tax returns for CSE**************...

[Thumbelina58]

What is the name of your state? Ga

I have been ordered by "Child Support Enforcement" in GA to provide them with copies of my tax returns for the last 10 (TEN) years. This really isnt a problem, BUT..... there is PERSONAL information on my returns, such as my childrens' social security number, and my wifes' social security number that really have no bearing in this issue. When I provide copies to CSE, can I legally black out some of the information? My ex, and my current wife have the same name. In the past, my ex has tried to use my CURRENT wife's information to apply for credit cards, etc.... What EXACTLY do they need off of my return? What information can I legally "black out"? Seems to me that the only nformation they should be privy to would be the GROSS income figure...... I should be able to black out other information as the amount of tax refund, children and wifes' ssn.... etc... ANYONE know? thanx

[abezon]

Black out the SSNs and do not attach any supporting schedules. Include a letter stating that your ex-wife has tried to use your current wife's identity for credit card fraud/identity theft in the past and you will not disclose any SSNs or birthdates except under a court order that indicates such information will be sealed and unavailable to your ex-wife. Include a copy of the police report your current wife filed when she discovered the identity theft.

Also black out the signatures and the name/address of the tax preparer so your ex can't call them up and get a copy. You might also warn the tax preparer of your concerns and ask that some sort of warning be added to your file requiring any woman to produce a SS card before obtaining copies of documents, or requiring your approval for any release of info.

[Thumbelina58]

Supporting schedules? I don't have any of that. I filed 1040 or 1040A all these years. Only things I needed were worksheets... I have the front and back of the returns. I am wondering.... the FIRST page is all that I should really provide to them.. IT has the GROSS income, and that is all they want- my gross income. the back page has deductions, payments, and stuff like that.. they have no use use for information about my deductions or my refund, etc.... or dp they? Personally, I intend to block out everything but the top line that says WAGES... and he one that says PENSION... and my name, ssn..everything else is getting the big black mark!! UNLESS... between now and then someone tells me I cold really go to jail for doing that....

[abezon]

You don't go to jail, but if the CSE has to get a court order to get the info they want, you'll have to pay their costs.

I really think you should talk briefly to a GA attorney and find out if CSE can force you to give them your returns, and if a return with blackouts will satisfy them.

You'll have to leave all the income numbers in place. Investment income (interest, rentals, etc) can be considered when setting support levels. I think you could reasonable black out the deductions, taxable income, tax, payments, and refund.

[Thumbelina58]

Thanx. abezon.... those were basically the things I had planned to black out anyway. Dont have any investments, rental income, stuff like that.... not with a 1,000 child support bill each month....

[xrevvyx]

i wonder if you wouldnt just be able to supply the W2's for those years instead of your entire tax form >?