Yeah, they do, in the Parents’ 2014 Income & Benefits section.
I agree that the mom could file as HOH if she is considered separated, but that would then preclude her from filing as married on FAFSA and CSS. It may also trigger the Noncustodial CSS Profile requirement. If this applicant is asked for verification that discrepancy will have to be resolved.
I think her income is low enough that there will be a tax refund id she filed correctly and uses the EITC.
PO - the EITC is a refundable credit. What that means is even if you pay no tax at all due to low income you will get that tax credit back as cash. This is done to help low income families.
OP a refundable tax credit is money you can get back even if you paid no taxes (due to low income). You can file amended tax returns going back 3 years.
I had the same thought. Filing as Married Filing Jointly will provide a bigger standard deduction and, possibly, an additional exemption to claim. While both spouses need to sign the return, if the return is filed electronically, an actual signature will not be required from the father living overseas.
The amended tax returns has to be filed on paper though, right? If my mom was eligible for EITC, what difference does it make since her accountant couldn’t help her?
And how can it be done electronically?
Her income is listed as other income.
Good point - the signature. Amended returns have to be filed by paper. But just think if she could file 3 years worth and get back the EITC each year - could add up nicely.
Yes, if the 2014 tax return has already been filed and getting an actual signature from your father is impractical, then what I said about filing as MFJ would have to apply to 2015 and beyond.
Filing tax returns electronically, either through commercial software or IRS FreeFile, is becoming standard practice. The tax forms are completed on a computer and transmitted to the IRS over the internet.
No, she doesn’t have to be considered separated. See post #35 in this thread.
If the mom files married jointly I don’t think she will be eligible for the EITC. See line 16 of the 8867:
16 Was the taxpayer’s main home, and the main home of the taxpayer’s spouse if filing jointly, in the United States for more than half the year? (Military personnel on extended active duty outside the United States are considered to be living in the United States during that duty period.) See the instructions before answering.
Yes
No 
If you checked “No” on line 16, stop; the taxpayer cannot take the EIC. Otherwise, continue.
But why didn’t she do that in the first place? What difference does it make now? Doesn’t she need documentation or something? Will the people at the volunteer group file for her?
Right, but if she’s not claiming the EITC now, because the preparer can’t provide adequate documentation or for some other reason, then changing the filing status to MFJ may be the next best thing.
OMG this is so confusing.
So what will the VITA provider help us do? And would sending new tax returns confuse the colleges?
It is far easier to explain this in person - and the VITA person should be able to answer all your questions. They can help you fill out an amended return. The colleges have probably seen all sorts of scenarios with tax returns - I don;t think they will be confused.
It is very confusing (taxes) but I think the above discussion has pointed out a number of things to consider. You could print out this discussion and bring it with you - so you can ask the volunteer about all of these details. I really wish you luck and commend you on finding a service to help you and your Mom. It will all work out.
Okay so will she still need my mom to provide documentation or whatever?
I would bring whatever you have - a copy of the taxes you filed this year. Last years tax return. Your mom has no income documentation (W2 or 1099) but she is doing the right thing by filing and paying taxes. If you Mom has a way she tracks her income (keeps it written down, or keeps track of deposits) she should bring that too.
Okay, she can bring her bank statement. She puts a certain amount of money into the bank each month. The accountant my mom went to is pretty popular where I live, and the VITA provider is in the same vicinity.
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If the mom files married jointly I don't think she will be eligible for the EITC. See line 16 of the 8867:<< It seems this is only for family without children. OP is the qualifying child here so they should be eligible for $3,305 EITC.
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Why not print amended return with MFJ and EITC, fax it to dad to sign and fax it back then mail to IRS?
Ack, too obvious for me to notice. Good catch.
My dad has no access to a fax machine. But it can be scanned to him and he can print it out, sign it, and scan it back…
My mom just got even more pissed because I told her that she has to mail it to IRS…
We still have to wait for 9 days until the provider starts (Feb. 14th).
On the website, it says it will take 16 weeks to process amended returns, wouldn’t it be too late if we are asked for verification anyway?
http://www.irs.gov/Filing/Individuals/Amended-Returns-(Form-1040-X)/Amended-Return-Frequently-Asked-Questions
I am sure many people sign tax returns for their spouses who are away for work or for their children who are away for college. As long as all parties agree…