Home
Forms Library
Form 8857 instructions

Form 8857 instructions-2026

form 8857 instructions Preview on Page 1

See details

4 out of 5

22 votes

The document provides instructions for filing Form 8857, which is a request for Innocent Spouse Relief from tax liability. It outlines the responsibilities of spouses under joint tax returns, eligibility criteria for relief, types of relief available (innocent spouse relief, separation of liability relief, equitable relief, and community income relief), and the process for filing the form. It also details situations where one should not file the form, deadlines for submission, and additional resources for assistance.

Here's how it works

01. Edit your form 8857 instructions online

Type text, add images, blackout confidential details, add comments, highlights and more.

02. Sign it in a few clicks

Draw your signature, type it, upload its image, or use your mobile device as a signature pad.

03. Share your form with others

Send pad 8857 via email, link, or fax. You can also download it, export it or print it out.

How to use or fill out form 8857 instructions with our platform

Ease of Setup

DocHub User Ratings on G2

Ease of Use

DocHub User Ratings on G2

Click ‘Get Form’ to open it in the editor.
Begin by entering your current name and social security number on line 4. Ensure that you provide a valid mailing address for correspondence.
On line 1, indicate whether you believe you should file Form 8857 by checking 'Yes' or 'No'. This will guide your eligibility for relief.
Proceed to line 5, where you will enter the name and SSN of your spouse or former spouse as required. This is crucial for processing your request.
Complete the remaining sections of the form, providing detailed information about your tax situation and any relevant circumstances that support your claim for relief.
Once all fields are filled out accurately, review the form for completeness before submitting it through our platform.

Start using our platform today to fill out Form 8857 easily and efficiently!

See more form 8857 instructions versions

We've got more versions of the form 8857 instructions form. Select the right form 8857 instructions version from the list and start editing it straight away!

Versions	Form popularity	Fillable & printable
2021	4.9 Satisfied (36 Votes)
2014	4 Satisfied (22 Votes)

be ready to get more

Complete this form in 5 minutes or less

Get form

Got questions?

We have answers to the most popular questions from our customers. If you can't find an answer to your question, please contact us.

Can form 8857 be filed electronically?

If you think your spouse or ex-spouse should be responsible for all or part of the taxes due on your latest return, you can ask for relief from this responsibility. To do this, file Form 8857 when you eFile. This request can include tax penalties, interest, and other tax debts.

How to submit form 8857?

Alternatively, you can fax the form and attachments to the IRS at 855-233-8558. For a list of private delivery services you can use to meet the timely mailing as timely filing rule for filing Form 8857 by the deadline, go to IRS.gov/PDS. Write your name and social security number (SSN) on any attachments.

What is the difference between form 8379 and 8857?

Injured spouse relief is different from innocent spouse relief and you cannot request it by filing Form 8857. You must file Form 8379. For example, if you check Yes on line 1 and Yes on line 2, you will have to file both Forms 8857 and 8379.

What qualifies you for innocent spouse relief?

Innocent spouse relief can relieve you from paying additional taxes if your spouse understated taxes due on your joint tax return and you didnt know about the errors. Innocent spouse relief is only for taxes due on your spouses income from employment or self-employment.

Who should file form 8857?

You should file Form 8857 as soon as you become aware of a tax liability for which you believe only your spouse or former spouse should be held responsible. The following are some of the ways you may become aware of such a liability. increase your tax liability. The IRS sends you a notice.

Security and compliance

At DocHub, your data security is our priority. We follow HIPAA, SOC2, GDPR, and other standards, so you can work on your documents with confidence.

Learn more

Which taxpayer may benefit from using form 8857?

If you believe that only your spouse or former spouse should be held responsible for all or part of the tax, you can request relief from the tax liability, including related penalties and interest, by filing Form 8857.

Can the IRS come after my wife for my debt?

If the IRS determines that additional taxes are owed, they can pursue either spouse for the full amount. This includes the ability to levy assets like bank accounts and wages that belong to either or both spouses. The same joint responsibility extends to penalties and interest that accrue on the tax debt.

What is the IRS form 8857 used for?

Taxpayers file Form 8857 to request relief from tax liability, plus related penalties and interest, when they believe only their spouse or former spouse should be held responsible for all or part of the tax.

Form 8857 instructions-2026

Here's how it works