3.21.25 Miscellaneous Tax Returns

Manual Transmittal

November 14, 2023

Purpose

(1) This transmits revised IRM 3.21.25, International Returns and Document Analysis - Miscellaneous Tax Returns.

Material Changes

(1) IRM 3.21.25.4.1(2) - Updated TAS Service Level Agreements links. (IPU 23U0818 issued 07-12-2023)

(2) IRM 3.21.25.5 - Corrected subsection title form "Identification" to "Identity" . (IPU 23U0818 issued 07-12-2023)

(3) IRM 3.21.25.8(3) - Added references related taxpayer authentication in this subsection to improve visibility. (IPU 23U0719 issued 06-12-2023)

(4) IRM 3.21.25.9.1(1) - Updated Correspondence Imaging System to Correspondence Imaging Inventory (CII). (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(5) IRM 3.21.25.9.1(1) - Added note with system name change from CIS to CII.

(6) IRM 3.21.25.10(5) - Updated Correspondence Imaging System to Correspondence Imaging Inventory (CII). (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(7) IRM 3.21.25.11(5) - Added reminder with references for proper taxpayer authentication. (IPU 23U0719 issued 06-12-2023)

(8) IRM 3.21.25.12(3)4 - Added caution statement on read only access to the system for organizations outside of Wage and Investment.

(9) IRM 3.21.25.12(3)5 - Corrected Special Instructions field to Comments field.

(10) IRM 3.21.25.15(2) - Added new paragraph as reminder with references for proper taxpayer authentication. (IPU 23U0719 issued 06-12-2023)

(11) IRM 3.21.25.15(3) - Corrected paragraph numbers. (IPU 23U0251 issued 02-08-2023)

(12) IRM 3.21.25.15(4) - Added procedure for classifying waste Form 8288-A (copy B).

(13) IRM 3.21.25.15(4) 3 - Added instructions on what to do with Forms 8288-A (copy B) that are not sent to the seller. (IPU 23U0794 issued 07-03-2023)

(14) IRM 3.21.25.15(5) - Added instruction for requesting missing information.

(15) IRM 3.21.25.15.1(1)c - Removed instruction to file Letter 3794 by date order.

(16) IRM 3.21.25.15.1(3) - Added reminder with references for proper taxpayer authentication. (IPU 23U0719 issued 06-12-2023)

(17) IRM 3.21.25.15.2(1) - Added instruction to prepare Form 4227 to send duplicate forms to Files.

(18) IRM 3.21.25.15.2.1(5) - Added instructions for new Withholding Type field. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(19) IRM 3.21.25.15.2.2(3) - Added instructions for new Withholding Type field. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(20) IRM 3.21.25.15.3(4) - Removed incorrect information on withholding certificates. (IPU 23U0251 issued 02-08-2023)

(21) IRM 3.21.25.15.3(6) - Added clarification when the country code cannot be determined. (IPU 23U0251 issued 02-08-2023)

(22) IRM 3.21.25.15.3(7) - Corrected date of transfer editing procedures. (IPU 23U0251 issued 02-08-2023)

(23) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.1(3) - Added withholding certificate field instructions. (IPU 23U0251 issued 02-08-2023)

(24) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.1(8) - Added special characters for W/H Agent Name field.

(25) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.1(9) - Added special characters for Real Property Description field.

(26) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.2(2) - Added instructions for new Withholding Type field. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(27) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.2(5-7) - Added special characters for various fields.

(28) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.2(7-9) - Added special characters for various fields and reminder to input address as it appears on Form 8288-A.

(29) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.2(10) - Added special characters for City field.

(30) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.2(13) - Removed outdated instructions for Country Code field.

(31) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.3(1) - Added instructions for credit verification process. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(32) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.3(2) - Added instructions for including missing information and new Withholding Type field. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(33) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.3(2)h)1) - Corrected tax period format.

(34) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.3(2)h)2) - Added special character information.

(35) IRM 3.21.25.15.4.3.1(1) - Corrected outdated instructions for querying the system.

(36) IRM 3.21.25.16(1) - Added clarification on who fills out Part IV of Form 8288. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(37) IRM 3.21.25.16(2) - Added clarification on instructions handling multiple Forms 8288-C attached to Form 8288. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(38) IRM 3.21.25.16(3) (10) - Added instructions for when to select the tax paid button. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(39) IRM 3.21.25.16(3) (1-12) - Clarified which Form 8288-C fields match fields on Form 8288. (IPU 23U0629 issued 05-12-2023)

(40) IRM 3.21.25.16(4) - Added new paragraph as reminder with references for proper taxpayer authentication. (IPU 23U0719 issued 06-12-2023)

(41) IRM 3.21.25.16(3)(10) - Added caution statement on selecting the tax paid button when processing Form 8288-C. (IPU 23U0251 issued 02-08-2023)

(42) IRM 3.21.25.16(5) - Added instructions for scenario when withholding agent and buyer are the same on Form 8288-C. (IPU 23U0794 issued 07-03-2023)

(43) IRM 3.21.25.16(6) - Added instructions for scenario when Partnership/Withholding Agent on Form 8288-C and Form 8288 are not the same. (IPU 23U0794 issued 07-03-2023)

(44) IRM 3.21.25.16.1(1) - Added note to clarify some multiple Form 8288-C filings are not duplicates. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(45) IRM 3.21.25.16.1(3) - Removed non-Master File and non-filer DLN requirement, added description of amount, withheld field, added caution for checkboxes generally only checked by Accounts Management and removed various fields that are not part of the system user screens. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(46) IRM 3.21.25.16.1(6) - Added note on adding a new Form 8288-C record that should not be used at this time. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(47) IRM 3.21.25.16.2(1) - Corrected outdated instructions for querying the system and removed caution statement as it does not apply to Form 8288-C processing.

(48) IRM 3.21.25.16.2(1) (10) - Added instructions for the new Withholding Type field. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(49) IRM 3.21.25.17(2-3) - Added requirement to document the credit verification by updating the New Remarks field.

(50) IRM 3.21.25.17(6) 3 - Added reminder to update the Withholding Type field in the database on older Form 8288-A returns. (IPU 23U0794 issued 07-03-2023)

(51) IRM 3.21.25.17.2(9) - Added instructions to add foreign seller information to the non-filer record. (IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023)

(52) IRM 3.21.25.19.2(1) - Corrected outdated instructions for querying the system.

(53) IRM 3.21.25.19.3(1) - Corrected outdated instructions for querying the system.

(54) IRM 3.21.25.20.3(1) - Added new filing status for estate or trust and personal exemption information for Form 1040-NR.

(55) IRM 3.21.25.20.6(1) - Updated tax computation instructions for Form 1040-NR

(56) Revised the Internal Revenue Manual (IRM), where necessary for the following types of editorial changes:

  • Spelling, grammar, punctuation and formatting;

  • Plain language and editorial updates to improve readability;

  • Updated tax periods to reflect the current processing year;

  • Reorganized IRM subsections and titles for clarity and to comply with Plain Language guidelines per the BMF consistency file.

Effect on Other Documents

IRM 3.21.25, dated November 15, 2022 (effective January 1, 2023), is superseded. The following IRM Procedural Updates (IPU) are incorporated into this IRM: IPU 23U0026 issued 01-03-2023, IPU 23U0251 issued 02-08-2023, IPU 23U0629 issued 05-12-2023, IPU 23U0719 issued 06-12-2023, IPU 23U0794 issued 07-03-2023, and IPU 23U0818 issued 07-11-2023.

Audience

Wage and Investment, Submission Processing employees Austin Submission Processing Center (AUSPC), Kansas City Submission Processing Center (KCSPC), and Ogden Submission Processing Center (OSPC)

Effective Date

(01-01-2024)

James L. Fish
Director, Submission Processing
Wage and Investment Division

Program Scope and Objectives

  1. Purpose: This IRM contains instructions for processing Form 8288-A, Statement of Withholding on Certain Dispositions by Foreign Persons, Form 8288-C, Statement Of Withholding Under Section 1446(f)(4) on Dispositions by Foreign Persons of Partnership Interests, and Form 8805, Foreign Partner’s Information Statement of Section 1446 Withholding Tax to the International Web Applications (INTLWebApps). It also includes instructions for processing Forms 1040-NR, U.S. Nonresident Alien Income Tax Return (Estate or Trust) to the Non-Master File (NMF).

  2. Audience: Ogden Submission Processing Tax Examiners with the responsibility for reviewing, editing and transcribing Form 8288-A, Form 8288-C, and Form 8805 into the INTLWebApps system and reviewing and editing Form 1040-NR. In addition, Austin Submission Processing Center uses this IRM to credit verify Form 8288-A.

  3. Policy Owner: The Director Submission Processing is responsible for the policies in this IRM.

  4. Program Owner: The Code & Edit/ERS IMF Section of the Paper Processing Branch of Submission Processing is responsible for the procedures and updates related to this IRM.

  5. Primary Stakeholders: Submission Processing (SP) and Large Business and International (LB&I).

  6. Program Goals: Ensure all necessary action is taken on return and attachments to ensure correct input and posting of the return data.

Background

  1. This IRM contains processing instructions for use at the Ogden Submission Processing Center (OSPC). In addition, Austin Submission Processing Center (AUSPC) uses this IRM to credit verify Form 8288-A, Statement of Withholding on Certain Dispositions by Foreign Persons. The work is processed to the International Web Applications(INTLWebApps). The application performs processing, storage and retrieval of:

    • Form 8288-A, Statement of Withholding on Certain Dispositions by Foreign Persons

    • Form 8288-B, Application for Withholding Certificate for Dispositions by Foreign Persons of U.S. Real Property Interests

    • Form 8288-C, Statement of Withholding Under Section 1446(f)(4) on Dispositions by Foreign Persons of Partnership Interests

    • Form 8233, Exemption from Withholding on Compensation for Independent (& Certain Dependent) Personal Service of a Nonresident Alien Individual

    • Form 8805, Foreign Partners Information Statement of Section 1446 Withholding Tax

  2. INTLWebApps is an Oracle application that houses three database applications:

    • Foreign Investment Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA), Form 8288-A, Form 8288-B, and Form 8288-C

    • Project 1446, Form 8805

    • Form 8233

    The databases are used by Submission Processing (Form 8288-A, 8288-C and Form 8805) and Accounts Management (Form 8288-B and Form 8233) to process International returns filed by foreign persons or entities that sell U.S. Real Property Interests (USRPI) in this country, invest in a domestic partnership in the United States, and claim Tax Treaty Benefits, or foreign persons or entities that dispose of an interest in certain partnerships. The application also initiates correspondence to taxpayers who file Form 8288-A and Form 8288-C.

  3. All Business Master File (BMF) International returns received at IRS offices (Campuses, Field Offices, etc.) other than OSPC must be transshipped to OSPC, except for Non-Master File (NMF) Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust, Form 8288 (Date of Transfer (DOT) prior to 12/13/05), and Form 8804 (tax period 200411 and Prior), which must be transshipped to Kansas City Submission Processing Center (KCSPC) for processing. The following is done prior to transhipping:

    1. The document is date stamped

    2. Any payment associated with the return is deposited

    3. Returns are expeditiously transshipped to the OSPC (or KCSPC if correct)

  4. In general, a copy of Form 8288-A stamped by the IRS must be attached to the transferor (seller's) return to establish the amount withheld under IRC 1445(a) and 1446(f) which is available as a credit. The seller will not receive a stamped copy of Form 8288-A from the IRS in situations where the tax was withheld but the transferee (buyer) did not pay over the amount withheld to the IRS. Nonetheless, the seller can establish the amount of tax withheld by the buyer by attaching substantial evidence to the tax return (e.g., closing documents for IRC 1445(a) or partnership interest purchase agreement for IRC 1446(f)(1)) of the amount of tax withheld.

  5. The following program codes are used to record the time spent processing Form 8288-A, Form 8288-C, and Form 8805.

    • Credit verification of Forms 8288-A use Program 11331 (OSPC) and Program 11330 (AUSPC).

    • Recording Form 8288-A in the INTLWebApps application use Program 71750 (OSPC Only).

    • Recording Form 8288-C in the INTLWebApps application use Program 71750 (OSPC Only).

    • Recording Form 8805 in the INTLWebApps application use Program 71770 (OSPC Only).

    Note:

    Consult local management to ensure use of the correct code.

  6. New IRC 1446(f) was added by section 13501 of “An Act to provide for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018,” P.L. 115-97 (the “Act”), which was enacted on December 22, 2017. Section 13501 of the Act also added new section 864(c)(8). In general, on the sale of a partnership interest by a nonresident alien or foreign corporation, section 864(c)(8) treats the gain or loss attributable to the part of a partnership assets used in its U.S. trade or business as effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business within the United States. In general, IRC 1446(f) provides rules related to the withholding of tax and information reporting with respect to certain dispositions of interests in partnerships engaged in the conduct of a trade or business within the United States. Except as otherwise provided under forms, instructions, or other guidance, a transferee required to withhold under IRC 1446(f)(1) generally must use the same forms as those prescribed under IRC 1445 for purposes of reporting and paying over the tax. The forms include Form 8288, U.S. Withholding Tax Return for Disposition by Foreign Persons of U.S. Real Property Interests, and Form 8288-A, Statement of Withholding on Certain Dispositions by Foreign Persons.

    Note:

    To identify these types of returns on prior year Forms 8288-A, the transferee will include the statement Section 1446(f)(1) withholding (or something similar) at the top of both Form 8288 and Form 8288-A.

Authority

  1. Internal Revenue Code (IRC) 1445 regulations provide the authority for withholding of tax on dispositions of certain U.S. Real Property Interests (USRPI) by a foreign seller and taxation of nonresident alien individuals and foreign corporations on sales or other dispositions of U.S. real property interests.

  2. IRC 1446 regulations provide the authority for withholding tax on foreign partners’ share of effectively connected taxable income.

  3. IRC 1446(f) was added by section 13501 of the Act, which also added section 864(c)(8). IRC 1446(f) provides authority for withholding of tax on certain dispositions of interests in partnerships engaged in a trade or business within the United States. On April 2, 2018, the Department of the Treasury and the IRS released Notice 2018-29, 2018-16 I.R.B. 495, which provided temporary guidance under IRC 1446(f) and announces an intent to issue regulations under IRC 1446(f). On May 14, 2019, the Department of the Treasury and the IRS issued proposed regulations under IRC 1446(f) (84 FR 21198). And, on November 30, 2020, the Department of the Treasury and the IRS issued final regulations under IRC 1446(f) (85 FR 76910).

  4. Policy Statements for Submission Processing are contained in IRM 1.2.12, Servicewide Policies and Authorities, Policy Statements for Submission Processing Activities.

Roles and Responsibilities

  1. The Director of Submission Processing (Wage and Investment), is responsible for monitoring operational performance for the Submission Processing campus.

  2. The Operations Manager is responsible for monitoring operational performance for their operation.

  3. The team manager/lead is responsible for performance monitoring and ensuring employees have the tools to perform their duties.

  4. The team employees must follow the instructions contained in this IRM and maintaining updated IRM procedures.

Program Management and Review

  1. Program Reports: The Monitoring Section under Submission Processing Program Management/Process Assurance monitors the Code & Edit reports.

  2. Program Effectiveness: The program goals are measured by the following reviews:

    • Embedded Quality Submission Processing (EQSP)

    • Balanced Measures

    • Managerial Reviews

    • Periodic Process Reviews of International Web Application (INTLWebApps) FIRPTA data performed by the Code & Edit/ERS IMF Section of the Paper Processing Branch of Submission Processing, Improvement Specialists and Processing and Analysis (P&A) analysts.

  3. Annual Review: This IRM is updated and published annually after review by affected offices according to the clearance process established in IRM 1.11.9, Internal Management Documents, Clearing and Approving Internal Management Documents (IMDs).

Program Controls

  1. Quality Review is conducted following Embedded Quality Submission Processing (EQSP) procedures in IRM 3.30.30. The EQSP system provides a method to monitor, measure, and improve the quality of the work throughout Submission Processing. Review data is used to identify trends, problem areas, training needs, and opportunities for improvement. A statistical valid sample size of returns are pulled weekly and input into the EQSP system for review and to ensure IRM guidelines are followed.

  2. International Web Applications (INTLWebApps) overall functionality is tested regularly to ensure data values and information received and stored is valid.

Terms and Acronyms

  1. A list of terms and acronyms are listed in the glossary. See Exhibit 3.21.25-5.

Related Resources

  1. The following related resources are also used by Submission Processing to process Form 8805 and Form 8288-A and 8288-C documents:

    • Foreign Investment Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) NSA Data Base, Training 19801-001, Catalog Number 50568X.

    • IRM 3.21.261, International Returns and Document Analysis - Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA), for more information.

    • IRM 3.21.15, International Returns and Document Analysis - Foreign Partnership Withholding, for additional information.

    • Document 7475, State and Address Abbreviations, Major City Codes (MCCs), ZIP Codes and Countries, for more information.

♦IRM Deviation Procedures♦

  1. Submit IRM deviations in writing following instructions from IRM 1.11.2.2.4, When Procedures Deviate from the IRM, and elevate through proper channels for executive approval.

♦Business Master File (BMF) Consistency♦

  1. The purpose of this initiative is to achieve consistency in the Business Master File (BMF) Code and Edit (C&E) processing IRMs.

  2. Ogden, Kansas City, and Paper Processing Branch, BMF Code and Edit and Error Resolution System (ERS) identified and developed topics for BMF Consistency.

  3. A ♦ (diamond) before and after the subsection title shows BMF Consistency subsections.

  4. Text in normal print is the common process for BMF returns. The text in BOLD print is form specific and applies to this IRM only.

♦Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS)♦

  1. The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), led by the National Taxpayer Advocate. Its job is to protect taxpayers’ rights by striving to ensure that every taxpayer is treated fairly and knows and understands their rights under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TBOR). TAS offers free help to taxpayers, including when taxpayers face financial difficulties due to an IRS problem, when they are unable to resolve tax problems they haven’t been able to resolve on their own, or when they need assistance to address an IRS system, process, or procedure that is not functioning as it should. TAS has at least one taxpayer advocate office located in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

  2. TAS uses Form 12412, Operations Assistance Request (OAR), to start the OAR process of referring a case to the Wage and Investment (W&I) Division, to affect the resolution of the taxpayer’s problem. For more information, refer to IRM 13.1.19, Taxpayer Advocate Service, Taxpayer Advocate Case Procedures, Advocating With Operations Assistance Requests (OARs).

  3. Refer taxpayers to the TAS when the contact meets TAS criteria or when Form 911, Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance (and Application for Taxpayer Assistance Order), is attached and steps can’t be taken to resolve the taxpayer's issue the same day.

  4. The definition of "same day resolution" is within 24 hours. The following two situations meet the definition of "same day resolution" :

    • The issue can be resolved within 24 hours.

    • IRS takes steps within 24 hours to resolve the taxpayer’s issue.

  5. When making a TAS referral, use Form 911, and forward to TAS following your local procedures.

  6. See IRM 13.1.7, Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) Case Criteria, for more information.

♦TAS Service Level Agreements (SLAs)♦

  1. The National Taxpayer Advocate has reached agreements with the Commissioners of the Wage and Investment (W&I) Division, Small Business/Self-Employed (SB/SE) Division, Tax Exempt Government Entities (TEGE) Division, Criminal Investigation (CI), Appeals, and Large Business and International (LB&I) that outline the procedures and responsibilities for the processing of Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) casework when either the statutory or delegated authority to complete case transactions rests outside of TAS. These agreements are known as Service Level Agreements (SLAs).

  2. The SLAs are located at https://irsgov.sharepoint.com/sites/TAS/SitePages/SLA.aspx.

♦Business Master File (BMF) Identity (ID) Theft♦

  1. BMF Identification (ID) Theft is increasing. If a case is found with attachments or correspondence showing the taxpayer is a victim of "ID Theft" , give the entire case to the manager/lead.

  2. The manager/lead will expedite the case to the Planning and Analysis (P&A) staff for referral to one of the Submission Processing (SP) BMF ID Theft liaisons. The taxpayer must show that they are a victim of "ID Theft" ; do not send cases that are subject to Criminal Investigation (CI), Examination (Exam), or Fraud review.

♦Use of FAX for Taxpayer Submissions♦

  1. Taxpayers may send tax return information via fax as part of return perfection even when submitting a signature. In circumstances where contact with the taxpayer has been made and documented, faxed signatures are acceptable.

  2. Contact the taxpayer by telephone or correspondence. Follow local procedures to decide which method of contact to use.

  3. Indicate the fax paragraph on the approved Correspondence Action Sheet to inform the taxpayer of the fax option.

  4. Use the following resources to make sure you are speaking with the taxpayer or authorized representative before disclosing any tax information:

    • IRM 21.1.3.2.3, Required Taxpayer Authentication

    • IRM 21.1.3.2.4, Additional Taxpayer Authentication

  5. Before leaving any messages on a taxpayer's answering machine, review:

    • IRM 10.5.1.6.7.2, Answering Machine or Voicemail

    • IRM 10.8.1, Information Technology (IT) Security, Policy and Guidance.

♦IRS Employee Contacts♦

  1. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998 (RRA 98) Section 3705(a), gives identification requirements for all IRS employees working tax-related matters.

  2. All IRS employees who communicate by telephone, face-to-face, or any other method of correspondence with taxpayers or their personal representatives on tax-related matters must give (at a minimum) the following information:

    1. Telephone Contact - Their title (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss), last name and badge identification (ID Card) number. Toll-free employees may also give their location for identification purposes. Treat faxes to taxpayers on tax-related matters as correspondence and include the required information.

    2. Face-to-Face Contact - Their title (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss), give as appropriate during the conversation, their last name and badge identification (ID Card) number.

    3. Correspondence (sent to the taxpayer and authorized representatives) - A telephone number that taxpayers can call for answers to questions. In addition, manually generated correspondence must have the employee’s title (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss), last name, Integrated Data Retrieval System (IDRS) number, and letter system number, which are systemically generated by IDRS. Treat faxes to taxpayers on tax-related matters as correspondence and include the required information.

    4. Correspondex letters - Specific employee name and telephone number if the employee initiating the correspondence is in the best position to respond to any questions the taxpayer may have or if the taxpayer is being asked to give more case-related information. If the taxpayer does not need to contact a specific employee, the correspondence needs only an IRS telephone number and standard signature.

  3. When a taxpayer requests to speak with a specific employee who previously worked their inquiry or request, or complains about the level of service previously given, make every attempt to resolve the taxpayer's inquiry. If unable to resolve the issue, refer the inquiry using established procedures to the manager.

  4. Secretaries, receptionists, or other people who answer the telephone in functional offices need to identify themselves. They should provide their badge identification (ID Card) number only if they are answering telephones which are routinely used to give tax or account information.

  5. It is not necessary to repeat the badge identification (ID Card) number on a subsequent contact, when the nature of an employee's work involves multiple contacts with the same taxpayer and the employee has given the taxpayer (either telephone or in-person)their badge identification (ID Card) number on the first contact.

General Disclosure Guidelines

  1. IRC 6103 establishes the taxpayer's (T/P's) right to privacy of tax information. You must provide correct information to the correct T/P or authorized representative (check Command Code (CC) CFINK on the Integrated Data Retrieval System (IDRS) for the Power of Attorney (POA).

  2. Taxpayer return information must remain confidential as provided for in IRC 6103, Confidentiality and disclosure of returns and return information. IRC 7431 provides civil damages for unauthorized disclosure of returns and return information. IRC 7213 and IRC 7213A provide criminal penalties for unauthorized disclosure or unauthorized inspection of returns and return information and require employees be discharged from duty if charged and convicted of these offenses.

  3. When calling a taxpayer or authorized representative, and before disclosing any tax information, follow IRM 21.1.3.2.3, Required Taxpayer Authentication and IRM 21.1.3.2.4, Additional Taxpayer Authentication. Before leaving any messages on a taxpayer’s answering machine, review IRM 10.5.1.6.7.2, Answering Machine or Voicemail and IRM 10.8.1, Information Technology (IT) Security, Policy and Guidance.

  4. For more information on General Disclosure Guidelines refer to IRM 21.1.3, Operational Guidelines Overview and for full discussions refer to IRM 11.3.1, Introduction to Disclosure through IRM 11.3.40, Disclosures Involving Trust Fund Recovery Penalty Assessments.

♦Issuing Correspondence♦

  1. Issue correspondence to resolve any conditions causing the return to be unworkable or unprocessable.

    Exception:

    Do not correspond on returns prepared by Collections, IRC 6020(b) or by Examination, "Substitute for Return (SFR)."

  2. If the return is incomplete and doesn't appear to be a return meant for filing or is a conduit for providing information (e.g., indicates payment only), give the return to the lead. The lead must determine the correct course of action. The lead researches for a Transaction Code (TC) 150 and any other information necessary to determine if the return should continue processing, is an amended return, or must be routed to another function. An incomplete return could include any of the following:

    • A one-page return, with or without a signature

    • Incomplete returns indicating "Payment Only"

    • Incomplete returns indicating they have previously e-filed

    Note:

    This list is not all inclusive. Tax examiners may see other unusual documents not addressed in this subsection or in other areas of the IRM.

  3. Examine the return for all unprocessable conditions before initiating correspondence.

    If And Then
    The return needs correspondence, Requires a response,
    1. Complete an approved Correspondence Action Sheet indicating the letter number (86C, 854C, etc.), Master File Tax (MFT), and the appropriate paragraphs.

      Note:

      Some paragraphs may require fill-ins to enter, such as, tax period, form number, Document Locator Number (DLN), etc.

    2. Attach the approved Correspondence Action Sheet to the front of the return below the entity area.

    3. Continue editing the return.

    4. Leave the return in the batch.

    The return needs correspondence, Does not require a response,
    1. Complete an approved Correspondence Action Sheet indicating the letter number (86C, 854C, etc.), Master File Tax (MFT) code, and the appropriate paragraphs.

      Note:

      Some paragraphs may require fill-ins to enter, such as tax period, form number, Document Locator Number (DLN), etc.

    2. Attach the approved Correspondence Action Sheet to the front of the return below the entity area.

    3. Edit Action Code 211 (First Correspondence) or 215 (International Correspondence) on the return.

    4. Edit an Action Trail (e.g., 3104C SENT) in the lower left corner going vertically up the side of the return.

    5. Finish editing the return and leave in batch.

    Note:

    There are more campus exclusive letters. They are for processing specific forms or conditions. Go to the lead or manager for copies of these letters.

♦Correspondence Imaging Inventory (CII) Returns♦

  1. Correspondence Imaging Inventory (CII) is an inventory system for scanning all Account Management (AM) receipts into digital images and working the cases from those images.

    Note:

    Correspondence Imaging System (CIS) changed to Correspondence Imaging Inventory (CII).

  2. "CII" returns show a "CII Image - Do not correspond for signature" stamped below the signature line or a "CII" annotation on the front of the return.

  3. Verify all edit marks and ensure placement is correct on a "CII" return.

    If Then
    The edit marks are black, Underline the edit mark if correct or circle if incorrect.
    The edit marks are red or green, Circle if incorrect.
    The edit marks are missing or incorrect, Perfect as necessary.

  4. Follow the instructions below for processing "CII" returns:

    If And Then
    The "CII" return has a Form 13596 Reprocessing Returns attached The return is not complete (e.g., missing signature, schedules, or forms)
    1. Do not correspond.

    2. Remove the return from the batch and route to AM.

    3. If the return comes back from AM with incomplete information, send the return to AM again to secure all the missing information. Indicate "Additional information needed to process incomplete CII return," or similar language on Form 4227, Intra-SC Reject or Routing Slip (or other proper routing slip).

    The "CII" return has a Form 13596, Reprocessing Returns, attached and the return is incomplete (e.g., missing signature, schedules, or forms), The return shows correspondence was sent (e.g., CCC 3 is edited on the return), Do not route the return to AM. Continue processing the return.
    The "CII" return does not have a Form 13596, Reprocessing Returns attached, The return is not complete (e.g., missing signature, schedules, or forms) Follow normal correspondence procedures.

♦Foreign Currency♦

  1. For returns completed in other than U.S. currency, process as filed. However, if corresponding for missing/incomplete item(s), include in the letter to resubmit in U.S. currency.

♦Edit Marks♦

  1. Edit marks are edited on the return for transcription to the Automated Data Processing (ADP) System through Integrated Submission and Remittance Processing (ISRP). Enter edit marks in brown, red, orange, purple, or green pencil or pen.

  2. Only edit items on the return that are for transcription except where specific instructions require editing of a non-transcribed item. Leave lines blank if the entry would be a zero amount unless otherwise instructed.

  3. Do not obliterate, alter, or erase the original entry on a return when deleting or correcting an entry. Always exercise care to ensure that the original entry remains legible. Perfected entries provide a legible "edit trail" for anyone who may work with the return later.

  4. Do not re-edit edit marks entered by other areas, such as Collections, Entity or Accounts Management, except to place the marks in the correct area or to perfect for legibility.

    Exception:

    Photocopied Returns.

  5. Photocopied Returns - Re-edit or underline any valid, black edit marks. See IRM 3.21.25.9.1 Correspondence Imaging Inventory (CII) Returns.

  6. For a description of specific edit marks, see the table below:

    Edit Mark Description
    "X" Deletes tax data or indicates do not transcribe an item. For example, if deleting an original entry, edit an "X" to the left of the entry to delete. Edit the correct entry to the left or above the "X" .
    / (slash) Indicates do not transcribe a form or schedule.
    "//$" Identifies the beginning and ending of a foreign country code. For example, "/EI/$" is edited for "Ireland" or "/GM/$" is edited for "Germany" .
    "c/o" or "%" Indicates an "in-care of" name for transcription.
    Circle Indicates do not transcribe an entry. Also, deletes entity data or a Received Date.

    Note:

    If the taxpayer circles an entry, edit the entry.

    Red Line Form 8288-A Only: Used by C & E to edit Form 8288-A Lines 1, 2, 3, 4 and the seller name and TIN fields. Delete the name of the incorrect sellers and buyers when multiple sellers and buyers are listed (e.g., John and Jane Doe). When sending the 8288-A to Jane Doe, edit a red line through John and leaving Jane Doe visible.
    Underline Identifies an entry for transcription (e.g., Name Control, Tax Period).
    Arrow Indicates the correct placement of a misplaced entry. Use an arrow if the misplaced item is close to the correct line and there is no question where the entry belongs.

    Note:

    Use a double arrow to identify the same figure for transcription in two different places (along with any required transcription data between the two arrows).

    Check Mark Indicates that an entry was manually math verified and is correct.
    Bracket/Parenthesis Indicates a negative numerical amount.

    Note:

    Code and Edit (C&E) is no longer required to bracket negative amounts when brackets are preprinted on the form or schedule or when the taxpayer clearly indicates a negative amount with brackets () or "-" sign. Bracket negative amounts when editing negative entries on transcription lines (e.g., computing and entering a line entry, entering a missing line entry).

    Vertical Line or Decimal Point Indicates the separation of dollars and cents.
    Zero, Dash, None, or N/A "ZERO" , "DASH" , "NONE" , or N/A are valid entries except when specific instructions require editing of an entry.
    Rocker Indicates the amount paid when drawn under a remittance amount.

ITIN Guidance for Foreign Buyers/Sellers of U.S. Real Property Interests and Interests in Partnerships Engaged in a U.S. Trade or Business

  1. Foreign buyers (transferees) and/or sellers (transferors) of U.S. real property interests and interests in partnerships engaged in a U.S. Trade or business need identifying numbers to obtain reduced withholding or pay tax. Here’s guidance for those who need to request Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs).

  2. Foreign buyers and sellers of U.S. real property interests need Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TINs) to request reduced tax withholding when disposing of the property interest, and to pay any required withholding. Individuals who do not qualify for Social Security Numbers (SSN) may obtain Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) to meet the requirement to supply a TIN.

  3. The IRS implemented new procedures, effective December 17, 2003, to strengthen controls on ITINs and ensure the numbers are issued for tax administration purposes only. To help your qualifying clients obtain ITINs without undue burden, see the instructions for Form W-7 and Form W-7 (SP) and the information below, which describes how the new process impacts FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act) processing.

  4. TINs required for withholding (Form 8288 and Form 8288-A) - Treasury Decision 9082 (effective August 5, 2003) requires all buyers and foreign sellers of U.S. real property interests to provide their TINs, names and addresses on withholding tax returns, applications for withholding certificates, notice of non-recognition, or elections under sections 897(i) when disposing of a U.S. real property interest. For transfers of partnership interests occurring on or after January 1, 2018, the TINs, names and addresses of all buyers and foreign sellers must also be provided on withholding tax returns. See Notice 2018-29 and Treasury Decision 9926. The buyer withholds tax under IRC 1445 or IRC 1446(f)(1) and remits it to the IRS on Form 8288, U.S. Withholding Tax Return for Certain Dispositions by Foreign Persons, and Form 8288-A, Statement of Withholding on Certain Dispositions by Foreign Persons.

  5. TINs required for amounts withheld under section 1446(f)(4) (Form 8288-C), - Requires the Withholding Agents (Partnerships) EIN, the Partners (Transferor) U.S. TIN and the Buyers(Transferee’s) U.S. TIN. If the TIN is missing research IDRS Command Codes NAMES or NAMEE and update Form 8288-C if found. If you are still unable to find a TIN, correspond using Correspondence Action Sheet (CAS) Letter 3302. However, when a phone number is present, call the taxpayer and ask them to FAX the information to you. If the telephone number is an international number do not call, but correspond.

    Reminder:

    Make sure you are speaking with the taxpayer or authorized representative before disclosing any tax information. Follow IRM 21.1.3.2.3, Required Taxpayer Authentication and IRM 21.1.3.2.4, Additional Taxpayer Authentication. Before leaving any messages on a taxpayer’s answering machine, review IRM 10.5.1.6.7.2, Answering Machine or Voicemail and IRM 10.8.1, Information Technology (IT) Security, Policy and Guidance.

  6. TINs required for requests for reduced withholding (Form 8288-B) - A seller looking to reduce or eliminate the FIRPTA withholding amount must file a Form 8288-B, Application for Withholding Certificate for Disposition by Foreign Persons of U.S. Real Property Interests. Since Form 8288-B requires a TIN, a seller and/or buyer who does not qualify for an SSN may apply for an ITIN by attaching Form 8288-B to Form W-7 and mailing the documents to:

    Internal Revenue Service
    Austin Service Center
    ITIN Operation
    PO Box 149342
    Austin TX 78714-9342

  7. Requesting an ITIN to meet FIRPTA TIN requirements - To obtain an ITIN number for FIRPTA purposes the foreign person must complete Form W-7 or Form W-7 (SP). Select Box "h" (other) in the "Reason you are submitting Form W-7" section of Form W-7, and Exception 4 (explained in the instructions). Write "Exception 4" in the write-in area to the right of Box h (other).

  8. ITIN requests to claim reduced withholding (Form 8288-B) - The IRS will only issue ITINs based on applications that are complete and demonstrate a tax need for the numbers. If the IRS rejects the ITIN application, Form 8288-B will not be processed. The IRS ITIN Unit will notify the applicant by mail that the Form W-7 was not processed and the FIRPTA Unit in Ogden Accounts Management Campus (OAMC) will send Letter 3793 (SC/CG) to the buyer and foreign seller with instructions to complete Form W-7 and reapply. This letter will include instructions to resolve the issue outlined in the ITIN rejection letter. When reapplying, the applicant must include a copy of Letter 3793 SC/CG with Form W-7 to be considered under Exception 4. If the reason for rejection cannot be resolved, then the buyer must file Form 8288 and Form 8288-A and remit the 10 or 15 percent tax.

  9. ITIN requests to pay withholding on Form 8288 and Form 8288-A:

    If a buyer does not have a TIN,
    If a buyer does not have a TIN and an amount withheld under IRC 1445 or IRC 1446(f)1 is due to the IRS, the buyer must complete Form 8288 and 8288-A and mail the forms along with the payment to Internal Revenue Service, Ogden Submission Processing Campus, PO Box 409101, Ogden UT 84409, by the 20th day from the date of the sale.
    In a separate package, mail a completed Form W-7 with supporting documentation and a photocopy of Form 8288 and 8288-A (do not send any payment) to Internal Revenue Service, Austin Submission Processing Campus, ITIN Operation, PO Box 149342, Austin TX 78714-9342. Make sure you select reason "h" and write "Exception 4" on right side of reason line "h" . The Austin IRS campus will fax Form 8288 and Form 8288-A to the Ogden campus.
    The Ogden Submission Processing Campus will not date stamp or mail out Form 8288-A, Copy B to the foreign seller, if the seller’s TIN is missing. Instead, Ogden IRS will mail letter 3794 SC/CG to the seller with instructions to apply for an ITIN. Once the seller receives the ITIN number they are to write it on the letter 3794 SC/CG and mail it back to the Ogden IRS office. The Ogden IRS office will document the ITIN number on Form 8288-A Copy B, date stamp "Copy B mailed" on it, and mail it out to the seller.
    If the Ogden IRS office receives a completed Form W-7 application with supporting documentation attached to Form 8288 and 8288-A, then the Ogden IRS office will detach Form W-7 with supporting documentation and mail it to the Austin IRS Campus ITIN Operation along with a photocopy of Form 8288 and 8288-A. Once Austin processes the W-7 application they will edit the ITIN number on Form 8288 or 8288-A and fax it to the Ogden IRS office FIRPTA unit. The Ogden IRS office will document the ITIN number on Form 8288-A Copy B, date stamp "Copy B mailed" on it, and mail it out to the seller.
    If a seller does not have a TIN,
    If a seller does not have a TIN and an amount withheld under IRC 1445 is due, the seller should complete Form W-7 and attach a copy of Form 8288 and/or Form 8288-A and mail the required documents to Internal Revenue Service, Austin Submission Processing Campus, ITIN Operation, PO Box 149342, Austin TX 78714-9342. The ITIN Operation will assign an ITIN number, edit it on Form 8288-A or list the information on a Form 3210, "Document Transmittal" and fax it to the Ogden Code and Edit FIRPTA unit. The FIRPTA unit will update the International WebApps application, pull Form 8288-A Copy "B" from the pending wall, date stamp Form 8288-A "Copy B Mailed" and mail it to the foreign seller.
    If the seller sends Form 8288 and Form 8288-A to the IRS for processing but does not list a TIN on the forms and does not attach a Form W-7 ITIN application, the IRS will process the forms, but will not date stamp Form 8288-A "Copy B Mailed" or forward it to the foreign seller. Instead, the IRS will mail Letter 3794 SC/CG or IDRS letter 3794C to the foreign seller, instructing the seller to apply for an ITIN by filing Form W-7. The applicant must include supporting documentation listed in the Form W-7 instructions and must also attach a copy of Letter 3794 SC/CG or 3794C with Form W-7 to be considered under Exception 4. If an ITIN is assigned, the IRS will list the ITIN on Form 8288-A and forward a date stamped copy to the foreign seller.
    If the seller attaches a copy of Form W-7 ITIN application to Form 8288 and Form 8288-A, the FIRPTA unit research the ITIN database for the ITIN number. However, if the FIRPTA unit discovers that the IRS rejected Form W-7 because it was incomplete or did not demonstrate a tax reason for applying for an ITIN, the IRS will continue to process Form 8288 and Form 8288-A. The FIRPTA unit will not date stamp Form 8288-A "Copy B Mailed" or forward the form to the foreign seller (if it is the foreign seller whose TIN is missing). Instead, the IRS will mail Letter 3794 SC/CG or 3794C to the foreign seller with instructions to complete and file Form W-7. The applicant must include supporting documentation listed in the Form W-7 instructions and must also attach a copy of Letter 3794 SC/CG or 3794C with Form W-7 to be considered under Exception 4. Make sure you select reason "h" and write "Exception 4" on the right side of reason line "h" on Form W-7.

    Note:

    If you receive a call from a foreigner or their representative inquiring about the ITIN number, instruct them to call 1-800-829-1040 or 1-800-908-9982 (if they are calling from within the U.S.). If the caller is calling from outside of the U.S., or has questions on international issues, then instruct them to call 267-941-1000. However, if the taxpayer says they called those numbers for assistance and received no help, then complete Form 4442,Inquiry Referral, and fax the completed form to the ITIN Operations unit at the Austin Submission Processing Campus, when the foreign individual calls you for help in getting their ITIN number because they cannot reach anyone for assistance. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

International Web Applications (INTLWebApps) System

  1. Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) and Foreign Partnership information statements (Form 8288-A and Form 8805) are stored on an Enterprise Tier II SUN system known as the "INTLWebApps" application. The INTLWebApps application is not a Master File program and does not interface with IDRS, Master File, or Non-Master File.

  2. The INTLWebApps application consists of three applications. They are:

    • FIRPTA Database

    • Project 1446

    • Form 8233

  3. You must request access to each database contained within INTLWebApps that you intend to use. Use the Business Entitlement Access Request System (BEARS) to request access to the required sub-applications (entitlements).

    1. Login into BEARS and request a new application

    2. Click on the link titled "Manage My Access"

    3. In the search box, enter "INTLWEBAPPS" and click the search button

    4. Select the entitlement you need access to. Click Next

      To access FIRPTA to inputForm 8288-A and Form 8288-C search for "PROD USER INTLWEBAPPS-FIRPTA (INTERNATIONAL WEB APPLICATIONS-INTLWEBAPPS)"

      To access Project 1446 to input Form 8805 search for "PROD USER INTLWEBAPPS-PROJECT1446 (INTERNATIONAL WEB APPLICATIONS-INTLWEBAPPS)"

      To access Form 8233, search for "PROD USER INTLWEBAPPS-FORM 8233 (INTERNATIONAL WEB APPLICATIONS-INTLWEBAPPS)"

      To access all three sub-applications with read only access, search for "PROD USER INTLWEBAPPS-READONLY (INTERNATIONAL WEB APPLICATIONS-INTLWEBAPPS)"

      Caution:

      Read only access is generally reserved for business operating divisions outside of Wage and Investment (e.g., Large Business and International (LB&I), Taxpayer Advocate (TAS), Small Business and Self Employment (SBSE)) who only need to see the information in the database.

    5. Include your Post of Duty (POD) and organization’s name in the "Comments" field.

      Example:

      If you’re a Tax Examiner at the Ogden Service Center, you would enter "Ogden Submission Processing."

      Caution:

      If the" Comments" field does not include the information above, your request may be denied.

    6. Click the Submit button.

  4. After submitting a BEARS request, all users must complete the EUP portal self-registration process by visiting https://eup.eps.irs.gov/EUP/welcome and clicking on the Register for EUP access link.

  5. The user will access INTLWebApps via the internet by visiting https://intlwebapps.web.irs.gov/INTLWebApps

  6. Please refer to Job Aid Foreign Investment Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) NSA Data Base 19801-001 for guidance on entering Form 8288-A, 8288-C and Form 8805 data, or when performing credit verifications.

  7. The information captured in the FIRPTA Database is used to:

    • Support compliance functions

    • Record and verify Form 8288-A and Form 8805 credits claimed on Form 1040-NR, Form 8804, Form 1120-F, and Form 990-T returns

    • Record Form 8288-C to capture taxpayer data related to new regulations

  8. Logging into the FIRPTA database will give you the option to:

    • Input a new Forms 8288-A (IRMF) or 8288-C

    • Search Forms 8288-A or 8288-C

    • Edit Form 8288-A or 8288-C

    • Delete duplicate Form 8288-A and 8288-C

    • Input Quicknotes and issues letters

      Note:

      Selecting the Form 8288 Quicknotes option will allow you to select the Contact (employee contact information), 3296 (Mailout 8288-A, Copy B), 3302 (FIRPTA Checklist), and 3794 (No TIN 8288-A) options. You must first select Contact to verify that your employee contact information, which will be printed on all your letters is present in the Contact Information table. If not, then you must add, and save it. Once the letter is composed, click the Print Button. Click Open on the next menu and verify that the letter is correct before saving and printing it. When drafting a letter from the INTLWebApps FIRPTA Quick Notes Selection Menu format the foreign address using the following examples. See Document 7475 Section 5, page 32.

      Caution:

      Do not use or write the in care of name in the address or additional address line. In addition, if the taxpayer writes United Kingdom, England or Great Britain as their country, always use United Kingdom. Never use Great Britain or England as the country on any FIRPTA Quick Note address.

  9. Logging into the Project 1446 database will give you the option to:

    • Input a new Form 8805

    • Search Form 8805

    • Edit Form 8805

Attachments

  1. Refer to IRM 3.21.15, International Returns and Document Analysis - Foreign Partnership Withholding, and/or IRM 3.21.261, International Returns and Documents Analysis - Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) for instructions related to any attachments. The title of the subsection is "Routing Guide for Attachments."

BBTS Routing of FIRPTA Documents

  1. Prior to Integrated Submission and Remittance Processing (ISRP) the Batch Block Tracking System (BBTS) routing should be setup. The Batch work is forwarded to the FIRPTA unit. The FIRPTA unit will:

    FIRPTA Form 8288 Program 11330 Route 17 (Non- Remit) Route 18 (W/ Remit)
      180 - Batching 170 - Manual Deposit
      210 - Code and Edit 150 - Deposit
      190 - Numbering 210 - Code and Edit
      300 - BBTS/8288-A 300 - BBTS/8288-A
      230 - ISRP 230 - ISRP
      610 - SYSTOPNS 610 - SYSTOPNS
    1. Stamp the incoming Batch work (Form 2345, Batch Transmittal) with the "FIRPTA" stamp.

    2. Assign the Batch work to a FIRPTA tax examiner who will process and populate the Form 8288-A FIRPTA Database with each foreign seller's Copy A information, which will be used at a later date to perform the International Credit Verifications using Form 13698, International Credit(s) Verification Slip.

      Example:

      Form 1120-F, Form 8804, or Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust with a Form 8288-A needs to be credit verified.

    3. Stamp and mail "Copy B of Form 8288-A" to the foreign seller with IDRS Letter 3296C.

      Reminder:

      Research IDRS to verify the payment was made. Do not send Form 8288-A Copy B if the payment has not been made.

      Note:

      To prevent disclosure of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), the Withholding Agent's SSN must be redacted prior to mailing. No redaction of EIN is required.

    4. Stamp Form 8288 with the FIRPTA date stamp to show that they have processed Copy A of Form 8288-A to the FIRPTA Database.

    5. Release the Batch work (Form 8288 and Copy A of Form 8288-A) to the ISRP clerical function for pipeline processing.

Checking Form 8288-A for Completeness

  1. Every Form 8288 must have one set (Copy A and B) of Form 8288-A attached to it for each number of Form 8288-A listed on Line 5 of Form 8288. (Line 4 for prior years.)

    Example:

    If Line 5 of Form 8288 displays a total number of "3" Forms 8288-A submitted with Form 8288, then there must be three sets of Copy A's and B's for each foreign seller. If only three copies (either A or B) are attached (No sets) you must photocopy each Form 8288-A to complete three sets.

  2. When calling the taxpayer or authorized representative, and before disclosing any tax information, follow IRM 21.1.3.2.3, Required Taxpayer Authentication and IRM 21.1.3.2.4, Additional Taxpayer Authentication. Before leaving any messages on a taxpayer’s answering machine, review IRM 10.5.1.6.7.2, Answering Machine or Voicemail and IRM 10.8.1, Information Technology (IT) Security, Policy and Guidance.

  3. If more than one seller is listed on a Form 8288-A, correspond for the required information using Correspondence Action Sheet (CAS) Letter 3104C. However, when a phone number is present, call the taxpayer and have them FAX the information to you. If the telephone number is an international number do not call but correspond. If no response is received, and you are able to complete it with the information available, photocopy a set of Forms 8288-A for each additional taxpayer, edit the name of each seller listed by crossing out the additional sellers, and dividing the amount realized and withholding tax equally between the number of sellers. If there is no reason to believe the mailing address is different, use the same address. The result will be a set of Form 8288-A for each taxpayer. See IRM 3.21.25.15.3.

  4. If Form 8288-A is not completely filled out, then correspond for the required information using Correspondence Action Sheet (CAS) Letter 3104C. However, when a phone number is present, call the taxpayer and have them FAX the information to you. If the telephone number is an international number do not call but correspond. If no response is received, then review Form 8288 attachments for the information and dummy it onto Form 8288-A. If unable to locate the information, process as is by following the steps in paragraphs 1 through 13.

    Caution:

    Do not mail out Form 8288-A, Copy B if the form is incomplete or incorrect. Follow Classified Waste procedures to dispose of Form 8288-A (copy B).

    Reminder:

    Research IDRS to verify the payment was made. Do not send Form 8288-A Copy B if the payment has not been made.

    .

    Note:

    To prevent disclosure of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), the Withholding Agent's SSN must be redacted prior to mailing. No redaction of EIN is required.

    Reminder:

    If Form(s) 8288-A is not or are not attached to Form 8288, you must still create a record for each Form 8288-A in the Form 8288-A IRMF FIRPTA Database by using the information off Form 8288 (prior to releasing the batch work to ISRP). ERS/REJ will coordinate with Code and Edit once they receive the 8288-A from the taxpayer to update the Form 8288-A record. See IRM 3.21.25.15.2 and IRM 3.21.25.15.2.1.

    1. Form 8288 DLN.

    2. Date of Transfer (DOT) (See IRM 3.21.261.19.9 (9) for more instructions for when the DOT is missing).

      Exception:

      The DOT is required when corresponding. Therefore, if Form 8288 is no longer accessible, and the Form 8288-A has no DOT, research IDRS to see where the money posted. If located, then use the YYYYMM of the payment and the first day of the month to complete the DOT. Use this date on your correspondence. If unable to locate the money, use the first day of the previous month as the DOT for the correspondence letter.

    3. Press to check the tax paid button if the FIRPTA W/H tax was paid. If the tax was not paid, do not check it, and do not mail Form 8288-A (copy B) to the seller. Instead, leave Form 8288-A (copy A) attached to Form 8288 and classify waste Form 8288-A (copy B) per local procedures.

    4. Enter the amount realized shown on Line 6 Part I, Line 10 Part II or Line 13 Part III from Form 8288.

      Note:

      Form 8288 uses the phrase "Amount subject to withholding."

      Note:

      For prior years enter the amount realized shown on lines 5a or 5b Part I or lines 5a or 5b Part II Form 8288.

    5. Depress the proper W/H Agent TIN Type button.

    6. Enter the W/H Agents Taxpayer Identifying Number (TIN).

    7. Enter the W/H Agents name shown on Line 1 of Form 8288.

    8. Enter the Real Property Description (RPD) shown on Line 2 of Form 8288.

    9. Enter the two-digit RPD state code.

    10. Enter "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡" for the TIN of the seller.

    11. Skip the Copy B Mailed field.

    12. Enter "Unknown" for the foreign seller’s name, if missing.

    13. Enter "Missing" in the address line, if missing.

  5. Loose Forms 8288-A with green check mark edited on the top right margin of Form 8288-A: Some taxpayers may send FIRPTA payments to deposit activity areas without a Form 8288. It’s possible the Form 8288-A is a response to our correspondence requesting the missing form. Attach the Form 8288-A to its parent Form 8288, if found. If not found, transship the loose Form 8288-A to OAMC BMF INT'L unit.

  6. Loose Forms 8288-A: AUSPC ITIN function will at times transship to OSPC copies of Form 8288-A with the assigned ITIN number written in red ink. Research the Form 8288-A on the pending wall to see if there is a Form 8288-A awaiting to be mailed. If so, follow the IRM procedures in IRM 3.21.25.15.2. If not, then draft FIRPTA Quick Note 3302 SC/CG (addressed to withholding agent) and select checklist item, "Other" Write the following narrative in the open paragraph field: "We are returning the attached loose Form 8288-A. Please complete Form 8288 and/or Form 8288-A (Copy A and B) and attach the withholding payment to it and mail it to the Internal Revenue Service, Ogden, UT 84201."

Reviewing Form 8288-A

  1. When Form 8288/8288-A batch work is received for processing you must:

    1. Review Form 8288-A for the foreign persons TIN, name and address.

    2. Make sure you received both Copy A and B of Form 8288-A for each foreign seller.

    3. The amounts on Form 8288-A, lines 3 and 4 (lines 2 and 3 for prior years) must balance with the amount withheld and amount realized on Form 8288. If they do not balance, search all attachments and edit correct information if found. If not found, correspond for an explanation using CAS 3104C. If no reply is received, continue to process return as is, and enter the Form 8288-A information into the Database as it appears on the Form 8288-A.

      Caution:

      Do not mail out Form 8288-A, Copy B if the form is incomplete or incorrect.

    1. IF THEN
      Either one of Copy A or B of Form 8288-A are not attached, See IRM 3.21.25.15(1) for instructions.
      Multiple foreign sellers are listed on Form 8288-A, See IRM 3.21.25.15(2) and IRM 3.21.25.15.3 for instructions.
      No Form 8288-A is attached, but it is obvious that it was attached (e.g., detached by ITIN) and there is supporting documentation to (e.g., settlement statement, taxpayer correspondence) support this fact, Prepare a dummy Form 8288-A using the PDF fillable form for however many Forms 8288-A are listed on Line 5 of Form 8288. (Line 4 for Prior year.) Print out the completed forms and attach it to the return. Continue processing.

      Note:

      Do not dummy a Form 8288-A when the Name, TIN, and mailing address of the foreign seller is not present in the supporting documentation. Instead correspond for Form 8288-As with Letter 3104C. See IRM 3.21.25.15 (4).

      The foreign seller on Form 8288-A has no TIN,
      Or,
      Multiple foreign sellers, but only one does not have a TIN number,
      Continue to process Form 8288-A, but do not stamp "Copy B Mailed" or mail the Form 8288-A to the foreign seller. However, place Copy B of Form 8288-A in a folder marked "Copy B 8288-A No TIN." Place it on the pending wall. Send out IDRS Letter 3794C or Select Quicknote menu selection 14 to mail Letter 3794 (SC/CG) to the foreign seller. Also, annotate on the reverse side of Form 8288-A Copy B, the date Letter 3794 was mailed. Keep for 12 months.

      Reminder:

      If the foreign person or entity provided an alternate mailing address on Form 8288-A (lower right corner box), then mail Form 8288-A Copy B to the foreign person or entity using the alternate mailing address.

  2. Purge all “Form 8288-A Copy B” with a Letter 3794 date of 12 months and older from the pending wall and follow Classified Waste procedures. Update the 8288-A FIRPTA database “Remarks″ field with “No TIN-Copy B destroyed″. Complete this process at the end of each month.

  3. Buyer and Seller are the same on Form 8288 and Form 8288-A:

    1. Research all attached documents and edit the correct information. Correspond or call the taxpayer only after researching all attached documents and the correct information was not found. Prepare CAS Letter 3104C and request corrected returns with the correct Name, Address and TIN numbers for both parties.

      Reminder:

      Make sure you are speaking with the taxpayer or authorized representative before disclosing any tax information. Follow IRM 21.1.3.2.3, Required Taxpayer Authentication and IRM 21.1.3.2.4, Additional Taxpayer Authentication. Before leaving any messages on a taxpayer’s answering machine, review IRM 10.5.1.6.7.2, Answering Machine or Voicemail and IRM 10.8.1, Information Technology (IT) Security, Policy and Guidance.

    2. Enter Form 8288-A into the INTLWebApps application. Use the provided taxpayer information as the W/H Agent information to record the Form 8288-A in the database. However, enter "Unknown" for the seller (Foreign person) name, and "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡" for the TIN, and "Missing" for the address line.

    3. Edit CCC "U" on Form 8288 (follow procedures in IRM 3.21.261.17.(3).

    4. Leave Form 8288-A, Copy A attached to Form 8288. In the remarks enter “Unknown address Copy B destroyed.” Classified Waste Copy B.

  4. Buyer/Withholding Agent on Form 8288-A and Form 8288 are not the same: Take the following steps:

    Reminder:

    The actual buyer should be someone other than a Title, Escrow, or Abstract company, or an Attorney, CPA or PA. If unsure, refer to above paragraph (3) for instructions. Escrow companies and real estate attorneys sometimes incorrectly complete Forms 8288 and Forms 8288-A listing themselves as the buyers when handling multiple real estate transactions involving foreign sellers subject to FIRPTA withholding. This results in the creation of only one MFT 17 account since only one can be created under a TIN/EIN. When multiple Forms 8288 and Forms 8288-A are filed by the same escrow company for different real estate transfers, only one TC 150 is created for the first Form 8288 filed, and any subsequent FIRPTA forms filed after the first real estate transfer is recorded as a TC 290. There is only one transfer date recorded on the MFT 17 account for the first Form 8288 filed. This creates a problem for the escrow company as it may receive penalty notices for deposits IRS thinks are late since they are being made after the only transfer date shown on the MFT 17 account. Additionally, if the escrow company fails to file any Forms 8288 and Forms 8288-A, the foreign seller may find it difficult to locate the FIRPTA income tax withheld since it is recorded in the escrow company’s MFT 17 account and not the MFT 17 account of the real buyer.

    1. Use the actual buyer’s information from Form 8288 or Form 8288-A, as the withholding agent to report on Line 1 of Form 8288, or prepare a new Form 8288-A with the actual buyer’s information edited in the withholding agents block of Form 8288-A.

      Note:

      To prevent disclosure of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), the Withholding Agent's SSN must be redacted prior to mailing. No redaction of EIN is required.

    2. Enter the data from the newly prepared Form 8288-A into the Form 8288-A Database.

    3. Draft Letter 3296 (SC/CG) or Letter 3296C. In addition, date stamp the 8288-A Copy B and mail it out to the foreign seller with the letter.

      Note:

      If an alternate mailing address appears on Form 8288-A, below box 6, then mail Form 8288-A Copy B to the foreigner at the mailing address listed in the box. Also, document the alternate mailing address in the "Remarks" area of the 8288-A database.

      Reminder:

      If the Form 8288-A doesn't have a TIN then don't date stamp or mail the Form 8288-A "Copy B" to the foreign seller.

      Reminder:

      Research IDRS to verify the payment was made. Do not send Form 8288-A Copy B if the payment has not been made.

  5. If Letter 3794 or Letter 3296 is returned undeliverable, research IDRS and the FIRPTA Database for a better address. If found, send out a new Letter 3794 or Letter 3296 to the foreign person at the new address. In addition, update the Database with the new address. For Letter 3794 only: Pull Form 8288-A Copy B from the wall and on the reverse side document the new mailing date of Letter 3794. Lastly, place the Form 8288-A Copy B back on the wall.

    Note:

    If you are unable to locate a better address, pull the Form 8288-A Copy B from the pending wall and update the Form 8288-A record in the Database with the remarks "Letter 3794 or 3296 undeliverable." After this is done, Classified Waste the documents (Letter 3794 or 3296 and Form 8288-A Copy B).

Processing Form 8288-A

  1. Every Form 8288-A must be entered into the 8288-A (IRMF) Database. Use the 8288 DLN on the header screen part of the 8288-A (IRMF) screen. See IRM 3.21.25.15 (4) for more instructions.

    Example:

    If three sellers are listed on the Form 8288-A, then there needs to be three sets of Form 8288-A attached to Form 8288. Enter all three Form 8288-As into the Database (1 for each seller) with the same Form 8288 DLN.

    Caution:

    Do not enter duplicate Form 8288-A records in the 8288-A IRMF database. If you have a photocopy of Form 8288, and the signature is not an original signature (photocopied), then query the Form 8288-A database for a prior recorded Form 8288-A record. If you locate the Form 8288-A record, then do not enter a duplicate Form 8288-A into the database. Prepare a Form 4227 to send the duplicate Form 8288-A to files for association with the original DLN. Otherwise, continue normal processing.

  2. Access the FIRPTA database and select "New Form 8288-A" to begin entering Form 8288-A. A "blank" screen ready for input will appear. After the record is input, click the "Save" button. A New Form 8288-A Record Added screen will appear.

  3. Every Form 8288-A record that is input to the FIRPTA Database will be assigned an Input Date Record #. This is confirmation that the record has been saved. The confirmation number will appear in the following format, YYYY-MM-DD-NNNN.

    • "YYYY" is the year of entry

    • "MM" is the month of entry

    • "DD" is the day of the month entered

    • "NNNN" is the ascending sequence number assigned for the specific date of entry

      Example:

      The first Form 8288-A record saved on January 4, 2023, will be assigned input date record # 2023-01-04-0001. If only 137 Form 8288-A records are entered and saved on January 4, 2023, then the last saved record will be assigned input date record # 2023-01-04-0137.

  4. To add another Form 8288-A record with the same buyer information, select the New with Repeat button. To enter a different Form 8288- A, select the Next New button. The computer will automatically enter the current date, and your login information in the "Remarks" area of the screen.

Correcting/Updating existing Form 8288-A records (Multiple sellers)
  1. At times Form 8288 may be filed with one Form 8288-A listing one seller rather than multiple sellers. Subsequently, the buyer/seller or their agent contacts the IRS and states the property was owned by multiple sellers. Instruct the buyer/seller to mail or fax corrected Form 8288-As along with the original Form 8288-As and a cover letter explaining the situation.

    Note:

    When contacted by a representative, be sure to verify the POA before releasing any account information. See IRM 3.21.25.7

  2. An Amended/Corrected Form 8288 is not required.

  3. The buyer/seller or their agent must provide us with originally sent Form 8288-A Copy B, the name, address and TIN of the other multiple sellers.

  4. The buyer/seller or their agent must also provide a copy of a settlement statement or another form of documentation showing all sellers to substantiate the change.

  5. Research IDRS and FIRPTA Database to make sure the T/P has not filed an income tax return (e.g., 1120-F, 1040-NR) to claim the money.

    1. Update the original Form 8288-A record on file to reflect the correct money amount divided evenly (or by designated percentage if documented in the letter) amongst the other sellers.

    2. Create a new Form 8288-A record for the other sellers not previously documented in the Database.

    3. If not provided, create a new Form 8288-A Copy B statement for the other sellers for mailing.

    4. Photocopy a set of the new Form 8288-As and attach it to the taxpayer’s correspondence.

    5. Stamp Copy B mailed on the newly prepared Form 8288-As and mail them out to the sellers with IDRS or Database letter 3296.

      Note:

      If an alternate mailing address appears on Form 8288-A, below box 6, then mail Form 8288-A Copy B to the foreigner at the mailing address listed in the box. Also, document the alternate mailing address in the "Remarks" area of the 8288-A database.

    6. Associate the taxpayer’s correspondence along with the new sets of Form 8288-As to the original Form 8288 return.

      Note:

      Be sure to note all actions in the "Remarks" area.

      Caution:

      The Withholding Type field was added to the INTLWebApps system on December 9, 2022. This is a required field, and the record cannot be saved unless a selection is made from the drop down menu. The two options are "1445" and "1446(f)." Select the type of withholding that is checked on box 5 of Form 8288-A on current year forms. On prior year forms, select "1445" if the Form 8288-A you’re verifying is for FIRPTA withholding tax. Select "1446(f)" if you’re verifying a return that includes the statement "Section 1446(f)(1) withholding" (or something similar) at the top of both Form 8288-A or in the remarks of Form 8288-A record.

  6. To prevent disclosure of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), the Withholding Agent's SSN must be redacted prior to mailing. No redaction of EIN is required.

Deleting/Correcting/Updating existing Form 8288-A records (Multiple Sellers to One Seller)
  1. At times a USRPI may be owned by one spouse (deed in their name) but the buyer submits Form 8288-A Copy A and B dividing the amounts in half. Subsequently, the seller contacts the IRS and states that the property was owned by the one spouse. Instruct the seller to mail or fax back both Form 8288-As (both spouses) along with a cover letter explaining the situation.

  2. An Amended/Corrected Form 8288 is not required.

  3. Code and Edit will first research to make sure the T/P has not filed an income tax return to claim the money, then:

    1. Edit the original Form 8288-A record for the one spouse to reflect the correct (full) money amount designated to the one spouse.

    2. Update the one spouse Form 8288-A record with the correct amounts in the Database and explain it in the remarks area.

    3. If not provided, create a new Form 8288-A Copy B statement for the one seller for mailing.

    4. Delete the secondary spouse Form 8288-A record.

    5. Stamp Copy B mailed on the newly prepared Form 8288-A and mail it out to the one seller with IDRS or Database letter 3296.

      Note:

      If an alternate mailing address appears on Form 8288-A, below box 6, then mail Form 8288-A Copy B to the foreigner at the mailing address listed in the box. Also, document the alternate mailing address in the "Remarks" area of the 8288-A database.

    6. Associate the taxpayer’s correspondence along with the new sets of Form 8288-As to the original Form 8288 return.

      Caution:

      The Withholding Type field was added to the INTLWebApps system on December 9, 2022. This is a required field, and the record cannot be saved unless a selection is made from the drop down menu. The two options are "1445" and "1446(f)" . Select the type of withholding that is checked on box 5 of Form 8288-A on current year forms. On prior year forms, select "1445" if the Form 8288-A you’re verifying is for FIRPTA withholding tax. Select "1446(f)" if you’re verifying a return that includes the statement "Section 1446(f)(1) withholding" (or something similar) at the top of both Form 8288-A or in the remarks of Form 8288-A record.

Editing Form 8288-A for Mailout

  1. Take the following steps when more than one seller (person subject to withholding) is listed on Form 8288-A:

    1. Photocopy (sets) Form 8288-A for each additional taxpayer. If a husband and wife are listed on Form 8288-A, then make sure you have four copies (two sets of Copy A and B) of Form 8288-A for each spouse.

    2. Edit each set of Form 8288-A with one foreign person’s name by lining through in red ink the other foreign person’s name, incorrect amount of federal income tax withheld (FITW), and the amount realized. If not present, edit the correct name and amounts above or to the left of the lined through entry. See IRM 3.21.25.10 (6).

    3. Divide the Federal Income Tax Withheld (FITW) amount by the number of sellers listed on Form 8288-A (e.g., Husband and Wife FITW is $50,000 ÷ 2 = $25,000), and write the result in Box 2 of the Copy A and B of Form 8288-A.

    4. Divide the Amount Realized by the number of sellers listed on Form 8288-A (e.g., Husband and Wife FITW is $500,000 ÷2 = $250,000), and write the result in Box 3 of the Copy A and B of Form 8288-A

      Caution:

      Always record the "Amount Realized" in the INTLWebApps 8288-A record screen when entries are present on both Lines 3 and 4 of the 8288-A. Record the "Gain Recognized by Foreign Corporation." in the "Gain Recognized by Foreign Corporation" field.

  2. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 above for each additional seller listed but cross out the second or additional name and ITIN so that you can have two sets.

  3. No special editing is required if Form 8288-A lists only one foreign person or entity in the "Name of person subject to withholding" box.

    Note:

    If 50 or more Form 8288-As are attached to Form 8288, detach Form 8288-A Copy "B" and release batch on BBTS to the next function to not delay batch processing cycle. Continue to input Form 8288-A, Copy "B" to the INTLWebApps application. Once all Form 8288-As, Copy B have been recorded, stamped Copy "B" mailed on Form 8288-A Copy "B" , mail it out with Letter 3296.

  4. If the Date of Transfer (DOT) is missing, edit the DOT from Line 3 Form 8288 to Line 1 of Form 8288-A.

  5. If Form 8288 and Form 8288-A show different dates of transfers, then line through the DOT on Form 8288-A and edit the DOT from Form 8288 to Line 1 (above it) of Form 8288-A.

  6. If the seller's country code box on Form 8288-A is blank, then edit the country code in the box. If the country code cannot be determined, leave it blank.

  7. If a withholding certificate is attached, DO NOT edit the withholding certificate letter date as the new DOT. This practice is no longer necessary.

Entering Form 8288-A to the INTLWebApps Application

  1. The Form 8288-A screen is divided into three sections. They are:

    • Form 8288 Information

    • Form 8288-A Information

    • Credit Verification

Form 8288-A (IRMF) Screen Section - Form 8288 Information
  1. DLN: This is a 14-position field that must be entered. The DLN must begin with 60140 (BMF OSPC) or 09641 (NMF KCSPC or Non-Filer). The valid characters are numeric 0-9.

    Reminder:

    The Form 8288-A shares the same DLN with its Form 8288, so both DLNs must match.

    Caution:

    Form 8288 NON-FILER: See IRM 3.21.25.17.2.

  2. Transfer Date: This field must be present. Enter the date in MMDDYYYY format from Line 3 Form 8288 or Line 1 of Form 8288-A. See IRM 3.21.261.19.8 for more instructions.

  3. Withholding Certificate Date: This field must be present when a withholding certificate is attached. Enter the date in MMDDYYYY format from Line 4 Form 8288 See IRM 3.21.261.19.9 for more information.

  4. Total Tax Paid: This checkbox may or may not be checked. Press and check the box if the tax is paid with the return.

    Note:

    A "green rocker or check mark" will appear (See IRM 3.8.45.7.33 (2) on the top right margin of Form 8288 to indicate tax payment was received.

    Reminder:

    Research IDRS for posting of the payment if no green rocker amount appears on the top right margin of Form 8288. If payment is found in IDRS, then press and check the "Tax Paid" button. Do not send Form 8288-A Copy B if a payment was not made.

  5. Total Amount Realized: This is a 16-position money field that may or may not be present. The valid characters are numeric 0-9. Enter the amount realized from Line 6 Part I, Line 10 Part II, or Line 13 Part III from Form 8288. If not found, research attached documents.

    Note:

    Form 8288 uses the phrase "Amount subject to withholding."

    Note:

    For prior year returns, enter amount realized from Line 5a or 5b Part I, or Line 5a, 5b or 5c Part II of the Form 8288.

  6. W/H Agent Tin Type: This field must have an entry. Select the withholding agent TIN type is an SSN (xxx-xx-xxxx) or EIN (xx-xxxxxxx).

  7. W/H Agent TIN: This is a nine-position field that must be present. The valid characters are numeric 0-9. Enter the TIN appearing on Line 1b Form 8288.

  8. W/H Agent Name: This is a 35-position field that must be present. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), numeric (0-9), \, &, -, (comma), and (space). Enter the name on Form 8288 Line 1a.

  9. Real Property Description (RPD): This is a 70-position field that must be present. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), numeric (0-9), \, &, -, (comma), and (space). Enter the property description (in abbreviated format if necessary) that appears on Line 2 Form 8288 or Box 8 Form 8288-A (Box 5 for prior years). Preferably in street address format, if available.

    Example:

    A street address format appears as "1234 Rosebud Avenue" : A property description can be:
    • Vacant land
    • 10 percent Interest in Partnership - enter "10 percent interest in partnership"
    • Lot 232
    • Time share week 18-20, circle out 18-20 and edit and underline 18 19 20 so ISRP can transcribe "Timeshare 18 19 20."

    Note:

    For IRC 1446(f) prior year returns (before January 1, 2023): If a statement such as "Section 1446(f)(1) withholding" or similar is written at the top of either a Form 8288 or the relevant Form 8288-A, select the "Section 1446(f)" option from the Withholding Type field under the Form 8288-A information in the INTLWebApps system.

    Note:

    Do not use the following characters when entering the "Real Property Description" : pound (#), comma (,), percent (%), ampersand (&), at (@), period (.). Please refer to the attached table for correct abbreviations. Do not deviate from these instructions. Also note that this field will be used to cross reference the 8288-B Database for exact matches to the data reflected in the "Real Property Description" field.

    Word Abbreviation
    Air Force Base AFB
    Apartment APT
    Avenue AVE
    Boulevard BLVD
    Building BLDG
    Circle CIR
    Court CT
    Drive DR
    East E
    Fort FT
    General Delivery GEN DEL
    Heights HTS
    Highway HWY
    Island IS
    Junction JCT
    Lane LN
    Lodge LDG
    Northeast or NE NE
    Northwest or NW NW
    One-fourth One-quarter 1/4th
    Northwest or NW NW
    Parkway PKWY
    Place PL
    Post Office Box, or PO Box PO BOX
    Road RD
    RD, Rural Delivery, RFD, RR, Rural Route RR
    South S
    Southeast SE
    Southwest SW
    Square SQ
    Street ST
    Suite STE
    Terrace TER
    West W

  10. RPD State Code: This is a two-position field that must be present. The valid characters are alpha (a-z). Enter the state code of the property description from Line 2, of Form 8288.

    Note:

    If the RPD State Code is not present on any of the attached documents, then enter "XX" in the RPD State Code field.

  11. IRS Chief Counsel Advisory (CCA) 201028040 dated 20100615 was issued on July 16, 2010. This CCA states that the IRS can verify a FIRPTA credit for the seller even though Form 8288 and 8288-A have not been filed and paid, if the seller can provide supporting documentation (e.g., Settlement Statement) showing the FIRPTA withholding tax.

  12. Regulations section 1.1446(f)-2(e)(3) provides that if a stamped copy of Form 8288-A has not been provided to the transferor by the IRS, the transferor may establish the amount of tax withheld by the transferee by attaching to its return substantial evidence of the amount. The transferor must attach to its return a statement that includes all of the information otherwise required to be provided on Form 8288-A.

  13. If Form 8288-A is already present in the Database (an exact record), then prepare a Form 4227 to send the duplicate Form 8288-A to files for association with the original DLN.

Form 8288-A (IRMF) Screen Section - Form 8288-A Information
  1. Seller TIN Type: Select if the type of entity is an Individual SSN/ITIN (xxx-xx-xxxx) or a business "Corporation" EIN (xx-xxxxxxx).

  2. Withholding Type: This is a required field, and the record cannot be saved unless a selection is made from the drop down menu. Select the type of withholding that is checked on box 5 of Form 8288-A.

    • 1445

    • 1446(f)

    Note:

    If there is no entry on Form 8288-A box 5, select "1445" if Form 8288-A is for FIRPTA withholding tax (Part I or Part II of Form 8288 is filled out). Select "1446(f)" if Form 8288 Part III is filled out. On prior year returns these will include the statement "Section 1446(f)(1) withholding" (or something similar) at the top of both Form 8288 and Form 8288-A.

  3. Foreign Seller TIN: This is a nine-position field that may or may not be present. The valid characters are numeric 0-9. It can be an SSN/ITIN (xxx-xx-xxxx) or EIN (xx-xxxxxxx). Hyphens will auto generate once you proceed to the next field. The foreign persons identifying number (TIN) can be found to the left of Box 3, on Form 8288-A, Identification. See IRM 3.21.25.15 (4)

    Caution:

    If the TIN is a Canadian Social Insurance Number (XXX-XXX-XXX) do not enter it in the database, instead treat this as if no TIN is present, and circle the Canadian TIN.

    Reminder:

    Do not forget to send out IDRS Letter 3794C or FIRPTA Quick Note Letter 3794 SC/CG, to the foreign seller asking to fill out Form W-7 and provide us with an ITIN number.

  4. Copy B Mailed Date: This field may or may not be present. Enter the date stamped on Form 8288-A, Copy B in MMDDYYYY format. Mail the stamped Form 8288-A, Copy B to the foreign seller with IDRS Letter 3296C, or FIRPTA Quick Note Letter 3296 SC/CG.

    Note:

    If a mailing address appears on Form 8288-A, (Mailing address of person subject to withholding if different), then mail the Form 8288-A Copy B to the foreigner at the mailing address listed in the box and document it in the remarks area.

    Reminder:

    Leave this field blank, and DO NOT mail out Form 8288-A, Copy B when the Foreign Seller TIN field is blank.

  5. Corp/Foreign Seller Last Name: This is a 30-position field that must be present. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), numeric (0-9), \, &, -, %, or (space). Enter the last name of the foreign seller (also known as (a.k.a.) seller) or, the Corporate name, as it appears on Form 8288-A. The Corp/Foreign Seller Last Name can be found to the left of Box 5, on Form 8288-A.

    Note:

    When the Corporation "Seller TIN Type" selected, then this will be the only name field enabled for entry.

  6. Foreign Seller First Name: This is a 30-position field that must be present when the Individual "Seller TIN Type" checkbox is selected. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), \, &, -, (comma), or (space). Enter the first name of the foreign seller as it appears on Form 8288-A. The Foreign Seller First Name can be found to the left of Box 5, on Form 8288-A.

    Note:

    This field can only be entered when the Individual Seller Tin Type is selected, and only one name can be input per each Form 8288-A.

  7. Address Line. 1: This is a 40-position field that must be present. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), numeric (0-9), &, -, %, or (space). The address line can be found to the left of Box 5 and 7, on Form 8288-A (Box 6 for prior years). The first address field can be for either the "in care of addressee" or the regular mailing address of the foreign person.

    Reminder:

    Input the address as it appears on Form 8288-A.

  8. Address Line. 2: This is a 40-position field that may or may not be present. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), numeric (0-9), &, -, %, or (space). This address line can be used to document the foreign city, province, and postal code of foreign addresses.

    Reminder:

    Input the address as it appears on Form 8288-A.

  9. Address Line. 3: This is a 40-position field that may or may not be present. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), numeric (0-9), or &, -, %, (space). This address line can be used to document the foreign city, and postal code of foreign addresses if there was not enough room in Lines 1 or 2.

    Reminder:

    Input the address as it appears on Form 8288-A.

  10. City: This is a 15-position field that may or may not be present. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), &, -, or (space). The City name can be found to the left of Box 7 Form 8288-A. Enter the correct City name for Domestic addresses.

  11. State Code: This is a two-position field that may or may not be present. The valid Characters are alpha (a-z). The State name can be found to the left of Box 7, on Form 8288-A. Enter the proper two-digit state code. See Document 7475 for the State Code Chart. However, if the address is a foreign address leave this field blank.

  12. Province: This field has been retired and no longer appears on the Form 8288-A input screen. Please see IRM 3.21.25.15.4.2(7) for instructions on where to include the province on international addresses.

  13. Country Code: This is a two-position field that may or may not be present. The valid Characters are alpha (a-z). The Country name can be found to the left of Box 7, on Form 8288-A. Enter the two-digit country code.

  14. Zip Code: This is a nine-position field that may or may not be present. The valid characters are numeric (0-9). The ZIP code can be found to the left of Box 7, on Form 8288-A. Enter the proper Zip Code. See Document 7475 for the ZIP Code Chart. However, if the address is a foreign address leave this field blank.

  15. Amount Realized: This is a 16-position field, which must be present. The valid characters are numeric (0-9). The amount realized can be found on Line 3, of Form 8288-A. The entry in this field may differ from the entry placed in the Amount Realized field at the top of the 8288-A record because of multiple sellers.

    Note:

    If an entry appears on Line 2 Form 8288-A and not Line 3, then leave this field blank. However, if an entry appears on both Line 2 and 3, enter the amount from Line 3 in this field. IRM 3.21.25.15.4.2 (17)

    Note:

    For prior year returns, if and entry appears on Line 4 Form 8288-A and not Line 3, then leave this field blank. However, if an entry appears on both Line 3 and 4, enter the amount from Line 3 in this field.

    Reminder:

    Divide the amount realized evenly amongst the total number of foreign sellers listed, or as designated (perhaps by a percentage amount) by the foreign seller when multiple foreign sellers are listed on the Form 8288-A. See IRM 3.21.25.15.3 (1).

  16. Amount Withheld: This is a 16-position field, which must be present. The valid characters are numeric (0-9). The amount withheld can be found on Line 4, of Form 8288-A. If one foreign seller is listed, then enter the entire amount withheld. If more than one foreign seller is listed, then enter the edited amount withheld.

    Reminder:

    Divide the amount withheld evenly amongst the total number of foreign sellers listed, or as designated (perhaps by a percentage amount) by the foreign seller when multiple foreign sellers are listed on the Form 8288-A. See IRM 3.21.25.15.3 (1).

  17. Gain Recognized by Foreign Corp: This is a 16-position field, which may or may not be present. The valid characters are numeric (0-9). The gain recognized by foreign corp. can be found on Line 2, of Form 8288-A. If an entry appears on both lines 2 and 3 of the 8288-A, enter the amount from Line 2 in the "Gain Recognized by Foreign Corporation" field. However, if an error message appears because an entry is present in the amount realized field, then skip this field and document the amount in the remarks area.

    Note:

    For prior years, if an entry appears on both Lines 3 and 4 of the 8288-A, enter the amount form Line 4 in the "Gain Recognized by Foreign Corporation" field.

  18. Remarks: Enter any specific remarks you feel are proper. Once you "SAVE" the record the computer will systemically enter the date and profile number of the tax examiner entering the record to the Database. See IRM 3.21.25.17.2

    Note:

    This information is crucial for leaving an action trail.

Form 8288-A (IRMF) Screen Section - Credit Verification
  1. DO NOT COMPLETE THIS SECTION ON INITIAL PROCESSING OF FORM 8288 and Form 8288-A. This section is only to be completed when an income tax return (e.g., Form 1040-NR is received, and Form 8288-A or other supporting documentation (e.g., settlement statement) is attached.

    1. The Form 8288-A withholding credit must be credit verified against the Form 8288-A information in the INTLWebApps database, and a Form 13698, International Credit Verification Slip must be completed and attached to the income tax return.

    2. Once the credit has been verified, fill in the Tax Period, Tax Form #, and Amount Verified information in the INTLWebApps database.

    3. If the credit cannot be verified, complete and attach Form 13698 to the income tax return and write .00 as the amount verified on Form 13698.

    4. The seller may provide additional information in their income tax return (Forms 1040-NR, 1120-F, etc.) or attached documents that was missing during the original processing of the buyer’s Form 8288 and Form 8288-A return. If so, you may update the Form 8288-A database with the missing information and leave a note in the remarks field.

  2. To update and/or modify an existing Form 8828-A you must:

    1. Login to the INTLWebApps Application to access the FIRPTA Database.

    2. Select "Search/Edit" to begin a Form 8828-A query.

    3. Search the DLN of the 8288-A if present. If no DLN is present, follow the next steps.

    4. Enter at least two types of information into the fields to narrow down your search.

    5. Selecting "More Search Options" will display extra fields.

    6. Using the wildcard sign "%" before and after your information may help your query.

    7. Scroll through the responses until you find the correct record.

    8. Locate the fields that need to be updated/modified:

      1. Tax Period: This field must be present when verifying the credit. The valid characters are numeric (0-9). Enter the tax period in MMDDYYYY format.

      2. Tax Form #: This is an eight-position field that must be present when verifying the credit. The valid characters are alpha (a-z), numeric (0-9), and hyphen (-). Enter the tax form number of the income tax return you are verifying the Form 8288-A FIRPTA credit.

      3. Amount Verified: This is a 16-position field that must be present when verifying the FIRPTA credit. The valid characters are numeric (0-9). The amount withheld can be found on Line 4, of Form 8288-A, and in this Database. (Line 2 for prior year returns.) Once you have located the Form 8288-A in the Database, then complete the three fields: Tax Period, Form Number, and Amount Verified.

      Reminder:

      Do not forget to complete Form 13698 and update the foreign person’s TIN or other missing information in the database.

    9. Use the delete or backspace key to remove an entry, and type in the correct information.

      Note:

      You can also highlight the field and then type in the correct information.

    10. The Withholding Type field was added to the INTLWebApps system on December 9, 2022 and may not be present on older versions of Form 8288-A. This is a required field and the record cannot be saved unless a selection is made from the drop down menu. Select either "1445" or "1446(f)" to save the record. See IRM 3.21.25.15.4.3 for instructions on which of the two options to select.

    11. Lastly, press the "Save" button.

Researching Form 8288-A in the FIRPTA Database
  1. To research and query Form 8288-A you must:

    1. Login to the INTLWebApps Application to access the FIRPTA Database.

    2. Select "Search/Edit" to begin a Form 8288-A query.

    3. Search the DLN of the 8288-A if present. If no DLN is present, follow the next steps.

    4. Enter information into one of the fields to narrow down your search.

    5. Click on one of the buttons to the right of the selected field.

    6. Using the wildcard sign "%" before and after your information may help your query.

    7. Scroll through the responses until you find the correct record.

Mailing Out Form 8288-A to the Foreign Seller

  1. Ensure the foreign person's TIN is present. If the foreign person’s TIN is not present on form 8288-A DO NOT stamp or mail Copy B to the foreign person. See IRM 3.21.25.11.

  2. To prevent disclosure of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), the Withholding Agent's SSN must be redacted prior to mailing. No redaction of EIN is required.

  3. Use IDRS letter 3296C or Quick Note letter 3296 (SC/CG) to mail Copy B of form 8288-A to the foreign person.

    Reminder:

    Research IDRS to verify the payment was made. Do not send Form 8288-A Copy B if the payment has not been made.

  4. If an alternate mailing address appears on Form 8288-A, below box 6, mail form 8288-A Copy B to the foreign person at the mailing address listed in the box. Record the alternate mailing address in the "Remarks" section of the 8288-A entry screen.

  5. If the foreign person responds to letter 3794C or 3794 SC/SG and provides their TIN:

    1. Purge the Form 8288-A Copy B from the pending wall.

    2. Edit the TIN in the TIN box (located to the left of box 3).

    3. Query the Form 8288-A INTLWebApps application for the Form 8288-A record and update the record with the foreign person's TIN. See IRM 3.21.25.15.3 for more mailing procedures.

    Note:

    If Form 8288-A Copy B is not on the pending wall, create a dummy Form 8288-A Copy B from the Form 8288-A IRMF Database record to mail to the foreign person. DO NOT include the Withholding Agent's SSN to prevent disclosure of PII.

Checking Form 8288-C for Completeness

  1. Partnerships complete Part IV of Form 8288. These returns must have a Form 8288-C Copy A attached. Only one Form 8288-C copy A can be attached and processed per one Form 8288. Partnerships sendForm 8288-C Copy B to the transferee and Copy C is for the partnership’s records.

  2. If more than one Form 8288-C with more than one transferee is attached to Form 8288 or if Form 8288 is missing, correspond for the missing Form 8288 using Correspondence Action Sheet (CAS) Letter 3104C. If a phone number is present, call the taxpayer and have them FAX the information to the IRS. If the telephone number is an international number do not call, but correspond. If no response is received, continue processing and input Form 8288-C into the INTLWebApps FIRPTA Form 8288-C screen. Leave an explanation in the remarks field.

    Example:

    Corresponded for missing Form 8288 and no response.

  3. If Form 8288-C is missing or incomplete, then correspond for a complete Form 8288-C using Letter 3302. However, if a phone number is present, call the taxpayer and ask them to FAX the information to IRS. If the telephone number is an international number do not call, but correspond. If no response is received, review the Form 8288 attachments and prepare a "dummy" Form 8288-C following steps 1-10.

    Note:

    If the TIN, Name or Address is missing, research IDRS Command Codes NAMES or NAMEE and update the information on Form 8288-C if found.

    Reminder:

    Write the word "Dummy" on Form 8288-C.

    1. Form 8288 DLN

    2. Withholding agent name from Form 8288, Line 1a

    3. Withholding agent TIN from Form 8288, Line 1b

    4. Line 1 Date of Transfer from Form 8288, Line 3

    5. Line 2 Amount realized from Form 8288, Part IV, Line 17

    6. Line 3 Amount withheld from Form 8288, Part IV, Line 18

    7. Line 6 Other amounts withheld from Form 8288, Part IV, Line 16c

    8. Enter ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ or the TIN of partner

    9. Enter "Unknown" for the partner name if missing

    10. Enter "Missing" on withholding agent and partner address lines, if missing

    11. Input the dummy 8288-C information into the INTLWebApps system

    12. Leave explanation in the remarks field "dummy return"

      Caution:

      Accounts Management will normally select the tax paid button. Do not press the tax paid button unless you are certain the payment completely satisfies the entire transferee’s 10 percent tax liability plus interest.

  4. When calling the taxpayer or authorized representative, and before disclosing any tax information, follow IRM 21.1.3.2.3, Required Taxpayer Authentication and IRM 21.1.3.2.4, Additional Taxpayer Authentication. Before leaving any messages on a taxpayer’s answering machine, review IRM 10.5.1.6.7.2, Answering Machine or Voicemail and IRM 10.8.1, Information Technology (IT) Security, Policy and Guidance.

  5. Partnership (Withholding Agent) and Partner (Buyer) are the same on Form 8288 and Form 8288-C:

    1. Research all attached documents and edit the correct information. Correspond or call the taxpayer only after researching all attached documents and the correct information was not found. Prepare CAS Letter 3104C and request corrected returns with the correct Name, Address and TIN numbers for both parties.

    2. Enter Form 8288-C into the INTLWebApps application. Use the provided partnership information as the withholding agent information to record the Form 8288-C in the database. However, enter "Unknown" for the partner (buyer) name, and "≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡" for the TIN, and "Missing" for the address line.

    3. Edit CCC "U" on Form 8288 (follow procedures in IRM 3.21.261.17.(3).

    4. Leave Form 8288-C, Copy A attached to Form 8288. In the remarks enter "Unknown buyer/partner."

  6. Partnership/Withholding Agent on Form 8288-C and Form 8288 are not the same.
    Take the following steps:

    1. Use the actual partnership’s information from Form 8288 or Form 8288-C, as the withholding agent to report on Lines 1a through 1e of Form 8288, or prepare a new Form 8288-C with the actual partnership’s information edited in the withholding agent’s block of Form 8288-C.

      Caution:

      Do not mail a Form 8288-C to the partner (buyer) unless specifically instructed elsewhere in the IRM.

    2. Enter the data from the newly prepared Form 8288-C into the Form 8288-C database.

      Reminder:

      Research IDRS to verify the payment posted to the partner’s MFT 17 account. If the payment has posted to the partnership’s MFT 17 account, send a Form 3465 request to have the payment moved to partner’s MFT 17 account. If a payment is not found on either the partnership or partner’s MFT 17 account, continue processing.

Processing and Entering Form 8288-C

  1. Form 8288-C must be entered into the INTLWebApps Database.

    Caution:

    Do not enter duplicate Form 8288-C records in the database. If you have a photocopy of Form 8288, and the signature is not an original signature (photocopied), then query the INTLWebApps database for the Form 8288-C record to determine if it is a duplicate. If Form 8288-C is already present in the Database, then prepare Form 4227 and send the duplicate Form 8288-C to files to be associated with the original return (DLN).

    Exception:

    The partnership may file multiple Form 8288 returns with Form 8288-C attached for the same transferee until all payments add up to the 10% withholding tax plus applicable interest. These additional forms are not considered duplicate returns.

  2. Access the INTLWebApps database

    • Select the FIRPTA tab on the top left side of screen.

    • Select New Form 8288-C.

    • A blank 8288-C screen will appear.

  3. Input the following information from the Form 8288-C into the INTLWebApps 8288-C screen:

    8288-C Field Name (Database) Field Name On Form 8288-C Form 8288-C Field Type (Database) Field Size (Database) Requirements (Database) Description
    Input Date Record Number N/A Field 12,0 Auto generated Confirmation the record has been saved and consists of:
    • YYYY - year of entry

    • MM - month of entry

    • DD - day of entry

    • NNNN - is the ascending sequence number assigned for the specific date of entry

    Example: The first Form 8288-C record saved on March 4, 2024 will be assigned input record date 202403040001.
    DLN Form 8288 DLN Numeric 14 Can’t be blank Records DLN - must start with 60140.
    Distribution Number Distribution Number Numeric 4 Can’t be blank Records the distribution number which helps identify the distribution in sequential order the partnership is submitting
    Date of transfer (DOT)
    • Date of transfer

    • Box 1

    Date select or drop down 8 MMDDYYYY Records the date the interest in the partnership was transferred to the transferee whose name appear on the 8288-C
    Amount realized
    • Amount realized

    • Box 2

    Numeric 16,2  
    • Records amount realized by the foreign person who transferred its interest in the partnership to the transferee

    • If blank, check Form 8288 Part IV Line 17

    • If missing see: IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Amount withheld
    • Amount withheld

    • Box 3

    Numeric 16,2   Records the cumulative amounts withheld to date from the transferee’s distributions
    Date of this distribution
    • Date of this distribution

    • Box 4

    Date select or drop down Date MMDDYYYY
    • Records the date of the distribution

    • This date value cannot be older than date value for Form 8288-C Date of Transfer field

    Amount of This Distribution
    • Amount of this Distribution

    • Box 5

    Numeric 16,2   Records the amount of the distribution to the transferee
    Other Amounts withheld
    • Other amounts withheld

    • Box 6

    Numeric 16,2  
    • Records other amounts withheld

    • If the distribution was also subject to withholding under another provision of the Code, such as section 1441, the amount of that withholding under that provision would be entered

    Partnership EIN Withholding Agent’s (Partnership’s) U.S. EIN Numeric 9 Can’t be blank
    • Records partnership EIN

    • If missing see: IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Partnership Name Withholding Agent’s (Partnership’s) Name Various Characters 35  
    • Records partnership name

    • If missing see: IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Address Line 1 (Partnership)
    • Withholding Agent’s (Partnership’s) address

    • Left of Line 1

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 1 can be:
    • regular mailing address or

    • in care of address

    Address Line 2 (Partnership)
    • Withholding Agent’s (Partnership’s) address

    • Left of Line 1

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 2 can be used to document the foreign city, province, and postal code of foreign addresses
    Address Line 3 (Partnership)
    • Withholding Agent’s (Partnership’s) address

    • Left of Line one

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 3 can be used to document the foreign city, and postal code of foreign addresses if there was not enough room in Lines 1 or 2
    City (Partnership)
    • Withholding Agent’s (Partnership’s) city

    • Left of Line 1

    Various Characters 15   Partnership city
    State (Partnership)
    • Withholding Agent’s (Partnership’s) state

    • Left of Line 1

    Various Characters 2   Partnership state
    Zip Code (Partnership)
    • Withholding Agent’s (Partnership’s) ZIP

    • Left of Line 1

    Various Characters 9   Partnership Zip Code
    Buyer TIN Type EIN or SSN Drop down list 1 EIN or SSN Records the partners (buyer) TIN type
    Buyer’s EIN/SSN
    • Partner’s (Transferee’s) U.S. EIN or SSN

    • Left of Line 2

    Various Characters 9 Can’t be blank
    • Records partner (buyer) TIN

    • If missing see: IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Buyer Corp Name or Buyer "Last" Name Partner's (Transferee’s) name subject to withholding Various Characters 30  
    • Records corporation name or partner (buyer) last name

    • If missing see: IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Buyer "First" Name Partner's (Transferee’s) name subject to withholding Various Characters 30  
    • Partner (buyer) first name

    • If missing see: IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Residence US or Foreign Drop Down     Records buyers country of residence
    Address Line 1 (Buyer/Partner)
    • Partner's (Transferee’s) address

    • Left of Line 3

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 1 can be:
    • regular mailing address or

    • in care of address

    Address Line 2 (Buyer/Partner)
    • Partner's (Transferee’s) address

    • Left of Line 3

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 2 can be used to document the foreign city, province, and postal code of foreign addresses
    Address Line 3 (Buyer/Partner)
    • Partner's (Transferee’s) address

    • Left of Line 3

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 3 can be used to document the foreign city, and postal code of foreign addresses if there was not enough room in Lines 1 or 2
    City (Buyer/Partner)
    • Partner's city (Transferee’s)

    • Left of Line 3

    Various Characters 15   Records buyer city
    State (Buyer/Partner)
    • Partner's (Transferee’s) state

    • Left of Line 3

    Various Characters 2   Records buyer state
    Zip Code (Buyer/Partner)
    • Partner's (Transferee’s) ZIP

    • Left of Line 3

    Various Characters 9   Records buyer Zip Code
    Province (Buyer/Partner)
    • Partner's (Transferee’s) province

    • Left of Line 3

    Various Characters 35   Records buyer province
    Country Name (Buyer/Partner)
    • Partner's (Transferee’s) country Name

    • Left of Line 3

    Various Characters 35   Records buyer country name.
    Total Tax Paid (Buyer/Partner) N/A Checkbox 1   Records buyer total tax paid

    Caution:

    This checkbox will generally be checked by Accounts Management and should only be checked if the partnership has paid the entire transferee’s 10 percent withholding liability plus interest.

    Tax Refund (Buyer/Partner) N/A Checkbox 1   Records buyer total tax refund indicator.

    Caution:

    This checkbox will generally be checked by Accounts Management and should only be checked if the transferee has received a refund for any amounts overpaid.

    Foreign Seller TIN Type EIN or SSN Various Characters 1 EIN and SSN Records seller’s TIN type
    Foreign Seller TIN Sellers (Transferor’s) U.S. TIN Various Characters 9 Can’t be blank
    • Records seller TIN

    • If missing see: IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Corp Name or Foreign Seller "Last" Name Seller’s (Transferor’s) Name Various Characters 30  
    • Records corporation name or foreign seller last name

    • If missing see: IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Foreign Seller "First" Name Seller’s (Transferor’s) Name Various Characters 30  
    • Records seller first name

    • If missing see : IRM 3.21.25.16(3)

    Residence US or Foreign Drop Down     Records seller country of residence
    Foreign Seller Address Line 1
    • Seller’s address

    • Left of Line 6

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 1 can be:
    • regular mailing address or

    • in care of address

    Foreign Seller Address Line 2
    • Seller’s address

    • Left of Line 6

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 2 can be used to document the foreign city, province, and postal code of foreign addresses
    Foreign Seller Address Line 3
    • Seller’s address

    • Left of Line 6

    Various Characters 40   Address Line 3 can be used to document the foreign city, and postal code of foreign addresses if there was not enough room in Lines 1 or 2
    Foreign Seller City
    • Seller’s city

    • Left of Line 6

    Various Characters 15   Foreign seller (transferor) city
    Foreign Seller State
    • Seller’s state

    • Left of Line 6

    Various Characters 2   Foreign seller (transferor) state
    Foreign Seller Province
    • Sellers province

    • Left of Line 6

    Various Characters 35   Foreign seller (transferor) province
    Foreign Seller Country Name
    • Sellers country name

    • Left of Line 6

    Various Characters 35   Foreign seller (transferor) country name
    Foreign Seller Zip Code
    • Seller’s ZIP

    • Left of Line 6

    Various Characters 9   Foreign seller (transferor) Zip Code
    Foreign Seller Return Filed Indicator N/A Various Characters 1   Foreign seller (transferor) return filed indicator
    Foreign Seller Return Filed Date N/A Date select or drop down 8 MMDDYYYY Tax period
    Remarks N/A Various Characters 720   Records remarks left by users
  4. After all the Form 8288-C information is input, click "Save" . A New Form 8288-C Record Added screen will appear confirming the record is stored in the system. The computer will automatically enter the current date, and your login information in the Remarks area of the screen.

  5. To add another Form 8288-C record with the same buyer information, select the New with Repeat button.

  6. To enter a different Form 8288-A, select the Next New button.

    Note:

    The system provides the option to add another Form 8288-C record with the same buyer information. Do not select the New with Repeat button as only one Form 8288-C can be attached to one Form 8288 at this time.

Correcting/Updating Existing Form 8288-C Records

  1. To update and/or modify an existing Form 8288-C you must:

    1. Login to the INTLWebApps Application to access the FIRPTA Database.

    2. Select "Search/Edit" to begin a Form 8288-C query.

    3. Search the DLN of the 8288-C if present. If no DLN is present, follow the next steps.

    4. Enter information into one of the fields to narrow down your search.

    5. Click on one of the buttons to the right of the selected field.

    6. Using the wildcard sign "%" before and after information may improve query.

    7. Scroll through the responses to find the correct record.

    8. Locate the fields that need to be updated or modified.

    9. Use the keyboard delete or backspace key to remove the entry, and type in the correct information.

    10. Press the "Save" button.

Credit Verifying Form 8288-A (FIRPTA) and section 1446(f)(1) Credits

  1. Any foreign individual or entity that has sold a U.S. Real Property Interest (USRPI) must file a U.S. income tax return to claim the credit or refund of the FIRPTA tax withheld. The return can be a Form 1040, Form 1040-NR (Individual or Estate or Trust), Form 1120-F, Form 990-T, or Form 8804.

    Note:

    Regulations section 1.1446(f)-2(e)(3) provides that if a stamped copy of Form 8288-A has not been provided to the transferor by the IRS, the transferor may establish the amount of tax withheld by the transferee by attaching to its return substantial evidence of the amount. Generally, a Form 8288-A must be attached to the income tax return to substantiate the claimed FIRPTA or section 1446(f)(1) credit. However, a foreign person may not have a stamped copy of Form 8288-A (Copy B) attached to their income tax return. If this is the case, to claim a credit for withholding under section 1445, the foreign person must attach substantial evidence of withholding (e.g., for section 1445 withholding a settlement statement such as a HUD-1 form and for section 1446(f)(1) withholding a statement that includes all of the information otherwise required to be provided on Form 8288-A) to their U.S. income tax return. This evidence must contain all of the following information for both the buyer and the seller.

    Substantial Evidence of Withholding

    Number Evidence
    1 Foreign Person Name.
    2 The buyer’s name, address, and TIN.
    3 A description and location of the property.
    4 The date of the transfer.
    5 The amount realized on the transfer.
    6 The amount of tax withheld.
     

    Note:

    The IRS issued Chief Counsel Advisory (IRS CCA) 201028040 on June 15, 2010, stating that FIRPTA credits must be allowed to the foreign seller on their income tax return as long as the foreign seller is able to provide supporting documentation (settlement statement), Even if the buyer has not filed or paid the FIRPTA withholding tax to the IRS. See IRM 3.21.25.17.2 for specific instructions related to processing credit verifications on Non-Filer cases.

  2. FIRPTA credit verifications identified in Code and Edit require verification within 48 hours of receipt. FIRPTA credit verifications received from another function (Rejects, Error Resolution (ERS), Accounts Management, etc.) also require verification within 48 hours and returned to the originator on Form 3210. Document the credit verification amount on Form 13698, and update the Form 8288-A INTLWebApps database "Credit Verification" section of the Form 8288-A screen with the:

    • Tax Period

    • Tax Form Number

    • Amount Verified (when the tax paid button is checked)

    • New Remarks

    Note:

    Austin Submission Processing Center (AUSPC) will use 34-710-11330 for Code and Edit and 36-710-11330 for ERS to report hours and volume when processing Form 8288-A credit verifications. OSPC will use 34-210-11331 to report hours and volumes when processing Form 8288-A credit verifications.

  3. Electronically-filed IMF Form 1040-NR with credits from Form 8288-A will be systemically suspended in the Error Resolution System (ERS) for FIRPTA credit verification. The ERS Rejects/Suspense Unit will verify the credit within 48 hours of receipt in suspense inventory and document the credit verification by updating the Form 8288-A Database “Credit Verification” section of the Form 8288-A screen with:

    • Tax Period

    • Tax Form Number

    • Amount Verified (when the tax paid button is checked)

    • New Remarks

    Note:

    Austin Submission Processing Center (AUSPC) ERS Rejects/Suspense will use 36-710-11330 to report hours and volume when processing Form 8288-A credit verifications.

  4. In general, the date of transfer sets the tax period for Form 8288 and should match the tax period on the seller’s return (e.g., Forms 1040-NR, 1120-F).

  5. Never verify more FIRPTA credit than what appears in the Form 8288-A Database. If the taxpayer claims less credit on the return, then verify only up to the amount claimed.

    Example:

    When property is jointly-owned, including between spouses, do not allow one owner to claim more than the proportional amount of the FIRPTA credit on the income tax return. Each owner may claim only their share of the credit, and each must have a TIN. See also IRM 3.21.25.15.2.2 when only one spouse owns the property.

  6. Verification Procedures: Generally, you must:

    1. Make sure you have a Form 8288-A attached to the income tax return or substantial evidence of withholding (e.g., settlement statement) and that the return has a TIN number present on it.

    2. Form 8288-A may or may not have "Copy B mailed" stamped on it, or the DLN of the processed Form 8288 stamped on it. Nevertheless, continue to verify the credit.

      Reminder:

      If the correct FIRPTA date stamp is not on the Form 8288-A, then it is a good possibility that it is not recorded in the Database. However, proceed with the credit verification.

    3. Query the FIRPTA Database for the credit.

      Note:

      If you are unable to locate the Form 8288-A record in the Database, research the W/H Agent TIN on IDRS to see if Form 8288 was filed and paid. If found on IDRS then continue following these instructions. If not, then go to IRM 3.21.25.17.2 for instructions.

      Reminder:

      When verifying an older version of Form 8288-A that does not have Box 5, "Withholding under section" , update the Withholding Type field in the database with the correct value. If the return is for Section 1445 (FIRPTA) withholding select "1445" and if the withholding is for Section 1446(f)(1) withholding, select "1446(f)" from the drop down list.

      IF THEN
      The income tax return and the Form 8288-A have No TIN number Do not verify the credit but enter .00 on Form 13698. Document in the remarks area of Form 13698 the following "Denied Credit - No TIN present."
      The income tax return has a TIN number, but not Form 8288-A,
      • Query for the Form 8288-A record in the Database to see if the name and address match the taxpayer’s Form 1040-NR name and address. If it does, then verify credit and update database with the correct TIN number.

      • Name and address on 1040-NR are different, do not verify the credit but enter .00 on Form 13698. Document in the remarks area of Form 13698 the following; "Denied Credit - Questionable Taxpayer."

      The TIN on the tax return and Form 8288-A are not the same, and/or the name and address do not match the Form 8288-A Database, Do not verify the credit but enter .00 on Form 13698, and document on Form 13698 "possible mixed entity case" "Denied Credit - Questionable Taxpayer. "
      The income tax return has no TIN, or it is a Canadian TIN, Do not verify the credit but enter .00 on Form 13698. "Denied Credit - No Valid U.S. TIN present."
      The "Tax Paid" button is not checked on the Form 8288-A screen, and the date of transfer is prior to 12/13/05 with a 98641, 17641 or 09641 DLN with a 3XX blocking series, The tax has been paid. Verify the credit.
      The "Tax Paid" button is not checked on the Form 8288-A screen, and the date of transfer is after 12/12/05, with a 98140, 17641, 09641 or 60140 DLN,
      • The tax may or may not have been paid.

      1. Research IDRS MFT 17 using the W/H Agent EIN and the year and month of the date of transfer as your tax period to see if the tax was paid.

      2. If paid, check the "Tax Paid" button,

      3. Verify the credit and prepare Form 13698.

      • If the tax hasn't been paid, then follow the instructions in the next row.

      Form 8288 tax has not been paid, or
      Form 8288 tax has been partially paid,
      1. Prepare Form 13698.

      2. Verify the credit, but do not check the Tax Paid Button.

      3. Enter the credit verification information only in the "Remarks" area.

      The Form 8288 tax has been paid, and the tax return and Form 8288-A have matching U.S. TINs, Verify the credit, complete Form 13698, Update the credit verification table in the Form 8288-A Database, and insert the current date and employee profile number in the remarks area of the Database.

    4. Follow the instructions in the "If/Then" table below, when the Form 8288-A record is not located in the database, but the Form 8288 return was received, paid and processed to the Business Master File.

      Note:

      The 48 hour turnaround time is waived in this situation.

      If Then
      Only one Form 8288-A was filed with the Form 8288 return
      1. Create an Form 8288-A record in the "Form 8288-A IRMF" database.

      2. Save the Record.

      3. Complete the "Credit Verification" part of the Form 8288-A record.

      4. Stamp "Copy B mailed" on the Form 8288-A.

      5. Complete the Credit Verification Slip (Form 13698).

      More than one Form 8288-A was filed with the Form 8288 return
      1. Alert the Lead Tax Examiner.

      2. The Lead will request (via Form 2275) the entire Form 8288 DLN return block from files.

      3. Once the DLN block has been received from files the Lead will locate the questionable return in the block and give it to the tax examiner (T/E) to complete their actions (See IRM 3.21.25.15.3). Once the actions are completed the T/E must return the document to the DLN block.

      4. The Lead will review the remaining Form 8288 returns in the block to see if the Form 8288-As have been recorded in the Form 8288-A IRMF database.

      The Forms 8288-A from the DLN block were not recorded in the Form 8288-A IRMF database The Lead will either record them in the Form 8288-A IRMF database, or designate a T/E within the unit to process the DLN block (See IRM 3.21.25.15.4). Caution: Do not separate the DLN block. Reminder: Once all actions with the DLN Block has been completed (including Form 8288-A Copy B Mailout), return the entire DLN block to files for Re-filing.
      The Lead is unable to obtain the DLN block from files Lead must prepare correspondence action sheet 3104C and request copies of all the Form 8288-As from the withholding agent (use open paragraph). Suspend for 30 days in the "3794C No TIN folder."

      Note:

      Suspend for 60 days if the buyer has a foreign address.

      Withholding Agent responds Complete the actions mentioned in the first row above.
      Withholding Agent doesn’t respond Follow IRM instructions. See "NOTE" in IRM 3.21.25.17.

  7. After all action has been taken, complete the credit verification slip, Form 13698 and staple it to the front of the income tax return, (for electronically filed returns, please see the second Note below). The following information must be entered on Form 13698:

    • Tax Period – YYYYMM

    • TIN – ITIN, SSN, EIN

    • Master File Tax (MFT) – 02, 08, 20, 30, 34

    • Amount of credit

    • Verifiers IDRS profile number

    • Total credit amount

    Note:

    Also complete the "Credit Verification" section on the bottom of the Form 8288-A Query screen or the Form 8288-A IRMF query screen.

    Note:

    For MeF returns only, print page 1 of the MeF return and attach Form 13698. Using CC REQ54, enter a TC 290 with AMT .00 and send the print to Files. For REQ54 instructions see IRM 3.12.37, Error Resolution, IMF General Instructions.

  8. The w/h agent information on the paper Form 8288-A may differ from the Database, because the Database shows the Form 8288 buyer information, whereas the Form 8288-A may show the title company information. Either way it appears is correct. Continue to verify the credit.

Verifying Form 8288-A Credit on 1999 and Prior Income Tax Returns

  1. The FIRPTA Database cannot be used to verify Form 8288-A credits on 1999 or prior income tax returns.

  2. To verify the Form 8288-A credit for a 1999 or prior income tax return, you must:

    1. Research IDRS Command Codes NAMES or NAMEE to see if the taxpayer may have filed a previous income tax return claiming the credit, but using a different TIN number. If another TIN is found and IDRS shows the taxpayer received credit for the FIRPTA withholding, then stop here and disallow the credit on Form 13698 (document the posting of the credit found on IDRS).

    2. If no other TIN is located continue to verify the credit by researching the NMF system and/or request a MARS transcript. Form 8288 is processed with MFT 17 in the NMF system. The DLN of the Form 8288 begins with 98641, 17641, or 09641. Once you have accessed the NMF account; Query for the Form 8288 account using the withholding agent name, withholding agent TIN, MFT 17, and/or the Date of Transfer in the tax period field. Once the Form 8288 has been located, follow the instructions in the table found in IRM 3.21.25.17 (3) 3).

      Reminder:

      Follow the instructions in IRM 3.21.25.17.2 if no Form 8288 is found in the NMF system.

  3. Once all credit verification action has been taken and Form 13698 has been completed, staple Form 13698 to the front of the income tax return, and return it to the originator.

Verifying FIRPTA and Section 1446(f)(1) Credit via Settlement Statement - Buyer Non-Filer Account

  1. Regulations section 1.1446(f)-2(e)(3) provides that if a stamped copy of Form 8288-A has not been provided to the transferor by the IRS, the transferor may establish the amount of tax withheld by the transferee by attaching to its return substantial evidence of the amount. Generally, a Form 8288-A must be attached to the income tax return to substantiate the claimed FIRPTA or section 1446(f)(1) credit. However, a foreign person may not have a stamped copy of Form 8288-A (Copy B) attached to their income tax return. If this is the case, to claim a credit for withholding under section 1445, the foreign person must attach substantial evidence of withholding (e.g., for section 1445 withholding a settlement statement such as a HUD-1 form and for section 1446(f)(1) withholding a statement that includes all of the information otherwise required to be provided on Form 8288-A) to their U.S. income tax return. This evidence must contain all of the following information for both the buyer and the seller. See Exhibit 3.21.25-4. This action is supported by Chief Council Advisory (CCA) 201028040 on FIRPTA Credit Verification (Non-Filer or Non-Payment).

  2. The foreign seller must provide the IRS with one of the following items:

    • A signed or initialed settlement statement/closing agreement (See Exhibit 3.21.25-4), or

    • Form 8288-A, Copy B (stamped or not stamped by the IRS)

    Note:

    A good faith estimate settlement statement is invalid proof for FIRPTA credit verification purposes.

  3. Use the instructions in this subsection to verify (allow) the FIRPTA credit in situations where the buyer (withholding agent) has not filed Form 8288 or paid the FIRPTA tax. These instructions supersede some of the instructions found in IRM 3.21.25.17.

  4. Research the INTLWebApps database for the FIRPTA credit when a Form 8288-A or settlement statement is attached to the income tax return, and the income tax return has the foreign persons Name, Address, and Taxpayer Identifying Number (TIN) on it.

    Note:

    If the Name, Address and TIN is not on the income tax return, deny the credit.

  5. If the 8288-A record is found in the database, and the tax paid button is checked, research IDRS to make sure the tax is truly paid. If paid, prepare Form 13698 and update the credit verification field in the INTLWebApps application. However, if it is not paid, deselect the "Tax Paid" button and prepare Form 13698 (see Exhibit 3.21.25-3) allow the credit. Do not update the credit verification field. Instead write in the remarks area Credit Verified per CCA 201028040.

    Note:

    Always make sure the seller TIN is in database. If it is not present, then update the 8288-A record.

  6. If the 8288-A record is found in the database, but the Tax Paid button is not checked in the database, research IDRS to verify if a return has actually been filed. If IDRS shows a filing but no tax payment on IDRS, then prepare Form 13698 (see Exhibit 3.21.25-3) to allow the credit. Do not update the credit verification field, instead write in the remarks area Credit Verified per CCA 201028040.

    Note:

    Always make sure the seller TIN is in database. If it is not present, then update the 8288-A record.

  7. If the 8288-A record is not found in the database, research IDRS to find the buyer TIN (if not present on the paperwork). If you locate the buyer TIN, look on IDRS to see if the buyer filed the 8288. If the 8288 account is found on IDRS and it is paid:

    1. Create an 8288-A record in the INTLWebApps application from the information on IDRS or the submitted documentation.

    2. Prepare Form 13698 to allow the credit.

    3. Check the "Tax Paid" button.

    4. Simultaneously, update the credit verification field in the INTLWebApps application.

  8. If the 8288-A record is not found in the database, research IDRS to find the buyer TIN (if not present on the paperwork). If you locate the buyer TIN, look on IDRS to see if the buyer filed the 8288. If the 8288 account is found on IDRS and it is NOT paid:

    1. Create an 8288-A record in the INTLWebApps application from the information on IDRS or the submitted documentation.

    2. Prepare Form 13698 to allow the credit. See Exhibit 3.21.25-3.

    3. Do NOT check the Tax Paid button.

    4. Write in the remarks area Credit Verified per CCA 201028040.

    5. Do not update the credit verification field.

  9. If the 8288 or 8288-A record is not found on IDRS or in the database, then we have a true Non-Filer case. Perform the following steps:

    1. Refer to IRM 3.21.25.17.2 (2) to create an 8288-A record using the information from the taxpayer.

      Form 8288 and Form 8288-A Non-Filer Record
      DLN: Create specific Non-Filer 8288-A DLN record. The DLN must always be ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ but the List year will vary. The list year will be the year of the DOT.

      Example:

      Date of Transfer (DOT) on settlement statement is 02/22/2012, then the list year will be "2" and the DLN to create the 8288-A record will be ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡.

      Date of Transfer: Always enter the Date of Transfer in mm/dd/yyyy format.
      Total Tax Paid:≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡"Total Tax Paid" button.
      Total Amount Realized: Always enter ten ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
      W/H Agent TIN Type: Depress the "EIN" button.
      W/H Agent TIN: Always enter ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
      W/H Agent Name: Always enter "FIRPTA NON-FILER CASES."
      Real Property Description (RPD): Always enter IRS Chief Counsel Advisory (CCA) 201028040 Dated 20100615 17383622
      RPD State Code: Always enter "DC."
      Foreign Seller Information: Enter the foreign seller’s information:
      • Seller TIN Type

      • Withholding Type - Select "1445"

      • Foreign Seller TIN

      • Foreign Seller Last Name

      • Foreign Seller First Name

      • Address Ln 1

      • Address Ln 2

      • Address Ln 3

      • City

      • State

      • Country

      • ZIP Code

      Amount Realized: Enter the "Contract Sales Price" found on the settlement statement (see Exhibit 3.21.25-4) or Form 8288-A (if attached).

      Note:

      If multiple sellers are listed, equally divide the amount between the sellers.

      Amount Withheld: Enter the "FIRPTA Tax withheld" listed on the settlement statement (see Exhibit 3.21.25-4) or Form 8288-A (if attached). The settlement statement (Item 500-509) may document the w/h FIRPTA tax as "IRS, FIRPTA, or United States Treasury."

      Note:

      If multiple sellers are listed, equally divide the amount between the sellers.

      Remarks: Always enter "CREDIT VERIFIED – COPY SENT TO COMPLIANCE REVENUE OFFICER – FOR 6020(B)"

    2. Do not update the credit verification field.

    3. Prepare Form 13698 to allow the credit. Write "Non-Filer / Settlement statement sent to Compliance for 6020(b) action." in the comments block. See Exhibit 3.21.25-3.

    4. Photocopy the 8288-A or settlement statement and transship the copied documents to the Ogden Service Center on Form 3499, Informational Transmittal, Attn: Classification, M/S 4160, 1973 N. Rulon White Blvd., Ogden, UT 84201.

    5. Staple Form 13698 to the income tax return and continue processing the return through the pipeline.

Form 8805 Credit Verification of Pre-IRMF Section 1446 Credits Claimed on Form 1040-NR, Form 8804, Form 990-T, Form 1120-F, and Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust

  1. If a verification request is received for Form 8805 credits claimed on Form 1040-NR, Form 8804, Form 990-T, Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust, and Form 1120-F under IRC 1446, the following steps should be taken:

    1. Login to the INTLWebApps Application to access the Project 1446 Database.

    2. Select "Search/Edit" to begin a Form 8805 query.

    3. Enter at least two types of information into the fields to narrow down your search.

    4. Selecting "More Search Options" will display extra fields.

    5. Using the wildcard sign "%" before and after your information may help your query.

    6. Scroll through the responses until you find the correct record.

    Note:

    These credit verifications will be coming from ERS, Rejects and from walkthroughs.

  2. Upon verification the information must be annotated on the credit verification slip. The following information must be entered:

    • Current Date followed by the TE Profile Number

    • Tax Year - YYYYMM format

    • EIN - SSN

    • Indicate from which Database the credit was verified

    • Amount and date of credit

  3. If there is a discrepancy between the credits being claimed on the return and the Database information, return to originator.

  4. Inform the originator that correspondence is needed with the PARTNERSHIP/WITHHOLDING AGENT.

  5. If after research is completed and credits cannot be verified, return the income tax return to the originator, annotated with the following: "THERE ARE NO CREDITS AVAILABLE," TE Profile Number and current date.

Verifying 8805 Credits on 1999 and Prior Income Tax Returns

  1. The Project 1446 Database cannot be used to verify Form 8805 credits on 1999 or prior income tax returns.

  2. To verify the Form 8805 credit for a 1999 or prior income tax return, you must:

    1. Research IDRS Command Codes NAMES or NAMEE to see if the taxpayer may have filed a previous income tax return claiming the credit, but using a different TIN number. If another TIN is found and IDRS shows the taxpayer received credit for the IRC 1446 withholding, then stop here and disallow the credit on Form 13698 (document the posting of the credit found on IDRS).

    2. If no other TIN is located continue to verify the credit by researching the NMF system and/or request a MARS transcript. Form 8804 is processed with MFT 08 in the NMF system. The DLN of Form 8804 begins with 98629 or 17629. Once you have accessed the NMF account; Query for the Form 8804 account using the withholding agent name, withholding agent EIN, MFT 08, and tax period. Once the Form 8804 has been located, you must verify that the tax has been paid. If the tax was partially paid, then verify only up to the paid tax amount but not more than the amount of the credit being claimed by the taxpayer on Form 13698. Otherwise if not paid at all, stop here and disallow the credit on Form 13698.

  3. Once all credit verification action has been taken and Form 13698 has been completed, staple Form 13698 to the front of the income tax return.

Processing Form 8805 to the IRMF Form 8805 Database beginning with Tax Period 12/31/2004

  1. Form 8805 data is transmitted to the Martinsburg Computing Center (MCC) for posting to the Information Returns Master File (IRMF).

  2. Forms 8805 has its own DLN and is processed in OSPC. The DLN begins with "60546" . Form 8805 was previously processed at the PSPC and the DLN began with 98546.

    • District Office 60

    • Tax Class 5

    • Document Code 46

    • Blocking Series Range 000-999

    • Program 71770

  3. Forms 8805 submitted with Forms 8804 are detached from Form 8804, batched, numbered (60546 DLN), and forwarded to the FIRPTA unit at the OSPC for processing to the INTLWebApps application.

    Reminder:

    Form 8805 comes in sets. Copy A, B, C and D of Form 8805 is a set. However, the partnership only needs to file Copy A with Form 8804. Therefore, only record one Form 8805 to the INTLWebApps application when the partnership attaches two or more copies to Form 8804.

    Caution:

    Do not enter duplicate Form 8805 records in the IRMF Form 8805 database. If you have a photocopy of Form 8804, and the signature is not an original signature (photocopied), then query the Form 8805 database for a prior recorded Form 8805 record. If you locate the Form 8805 record, the record is completely identical and there is no indication it's an amended return, do not enter a duplicate Form 8805 into the database. Otherwise, continue normal processing. For more information on amended Forms 8804 and 8805, see IRM 3.21.15.13.1, ♦Amended Returns♦.

  4. If Form 8804-C, Certificate of Partner-Level Items to Reduce Section 1446 Withholding or a Statement under Treasury Regs 1.1446-6 is attached to Form 8805, then detach it from the Form 8805 and transship it to:

    Internal Revenue Service
    4-F23.142 Examination Branch
    2970 Market St.
    Philadelphia, PA 19104


    Transship the form only after entering"Y" in the "8804-C CERT" field, otherwise, if no Form 8804-C is attached to the Form 8805, then the "8804-C CERT" field on the IRMF 8805 record entry screen will remain with a Default" N" in the field.

  5. The Form 8805 menu identified as IRMF Form 8805 (TP 200412 and Subsequent) will appear on the Project 1446 menu screen as "Option 7" to record the data.

  6. To improve data entry efficiency, the computer will store the foreign partners information into a partner table. The computer will import the name and address of the foreign partner into the Form 8805 record if it has been previously established. If not previously established, then you will need to enter it.

  7. Compare the imported data from the partners table against the paper Form 8805 to ensure that the most current foreign partner information is recorded. If different, then delete the incorrect information and enter the correct information.

  8. Special procedures are required for beneficiaries of foreign estates or trusts to claim credits that flow through to them from the estate or trust. The estate or trust must issue the beneficiary a Form 8805 with a completed Schedule T. The beneficiaries must attach a copy of the form to their return to claim the section 33 credit for IRC 1446 withholding tax paid by the partnership.

  9. Form 8804 is processed under Program Code 11340 and through MFT "08" .

Form 8805 and Schedule T Fields to Record

  1. The following fields are recorded in the Project 1446 Database for Form 8805. The database includes separate buttons for each part of the form:

    • Form 8805 (Part 1)

    • Part 2

    • Part 3

    • Schedule T

    • Confirm

  2. Enter the following fields into Part 1.

    1. "Form 8805 DLN" : It must begin with 98546 (if processed in Philadelphia) or 60546 (if processed in Ogden).

      Note:

      The DLN field will appear in four segments. The first segment will be preset to display the File Location Code (FLC), Tax Class, and Document Code (Doc Code 60546). The second segment will be the Julian Date field (ddd) and Blocking Series (nnn). The third segment will be the Sequence Number (nn). The fourth segment is the List Year (n).

      Since most 8805s are received in DLN order, the Form 8805 data entry screen will repeat the same DLN number for the next record to be entered. This feature will help reduce the number of keystrokes and time it takes to enter the record. It is important to remember that when the DLN is the same, you will have to change the blocking series or sequence number of every DLN record, or else you’ll corrupt the Database.

      Caution:

      If a DLN already exists in the IRMF Form 8805 Database, and you attempt to enter the same DLN, you will receive an error message saying that the DLN list year is incorrect. The easiest thing to do would be to click on the "Remove Record" button on the tool bar (the icon is a red plus sign on a white piece of paper). This will remove the sequence part of the DLN and place the cursor in the beginning location position of the DLN. Send the Form 8805 to numbering for a new DLN if you’re unable to enter the correct DLN.

    2. "WH Agent EIN" : Line 5b or 7 of Form 8805. The default is always Line 5b.

      Note:

      Once the EIN is entered, and if the Database has the information of the WH Agent name, then it will automatically fill-in.

    3. "WH Agent Name" : Line 5a or 6 of Form 8805. The default is always Line 5a.

    4. "Tax Period" : Enter the tax period in mm/dd/yyyy format. The earliest tax period accepted is 12/31/2004.

    5. Click "Next" at the bottom right of the screen.

  3. Enter the following data in to Part 2.

    1. "TIN Type" : Enter a "1" if an SSN, ITIN or Internal Revenue Service number appears on Line 1b. If an EIN appears on Line 1b, then enter a "2" for the TIN Type.

    2. "TIN" : Enter the SSS/EIN that appears on Line 1b of Form 8805. If no TIN is present on Form 8805, leave field blank

    3. "Residence" : Select Foreign or domestic according to the address listed in 1c of Form 8805.

    4. "Country" : Enter the Country for the country listed on Line 4 of Form 8805. Select the country from the drop down list.

    5. "Partners Last Name or Foreign Entity Name" : Enter the partners’ last name from Line 1a of Form 8805, or the entire Foreign Entity Name.

    6. "Partners First Name" : Enter the partners’ First name from Line 1a of Form 8805. Do not enter any foreign entity name here.

    7. "Address Line 1" : Enter Line 1c of Form 8805.

    8. "Address Line 2" : Use this field to enter the additional address Line from Line 1c.

    9. "Postal Code" : Enter as follows:
      Domestic Addresses -- Enter the domestic postal code from Line 1c of Form 8805.
      Foreign Addresses -- Leave the "Postal Code" field empty for foreign addresses.

    10. Click "Next" at the bottom right of the screen.

  4. Enter the following information into Part 3.

    1. "Tiered Partnership" : Depress this radio button when Line 8a of Form 8805 is marked.

      Caution:

      If Line 9 is a negative entry do not check the Tiered Partnership button, instead check the Effectively Connected Taxable Income (ECTI) Flowthrough button.

    2. "Income Exempt" : Depress this radio button when Line 8b of Form 8805 is marked.

      Caution:

      Depressing this button will tell the program to enter "0" or leave "blank" the Total Section 1446 Tax field.

    3. "ECI Flowthrough" : Depress this radio button when Line 8a is marked and the entry on Line 9 is a negative amount. Or, the ECI entry on Line 9 is positive, but the tax on Line 10 is zero, and Line 8b is not marked.

      Reminder:

      Reminder: Do not check the Tiered or Income Exempt buttons when the ECI Flowthrough button must be checked.

    4. "Effectively Connected Taxable Income (ECTI)" : Enter the amount on Line 9 of Form 8805 in this field. Enter a significant dollar entry (e.g., 125622 for $125,622.58) without the cents. However, if the ECI is a loss with a negative amount in brackets or a minus (125622), then enter the negative money amount as -125622.

    5. "Total Section 1446 Tax" : Enter the amount on Line 10 of Form 8805 in this field. Enter a significant dollar entry (e.g., $43,968 for $43,967.70) without the cents. However, if the ECI is a loss, then this field must be blank.

      Note:

      When the ECI Flowthrough button is checked the Total Section 1446 Tax field will be blank. No entry, not even a zero will be accepted.

    6. "8804-C CERT" : This is a one character field. The valid characters are "Y" for Yes and "N" for No. This field will always be "Defaulted to N." Therefore, if Form 8804-C is attached to Form 8805 replace the "N" with a "Y" and then detach Form 8804-C. See IRM 3.21.25.19 (4).

    7. Click "Next" at the bottom left of the screen.

  5. The following fields are associated with the Schedule T – Beneficiary Information part of Form 8805 as required by the Regulations under IRC 1446. Depress the Schedule T button on the screen to get to the data entry screen to enter the data off of Form 8805 Schedule T, Lines 11a through 13.

    1. "TIN Type" : Enter a "1" if an SSN, ITIN or Internal Revenue Service number appears on Line 11b. If an EIN appears on Line 1b, then enter a "2" for the TIN Type.

    2. "SSN/EIN:" Enter the TIN that appears on Line 11b of Form 8805. If no TIN is present on Form 8805, leave field blank

    3. "Residence" : Select foreign or domestic according to the address listed in 11c of Form 8805.

    4. "Beneficiary Last Name or Foreign Entity Name" : Enter the partners’ last name from Line 11a of Form 8805, or the entire Foreign Entity Name.

    5. "Beneficiary First Name" : Enter the partners’ First name from Line 11a of Form 8805. Do not enter any foreign entity name here.

    6. "Address Line 1" : Enter Line 11C of Form 8805.

    7. "Address Line 2" : Use this field to enter the additional address line from Line 11c, or if a Foreign address is present, use this field to enter the foreign City and Postal Code.

    8. "City" : Enter as follows:
      Domestic Addresses -- Enter the U.S. city name from Line 11c of Form 8805.
      Foreign Addresses -- Enter the foreign city name as well as the foreign postal code from Line 11c of Form 8805.

    9. "Postal Code" : Enter as follows:
      Domestic Addresses -- Enter the domestic postal code from Line 11c of Form 8805.
      Foreign Addresses -- leave the "Postal Code" field empty for foreign addresses.

    10. "Effectively Connected Taxable Income (ECTI)" : Enter the amount on Line 12 of Form 8805 in this field. Enter a significant dollar entry (e.g., 125622 for $125,622.58) without the cents. However, if the ECI is a loss with a negative amount in brackets or a minus (125622), then enter the negative money amount as -125622.

    11. "Total Section 1446 Tax" : Enter the amount on Line 13 of Form 8805 in this field. Enter a significant dollar entry (e.g., $43,968 for $43,967.70) without the cents. However, if the ECI is a loss, then this field must be blank.

    12. Click "Next" at the bottom left of the screen

    13. Verify the information. If correct, click the "Save" button near the top of the screen. If incorrect, click the "Back" button and correct the required fields.

Query and/or Delete IRMF Form 8805

  1. To Query an IRMF Form 8805, you must select:

    1. Login to the INTLWebApps Application to access the Project 1446 Database.

    2. Select "Search/Edit" to begin a Form 8805 query.

    3. Enter information into one of the fields to narrow down your search.

    4. Click on one of the buttons to the right of the selected field.

    5. Using the wildcard sign "%" before and after your information may help your query.

    6. Scroll through the responses until you find the correct record.

  2. If the IRMF record was entered in error, or with mistakes, you can delete the record by:

    1. Querying the record,

    2. Depressing the "Delete" button.

Updating existing Form 8805 record

  1. To update and/or modify an existing IRMF Form 8805 you must:

    1. Login to the INTLWebApps Application to access the Project 1446 Database.

    2. Select "Search/Edit" to begin a Form 8805 query.

    3. Enter information into one of the fields to narrow down your search.

    4. Click on one of the buttons to the right of the selected field.

    5. Using the wildcard sign "%" before and after your information may help your query.

    6. Scroll through the responses until you find the correct record.

    7. Locate the field that needs to be updated/modified and place the cursor in it.

    8. Use the keyboard delete or backspace key to remove the entry, and

      Note:

      You can also highlight the field and then type in the correct information.

    9. Type in the correct information.

    10. Press the "Save" button.

Disposition of Form 8805 Batch Work

  1. Upon completion of the batch work, release the completed batch work to the Product Assurance (PA) area for review. Otherwise, release it to the "Central File Control" (Document Retention Branch) of the OSPC.

  2. PA will forward the completed batch work to the "Central File Control" area after their review is complete.

Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust (KCSPC Only)

  1. This subsection provides coding and editing instructions for the NMF Form 1040-NR, U.S. Nonresident Alien Income Tax Return (Estate or Trust) to the Non-Master File (NMF). These returns are filed to report income received by foreign Estates or Trusts.

    Note:

    Due to Submission Processing consolidation plans, KCSPC began Non-Master File processing of Form 1040-NR Estates and Trusts on November 5, 2018.

  2. Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust is processed under:

    • Function 210

    • Program Code 75700 - Sub-Function 75702

    • Document Locator Number (DLN) File Location Code 09 (Kansas City)

    • Tax Class 6

    • Doc. Code 72 or 73

    • Blocking Series 000-999 is for Non-Remit and Blocking Series 600-699 is for Remit.

    • Non-Master File Tax Code 20

  3. Batch Block Tracking System (BBTS) routing Sub-Program 75702:

    Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust NMF Program 7570X, Sub-Program 75702BBTS Route 16 (NMF Remit and Non-Remit)

    Function - Program
    110 - Mail Handling
    150 - Deposit Activities
     

    210 - Code and Edit

    Function - Program
    180 - Batching
    190 - Numbering
    410 - Accounting Activity (NMF)
    420 - Account Services
    510 - Cycle Control and Servicing
     

  4. All Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust returns are processed to the Non-Master File (NMF) database at the Kansas City Submission Processing Center (KCSPC).

    Note:

    A Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust return is processed as a NMF return

    under Master File Tax (MFT) 20.

  5. Each Estate or Trust return must have an Employer Identification Number (EIN). If a Social Security or Individual Tax Identification Number (SSN or ITIN) appears at the top of the return instead of an EIN, then verify if the Form 1040-NR was filed by a Nonresident Alien (NRA) individual by reviewing the characteristics listed in IRM 3.21.25.20.3. If the return is a true Estate or Trust return, and a valid EIN is not present and not found through IDRS research, route the return to Entity for research and EIN assignment. However, if the return does not exhibit the characteristics of an Estate or Trust return, the Form 1040-NR was filed by a NRA and needs to be processed on the Individual Master File (IMF). Transship the IMF NRA 1040-NR return to the Austin Submission Processing Center (AUSPC). Prepare Form 3210, Document Transmittal and mail to:

    Department of the Treasury
    Internal Revenue Service Center
    Austin, TX 73301-0215 U.S.A.

    Caution:

    If a NMF DLN has already been assigned to the 1040-NR, take the return to your Lead Tax Examiner to have the DLN cancelled and deleted from the Service Center Control File (SCCF).

  6. If Form 1040-NR-EZ is received for an Estate or Trust, take the following actions to ensure the taxpayer’s information can be processed:

    1. Prepare/Dummy Form 1040-NR from Form 1040-NR-EZ:
      • Enter entity information (name, address and EIN)
      • Place a check mark in the "Estate or Trust" box on the Form 1040-NR.
      • Edit the Received Date present on the Form 1040-NR-EZ to the Form 1040-NR.
      • Transfer tax data from Form 1040-NR-EZ, page 1 to corresponding lines on Form 1040-NR, pages 1 and 2.
      • Attach original Form 1040-NR-EZ behind Form 1040-NR.
      • Confirm a valid EIN is present for the Estate or Trust. If valid EIN is not present, and is not found through IDRS research, route the return to Entity for research and/or EIN assignment.

      Note:

      Follow normal procedures (outlined in the subsequent sections) once the return is converted from Form 1040-NR-EZ to Form 1040-NR.

    2. Issue non-suspense correspondence to the taxpayer to inform them that they should file Form 1040-NR in the future, using the following verbiage:
      "We received your Form 1040-NR-EZ for your Estate or Trust. We converted your return to a Form 1040-NR because fiduciary income cannot be claimed on Form 1040-NR-EZ. In the future, please use Form 1040-NR when filing."

      Exception:

      Do not issue correspondence if the return is a "final" return.

♦Edit Marks♦

  1. Edit marks are edited on the return for transcription to the Automated Data Processing (ADP) System through Integrated Submission and Remittance Processing (ISRP). The editing can be entered in brown, red, orange, purple or green pencil/pen.

  2. The only items edited on the return are those to be transcribed except where specific instructions require editing of a non-transcribed item. Lines are left blank if the entry would be a zero amount unless otherwise instructed.

  3. The original entry on a return is never obliterated, altered or erased when deleting or correcting an entry. Always exercise care to ensure that the original entry remains legible. Perfected entries provide a legible "edit trail" for anyone who may work with the return later.

  4. For a description of specific edit marks, see the table below:

    Edit Mark Description
    "X" Deletes tax data or indicates do not transcribe an item. For example, if deleting an original entry, edit an "X" to the left of the entry to delete. Edit the correct entry to the left or above the "X."
    "/" (slash) Indicates do not transcribe a form or schedule.
    "//$" Identifies the beginning and ending of a foreign country code in the entity area. For example, "/EI/$" is edited for "Ireland" or "/GM/$" is edited for "Germany."
    "c/o" or "%" Indicates an "in-care of" name for transcription.
    Circle Indicates do not transcribe an entry. Also, deletes entity data or a Received Date.

    Note:

    If the taxpayer circles an entry, edit the entry.

    Underline Identifies an entry for transcription (e.g., Name Control, Tax Period).
    Arrow Indicates the correct placement of a misplaced entry. Use an arrow if the misplaced item is close to the correct line and there is no question where the entry belongs.

    Note:

    Use a double arrow to identify the same figure for transcription in two different places (along with any required transcription data between the two arrows).

    Check Mark Indicates that an entry was manually math verified and is correct.
    Bracket/Parenthesis Indicates a negative numerical amount.

    Note:

    Code and Edit (C&E) is no longer required to bracket negative amounts when brackets are preprinted on the form or schedule or when the taxpayer clearly indicates a negative amount with brackets () or "-" sign. Bracket negative amounts when editing negative entries on transcription lines (i.e., computing and entering a line entry, entering a missing line entry).

    Vertical line or Decimal Point Indicates the separation of dollars and cents.
    Zero, Dash or None "ZERO" , "DASH" , "NONE" , or "N/A" are valid entries except when specific instructions require editing of an entry.
    Rocker Indicates the amount paid when drawn under a remittance amount.

Delinquent Returns

  1. A return is normally delinquent if it is not received on or before the Return Due Date (RDD). However, accept the return as timely filed if the received date is within the ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡. See IRM 3.10.72, Receiving, Extracting, and Sorting or IRM 3.10.73, Batching and Numbering.

  2. Accept a return as timely if:

    1. The return was mailed in time to reach the Service through normal handling within the legal period but,

    2. Through no fault of the taxpayer, it was not delivered.

  3. Consider a return timely if it appears that the Post Office might have sent it to another government agency in error, or if the original envelope bears a timely postmark or a timely date stamp by that agency. However, if the return was erroneously addressed to another agency, it will be date stamped with the current date when the IRS received it.

  4. See IRM 3.21.25.20.5 for information on the due date of Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust.

  5. If a return is delivered to the IRS after the date prescribed for filing, consider the following:

    • The postmark date stamped on the envelope as the date of delivery.

      Note:

      If the postmark date falls on or before the prescribed date for filing the return, then consider the return timely and edit the timely postmark date in MMDDYYYY format.

♦Compliance Secured/Prepared Returns♦
  1. Compliance functions (Collections and Examination) secure returns from the taxpayer and also prepare returns if the taxpayer does not provide them.

  2. Compliance notates:

    1. Prepared tax returns with "6020(b)" or "SFR" (Substitute for Return).

    2. Secured tax returns with "TC 59X" or "ICS" or "Process as Original" with a Form 13133, Expedite Processing Cycle, attached with the "Delinquent Return" box checked.

    Note:

    If "RD" (Return Delinquency) is notated on the front of the return and not circled, remove from the batch and route to Collections.

♦IRC 6020(b) - Prepared by Collection♦
  1. When the taxpayer doesn’t file a required return, IRC 6020(b) is the authority for the IRS to prepare the return.

  2. These returns are identified by the notation: "PREPARED AND SIGNED UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF IRC REGULATION 6020(b) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE" which is located in the center bottom of Page 1 of the return.

    1. Returns must have a Received Date. If missing, follow the normal procedures for editing the IRS Received Date.

    2. Compliance Function representatives must sign returns. If not, route to Compliance using Form 4227, Intra-SC Reject or Routing Slip.

      Note:

      Accept revenue officer (RO) typed or electronic signatures as valid signatures on the return.

    3. Do Not correspond with the taxpayer for unprocessable conditions.

♦Collection Secured♦
  1. These returns are identified by the notations: "TC 59X" or "ICS" . Do Not edit any CCC on these returns.

    1. Do not edit CCC "G" on these returns.

    2. Use approved Correspondence Action Sheet to correspond for conditions that are unprocessable (e.g., missing signatures, missing schedules).

    3. Edit CCC "W" if the IRS Received Date is more than two years and nine months after the Return Due Date. Do not send the return to Statute Control.

      Reminder:

      If there is indication penalties require suppression, edit the proper Computer Condition Code(s).

♦Examination Prepared♦
  1. These returns are identified by the notation: "SFR" or "SUBSTITUTE RETURN" on Page 1.

    1. Return must have a Received Date. If no Received Date is present, follow the normal procedures for editing the Received Date.

    2. Do Not correspond with the taxpayer for unprocessable conditions. If the return is unprocessable, edit CCC "3" and continue processing.

    3. If Form 13133, Expedite Processing Cycle, is attached, edit the Computer Condition Code(s) that are checked on the form.

      Note:

      Do not enter CCC "D" unless the return due date (without regard to extensions) is July 30, 1996 or prior, even if the CCC “D” box is checked on Form 13133.

    4. Edit CCC "W" if the IRS Received Date is more than two years and nine months after the Return Due Date. Do not send the return to Statute Control.

♦Examination Secured♦
  1. These returns are identified by the notation: "Process as Original" on Page 1 of the return with a Form 13133, Expedite Processing Request, attached with the "Delinquent Return" box checked.

    1. Do not edit CCC "G" on these returns.

    2. Use approved Correspondence Action Sheet to correspond for conditions that are unprocessable (e.g., missing signatures, missing schedules).

    3. Edit the Computer Condition Code(s) that are checked on Form 13133.

    4. Edit CCC "W" if the IRS Received Date is more than two years and nine months after the Return Due Date. Do not send the return to Statute control.

      Reminder:

      If Form 13133 (or something similar) indicates penalties require suppression, edit the appropriate Computer Condition Code(s).

Distinguishing Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust Returns from Individual Returns

  1. Estate or Trust returns will have some or all of the following characteristics:

    • Name line(s) may consist of numbers or a combination of letters and numbers.

    • Account, Trust, Grantor, or Nominee may be indicated.

    • Name line(s) may indicate "Estate of . . ."

    • Filing status is estate or trust.

      Note:

      No filing status may be indicated on forms prior to tax year 2022.

    • No exemptions may be shown.

    • The personal exemption amount on Line 13 may be $300.00 (for Trusts distributing all of their income), $4,700.00 (for Qualified Disability Trusts), or $100.00 for any other type of Trust), whereas an Estate can only claim $600.00.

    • The return may have an EIN instead of an SSN or ITIN Number.

    • The trust will show deductions for distributions made to U.S. or foreign beneficiaries. The trust may state that it is a grantor trust of a foreign owner. If so, flag the return (staple a Yellow Tag on the Upper Left Hand Corner (ULHC) of Form 1040-NR and visibly write LB&I Examination on it). Accounting will forward the return to Examination after they have processed the return to the NMF system. Refer to alpha list IRM 3.21.25.20.6 (1) c) for the forwarding address.

Re-Entry Document (Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust Only)

  1. A return posted to the IMF in error must be reprocessed to post to the NMF.

    A Re-entry document is referred to as:

    • A Re-input return (a return that has not posted to the master file, e.g., unpostable).

    • A Re-processable return (a return that has posted to the master file, e.g., return posted to the wrong account or module).

  2. Some re-entry returns may have originally been filed electronically (E-File). These returns may be identified by the presence of Mod E-File printouts in lieu of the actual return. Do not correspond for missing signatures on these documents.

  3. Each re-entry return must have a Form 3893, Re-entry Document Control, or Form 13596, Reprocessing Returns, attached.

    • Form 3893 is used to reinput documents that have not posted to an account or module.

    • Form 13596 is used to reprocess documents to the correct account or module that had previously posted to the wrong account or module.

  4. If you receive a Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust re-entry document, make sure the Entity part of the return reflects an EIN, along with the name of an Estate or Trust. If not, then forward to Entity on a Form 4227 to have them look up the correct Estate or Trust entity data. Once it is returned from Entity, or if the return Entity is already correct, follow the instructions in IRM 3.21.25.20.7 (2) to have the return assigned a NMF DLN.

    Note:

    If a NMF DLN 09672 or 09673 is already present on the return, prepare Form 4227, Intra-SC Reject or Routing Slip with the explanation "NMF 1040-NR Estate or Trust" and forward to the NMF Accounting, Stop 6362 P-6, and staple it to the face of the document.

Due Date

  1. If Form 1040-NR is being filed for a NRA Estate or Trust that has an office in the United States, the return is due by the 15th day of the 4th month following the close of the tax year. For a calendar year return, the due date is April 15.

    Exception:

    For tax year 2017, the IRS officially extended the due date to April 18, 2018 due to computer system outages. In addition, per Notice 2020-23, the due date for Tax Year 201912 through 202002 returns were postponed until July 15, 2020.

    Note:

    This type of return will be assigned a DLN beginning with "09673."

  2. If Form 1040-NR is being filed for a NRA Estate or Trust that does not have an office in the United States, the return is due by the 15th day of the 6th month following the close of the tax year. (For a calendar year return, the due date is June 15.)

    Note:

    This type of return will be assigned a DLN beginning with "09672."

    Reminder:

    If the regular due date for filing falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, Form 1040-NR is due by the next business day.

  3. If the Estate or Trust cannot file the return by the due date, they can file Form 4868 to get an automatic 6-month extension of time to file. The Estate or Trust must file Form 4868 by the regular due date of the return and to the address listed in the instruction part of Form 4868.

    Estates and Trusts must mail Form 1040-NR to:
    Kansas City Submission Processing Campus
    333 W. Pershing Road
    Kansas City, MO 64108

    Reminder:

    Due to Submission Processing consolidation plans, KCSPC began Non-Master File processing of Form 1040-NR Estates and Trusts on November 5, 2018.

Early Filed Returns
  1. Never send an Early Filed return back to the taxpayer.

  2. If the month of the Tax Period is the same or after the month of the processing date, determine how early the return has been filed using the table below:

    If Then
    The processing date is prior to the Tax Period Ending by 3 months or less. Process as usual.
    The processing date is prior to the Tax Period Ending by more than 3 months. Attach an approved Correspondence Action Sheet to request confirmation of the Tax Period Ending.

Document Perfection

  1. Verify only the items below:

    1. Name Control: Underline name control in red. Be certain that the name control of the trust itself is indicated, rather than that of the bank or other company.

    2. Identifying Number: Determine the EIN as follows:

      If And Then
      EIN is missing, You can determine the correct EIN from the attachments and/or schedules, Edit the EIN to the proper location.
      The EIN is either a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), Social Security Number (SSN) Unnumbered or Numbered
      1. Remove return from batch.

      2. Route to Entity Control following local procedures for EIN assignment.

      Multiple EINs are present, You can determine the correct EIN from the attachments and/or schedules, Edit the EIN to the proper location.
      The EIN contains any of the following conditions and cannot be determined from attachments and/or schedules:
      • Illegible

      • Missing

      • Other than 9 digits

      • All zeros

      • All nines

      Unnumbered or Numbered
      1. Circle out all illegible EINs, zeros or nines.

      2. Look through the return for an EIN and/or research IDRS.

      3. If found, edit to the proper location.

      4. If not found, route to Entity Control following local procedures.

      "PENDING" , "APPLIED FOR," etc., is indicated in the EIN area, Unnumbered or Numbered
      1. Circle out the word "PENDING" , "APPLIED FOR" .

      2. Look through the return for an EIN.

      3. If found, edit to the proper location.

      4. If not found, route to Entity Control following local procedures.

    3. Street Address: If the return shows an address in ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ with "Foreign Trust Organization" on Form 3210, Document Transmittal at:

      Internal Revenue Service
      Attn: Classification
      BLN 2-H08.200
      2970 Market Street
      Philadelphia, PA 19104

      Do not edit the Address.

    4. Tax Period: Edit the tax period in "YYYYMM" format on Form 1040-NR, and to the left of the printed tax year if it is a fiscal or prior year return.

      Note:

      No editing is required on a current year return.

    5. Received Date: A Received Date is required on all Form 1040-NR returns and it may or may not be stamped on the face of the return. A valid Received Date Stamp appears in MMDDYYYY format. Use the chart below to perfect the received date.

      If Then
      The return is received within ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ of the legal or extended due date ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡. The return is considered timely.
      The due date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, The return is timely if postmarked by the first business day following the weekend or legal holiday.
      The IRS received date stamp≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ of the legal or extended due date and the postmark or shipment date is on or before the legal or extended due date, Edit the IRS Received Date to agree with the postmark or shipment date.

      Caution:

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

       

      Note:

      For certified mail only- If a postmark is not present, look for a "USPS.com Track & Confirm" record that has been attached to the return (should be before the envelope). Use the "Acceptance" date on the record to determine timeliness and follow normal editing procedures. If the "USPS.com Track & Confirm" record is not attached, no action is required.

      The Received Date stamp is not present or the date is illegible or invalid, Determine the received date in the following order:
      1. Service Center Automated Mail Processing System (SCAMPS) digit date.

      2. Revenue Officer's signature date.

      3. Signature date (only if within current year).

        Note:

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

      4. Julian control date minus 10 days.

      5. Current date minus 10 days.

      Edit the Received Date in MMDDYYYY format in the center of Page 1 of the return.
      An envelope is not attached Use the postmark date stamped on the face of the return.
      The postmark is missing and the envelope is certified,
      • Look for the "USPS.com Track & Confirm" record that has been attached to the return (should be before the envelope).

      • Use the "Acceptance" date on the record to determine timeliness and follow normal editing procedures.

      • If the "USPS.com Track & Confirm" record is not attached, no action is required.

      An envelope has a USPS and private metered postmark Always use the USPS postmark.

      Note:

      Consider a private metered postmark timely if received ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ of the legal due date.

      An envelope has two private metered postmarks Use the latest private metered postmark.

      Note:

      Consider a private metered postmark timely if received ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ of the legal due date.

      An envelope has only one private metered postmark Use the private metered postmark.

    6. Math-verify taxpayer’s computation (Compute Line 24). If ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ accept return as filed. If the computed Total Tax amount is greater than ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ of the taxpayer’s calculations, "X" the entry on Line 24 and edit your re-computed calculations. Compute by:

      Line Computing Tax
      18 Add the amounts on Lines 16 and 17 to arrive at the amount for Line 18.
      21 Add amounts on Lines 19 and 20 to arrive at the amount for Line 21.
      22 Subtract Line 21 from Line 18 to arrive at the amount of Line 22.
      23d Add the amounts from Lines 23a thru 23c to arrive at the amount for Line 23d.
      24 Add the amounts from Lines 22 and 23d to arrive at the amount on Line 23.

    7. Line 25e: Form 8805, Foreign Partner's Information Statement of Section 1446 Withholding Tax: This line must be numeric. X out negative entries. Form 8805 must be attached to support the withholding on Line 25e. If no Form 8805 is attached and the credit is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡X the credit. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ allow the credit.

    8. Line 25f:Form 8288-A, Statement of Withholding on Certain Dispositions by Foreign Persons: This line must be numeric. "X" out negative entries. Form 8288-Amust always be credit verified by the FIRPTA Code and Edit unit (in Ogden) by calling 801-620-7584 or faxing to 855–305–4957 to obtain FIRPTA credit verification. Once verified, Ogden will fax Form 13698, International Credit Verification Slip (within 48 hours) to attach to Form 1040-NR. There is no ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡

      Note:

      If Form 13698 verifies an amount other than the amount listed on the document, X the credit on Line 25f and edit the correct amount verified on the 1040-NR return that is reflected on Form 13698. For example, if the taxpayer claims $14,000, but Form 13698 verifies $7,000, then "X" the credit on Line 25f and edit $7,000.

    9. Line 25g:Form 1042-S Foreign Person’s U.S. Source Income Subject to Withholding: This line must be numeric. "X" out negative entries. Form 1042-S must be attached to support the withholding on Line 25g. If no Form 1042-S is attached and the credit is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡"X" the credit. ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ allow the credit.

    10. Signature: If the return is unsigned, attach an approved Correspondence Action Sheet to request the taxpayer signature. DO NOT CORRESPOND IF FACSIMILE SIGNATURE IS PRESENT.

  2. If Form 1040-NR is delinquent (See IRM 3.21.25.20.2), check the return for an explanation of late filing. If the taxpayer attaches correspondence with a reasonable cause explanation for failure to file a timely return, take the following action:

    1. Detach the reasonable cause explanation correspondence from the return.

    2. Complete Form 3499, Informational Transmittal, and forward to Cincinnati Accounts Management Campus (CAMC),
      IRS – CAMC
      201 W. Rivercenter Blvd.
      Covington, KY 41011
      Attn: Stop 6111G Team C103 NMF

    3. In the remarks area write "Process attached Reasonable Cause Correspondence. TC 150 to post to NMF in four weeks."

    4. Continue processing Form 1040-NR.

Disposition of Returns

  1. Once all numbered Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust returns have been edited, forward the return to Accounting.

  2. Once all UN-numbered Form 1040-NR Estate or Trust returns have been edited, forward the return to the Numbering function. Once Numbering has numbered the 1040-NR Estate or Trust return, then Numbering will forward the numbered return to Accounting.

♦U.S. Possessions ZIP Codes♦

Exhibit3.21.25-1U.S. Possessions ZIP Codes

American Samoa (AS)

City ZIP Code
Faga'itua 96799
Leone 96799
Olosega Manua' 96799
Pago Pago 96799
 

Federated States of Micronesia (FM)

City ZIP Code
Chuuk 96942
Kosrae 96944
Pohnpei 96941
Yap 96943
 

Guam (GU)

City ZIP Code
Agana 96910
Inarajan 96917
Merizo 96916
Tamuning 96931
Umatac 96915
Yona 96915
 

Marshall Islands (MH)

City ZIP Code
Ebeye 96970
Majuro 96960
 

Northern Mariana Islands (MP)

City ZIP Code
Capitol Hill 96950
Rota 96951
Saipan 96950
Tinian 96952
 

Palau (PW)

City ZIP Code
Koror 96940
Palau 96940
 

Puerto Rico (PR), City and Zip Code

City Zip Code City Zip Code
Adjuntas 00601   La Plata 00786
Aguada 00602   Lares 00669
Aguadilla 00603   Las Marias 00670
Aguas Buenas 00703   Las Piedras 00771
Aguirre 00704   Levittown 00949
Aibonito 00705   Loiza 00772
Anasco 00610   Loiza Street Station 00936
Angeles 00611   Luquillo 00773
Arecibo 00612   Manati 00674
Arroyo 00714   Maricao 00606
Bajadero 00616   Maunabo 00707
Barceloneta 00617   Mayaguez 00680
Barranquitas 00794   Mercedita 00715
Barrio Obrero Station 00935   Minillas Center 00936
Bayamon 00956   Moca 00676
Boqueron 00622   Morovis 00687
Cabo Rojo 00623   Naguabo 00718
Caguas 00725   Naranjito 00719
Camuy 00627   Orocovis 00720
Canovanas 00729   Palmer 00721
Caparra Heights 00920   Patillas 00723
Carolina 00982   Penuelas 00624
Catano 00962   Ponce 00731
Cayey 00736   Puerta de Tierra 00936
Ceiba 00735   Puerta Real 00740
Cerro Gordo 00754   Punta Santiago 00741
Ciales 00638   Quebradillas 00678
Cidra 00739   Ramey 00603
Coamo 00769   Rincon 00677
Comerio 00782   Rio Blanco 00744
Condado 00907   Rio Grande 00721
Corozal 00783   Rio Piedras 00927
Coto Laurel 00780   Rosario 00636
Culebra 00775   Sabana Grande 00637
Dorado 00646   Sabana Hoyos 00688
Ensenada 00647   Sabana Seca 00952
Esperanza 00765   Saint Just 00978
Fajardo 00738   Salinas 00751
Fernandez Juncos 00936   San Antonio 00690
Florida 00650   San Francisco 00927
Fort Buchanan 00934   San German 00683
Garrachales 00652   San Juan 00936
Guanica 00653   San Lorenzo 00754
Guayama 00784   San Sebastian 00685
Guayanilla 00656   Santa Isabel 00757
Guaynabo 00965   Santurce 00936
Gurabo 00778   Toa Alta 00953
Hatillo 00659   Toa Baja 00949
Hato Rey 00936   Trujillo Alto 00976
Hormigueros 00660   University 00936
Humacao 00791   Utuado 00641
Isabela 00662   Vega Alta 00692
Jayuya 00664   Vega Baja (box 1-9049) 00694
Juana Diaz 00795   Vieques 00765
Juncos 00777   Villalba 00766
La Cumbre 00926   Yabucoa 00767
Lajas 00667   Yauco 00698
 

Virgin Islands - U.S. (VI - Entity Section) (VQ - Other than Entity Section), City and Zip Code

City Zip Code City Zip Code
Charlotte Amalie 00802   Saint Croix 00820
Christiansted 00820   Saint John 00830
Cruz Bay 00830   Saint Thomas 00805
Downtown 00840   Sunny Isle 00850
Frederiksted 00840   Veterans Annex 00820
Kingshill 00850      

Form 8288-B Withholding Certificate

Exhibit3.21.25-2Form 8288-B Withholding Certificate
Seller Buyer
3307 (Zero/Exempt - TIN for Refund)
3308 (Reduced MTAXL - TIN for Refund)
3309 (Zero/Exempt - Generic)
3310 (Reduced MTAXL - Generic)
3311 (Reduced NOL)
3312 (Reduced Installments)
3313 (Rejected - RFMI not Recd)
3314 (Rejected - MTAXL >10%)
3315 (Filed 8288-B Late)
3319 (RFMI)
3320 (Interim Letter)
3793 (No TIN – 8288-B)
3309 (Zero/Exempt - Generic)
3310 (Reduced MTAXL - Generic)
3312 (Reduced Installments)
3313 (Rejected - RFMI not Recd)
3314 (Rejected - MTAXL >10%)
3316 (Rejected - Generic)
3318 (Filed 8288-B Late)
3319 (RFMI)
3320 (Interim Letter)
3497 (Reduced - Generic)
3793 (No TIN – 8288-B)

Form 13698, International Credit Verification Slip

Exhibit3.21.25-3Form 13698, International Credit Verification SlipThis is an Image: redimage.gif

Form HUD-1, Settlement Statement

Exhibit3.21.25-5Form HUD-1, Settlement StatementThis is an Image: 34020004.gif

Please click here for the text description of the image.

This is an Image: 34020005.gif

Please click here for the text description of the image.

Glossary and Acronyms

Glossary

GLOSSARY DEFINITION
ACTION CODES Numeric codes edited in the bottom center margin of a return to reject documents and identify the reason the document has been rejected.
ACTION TRAIL A notation in the lower left side margin on page 1 of a return which indicates or explains an action taken.
AMENDED RETURN A return that changes information submitted on a previously filed return.
AUDIT CODE An alpha character edited in the right bottom margin of a return to identify a specific condition for the Examination Operation.
BATCH A group of blocks of documents. A batch cannot have more than 20 blocks.
BLOCK A group of up to 100 documents with consecutive DLNs containing the same block number (digits 9 through 11 of the DLN). (A block cannot have more than 100 documents since the documents are numbered from 00 to 99.)
BUSINESS MASTER FILE (BMF) A magnetic tape file containing information about taxpayers’ filing business returns and related documents.
CALENDAR YEAR A tax year that begins January 1 and ends on December 31.
CENTRALIZED AUTHORIZATION FILE (CAF) Computerized system of records which houses authorization information from Powers of Attorney (POAs), Tax Information Authorizations (TIAs) and state tax returns. The CAF system contains two types of records:
  1. Taxpayer records

  2. Representative records

CHECK DIGITS Two alpha characters used to identify the tax account.
CODING Placing symbols that have specific meanings on returns. These codes direct the computer to perform certain programmed functions.
COMPUTER CONDITION CODE (CCC) A single alpha or numeric character edited on a return which either identifies a special condition or directs the computer to take a specific programmed action. CCCs are posted to the Master File.
CORRESPONDENCE ACTION SHEETS (CAS) Forms used to request information from the taxpayer. Some are mailed to the taxpayer with the return; others generate a letter.
CURRENT YEAR RETURN The tax year that is the same as the calendar year.
DATA All information reported or coded on forms, schedules, and attachments.
DELINQUENT RETURN A return filed after the due date without an approved extension.
DOCUMENT LOCATOR NUMBER (DLN) A fourteen-digit number assigned to every return and document input through the Automatic Data Processing (ADP) system.
DUMMYING The act of transferring information provided by the taxpayer onto a required transcribed form/schedule.
EDITING Preparing returns and attachments for data entry or other transcription processes by correcting entries and entering edit marks.
EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (EIN) A nine-digit number that identifies the account of a business taxpayer on the Business Master File.
ERROR RESOLUTION SYSTEM (ERS) A system for the examination and correction of returns rejected due to taxpayer and processing errors.
FISCAL YEAR A tax year which ends on a date other than December 31.
FORM An IRS document identified by a number, e.g., Form 1040.
FRIVOLOUS FILER/NON-FILER Filers and non-filers who use certain types of tax avoidance arguments which are not supported by law.
HARDSHIP An indication of severe consequences for a taxpayer caused by the normal application of IRS regulations and procedures. Although a determination of hardship is highly subjective, the work leader must be consulted if a particular situation may be considered for referral to the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS).
INDIVIDUAL MASTER FILE (IMF) A magnetic tape file containing information about taxpayers’ filing individual income tax returns and related documents.
INDIVIDUAL TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (ITIN) A unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to individuals who must file a U.S. tax return or are listed as a spouse or a dependent and who do not have and cannot obtain a valid Social Security Number. Taxpayers obtain an ITIN by filing a Form W-7.
INTEGRATED DATA RETRIEVAL SYSTEM (IDRS) A system that enables employees in the area/territory offices and the campuses to have visual access to certain computer-based information in taxpayer accounts.
INTEGRATED SUBMISSION AND REMITTANCE PROCESSING SYSTEM (ISRP) A computerized system which will convert paper tax and information documents and remittances received by IRS into perfected electronic records of taxpayer data.
INTERNATIONAL RETURN A return on which income is excluded or not reported because of revenues from, payments to, or residence in a foreign country.
JULIAN DATE A calendar date expressed as the number of days since the beginning of the year. For example, February 1 is Julian Date 032.
JURAT The perjury statement required in the signature area of a tax return, form, or schedule.
MASTER FILE A magnetic tape record which contains taxpayer accounts.
NAME CONTROL The first four characters of the taxpayer's surname. Also used for dependents, qualifying children, child care providers, etc.
NONRESIDENT ALIEN (NRA) An alien individual (not a U.S. citizen), who does not meet either the green card test or the substantial presence test for the calendar year.
PERFECTING Making returns acceptable for data entry through editing procedures.
PIPELINE The areas in the IRS Submission Processing Campus that process a return from the time it is received until the data from the return is entered to an account in the IRS' main computer. These areas include Receipt and Control, Code and Edit, Data Conversion, Error Resolution, Rejects, and Unpostables.
POWER OF ATTORNEY (POA) A form authorizing a representative to perform certain acts on the taxpayer's behalf.
PAID PREPARER TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (PTIN) Paid preparer tax identification number.
PRIMARY TAXPAYER The taxpayer who is listed first on the name line caption of a joint return, regardless of whether that taxpayer is male or female.
PRIMARY TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (P-TIN) The TIN associated with the taxpayer who is listed first on the name line of the caption.
PRIOR YEAR RETURN A return for a tax period prior to the current tax year.
PROCESSABLE RETURN A return which meets all the requirements for ISRP input.
RECEIVED DATE Date a return was received by the IRS. If the date is unknown and a Received Date is required, there is a prescribed formula for determining the date to edit as the Received Date. (Required on Amended, Fiscal Year, Short Year, Prior Year, and Delinquent Returns.)
RE-INPUT DOCUMENT A document that did not post to the Master File when originally entered and is now being entered again with a Form 3893, Re-Entry Document Control.
RETURN A legal document used by the taxpayer to report income, deductions, and tax liability.
RETURN DUE DATE The date in which the return is due to the IRS.
SCHEDULE An IRS document identified by alpha characters or numbers (e.g., Schedule B, Schedule 8812).
SECONDARY TAXPAYER The taxpayer who is listed second on the name line caption of a joint return, regardless of whether that taxpayer is male or female.
SECONDARY TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (S-TIN) The TIN associated with the taxpayer whose name appears second on a joint return.
SIGNIFICANT ENTRY Any positive or negative number or dollar amount other than zero.
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN) A nine-digit number identifying the account of an individual on the Individual Master File.
STATUTE RETURN A return filed for a Tax Period more than three years prior to the current Tax Period.
SUFFIX Information added at the end of a word, phrase, or series of numbers. For instance, a title may be edited as a suffix to a name as in James Canary, Exec.
TAX EXAMINER (TE) STAMP A rubber stamp containing a unique identifying number of the Code & Edit tax examiner working the return.
TAX PERIOD The time covered by a particular return represented by the year and month in which the period ends. For example, 1612 stands for the tax year ending December 31, 2016.
TAXPAYER ADVOCATE SERVICE (TAS) An independent organization within the IRS whose employees assist taxpayers who are experiencing economic harm, who are seeking help in resolving tax problems that have not been resolved through normal channels, or who believe than an IRS system or procedure is not working as it should.
TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (TIN) A nine-digit number which identifies the account of an individual or business taxpayer. The TIN may be a Social Security Number (SSN), an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN) or an Employer Identification number (EIN).
THIRD PARTY DESIGNEE Person given permission by the taxpayer to discuss their current year return processing issues with the IRS.
TRANSACTION CODE (TC) A three-digit numeric code defining the precise nature of an action posted to the Master File.
TRANSCRIPTION The process of transferring information from documents to a computer-readable form. Also called data conversion, input, and entry.
UNPOSTABLES Data which cannot be entered successfully to an account at the Martinsburg Computing Center (MCC) and is returned to the Campus for corrective action.
UNPROCESSABLE DOCUMENT A document which cannot be perfected for the ADP system, usually because of incomplete information.
 

Acronym

ACRONYM DEFINITION
AKA Also Known As
AP Approved Paragraph
APO Army Post Office
ASED Assessment Statute Expiration Date
AUSPC Austin Submission Processing Campus
BMF Business Master File
CAF Centralized Authorization File
CAS Correspondence Action Sheet
CCC Computer Condition Code
CPA Certified Public Accountant
CY Calendar Year
DECD Deceased
DLN Document Locator Number
DOT Date of Transfer
EIN Employer Identification Number
ELF Electronic Filing
ERS Error Resolution System
EXEC Executor
FMV Fair Market Value
FPO Fleet Post Office
FRP Frivolous Return Program
FTD Federal Tax Deposit
FTF Failure to File
FTP Failure to Pay
FY Fiscal Year
IDRS Integrated Data Retrieval System
IDT Identity Theft
IMF Individual Master File
IRC Internal Revenue Code
IRM Internal Revenue Manual
IRP Information Returns Processing
IRS Internal Revenue Service
ISRP Integrated Submission and Remittance Processing System
ITIN Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
IVO Integrity and Verification Operation
KCSPC Kansas City Submission Processing Campus
MCC Martinsburg Computing Center
MeF Modernized e-File
MFT Master File Tax
N/A Not Applicable
NO National Office
NR No Record
NRA Nonresident Alien
OSPC Ogden Submission Processing Campus
PCD Program Completion Date
PER REP Personal Representative
POA Power of Attorney
PPR
  • Personal Property Rental

  • Payment Plan Request

P-TIN Primary Taxpayer Identification Number
Prep. TIN(PTIN) Paid Preparer Tax Identification Number
PY
Prior Year
Processing Year
RTN Routing Transit Number
SERP Servicewide Electronic Research Program
SPC
  • Special Processing Code

  • Submission Processing Center

SFR Substitute for Return
SSN Social Security Number
TAS Taxpayer Advocate Service
TC Transaction Code
TE Tax Examiner
TIN Taxpayer Identification Number
TP Taxpayer
TR Trustee
TY Tax Year
USPS United States Postal Service