LSmith33

I had that problem too. I deleted my cookies and temporary internet files, closed and re-opened the browser and then it worked.

I've had this client for the past four years. He is an elderly gentleman (80) on a very limited income. His ex-wife has been bringing me her, her daughter's and his return for at least the last four years. He works a part time job and receives a small pension and social security. I've been using Form 1040A in the ATX software for his return. He received a letter from the IRS about his 2005 return and they claimed he owed $938 plus interest and penalties. His ex-wife called me to question me about the notice and upon reviewing it, I noticed that I had been entering the medicare amount as federal tax withheld on the SS Benefits worksheet. I am so used to putting that number where I thought it belonged (and is that way on the SS benefits worksheet for the 1040) that I didn't pick it up in 04, 05 or 06. He now owes the government $2,799. ($799 from 04, $938 from 05, and $1062 from 06). Oh my God!! I can't believe I did that for three years and that I didn't catch it. I usually do add the withholding to make sure that I have the correct amount on the return. I really goofed up big time. I don't think I've done that on anyone else's return because I don't usually use 1040A. I always use the 1040. What am I going to do? My stomach is in knots. I've never goofed this bad before. I am very upset and feel absolutely terrible. I just can't believe it. The ex-wife didn't really say much on the phone, she said she was going to consult with her daughter and get back to me. I did offer to pay the interest and penalties on the 05. I can't imagine why the IRS didn't pick this up on the 04 return, but I'm sure it's only matter of time before they pick up the 06. ~Laura J. Smith

Well, it seems that we have had conflicting views on this subject. I went ahead and filed it with a 1040X. Here's hoping it goes through.

Thank you both!

My clients received a letter from the IRS for their 2003 return which they did not file. The IRS assessed the tax based on the wife's W2 only. The husband is self employed (his first year in 2003) so the IRS did not have any data on that income. The wife paid the assessment from the notice but now they want to file the actual return with the IRS (they owe more money based on his income). My question is do I need to file an amended return since my client's accepted the proposed return prepared by the IRS? Any input is appreciated. Thanks, ~Laura Smith