If you are unsure as to whether you answered the questions correctly you can file a new Form 8379, Injured Spouse immediately and mail it to the IRS. It is a form that can be signed and filed by itself. It will not further delay your refund and may even speed up the process versus waiting to see if the first one was completed correctly. If it is wrong they will simply disregard it.
This is a "stand alone" form so if you want to file it for 2017, or you need to correct the one you did file, you can do that now by accessing the form here. Then use your tax return information. It must be mailed because you cannot e-file it again. Use the link here to access the form and instructions:
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Click here for Form 8379 Instructions
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Form 8379-Injured Spouse (type in the year at the top, be sure to sign it and include W2 copies)
Be sure to check the box for the spouse who does not owe any debt as the injured spouse, and you must carefully answer all questions.
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Reminders:
- If the injured spouse (the one with no debt) is the only one with income all of the refund will be released after IRS review of the Form 8379.
- If you are not in a community property state, and both of you have income, you can divide exemptions up any way you see fit. It is possible the IRS may make some adjustments based on the income levels for each of you. Let them do that when they receive it. The standard deduction must be split between you so you can't change that part.
- If the injured spouse has no income on the tax return the refund will not be released.
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Where to File Paper Returns With or Without a
Payment (click this link for the address for your area).
