Don't forget about state taxes! The federal withholding is just the beginning. Depending on your state, you might owe state income tax on the prize value too, and they DON'T withhold for that usually!

One thing that hasn't been mentioned yet - if you're planning to take the trip soon, you might want to consider the timing for tax purposes. Since you'll owe taxes on the prize value in the year you receive it (not when you take the trip), you could potentially delay accepting the prize until early next year if that would put you in a lower tax bracket. Also, keep in mind that some sweepstakes allow you to take a "cash equivalent" instead of the actual prize. If they offer this option, you might want to compare the cash amount to the stated prize value - sometimes the cash option is actually more favorable from a tax perspective because there's no question about fair market value. And definitely keep ALL documentation related to this prize - the original notification, any correspondence about value, receipts if you get them, etc. The IRS can audit prize winnings, and having thorough documentation will save you headaches if they ever question the reported value.

I just went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago, and I wanted to share some additional tips that really helped me get through the process smoothly. First, when you write your explanation letter for the audit response, keep it short and factual. Don't over-explain or apologize excessively - just state that you made an unintentional error in selecting "single" instead of "married filing separately" and that you're providing the correct documentation to resolve the issue. Second, make copies of EVERYTHING before you send it. I made the mistake of sending originals of some documents in my first response and had to request duplicates later when they asked for additional information. Third, if you end up owing additional tax after recalculating with the correct filing status, consider setting up a payment plan if you can't pay the full amount immediately. The IRS is usually very reasonable about this, especially when you're being proactive about fixing an honest mistake. Most importantly, try not to stress too much about this. I know it feels overwhelming when you're in the middle of it, but the IRS really does distinguish between honest errors and intentional tax evasion. Your prompt, honest response will go a long way toward resolving this quickly and with minimal penalties. You've got this! The hardest part is behind you now that you know what needs to be done.

I'm actually going through this exact same situation right now! My spouse and I both accidentally filed as single instead of married filing separately, and we just received our audit notice three days ago. This entire thread has been incredibly helpful and reassuring. What really strikes me is how common this mistake apparently is - when I first saw that audit letter, I felt like we were the only people stupid enough to make such an error. But reading through everyone's experiences here, it's clear this happens to a lot of people, especially couples who are used to filing separately. Based on all the advice shared here, I'm planning to respond within the next few days with: - Our certified marriage certificate - A brief, factual explanation letter (keeping it short as someone mentioned) - Form 1040-X to amend the return - Everything sent certified mail with copies kept for our records The tip about first-time penalty abatement is huge - I had no idea that was even an option. We've never had any tax issues before, so I'm definitely going to ask about that when we submit our response. Thank you to everyone who shared their real experiences and outcomes. Knowing that so many others have successfully resolved this exact situation with minimal penalties has transformed this from feeling like a catastrophe to feeling like a manageable (if stressful) mistake that we can fix. I'll try to come back and update on how it goes!

I completely understand your anxiety about this situation! I went through something very similar when I moved back to the Netherlands after my work visa expired. The combination of tax uncertainty and fear of account freezes is really stressful. Here's what I learned that might help: Your tax residency status is based on physical presence, not account addresses. Since you've been out of the US for months, you're likely already considered a non-resident alien for the period after departure, regardless of what address your accounts show. However, I'd strongly recommend updating those addresses within the next few weeks. I delayed for about 4 months and while nothing catastrophic happened, my brokerage did eventually flag my account for review due to consistent foreign IP logins. When I finally called them proactively, the process was much smoother than I expected. Most major brokerages have specific procedures for clients who become non-residents. You'll need to complete a W-8BEN form and provide some documentation (usually passport and proof of foreign address), but they're used to handling these transitions. The key is calling them rather than letting them discover the change through monitoring. For taxes, as an NRA you generally won't owe US capital gains tax on your stock/crypto sales, but you will have 30% withholding on US dividends. Don't forget about your home country's tax obligations though - they may tax these gains once you become their resident. You'll likely need to file a dual-status return this year. Keep detailed records of your departure date and residency establishment - both tax authorities will want this information.

I went through this exact situation when I moved back to Canada after my TN visa expired. The stress and confusion you're feeling is totally normal - the intersection of US tax law and international moves is genuinely complex! Here's what I wish someone had told me: Your physical presence determines your tax status, not your account addresses. Since you've been out of the US for months, you're likely already considered a non-resident alien for tax purposes from your departure date forward, regardless of what addresses your brokerages have on file. That said, you should definitely update those addresses within the next few weeks. I made the mistake of waiting almost 6 months, and while my accounts weren't frozen, Fidelity did flag my account for review when they noticed consistent Canadian IP logins. When I finally called them proactively, they were actually very helpful and walked me through their non-resident client process. The W-8BEN form is your friend here - it officially establishes your foreign status with your brokerages and ensures proper tax withholding going forward. Most major firms are experienced with these transitions, so don't be afraid to call and explain your situation. For your investments, as an NRA you generally won't owe US capital gains tax on stock/crypto sales (assuming you haven't been in the US for 183+ days this year), but you'll still have 30% withholding on US dividends. However, don't forget about Canadian tax obligations - once you establish Canadian residency, Canada will likely want to tax these gains, so keep detailed records of timing. You'll probably need to file a dual-status US return this year. I ended up hiring a cross-border tax specialist for my first transition year and it was worth every penny - they caught several things I would have missed and helped me avoid both double taxation and compliance issues. The key is being proactive rather than hiding from the problem. Both countries' tax authorities are generally reasonable about these transitions if you document everything properly and file the right forms.

I work in medical billing and deal with DME valuations regularly. For prosthetic limbs specifically, you'll want to contact either the original manufacturer or a certified prosthetist for the appraisal. Many prosthetists are qualified to provide fair market value assessments since they understand depreciation rates and condition factors for these devices. A few things to keep in mind: prosthetics typically retain 30-60% of their original value depending on age, condition, and whether they're current generation technology. Since yours are still in good condition but older models, you're probably looking at the lower end of that range. Also, make sure Shriners can actually accept used prosthetics - some hospitals have strict policies about accepting used medical devices due to hygiene and liability concerns. I'd recommend calling them first to confirm they can use the donation before going through the appraisal process. The tax benefits are definitely worth pursuing given the original cost, but getting everything documented properly upfront will save you headaches later if the IRS has questions.

This is such a generous thing to do! I went through something similar when my mom passed away and we had to figure out what to do with her oxygen concentrator and mobility scooter. One thing I'd add to all the great advice here - make sure you get a detailed receipt from Shriners that specifically describes what you're donating (model numbers, serial numbers if available, general condition). The IRS can be pretty picky about documentation for high-value donations, and having everything spelled out clearly will help if they ever question the deduction. Also, keep copies of your original purchase receipts, insurance claims, and any maintenance records you might have. This documentation helps establish the original cost basis and shows you took proper care of the equipment, which can support a higher valuation. The appraisal route definitely sounds like the way to go given the original cost. Even if the appraisal costs a few hundred dollars, you'll likely come out way ahead on the tax savings. Good luck with the donation - I'm sure it will really help someone!

Smart move skipping the audit protection! I've been filing with basic itemized deductions for over a decade and have never been audited. The IRS is really looking for bigger fish - people with complex business structures, unusually high deductions relative to income, or missing income. Your mortgage interest, charitable donations, and medical expenses are all backed up by third-party documentation (1098 forms, receipts, medical bills), which is exactly what you'd need to provide if questioned anyway. The "protection" doesn't change your actual tax liability or prevent issues - it just gives you someone to call if problems arise. I'd echo what others said about good record-keeping being your best protection. I keep a simple tax folder throughout the year and toss everything in there as I get it. Takes 5 minutes and costs nothing, versus paying TurboTax's inflated fees for peace of mind you probably don't need.

I went through this exact same decision last year and ended up skipping the TurboTax audit protection. Best choice I made! Like others mentioned, with standard itemized deductions you're really not in the high-risk category that the IRS typically targets. What helped me feel confident was realizing that all my deductions already had built-in documentation - my mortgage company provides the 1098 form, my charitable donations are mostly to established organizations that issue proper receipts, and my medical expenses came with insurance statements and provider bills. If the IRS ever had questions, I'd just need to send copies of stuff I already have. The peace of mind from good organization ended up being way better than paying for "protection." I created a simple system where I scan important tax documents into a cloud folder as soon as I get them, and keep physical receipts in a labeled envelope. Takes maybe 10 minutes total throughout the year and costs nothing. Honestly, TurboTax's scary messaging about audits is mostly just marketing to get you to spend more money. For straightforward situations like yours, the protection is solving a problem that probably doesn't exist.