Form 8453: U.S. Individual Income Tax Transmittal for an IRS e-File Return
Purpose
Form 8453 is a cover sheet used to mail supporting documents to the IRS after e-filing a tax return. It ensures the IRS can match your paperwork with your electronically filed return.
When Is It Required?
You must submit Form 8453 + attachments if your e-filed return includes any of these:
Common Attachments
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Form 1098-C (Donated car/boat/airplane).
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Form 2848 (Power of Attorney for tax matters).
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Form 3115 (Change in accounting method).
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Form 8283 (Noncash charitable donations >$500).
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Form 8332 (Child exemption release by custodial parent).
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Form 8864 (Biodiesel fuel credit).
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Form 8949 (Capital gains/losses if not e-filed).
Example:
You e-filed your return and claimed a $5,000 deduction for donating a car (Form 1098-C). You must mail Form 8453 + Form 1098-C to the IRS.
Key Rules
✅ Timing: Mail within 3 business days of IRS e-file acceptance.
✅ No Form 8453? The IRS may reject your e-filed return.
✅ Electronic Storage: EROs (tax preparers) can keep Form 8453 digitally for 3 years.
Why It Matters for Exams
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Links paper docs to e-filed returns.
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Required for non-electronically filed forms (e.g., Form 8283).
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ERO responsibility: Ensure proper submission.
Exam Tip: If a question mentions "mailing documents after e-filing," think Form 8453.