Quick question about tax returns

[Robert Jorge 0]

I am going through what hopefully is the final month of the K1 process. My fiancee is Colombian, and I will go with her to the interview at the consulate in Bogota. The consulate in Bogota requires the last 3 years tax returns for the petitioner. My question is: Are my copies that I received when I filed at HR Block, along with all W2s and other paperwork sufficient? I have had several people say I need original copies. What the hell is an "original copy?" If it was original, it would by definition not be a copy. So, if somebody could let me know what I really need, I would appreciate it. Thanks for your help. Rob

[payxibka 10,045]

I am going through what hopefully is the final month of the K1 process. My fiancee is Colombian, and I will go with her to the interview at the consulate in Bogota. The consulate in Bogota requires the last 3 years tax returns for the petitioner. My question is: Are my copies that I received when I filed at HR Block, along with all W2s and other paperwork sufficient? I have had several people say I need original copies. What the hell is an "original copy?" If it was original, it would by definition not be a copy. So, if somebody could let me know what I really need, I would appreciate it. Thanks for your help. Rob

Each consulate is different so what specifically does Bogota say in the instructions? If unsure, then order a transcript from the IRS (free) for each year and attach to your H&R Block copies. This is what I would do.

Another option is to order "certified" transcripts from the IRS, but they cost something like $30 per each year or something like that. The IRS website has all the info.....

[Yodrak 7]

Rob,

No necessarily - the word 'copy' has several meanings. But you've got the right idea - the original tax return is in the hands of the IRS so you can hardly submit that. Submit a photocopy of the complete tax return, which means all forms, schedules, and attachments that were included with the return that you submitted to the IRS.

Or order tax transcripts from the IRS. They're free.

Yodrak

.... What the hell is an "original copy?" If it was original, it would by definition not be a copy. ..... Rob

[Robert Jorge 0]

Rob,

No necessarily - the word 'copy' has several meanings. But you've got the right idea - the original tax return is in the hands of the IRS so you can hardly submit that. Submit a photocopy of the complete tax return, which means all forms, schedules, and attachments that were included with the return that you submitted to the IRS.

Or order tax transcripts from the IRS. They're free.

Yodrak

.... What the hell is an "original copy?" If it was original, it would by definition not be a copy. ..... Rob

Thanks everybody. I just ordered copies from the IRS. The IRS lady said the same thing as me ... they aren't originals, because the returns were electronic. But, since it was free, I went ahead and ordered them. I think I am just getting copies of what I already have, but no big deal. I feel better now that I have this out of the way and all bases are covered. Thanks again. Rob

[lucy1979 0]

I found this site that tell you how to get copies of your old IRS tax returns!

http://usgovinfo.about.com/library/irs/bltaxcopies.htm

It says:

"A Tax Return Transcript is available only for returns in the 1040 series (1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, etc.). It shows line item entries from the original return that you filed. In most cases, a transcript will meet the requirements for lending institutions for mortgage verification purposes. These transcripts are also widely accepted for financial aid and student loan purposes. The transcripts can be ordered on a Form 4506. There is no charge for the transcripts and you should receive them within about 10 business days from the time that we receive your request. If you need the information sooner, the tax return transcript and certain W-2 information can be received by visiting an IRS office (with proper ID) or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040".

[doodlebug 3]

I would think the ones from HR Block would be the exact same thing and they don't charge at all. I just log in and print all the prior years out. Worked for me when I did my refinance on my home last year.

[bora bora 1]

Good question.

My brother-in-law is an accountant and he's done my taxes for the last 3+ years so he sent me all of the paperwork from his accounting firm - I'm taking it all with me to my fiance's interview. I'll also bring my W2s from 2005 and now 2006.

I think that'll do. I make more than enough money so I'm not too worried.

[Sonshyne 2]

I am wondering if I'll have a problem.... My taxes were self perpared through turbo tax. Do you think this will be acceptable or should I get transcripts?? I make well over the proverty limit.

[doodlebug 3]

I really don't see how the transcripts will be any different than the copies from Turbo tax or HR Block. They are the same exact thing. Someone hopefully will correct me if I'm wrong.

[Sonshyne 2]

I really don't see how the transcripts will be any different than the copies from Turbo tax or HR Block. They are the same exact thing. Someone hopefully will correct me if I'm wrong.

Thanks for your response

[payxibka 10,045]

I really don't see how the transcripts will be any different than the copies from Turbo tax or HR Block. They are the same exact thing. Someone hopefully will correct me if I'm wrong.

Since the transcripts comes from the IRS, it is somewhat independent proof that the information is at least what you filed. You could "doctor" you Turbo Tax return but I know no one here would ever do that....