Since extending and expanding the home buyer tax credit to the new April 30 deadline, it has been revealed that new buyers can no longer file their taxes electronically. According to CNN Money, because people have been scamming the system, buyers now have to mail paper forms, including the new  IRS form 5405, whether amending their 2008 taxes or claiming it on their 2009 taxes.

Mary Mellem of David & Mary Mellem, EAs & Ashwaubenon Tax Professionals, indicates that, “Because of the scams, the IRS started sending back the amended returns and asking for proof. The system has no way of sending along the documents they’re requiring. Taxpayers must file a paper return instead.”

Although buyers have to file documentation with their taxes now- including proof of residency, driver’s license, and a signed mortgage statement- the IRS reminds taxpayers that they can still take advantage of the electronic forms available on their website or on consumer sites like Turbo Tax. They can then print them out, attach the proper documentation, and mail all of the materials.

-Jana Schreiber, Move Trends Interim Editor