IRS Automatically Changed my Deduction Method

[maruzin]

I live in a state where my deduction method (itemize or standard) must match my federal filings.  I chose to itemize both even though on my federal filing it was slightly less than the standard deduction because it greatly benefits my state filing.  After submitting and paying taxes owed to the IRS, they decided that to change my filing to standard and issued me a refund.  What is the best and way to correct this, and how can I insure that the IRS doesn't do this again?

[macuser_22]

If the IRS changed it then you cannot.   However, that should not affect anything since *you* filed both Fed and state itemized as the state required. 

If the state questions it then you can provide a copy of your Federal1040 form to prove that you filed itemized.

[Mike9241]

are you married and filed separately?   by federal tax law you must both use the same method for deductions.  so if she filed first and used the standard deduction, that's why the IRS changed your return.  

[maruzin]

Yes Married but filed jointly on both.

[macuser_22]

Also, did you actually check your 1040 line 12a to see the method before you filed?  TurboTax will always choose the method that gives the largest deduction unless you specifically tell it otherwise.  It might not have been the IRS that changed it (which would be very unusual).

You can check the actual amount of itemized deductions by using the Search Topics for "itemized deductions, choosing" (under "My Account, Tools" in the online versions). Click on "Change my deduction". That will display the actual amount of itemized deductions vs. the standard deduction and change the deduction type.  Otherwise it will choose the best deduction method.

[maruzin]

Good point but I electronically filed using IRS fill-able forms from their website this year.  Double checking what I submitted, 12a lists deductions below the standard and matches the schedule A that I included in my package. 

I have since downloaded a copy of my submission from the IRS website and they also show what I submitted (itemized and a schedule A) but then added an audited line showing that their computer adjusted 12a to the standard deduction and issued me a refund.  There were no errors or miscalculations in any of my forms, other than they decided that I was better off with the standard deduction.

I know the difference is small (about 200 dollars more that I will now have to pay to my state).  I am just perplexed that I have to deal with this now.  

I now have up to 12 months to resolve this or amend my state taxes in order to be in compliance.  I don't think I can just ignore it.

[fanfare]

@maruzin 

"I electronically filed using IRS fill-able forms from their website"

Please post the page on the IRS website where you are able to e-File IRS fill-able forms.

[rjs]

@fanfare 

Free File Fillable Forms

"Free File Fillable Forms are electronic federal tax forms you can fill out and file online for free, enabling you to:

• Choose the income tax form you need
• Enter your tax information online
• Electronically sign and file your return
• Print your return for recordkeeping"

[bold added]

[SweetieJean]

Free File Fillable Forms is the only IRS Free File option available for taxpayers whose 2021 income (AGI) is greater than $73,000.

[fanfare]

Over all this time,  I didn't realize you could do that on IRS.gov.

It's not a good idea to do your tax return without assistance of tax software, if you ask me.

Especially if you are a "high-income" person.

But I guess you're not asking.