I was told that to handle IRS documents for my mom I should fill out form 2848. But, I see that it just authorizes an accountant to do so. What about the forms I am filling out on her behalf to hire a caregiver...Employer Identification number, etc. and filing taxes for the employee, etc. I can't see how this form helps me to do that. Is there another form I should use? I have a financial POA, but have heard it is not enough for the IRS and they have their own form.
Just checked the 2848 and instructions. This might help. Download the instructions for completion of the form. (Sometimes you have to read the instructions very carefully to figure out how to use the form - it isn't always clear.
"Specific Instructions
Part I. Power of Attorney"
Line 1. Taxpayer Information" - Read the instructions for an individual.
in Part III, check F, which is for a "family member".
From looking at the instructions, it does specify how an individual family member can complete the form 2848 and use it for the purposes you state.
As to a POA, this is directly from the 2848 Instructions:
"The IRS will accept a power of attorney other than Form 2848 provided the document satisfies the requirements for a power of attorney. See Pub. 216, Conference and Practice Requirements, section 601.503(a). These alternative powers of attorney cannot, however, be recorded on the CAF unless you attach a completed Form 2848. See Line 4. Specific Use Not Recorded on CAF, later, for more information. You are not required to sign Form 2848 when you attach it to an alternative power of attorney that you have signed, but your representative must sign the form in Part II, Declaration of Representative. See Pub. 216, Conference and Practice Requirements, section 601.503(b)(2).
For more information, see Non-IRS powers of attorney under When Is a Power of Attorney Required? in Pub. 947."
Makes sense, right? You have to read it a few times to get the jist of it and work through the requirements. It's like completing a puzzle, or following one of those maze type puzzles where you wander through various paths until you find the correct on.
Here's the link to the Instructions in case you don't have them:
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i2848.pdf
It can be scary and frustrating, but be aware that you are not likely to get audited, and often and "audit" is simply the IRS needing a small piece of information. You just fill out your forms and forget about it.
but, on the other note, do you mind telling a little about what she did with her money, because I have that situation and wanting to do the same thing
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