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FTB sent EITC letter but I didn't apply - What to do?

I got a letter from the tax office about the Earned Income Tax Credit, but I don't think I even applied for it. What should I do? I'm pretty sure I don't qualify for this credit. Do I just need to tell them it was a mistake? Has anyone else dealt with this before?

Ugh, bureaucracy at its finest 🙄 I've had similar issues with the tax office before. Best thing to do is call them ASAP and explain the situation. Be prepared for a long wait time though!

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Yep, calling is def the way to go. Just make sure you have all your docs ready before you call. They always ask for stuff you dont expect

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Long wait time is an understatement lol. I was on hold for 3 hours last time I called them 😫

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3 hours?! That's insane. I guess I got lucky with only 1.5 hours last time 😅

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Here's what you need to know about the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): 1. Eligibility: You must have earned income from employment or self-employment. 2. Income limits: These vary based on filing status and number of children. 3. Filing status: Can be single, married filing jointly, or head of household. 4. Social Security: You need a valid SSN. 5. Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien all year. If you're sure you don't qualify, call the tax office and explain the situation. They might have made a mistake or there could be some misunderstanding. Keep all documentation related to this issue. Remember, it's always better to address these things promptly to avoid any potential penalties or complications later.

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This is super helpful, thanks for breaking it down! 👍

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Quick question - do you know if the income limits change every year? Or are they pretty stable?

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The income limits typically change each year to account for inflation. It's always best to check the IRS website for the most up-to-date information.

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I had the exact same thing happen to me last year! Turns out it was because I used a new tax software and it automatically applied for credits it thought I might be eligible for. Check if that might be the case for you too.

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Whatever you do, don't ignore the letter! That's a one-way ticket to Audit City, population: you. 🏙️

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lmao Audit City 💀 No one wants to visit that place

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Hey guys, I found a method to get someone on the phone without the crazy wait times. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video explaining it: https://youtu.be/XbqD8mexcoQ

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Sounds too good to be true. Does it really work?

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Yeah, it actually does! I was skeptical at first too, but it saved me hours of waiting on hold. Totally worth the 20 bucks imo

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Idk man, paying to talk to the government? Seems sketchy af

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I get the concern, but think about it - how much is your time worth? For me, not sitting on hold for hours was definitely worth the cost

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Pro tip: Keep a detailed log of all your interactions with the tax office. Write down dates, times, names of who you spoke to, and what was discussed. It'll save you a headache if things get complicated.

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This! 💯 I learned this the hard way. Now I have a dedicated notebook just for tax stuff

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am i the only 1 who thinks the whole tax system needs a complete overhaul? 🤔 its 2023 and were still dealing with this nonsense

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Preach! 🙌 The system is so outdated it's not even funny anymore

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Careful what you wish for. Knowing the government, they'd probably make it even more complicated 😂

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