Thanks for the info. So what I understand now is that there is no way to get the difference back even IF filing those unfiled returns resulted in owing LESS than they "estimated". If that is correct, it brings me on to my follow-up question...
What are the limitations on a "credit" being applied as opposed to receiving a refund? Is it treated the same as a refund or differently? For example... Hypothetically, If was aware of the debt beforehand and recently had her file those taxes BEFORE I filed the amended ones taking into account the EIC, child tax credit and other deductions, resulting in only owing $800 as opposed to the $1800 they estimated, would this "credit" be applied to her account, and only that $800 be withheld from the amendment, or was there nothing that could have been done at this point and the $1800 due is set in stone?
This also brings on yet another question... I understand that I can file for injured spouse relief and get "my portion" of the her taxes paid, but being this original debt is so old to begin with, is there any limitation for filing for this now?
And that question brings on one last one... Lets say I can qualify for injured spouse relief and get "my portion" back. That would then leave her liable again for the portion returned to me. NOW, would filing for injured spouse reset any 10 year limitations on the time that the IRS has to collect that debt? Because after filing for injured spouse, there would be only a few months before the 10 year mark is reached on the oldest debt that was mentioned. So technically, can I get my injured spouse refund, wait it out, then she's no longer liable either???
OK, sorry, one more question I just thought of... I will be filing this years taxes as well within the next week or so and am anticipating about a $1000 refund. Being that I will be filing for Injured spouse regarding the past taxes within a week or so of each other, Will one have any effect on the other?
