IRS Announces Redesigned Form 8857

The Service announced that it has redesigned Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief, in order to reduce followup questions and minimize the burden on taxpayers.

Previously, Form 12510, Questionnaire for the Requesting Spouse, was separate from Form 8857. The redesigned Form 8857 combines the two forms. The IRS believes that collecting this information early in the process will mean faster processing of requests and will help eliminate an estimated 30,000 followup letters annually.

Among the inquiries on the new form are questions on spousal abuse and domestic violence, mental or physical health problems, financial problems, and the requester’s involvement with the household finances.