What this line means
The instruction to attach Schedule LEP to your Form 1040, 1040-SR, or 1040-NR when you file your tax return. You can also submit Schedule LEP as a standalone document by mailing it to the IRS, but attaching it to your return is the fastest way to get your preference recorded. The IRS processes attached schedules as part of your return, so there is no separate processing delay.
Does this apply to you?
- You are filing a Form 1040, 1040-SR, or 1040-NR and want to set your language preference at the same time
- You already filed your return but forgot to include Schedule LEP
- You want to change your language preference mid-year without waiting for the next filing season
- You are filing electronically and need to know how Schedule LEP is transmitted
Easy to overlook
You can file Schedule LEP separately from your tax return You do not have to wait until tax season to change your language preference. The IRS accepts Schedule LEP as a standalone mailing to the address listed in the instructions. Filers who receive an English-only notice in July do not have to wait until April to request translated communications — send Schedule LEP on its own at any time. 1 IRS Schedule LEP instructions — Filing procedures
E-filed returns include Schedule LEP automatically when supported If you use tax software to file electronically, most major providers include Schedule LEP as part of the e-file transmission. You do not need to mail a paper copy separately. However, not all software versions support Schedule LEP. If your software does not offer it, you must print and mail the form after e-filing your return. 2 IRS Schedule LEP instructions — E-filing support
Watch out for this
Assuming your language preference is set immediately after mailing. The IRS processes Schedule LEP along with your return, which takes several weeks during peak filing season. If you file in January and receive a notice in February, that notice was generated before your preference was recorded. Allow six to eight weeks for the preference to take effect in the IRS system.
Footnotes
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IRS Schedule LEP (Form 1040) Instructions, When and Where to File. https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-lep ↩
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IRS Schedule LEP (Form 1040) Instructions, When and Where to File. https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-lep ↩