Today TaxMama hears from Maure in California with this dilemma. “I haven’t worked since 2006, and have been exempt from paying taxes. So I have no tax returns. However, for a Hospital’s Medical Assistance Program for my bill, I need to show recent 1040, and/or proof of no/low income. How do I get such documentation from the IRS, when there never was any required or filed?”
Dear Maure,
It’s remarkably hard to prove a negative, isn’t it?
OK, first of all, what have you been living on? Can you prove the source of your rent – and that it isn’t taxable? Did it come from Social Security? From Supplemental Security Income? From family or friends? Or are you living with family or friends?
That’s a big question. You’re living somewhere, eating, keeping cool – or warm, depending on the season, and you are clothed. How is that funded? So, prepare to show the source of your support.
Next, file a Form 4506-T to request copies of all income sources. Check boxes 7 & 8.
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4506t.pdf
Box 7 is proof that you haven’t filed a tax return.
Box 8 will give you a printout of all the W-2s and 1099s issued under your Social Security Number. If the only income showing is non-taxable – or non-existent, that will help prove your case.
And remember, you can find answers to all kinds of questions about proving your income – or proving nothing – and other tax issues, free. Where? Where else? At TaxMama.com.
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- IRS Form 4506-T :: To get transcripts of your income sources and tax returns
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