Q: Illinois IRS is claiming I owe state taxes from 2017.
I was unemployed, an university student, and still claimed as a dependent at that time. I only filed a 1040-EZ that year. Should I fight this?
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A:
It's important to understand why the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) claims you owe state taxes for 2017. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Review the notice: Carefully read the notice from the IDOR to understand the reason for the claimed tax liability.
2. Gather documentation: Collect your tax records, including your federal 1040-EZ and any relevant income documents (e.g., W-2s, 1099s) from 2017.
3. Determine your Illinois residency status: If you were a resident of Illinois in 2017, you might be required to file an Illinois state tax return, even if you had no income.
4. Check your eligibility for exemption: Verify if you meet the requirements for being exempt from filing an Illinois tax return based on your income level and dependency status.
5. Contact the IDOR: Reach out to the Illinois Department of Revenue to discuss the notice and clarify any misunderstandings. They can guide you on the next steps.
6. Consider seeking professional help: If the situation is complex or if you're unsure about how to proceed, consult a tax professional or attorney specializing in tax matters.
If you determine that you were not required to file an Illinois state tax return for 2017 and have evidence to support your case, you should contest the claim by following the instructions provided in the notice and presenting your documentation. However, if it turns out that you were required to file and owe taxes, you may need to pay the tax due and any associated penalties or interest.
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