Did you get a letter from the IRS about your 2017 Earned Income Credit (EIC)? If so, you might need to send them a written explanation. This letter helps clarify any questions the IRS has about your eligibility for the EIC. It’s common when there are discrepancies or missing information on your tax return.
Writing to the IRS can feel daunting. You want to make sure you get it right. That’s why we’re here to help!
We’re sharing sample letters for explaining your EIC situation to the IRS. These templates will make the process easier. You can adapt them to fit your specific needs. Let’s get started!
Written Explanation Sample Letter To Irs For Eic 2017
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address]
[IRS City, State, Zip Code]
Regarding: Earned Income Credit (EIC) for Tax Year 2017
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing to provide additional information regarding my claim for the Earned Income Credit (EIC) for the 2017 tax year. My Social Security Number is [Your Social Security Number].
During 2017, I met all the requirements to claim the EIC. Specifically, I had earned income and my adjusted gross income was below the limit for my filing status.
I understand that the IRS requires additional documentation to verify my eligibility for the EIC. Therefore, I am providing the following explanation: [Clearly and concisely explain why you believe you are eligible for the EIC. Include details about your qualifying child (if applicable), such as their name, age, relationship to you, and where they lived during the tax year. If you had earned income from self-employment, explain the source of that income. If you received a notice from the IRS, refer to the notice number.]
I have attached [List any supporting documentation you are including, such as W-2 forms, Schedule C (if self-employed), birth certificates, school records, or other documents that help verify your eligibility.].
I believe this information clarifies my eligibility for the Earned Income Credit for the 2017 tax year. Please contact me if you require any further information or documentation.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
How to Write Written Explanation Sample Letter To Irs For Eic 2017
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
- Start with a lucid subject line. Something like “EIC Substantiation for Tax Year 2017 – [Your Name] – [SSN]” works wonders.
- Precision is paramount. The IRS processes a deluge of documents; make yours easily identifiable.
Salutation: A Touch of Formality
- Avoid overly casual greetings. Opt for “Dear Internal Revenue Service” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
- Refrain from using names unless you’re responding to a specific agent’s correspondence.
Introduction: Setting the Stage
- Immediately state the letter’s purpose. For instance: “I am writing to furnish additional information regarding my Earned Income Credit (EIC) claim for the 2017 tax year.”
- Reference any prior communication from the IRS, including notice or letter numbers. This contextualizes your response.
Elaborating on Qualifying Child Criteria
- Address each qualifying child criterion individually. This includes relationship, age, residency, and joint return status.
- Provide concrete examples. Instead of saying “My child lived with me,” say “My child, [Child’s Name], resided with me at [Address] for the entirety of 2017.”
- Corroborate your claims with supporting documentation, such as school records or medical statements. Mention these.
Detailing Earned Income
- Reiterate the sources and amounts of your earned income for 2017.
- Explain any discrepancies between the income reported on your tax return and the information the IRS might have. For example, if you were self-employed, explain the nature of your business and how you determined your income.
- Attach copies of relevant Form W-2s, 1099s, or Schedule C, if applicable.
Addressing the IRS’s Specific Concerns
- Meticulously address the specific points raised in the IRS’s correspondence. Don’t sidestep the issue.
- If the IRS questioned the child’s residency, provide documented proof, such as lease agreements or utility bills in your name showing the child’s address.
- If the issue involves earned income, clarify the nature of your work and provide documentation supporting your income.
Closing: Courteous and Conclusive
- End with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”
- Include your full name, Social Security number, phone number, and current address.
- Offer further assistance: “Please contact me if you require any further clarification or documentation.” This demonstrates proactive cooperation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Written Explanation Sample Letter To IRS For EIC 2017
This section provides answers to common questions regarding written explanations for the Earned Income Credit (EIC) for the 2017 tax year.
Understanding the requirements and providing a clear explanation can help ensure your claim is processed efficiently.
Why did the IRS request a written explanation for my EIC claim for 2017?
The IRS may request a written explanation to verify your eligibility for the Earned Income Credit (EIC) for the 2017 tax year. This is often done to ensure compliance with EIC requirements and to clarify any discrepancies or incomplete information on your tax return.
What information should be included in my written explanation?
Your written explanation should clearly state the qualifying child’s name, age, address, and relationship to you. Explain how the child meets the residency test and provide details about your earned income, including the source and amount. Be specific and provide supporting documentation if possible.
How should I format my written explanation letter?
Format your letter in a professional manner, including your name, address, Social Security number, and the tax year in question (2017). Clearly state the purpose of the letter in the opening paragraph and organize the information logically. Sign and date the letter before sending it to the IRS.
What supporting documents should I include with my written explanation?
Include any documents that support your claim, such as birth certificates, school records, medical records, or lease agreements showing the child resided with you for more than half the year. Pay stubs or W-2 forms can verify your earned income.
Where should I send my written explanation letter and supporting documents?
Refer to the notice you received from the IRS for specific instructions on where to send your written explanation and supporting documents. The address is usually provided on the notice or letter you received from the IRS requesting the information.
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