Q: ALL my books were stolen. I have no records or receipts. I cannot get through to the IRS. What do I do?
At the end of 2015 my property was stolen, including ALL of my receipt books, invoices, etc. I have been postponing filing my taxes because I guess I thought it would just go away..? Well now I know I need to get it done, but cannot get through to the IRS. How do I file taxes when I have no receipts or any info to fill out the forms...?
A:
You will need to reconstruct your records. Start with your bank statements and credit card statements. If you paid cash at places that may keep records then contact them and see what they may be able to supply to you. The IRS will only have records of any wage information that was reported by people that employed you if they sent you a 1099. Transcripts of any reported income can be obtained online. Go to irs.gov then click on get your tax record.
Failure to file penalties are very punitive so you are better off filing as soon as possible.
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