What this line means
The checkbox where you tell the IRS you want to receive written communications in a language other than English. By checking this box, you are requesting that future IRS notices, letters, and other written correspondence come in your preferred language. This preference stays on file until you change it.
Does this apply to you?
- You read and understand another language better than English
- You are filing on behalf of someone who prefers a language other than English
- You previously requested a language preference and want to confirm or update it
- You received IRS notices in English but need them in another language to understand your rights and obligations
Easy to overlook
The preference applies to future communications only Filing Schedule LEP does not translate any notices you have already received. It sets your preference going forward. If you have an open issue with the IRS and need a notice re-sent in another language, you must call the IRS separately. The schedule only affects what the IRS sends you after processing your request. 1 IRS Schedule LEP instructions — Language selection
The IRS offers more languages than most filers realize The available languages include Spanish, Chinese (Traditional), Chinese (Simplified), Korean, Russian, Vietnamese, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Polish, French, Japanese, Tagalog, Arabic, Punjabi, Urdu, Italian, Farsi, Bengali, Gujarati, and Hindi. Filers who assume only Spanish is available miss the option to receive communications in their actual preferred language. 2 IRS Schedule LEP instructions — Available languages
Watch out for this
Assuming the preference transfers automatically between tax years. You only need to file Schedule LEP once to set your preference, but if you change your mind or want a different language, you must file a new Schedule LEP. The IRS does not ask you to re-confirm each year — your original selection stays on file until you submit an update.
Footnotes
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IRS Schedule LEP (Form 1040) Instructions, Purpose of Form. https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-lep ↩
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IRS Schedule LEP (Form 1040) Instructions, Available Languages. https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-lep ↩