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IRS 3911 Template

The IRS 3911 form is utilized by taxpayers to assist the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in tracing payments, including refunds and checks, that have not been received or have been lost, stolen, or destroyed. It serves as a crucial step in the process of resolving issues related to missing payments. For those needing to complete the IRS 3911 form, a detailed guide and further assistance are available; please click the button below to get started.

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Table of Contents

When taxpayers encounter issues with their refund check, such as not receiving it despite the IRS's records showing it has been sent, the IRS 3911 form serves as a vital tool for resolution. This form, formally titled "Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund," is used to initiate a trace of the missing refund check, allowing the IRS to investigate what happened. It asks for detailed information regarding the taxpayer's refund, including whether it was received, endorsed, or cashed by someone else. Completing and submitting this form is a critical step for taxpayers needing assistance in tracking down their refunds. The form encompasses important spaces for personal identification, specifying the exact nature of the refund issue, and instruction for how the taxpayer should proceed. By filling out Form 3911, taxpayers essentially provide the IRS with a formal request to locate their refund and, if necessary, reissue the missing amount. Thus, understanding the process, requirements, and implications of submitting a Form 3911 is essential for anyone facing refund delays or discrepancies.

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6. Address (include ZIP code)

Form 3911

(January 2018)

Department of the Treasury - Internal Revenue Service

Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund

OMB Number

1545-1384

The box checked below is in reply to your inquiry on

 

 

about your Federal tax return for

We sent you the following refund(s) $

, $

, $

 

on

.

Check

Direct Deposit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The U.S. Postal Service returned your check because they could not deliver it.

Your check was not cashed within one year of the issue date as the law requires and it can no longer be cashed.

XIf we indicated above that your check was returned by the Post Office or not cashed within one year of the issue date, please complete Sections I and III of this form and send it back to us in the enclosed envelope or facsimile form to

We will send you a new check within six weeks of the date we receive this form.

If you did not receive the refund check, or if you received it and it was lost, stolen or destroyed, please complete Sections I, II and III. Send this form back to us in the enclosed envelope or facsimile form to

XIf you don’t hear from us by six weeks from the date you send the form back to us, please contact us at If you prefer, you may write to us at the service center where you filed your return.

.

.

.

Section I

Print your current name(s), taxpayer identification number (for individuals, this is your social security number, for businesses, it is your employer identification number) and address, including ZIP code. If you filed a joint return, show the names of both spouses on lines 1 and 2 below.

1. Your name

Taxpayer Identification Number

2. Spouse’s name (if a name is entered here, spouse must sign on line 14)

Taxpayer Identification Number

3. Street

Apt. No.

City

State

ZIP code

XPlease give us a phone number where you can be reached

between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Include area code.

X

Area code

Telephone number

XIf any of the above has changed since you filed your tax return, please enter the information below exactly as shown on your return.

4. Name(s)

Taxpayer Identification Number(s)

Street

Apt. No.

City

State

ZIP code

XIf you have filed a power of attorney authorizing a representative to receive your refund check, please enter his or her name and mailing address below.

5. Name of representative

7. Type of return

Individual

Business, Form

 

 

Other

Type of refund requested

Check

Direct Deposit

Amount $

Tax period

Date filed

Section II

Refund Information

(Please check all boxes that apply to you.)

8.

I didn’t receive a refund.

I received a refund check, but it was lost, stolen or destroyed.

9. I received the refund check and signed it.

NOTE: The law doesn’t allow us to issue a replacement check if you endorsed it and someone other than you cashed the check, since that person didn’t forge your signature.

10. I have received correspondence about the tax return. (Please attach a copy if possible.)

(Please give us the following information if possible.)

11. Name of bank and account number where you normally cash or deposit your checks

 

Bank

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Account number

 

12. a. If the refund was a direct deposit, did you receive a “Refund Anticipation Loan”?

Yes

 

No

 

b. Enter the Routing Transit Number(s)

,

 

,

 

 

 

, and account number(s)

 

,

 

,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

, shown on your return for the refund you did not receive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Catalog Number 41167W

 

 

 

 

www.irs.gov

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form 3911 (Rev. 1-2018)

 

(Continued on back)

Page 2

Section III

Certification

XPlease sign below, exactly as you signed the return. If this refund was from a joint return, we need the signatures of both spouses before we can trace it.

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this form, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, the information is true, correct, and complete. I request that you send a replacement refund, and if I receive two refunds I will return one.

13. Signature (For business returns, signature of person authorized to sign the check)

Date

14. Spouse’s signature, if required (For businesses, enter the title of the person who signed above.)

Date

Section IV

Description of Check

(For Internal Revenue Service use only)

 

 

 

Schedule number

Refund Date

Amount

Other (DLN, Check/Symbol, etc.)

 

 

 

 

Schedule number

Refund Date

Amount

Other (DLN, Check/Symbol, etc.)

 

 

 

 

Schedule number

Refund Date

Amount

Other (DLN, Check/Symbol, etc.)

Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice

We ask for the information on this form to carry out the Internal Revenue laws of the United States.

You aren’t required to give us the information since the refund you claimed has already been issued. However, without the information we won’t be able to trace your refund, and may be unable to replace it. You may give us the information we need in a letter.

We need the information to ensure that you are complying with these laws and to allow us to determine the correctness of your refund or the right amount of payment. Your Social Security Number and the other information are being requested in order that the Department of the Treasury can process your refund. The authority of requesting your social security number is 26 United States Code, section 6109. If you cannot or will not furnish the information, the tracing of your refund may be delayed.

You are not required to provide the information requested on a form that is subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act unless the form displays a valid OMB control number. Books or record relating to a form or its instructions must be retained as long as their contents may become material in the administration of any Internal Revenue law. Generally, tax returns and return information are confidential, as required by Internal Revenue Code section 6103. The time needed to compete and file this form will vary depending on individual circumstances. The estimated average time is less than 5 minutes.

If you have comments concerning the accuracy of this time estimate or suggestions for making this form simpler, we would be happy to hear from you. You can write to the Internal Revenue Service, Attention: Tax Products Coordinating Committee, Western Area Distribution Center, Rancho Cordova, CA 95743-0001.

Do not send this form to this office. Instead, please use the envelope provided or mail the form to the Internal Revenue Service center where you would normally file a paper tax return.

Catalog Number 41167W

www.irs.gov

Form 3911 (Rev. 1-2018)

Form Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The IRS Form 3911 is utilized by taxpayers to request a trace of a lost, stolen, or misplaced federal tax refund check.
When to Use This form should be used if a taxpayer hasn't received their refund check within a reasonable time frame and believes it may have been misdirected or lost.
Information Required To complete Form 3911, taxpayers need to provide their personal information, details about their tax return for the year in question, and information about the refund they are inquiring about.
Processing Time After submitting Form 3911, the IRS typically provides a response or takes action within six to eight weeks, depending on the specific circumstances and current workload.
Submission Options Taxpayers can submit Form 3911 to the IRS through fax or mail, depending on their preference or the instructions provided by the IRS.
Governing Laws Form 3911 is governed by federal tax laws and regulations, which outline the procedures for tracing and issuing refunds for federal tax returns.

Guidelines on Filling in IRS 3911

Filing the IRS 3911 form is an essential step for taxpayers who need to inquire about a missing tax refund or a federal stimulus payment they haven't received. The process is relatively straightforward but requires attention to detail to ensure all the information provided is accurate and comprehensive. By following the steps outlined below, individuals can submit their query to the IRS effectively, setting the process in motion to resolve their issue. After submission, the IRS will review the form and conduct an investigation into the missing payment. Taxpayers should expect correspondence or direct contact from the IRS with further instructions or the resolution of their case.

  1. Locate the latest version of the IRS 3911 form on the official IRS website. Download and print the form.
  2. Start by reading the instructions provided on the form carefully. These instructions will guide you on how to properly fill out the form.
  3. Fill in your personal information in Section 1. This includes your full name, social security number or taxpayer identification number, and your complete address.
  4. In Section 2, specify the type of tax and the tax period for the refund or payment in question.
  5. Detail the payment you are inquiring about in Section 3. Include the amount, the date you were expecting to receive it, and any direct deposit information if applicable.
  6. If you filed a joint return, the co-filer must also provide their name, social security number, and contact information in the designated area.
  7. Read through the form once more to ensure all information is correct and complete. Look out for any sections that require a signature and sign the form.
  8. Finally, mail the completed form to the address provided by the IRS specific to your location which is usually determined by the state in which you live. Addresses can be found on the IRS website.

Completing and mailing the IRS 3911 form is a critical step towards resolving issues with missing payments. It's essential to provide as much detail as possible and to adhere to the instructions provided by the IRS. After the IRS receives the form, they will initiate an inquiry into the missing payment. Patience is key, as this process may take some time depending on the complexity of the case and the IRS's current workload.

Learn More on IRS 3911

What is an IRS 3911 form?

The IRS 3911 form, also known as the "Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund," is a document used by taxpayers to initiate a trace of their federal refund when it has not been received. This form helps the IRS investigate what happened to the missing refund, whether it was not issued, lost, stolen, or destroyed.

When should you use the IRS 3911 form?

You should use the IRS 3911 form if:

  1. Your refund check was lost, stolen, or destroyed.
  2. You have not received your refund within the expected timeframe, typically 6 weeks after filing your tax return by mail or 3 weeks if filed electronically.
  3. The IRS website or phone system shows your refund was sent, but you haven’t received it.
It's important to check the status of your refund using the IRS “Where's My Refund?” tool before submitting a 3911 form.

How do you fill out and submit the IRS 3911 form?

To fill out and submit the IRS 3911 form, follow these steps:

  • Fill out the form accurately: Provide all the requested information, including your name, address, social security number, the tax year of the refund, and the exact amount of the refund you were expecting.
  • Explain the situation: Describe the issue in Section III, including whether your check was lost, stolen, or you simply haven't received it and any actions you have already taken.
  • Sign and date the form: Ensure that you (and your spouse if filing jointly) sign and date the form to verify its accuracy.
  • Submit the form to the IRS: Mail the completed form to the IRS center where you filed your return. The address can be found on the IRS website or by contacting the IRS directly.
Be sure to keep a copy of the form for your records.

What happens after you submit the form?

After you submit the IRS 3911 form, the IRS will conduct an inquiry into the status of your refund. This process can take up to 6 weeks. They will determine if the refund was issued and, if so, whether it was cashed. If the refund was not cashed, the IRS may issue a replacement check. If the check was cashed, the IRS will provide a claim package that includes a copy of the cashed check for verification. Further actions may be necessary based on the findings of the investigation, including possibly involving law enforcement if fraud is suspected.

Common mistakes

Filling out the IRS 3911 form, which is used for taxpayer statement regarding refund, demands careful attention to detail. There are several common mistakes that individuals tend to make during this process. Understanding these errors can help ensure the form is completed accurately, speeding up the resolution of any refund issues.

  1. Not reviewing personal information thoroughly. It’s crucial to double-check the accuracy of personal details such as your full name, address, and Social Security Number. Any discrepancy in this information can lead to processing delays.

  2. Omitting the tax year. The IRS 3911 form requires you to specify the tax year in question for the refund. Leaving this field blank or entering the wrong year can result in the form being returned or processed incorrectly.

  3. Skipping questions. Every question on the form is important. If a question is left unanswered, it may signal to the IRS that the form is incomplete, possibly leading to delays in the review or processing of your case.

  4. Using incorrect figures. When entering refund amounts or other financial information, ensure that these figures match those from your tax return. Inaccuracies can complicate the verification process.

  5. Missing signatures. Both the taxpayer and their spouse, if filing jointly, must sign the form. An unsigned form is considered invalid and will not be processed until the oversight is corrected.

  6. Failing to explain the situation. The IRS 3911 form includes space for taxpayers to describe the issue they're experiencing with their refund. Providing insufficient detail may hinder the IRS’s ability to address the problem effectively.

  7. Not retaining a copy. Failing to keep a copy of the completed form for your records can be problematic. If any questions arise or if follow-up is needed, having your copy facilitates the process.

  8. Incorrect mailing. Sending the form to the wrong IRS office can cause significant delays. It’s important to verify the correct mailing address, which can vary depending on your location and the nature of your inquiry.

By avoiding these mistakes, individuals can improve the accuracy and efficiency of their IRS 3911 form submissions, paving the way for smoother interactions with the IRS regarding refund issues.

Documents used along the form

The IRS Form 3911, Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund, serves as a critical tool for individuals seeking to resolve issues related to their federal tax refunds. Typically, this form is utilized when a refund is delayed, not received, or when the amount received differs from what was expected based on the filed tax return. However, navigating the complexities of tax issues often requires more than just this form. There are several other forms and documents that individuals might find necessary to use alongside the IRS Form 3911 to ensure a comprehensive approach to their tax matters.

  • IRS Form 1040 Series: This series includes forms such as Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return), Form 1040-SR (for seniors), and other variations. Used to file annual income tax returns, these forms provide the IRS with the information needed to calculate tax liability or refunds.
  • IRS Form 8822: Change of Address. If you've moved and haven't notified the IRS, it could affect the delivery of your refund. This form updates your address on file with the IRS.
  • IRS Form 4506-T: Request for Transcript of Tax Return. This form allows taxpayers to request a transcript of their tax return, which can be necessary to verify income or tax payments if disputes arise during the refund process.
  • IRS Form 4868: Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. If taxpayers need more time to file, this form helps avoid penalties by extending the filing deadline. It's relevant for those addressing refund issues but haven't filed a current year return yet.
  • IRS Form 14039: Identity Theft Affidavit. Used if a taxpayer believes their identity has been used fraudulently to file a tax return, potentially affecting their refund.
  • IRS Form 8379: Injured Spouse Allocation. This form applies if part of a couple’s refund was applied to the past due obligations of only one spouse. It allows the “injured” spouse to get back their share of the joint refund.
  • IRS Form 2848: Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative. This document grants another person the authority to speak with the IRS on your behalf, possibly to resolve refund issues.
  • IRS Form 9465: Installment Agreement Request. For taxpayers who owe money and can't pay in full, this form requests a payment plan. It’s often relevant in discussions about refunds when there's an outstanding liability.
  • Direct Deposit Enrollment Form: While not an IRS form, many financial institutions offer a direct deposit enrollment form to ensure your refund gets directly deposited into your bank account, speeding up the refund process.

Accurately completing and submitting the appropriate forms is crucial in addressing any tax-related concerns, especially when dealing with refund delays or discrepancies. Each form mentioned above serves a unique purpose in the broader context of managing one's taxes and ensuring that issues regarding refunds are resolved effectively and efficiently. Approach these documents with attention to detail and, when necessary, seek guidance from tax professionals to navigate the complexities of the tax system with confidence.

Similar forms

  • The IRS Form 1040 shows similarities to the IRS 3911 form, as both are integral to individual taxpayers who need to report certain kinds of information to the IRS. While the 1040 form focuses on the annual income tax return, the 3911 form is utilized to track missing or undelivered tax refunds or stimulus checks. Each serves a critical role in communicating taxpayer-specific details to the IRS.

  • Similar to the IRS 3911, IRS Form 8822 is utilized for communication purposes but specifically for notifying the IRS about a change of address. This ensures the IRS has the correct address to send any correspondence, including refunds or notices. Proper communication with the IRS is crucial to managing one's tax affairs efficiently, making both these forms important for maintaining up-to-date records.

  • The IRS Form 4506-T, like the 3911 form, plays a pivotal role in requesting information from the IRS. However, the 4506-T specifically requests transcripts of previously filed tax returns, which can be vital for loan applications or proving past income. Both documents are essential tools for accessing tax-related information that might not be readily available but is necessary for specific financial situations.

  • IRS Form 14039, shares a purpose with the IRS 3911 form in that it provides taxpayers a mechanism to report irregularities to the IRS. The 14039 form is specifically designed for identity theft victims to alert the IRS of fraudulent tax return filings in their name. Though their primary purposes differ, both forms play significant roles in safeguarding taxpayer interests and ensuring proper tax administration.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the IRS 3911 form, taxpayers should be mindful of several do's and don'ts to ensure the process is completed accurately and effectively. Following these guidelines can help in avoiding common mistakes.

Do's:

  • Review the IRS 3911 form instructions carefully before starting.
  • Provide complete and accurate taxpayer information, including your full name, address, and Social Security number.
  • Specify the tax year and the type of return you are inquiring about in the designated sections.
  • Clearly describe the problem you are experiencing with your refund or payment in the area provided.
  • Sign and date the form to validate your request. If filing jointly, ensure both spouses sign.
  • Include any documentation that supports your claim with the form.
  • Keep a copy of the form and any correspondence for your records.

Don'ts:

  • Do not leave any required fields blank. If a section does not apply, write 'N/A'.
  • Do not provide false or misleading information. This can result in penalties or further investigation.
  • Do not forget to sign and date the form. Unsigned forms will not be processed.
  • Do not send the form without reviewing it for completeness and accuracy.
  • Do not use the form for issues not related to refund or payment discrepancies.
  • Do not neglect to provide a detailed explanation of the issue you're facing. Vague descriptions may delay processing.
  • Do not send original documents unless specifically requested. Always send copies.

Misconceptions

When dealing with the IRS and tax-related issues, people often come across various forms and procedures that might be confusing. The IRS Form 3911, Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund, is one such document that can cause misunderstandings. Let's clear up some common misconceptions about this form:

  • The IRS 3911 form is only for those who have not received their tax refund. While it's commonly used by taxpayers who haven't received their expected refund, the IRS 3911 form has broader applications. It's also utilized for cases where a refund was received but was incorrect in amount or made via an unintended payment method, such as receiving a check when direct deposit was expected.
  • Filing Form 3911 guarantees immediate resolution. Filing this form does indeed initiate a process to resolve the issue with your tax refund. However, it does not guarantee an immediate solution. The IRS must investigate the claim, which can take some time, depending on the complexity of the issue and the agency’s current backlog.
  • The taxpayer is responsible for proving the refund was never received. While it might seem that the burden of proof falls on the taxpayer, once Form 3911 is filed, the IRS will take on the responsibility of tracing the refund. The taxpayer needs to provide adequate information on the form to enable the IRS to conduct this investigation.
  • You can file Form 3911 for any tax year at any time. There's a misconception that Form 3911 can be filed for issues related to refunds from any tax year at any time. In reality, the IRS places limitations on refund claims. Taxpayers typically have a three-year window from the original due date of the tax return to file a claim regarding a refund. This makes it important to act promptly if you believe there is an issue with your refund.

Understanding the facts about IRS Form 3911 can significantly ease the process of dealing with refund issues and ensure that actions are taken within appropriate timeframes. Always refer to the latest IRS guidelines or consult with a tax professional for the most accurate advice and information.

Key takeaways

When dealing with the IRS 3911 form, which is used to trace a taxpayer's refund that has not been received, individuals must be detail-oriented and adhere to the guidelines provided by the Internal Revenue Service. The following key takeaways can help ensure the process is as smooth and effective as possible.

  • Accurately complete all required sections: It is crucial to fill out the form with accurate and up-to-date information. Missing or incorrect details can lead to delays in processing your request.
  • Include detailed descriptions: If you're requesting a trace on a missing refund or payment, provide clear descriptions of the issue, including dates, amounts, and any relevant communication with the IRS.
  • Response times may vary: The time it takes to get a response after submitting Form 3911 can vary based on the complexity of your issue and the IRS's current workload. Patience is often required.
  • Follow up if necessary: If you haven't heard back or received a satisfactory response within a reasonable timeframe, it's appropriate to follow up. Keep records of all communications and submissions.
  • Consider professional assistance: Depending on the complexity of your situation, consulting with a tax professional might be beneficial. They can provide guidance and help with filling out the form correctly.

Understanding and utilizing the IRS 3911 form correctly is important for taxpayers seeking information on their undelivered refunds. Attention to detail and patience throughout the process are key to achieving a satisfactory outcome.

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