Homepage Fill in a Valid Va 8879 Template

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the VA-8879 form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are seven important dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

  • Do verify all personal information, including names and Social Security numbers, to ensure they are correct.
  • Do complete Part I with accurate amounts from your tax return, including federal and Virginia adjusted gross income.
  • Do check the appropriate box in Part II to indicate whether you authorize your ERO to enter your PIN.
  • Do sign and date the form after reviewing all information for accuracy.
  • Don't send the VA-8879 form to the Virginia Department of Taxation or the IRS; keep it for your records.
  • Don't use all zeros for your PIN; it must be a five-digit number that is not all the same digit.
  • Don't forget to return the completed form to your ERO before your electronic return is transmitted.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure a smoother tax filing experience and avoid potential issues with your submission.

Common mistakes

  1. Not Verifying Personal Information: One common mistake is failing to double-check names and Social Security numbers. Errors in this information can lead to significant delays in processing your tax return.

  2. Incorrect Income Figures: Many individuals make mistakes when entering their Federal Adjusted Gross Income or Virginia Adjusted Gross Income. It is crucial to ensure that these numbers match the corresponding lines on your tax forms.

  3. Missing Signatures: Some taxpayers forget to sign the form or date it. Without a signature, the form is considered incomplete, which can hinder the e-filing process.

  4. Choosing an Invalid PIN: When selecting a Personal Identification Number (PIN), some individuals mistakenly use all zeros or a number that does not meet the required criteria. This can lead to complications during the filing process.

  5. Not Following Submission Guidelines: Failing to adhere to the instructions regarding how to submit the form can cause issues. Remember, the VA-8879 should not be sent to the Virginia Department of Taxation or the IRS, but rather retained in your files.

Documents used along the form

The VA-8879 form is crucial for Virginia taxpayers who are filing their income tax electronically. It serves as an authorization for an Electronic Return Originator (ERO) to submit the tax return on behalf of the taxpayer. However, several other documents often accompany the VA-8879 to ensure a complete and compliant filing process. Below is a list of these forms and documents, each serving a specific purpose.

  • Form 760: This is the primary Virginia individual income tax return form. It details the taxpayer's income, deductions, and tax liability for the year.
  • Form 760CG: Used for calculating capital gains and losses, this form is essential for taxpayers who have sold assets during the tax year.
  • Form 760PY: This form is for part-year residents of Virginia. It allows individuals who moved into or out of Virginia during the year to report their income accurately.
  • Marital Separation Agreement Form: If you are considering a separation, our comprehensive Marital Separation Agreement details can help clarify your rights and responsibilities.
  • Form 763: This is specifically for non-residents of Virginia. It allows non-residents to report income earned in Virginia and calculate their tax liability.
  • Form 760-PMT: This payment voucher is used to submit any tax payments due. It is essential for taxpayers who owe money when filing their return.
  • W-2 Forms: Employers issue these forms to report wages paid and taxes withheld. Taxpayers must include their W-2 forms with their tax returns to substantiate their income.
  • 1099 Forms: Various types of 1099 forms report income received from sources other than employment, such as freelance work or interest income. These forms must be included to ensure all income is reported.

Using the VA-8879 along with these accompanying documents will streamline the electronic filing process and help ensure compliance with Virginia tax regulations. It is vital to maintain copies of all forms and documents for your records, as they may be needed for future reference or in case of audits.

Document Attributes

Fact Name Description
Purpose The VA-8879 form is used for authorizing an Electronic Return Originator (ERO) to enter or generate a taxpayer’s Personal Identification Number (PIN) for e-filing individual income tax returns in Virginia.
Retention Requirement This form must be kept in the taxpayer's files and should not be sent to the Virginia Department of Taxation or the IRS.
Tax Year The form is specific to the tax year indicated, which in this case is for the year 2011.
Governing Law The use and requirements for the VA-8879 form are governed by the Virginia Department of Taxation guidelines, particularly as outlined in Virginia’s publication VA1345 for electronic filers.