This is so important! I got hit with a huge penalty for not filing FBAR even though I reported all my income correctly. The FBAR deadline is actually April 15 now, same as taxes, but with an automatic extension to October.

Do we need to request transcripts before filing amendments? I assumed I just need my original return copy. Also, how far back can you amend returns? I might have similar issues with my 2021 taxes.

You don't absolutely need transcripts before filing amendments, but they're extremely helpful to ensure you have the exact information the IRS has on file. Having your own copy of your return is good, but the transcript shows how the IRS actually processed it, which sometimes differs from what you submitted. For amended returns, you generally have 3 years from the original filing date or 2 years from when you paid the tax, whichever is later. So for 2021 taxes (typically filed in 2022), you should still be within the amendment window for the 2025 filing season. I'd recommend grabbing the transcript though - it makes the amendment process much smoother when you can see the IRS's internal codes and processing marks.

That's a good point about tax preparers! My accountant uses checkmarks and little symbols all over my returns before submitting. I always thought it looked so messy but I guess that's their system.

Thanks for bringing this up! I double-checked, and you're right - the documents are actually from my tax preparer's office, not directly from the IRS. They sent me copies of what they submitted. That makes so much more sense why there are these little marks all over them. I feel kinda silly now for worrying, but at least I understand what I'm looking at. Guess my preparer was just marking things they verified before submitting. Learning something new about taxes every day!

Thanks for sharing your experience! Did you end up having to file an amended return, or were you able to get it resolved by just responding to the IRS notice?

I didn't need to file an amended return. I just responded to the IRS notice with a detailed explanation and a copy of my 1099-R. I highlighted Box 1 and Box 5 showing the identical amounts and explained these were after-tax contributions being returned. The IRS accepted my explanation and canceled the proposed adjustment about 6 weeks later. They sent a letter confirming no additional tax was due. Just make sure to respond within the deadline given on the notice, and keep copies of everything you send them.

I called about a similar issue last year. If you can actually reach someone (big if), they can be helpful. I got through after 3 attempts and about 90 minutes on hold. The agent was able to see that my 1099-R boxes matched and noted my account that no additional tax was due. Still got a confirmation letter about a month later.

Thanks for the suggestion. I tried accessing my transcript online but because I've been overseas so long, the verification system won't work for me (it needs a US phone number I've had for more than 2 years, which I don't have since moving back). I requested a mailed transcript but haven't received it yet. Seems like everything with the IRS requires workarounds when you've been an expat.

That's a common issue for expats! For the phone verification problem, you might want to use a family member's phone number temporarily if possible. Another option is to request your transcript by filing Form 4506-T instead of using the online system. For recently returned expats, sometimes the local Taxpayer Advocate Service can help navigate these authentication issues. They're separate from the regular IRS customer service and can sometimes cut through red tape when standard procedures don't work for your situation.

This is accurate - the payment method makes a huge difference. I work at a tax prep office and we've seen that international filers who used direct deposit had about 80% success rate getting stimulus automatically, while paper check people had endless problems.

The Fresh Start Program sounds promising but remember it's not a specific program you apply for directly - it's a collection of IRS initiatives with different eligibility requirements. A $200k debt might be harder to settle than an $85k one. Still worth exploring though.

That's a really good point I hadn't considered. This is in North Dakota where the beekeeping operation was based, though they also operated seasonally in California. I'll definitely look into state-specific programs. Has anyone here had experience specifically with North Dakota tax relief options?