Sometimes, the IRS audits tax returns. They might need to verify your dependents. This is where a “Sample Letter to IRS for Audit Dependent Verification” comes in. You need to prove your dependents meet certain requirements. This letter helps you respond to the IRS.
Dealing with the IRS can be tricky. We understand. That’s why we’re here to help. We’ll share examples of these letters. You’ll find templates and samples. They make writing your own letter easier.
Our goal is to simplify the process. We’ll provide different scenarios. Each sample letter addresses a specific situation. You can adapt them to your needs. Get ready to confidently respond to the IRS.
Sample Letter To Irs For Audit Dependent Verification
[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]
**Subject: Dependent Verification for Audit – [Your Social Security Number]**
Dear Internal Revenue Service,
I am writing in response to your audit notification regarding my tax return for the year [Tax Year]. Specifically, I understand you require verification of the dependent claimed on my return, [Dependent’s Name].
[Dependent’s Name]’s Social Security Number is [Dependent’s Social Security Number] and date of birth is [Dependent’s Date of Birth].
To verify [Dependent’s Name]’s dependent status, I am providing the following documentation:
* [List of Documents Provided – e.g., Birth Certificate, School Records, Medical Records, Childcare Records, Residency Records].
These documents demonstrate that [Dependent’s Name] meets the requirements for a qualifying child/relative as defined by the IRS guidelines. [Optional: Briefly explain how the documents prove dependency, e.g., “The provided school records and medical records confirm that [Dependent’s Name] resided at my address for more than half the year.”].
I am confident that this information will satisfy your request for verification. Please contact me if you require any further documentation or clarification.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To Irs For Audit Dependent Verification
Subject Line: Clarity is Paramount
The subject line should be perspicuous and immediately signal the letter’s purpose. Avoid ambiguity; precision is your ally here.
- Use a straightforward format: “Dependent Verification – [Tax Year] – [Your Name] – [SSN]”
- Example: “Dependent Verification – 2022 – John Doe – XXX-XX-1234”
Salutation: Establishing a Respectful Tone
Begin with a formal salutation, exhibiting due deference to the IRS. This fosters a sense of professionalism from the outset.
- “Dear Internal Revenue Service,” is a safe and universally accepted choice.
- Avoid overly familiar greetings, maintaining a formal and respectful posture.
Introduction: Concisely State Your Purpose
The introduction should articulate the letter’s raison d’être—verification of dependent status for the tax year under scrutiny. Brevity is key.
- “I am writing to provide documentation for the dependent claimed on my [Tax Year] tax return, as requested in your audit notification.”
- Clearly identify the dependent’s name and relationship to you.
Body Paragraph 1: Dependent’s Identifying Information
Furnish all pertinent identifying details about the dependent to obviate any potential confusion. Accuracy is non-negotiable.
- Full Legal Name
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Address (if different from yours)
Body Paragraph 2: Substantiating Dependency
This section comprises the crux of your argument, where you furnish evidence supporting the dependent’s qualifying status. Provide compelling evidence.
- Financial Support: Document the amount of financial support you provided. Include receipts, bank statements, or canceled checks demonstrating your provision of housing, food, clothing, medical expenses, and other necessities.
- Residency: Provide documentation confirming the dependent resided with you for more than half the year. Examples include school records, medical bills, or official correspondence addressed to the dependent at your address.
- Qualifying Child/Relative Test: Address the specific requirements for either a qualifying child or qualifying relative, providing evidence to support your claim based on the IRS guidelines.
Body Paragraph 3: Additional Pertinent Information
Include any supplementary details that might bolster your case or preempt potential queries. Be proactive in addressing conceivable questions.
- If the dependent is a student, include school enrollment verification and transcripts.
- If the dependent has a disability, provide relevant medical documentation.
- If there are extenuating circumstances, elucidate them clearly and concisely.
Closing: Courteous Conclusion and Contact Information
Conclude with a courteous closing, reiterating your willingness to cooperate and providing your contact information for facile communication.
- “Thank you for your time and consideration. I am available to provide any further information you may require.”
- Include your phone number and email address for ease of contact.
- Use a formal closing such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your full name.
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Frequently Asked Questions: IRS Audit Dependent Verification Sample Letter
This section provides answers to common questions about submitting a sample letter to the IRS for dependent verification during an audit. Understanding these FAQs can streamline your response and ensure compliance.
1. Why does the IRS need verification of my dependent?
The IRS requires dependent verification to ensure that all claimed dependents meet the qualifying child or qualifying relative tests, preventing incorrect tax benefits.
2. What documentation should I include with the sample letter?
Include documents such as birth certificates, school records, medical records, and proof of residency to substantiate your dependent claim.
3. What information should the sample letter contain?
The letter should clearly state your name, Social Security number, the dependent’s name and Social Security number (if applicable), the tax year in question, and a concise explanation of the dependent relationship.
4. Where should I send the dependent verification letter and documents?
Send the letter and supporting documents to the address specified in the IRS audit notice you received.
5. What happens if I don’t provide the requested dependent verification?
Failure to provide adequate dependent verification may result in disallowance of the dependent claim and an adjustment to your tax liability.