My question is: US-specific
QUESTION: Over the course of my eight year marriage, my husband has always
done our taxes. For the last 2 years, I have not signed anything and each
year I ask what he is doing and he states that he has filed for an
extension. If I have earned money and we file jointly, wouldn't I have to
sign the extension? Is there anyway I can find out if infact he has actaully
filed an extension?
Also, how long is an extension? He has not done anything regarding our 2001
taxes as of yet.
Thank you,
JXXXXXXX
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Although not usual, it is conceivable that there could still be a valid
extension filed for the 2001 return. Extensions tend to go
Aug 15, 2002
Oct 15, 2002
Dec 15, 2002
Jan 31, 2003
Mar 31, 2003
June 15, 2003
At some point the IRS says: File,
He can file an extension without your signature but it would be illegal for
you husband to sign you name to a joint return.
You should be careful and concerned as you obviously are.
Under the US system, a wife who signs a joint return can be held liable for
her spouse's taxes. Because of fiscal years and other complicated tax
issues, signing one year can affect many.
You should likely get copies of your W2 slips from your employer. Tell your
husband that you are concerned and have been given independent advice to
file your return as "married filing separately".
Get a "tax specialist" accountant to look after it for you. Most CPA's do
NOT have good tax training. Some do but are then usually very expensive.
Find a local tax specialist who is "at least" an enrolled agent. The same
can be said of lawyers. Few have any tax training, let alone good training
and the few that do, are very expensive.
If your husband shows you a joint return that has been filed, you have a
problem.
If you happen to be in a small town without a lot of support, You could deal
with us by mail. Sonja Clark, a tax specialist in our office has law, CA
and CPA degrees and too many years of experience in US tax work dealing with
estates and divorces, etc. You can get her at [email protected] or (604)
913-9133,. Sonja already deals by mail and fax, etc., with clients all over
North America.
Unfortunately, the IRS does not allow a switch from a Joint 1040 to a
married filing separately return after the due date of the return. You can
see this at about one/fifth of the weay down the form at
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-fill/f1040x.pdf
I know that this is not good news. Good luck
david ingram
David Ingram of the CEN-TA Group
US / Canada / Mexico tax and working Visa Specialists
108-100 Park Royal South
West Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V7T 1A2
(604) 913-9133 - Fax 913-9123 [email protected]
www.centa.com www.david-ingram.com
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