ANSWERS: 1
  • The IRS expects all citizens and resident aliens to file their returns and pay any tax owed on or before (or postmarked by) April 15th. Although incarceration can be considered a reasonable cause for filing a late return, it is not an excuse for not filing.

    Significance

    Inmates who earn enough to meet the filing requirements are required to file a return. The filing requirement is based on the taxpayer's income and filing status (married filing separate, head of household, married filing separate, or widow).

    Features

    The IRS does not set aside any specific rules addressing the accessibility of inmates to the tools needed to file their returns.

    Power of Attorney

    Any inmate who is unable to handle their own affairs can elect to have someone handle their affairs on their behalf. To do this, the inmate must complete Form 2848, sign it, and have the person they selected as their power of attorney (POA) sign it and mail it to the IRS. The POA can file taxes and sign tax forms on the inmate's behalf.

    E-File

    There is no signature required for e-filed returns, hence the inmate can provide an accountant or tax preparer with his or her tax information so that a return can be filed on his or her behalf.

    Warning

    It is illegal to forge the signature of a taxpayer. The signature on the tax return must be the original signature of the taxpayer.

    Source:

    IRS Form 2848

    Power of Attorney Information

    IRS E-File

Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC

Answerbag | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy