the Correspondence Action Chart (See Figure 3.11.3–14.) All correspondence conditions are also included in the line-by-line instructions.

  2. All missing required information must be requested when corresponding. DO NOT CORRESPOND WITH A TAXPAYER MORE THAN ONE TIME.

    Note:

    WHEN THE FIRST CORRESPONDENCE CONDITION IS IDENTIFIED, CORRESPOND FOR ALL MISSING REQUIRED FORMS AND/OR SCHEDULES REGARDLESS OF CORRESPONDENCE TOLERANCES (with the exception of Forms 1116, 8812, 2106, 8283 and Schedule EIC ) IDENTIFIED IN THE LINE-BY-LINE IRM INSTRUCTIONS.

  3. When using Form 6001 to generate Letter 12C, ALWAYS select paragraph (e) regarding electronic filing when the return is:

    • A current year return, and

    • There is no indication of electronic filing.

    Exception:

    NEVER select paragraph (e) when:
    • Corresponding on a decedent's return.
    • There is an indication the taxpayer has filed Form W-7 as an attachment to their return. (This includes notations on the return such as "Form W-7 detached" , or similar statement.)
    • Corresponding on a fiscal year return.
    • The address is a U.S. possession.
    • The return meets the criteria for International Return.

  4. DO NOT correspond when information is missing and any of the following conditions apply:

    • "Substitute for Return Prepared by IRS" is noted on the return, or the return has been "dummied" .

    • "Section 6020(b)" or "prompt assessment" is written on the return.

    • The return has a notation that it is "corrected" , "revised" , "tentative" , " amended" , or "superseding" . Also see the amended return instructions in IRM 3.11.3.7.2.1 for additional instructions.

    • An Examination case is indicated. See the instructions in IRM 3.11.3.7.1.2 for additional instructions and a list of the attachments and notations by which an Examination case may be identified.

    • The taxpayer has written "For payment only" , or included a similar statement on the return.

    • International Returns (Except AUSPC)

    • A "Hardship" case is indicated. See IRM 3.11.3.7.1.5.

    • There is an indication the return has been prepared (dummied) by Accounts Management. See IRM 3.11.3.7.2.1(2).

  5. With the exception of returns coming from Collection and CIS, send an unnumbered return to the originating area indicating what information is required.

  6. Do not correspond for missing forms or schedules to support a credit or exemption claimed for a dependent when both of the following conditions apply:

    • The return was received with Form W-7 attached.

    • The ITIN application was rejected for the person who would have entitled the taxpayer to the credit and/or exemption.

      Note:

      Do not correspond for Form 8812, divorce decree, Form 8332, or Form 2120 when qualifying dependent(s) for the additional child tax credit had the ITIN application(s) rejected.


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