What Is Form 56?
Form 56 is a document that informs the IRS of the creation or termination of a fiduciary relationship under section 6903. Receivers and assignees for the benefit of creditors also use it to give notice of qualification under section 6036.
Who Is Required to Fill Out Form 56?
Form 56 must be filled out by a fiduciary, which is essentially a person acting on behalf of the taxpayer. A fiduciary assumes all powers, rights, duties, and privileges of the person or entity in this relationship with them, including paying taxes and filing returns.
When Is the Form 56 Due?
There’s no specific due date for an IRS fiduciary form like Form 56, as it is filed whenever a relationship of this kind is established or terminated, but submitting it as soon as possible helps you avoid any complications. The only fixed deadline applies to receivers and assignees for the benefit of creditors, who must file on or within 10 days of their appointment.
What Are the Consequences of Not Submitting Form 56?
The IRS doesn’t list specific consequences of not submitting Form 56, but in that case, it won’t be aware of the fiduciary relationship. As a result, it may keep sending tax-related information to the previously responsible party, who may no longer be able to act on it. This can lead to missed deadlines, penalties for not filing other forms, and accrued interest.
Where Do I File Form 56?
You should file Form 56 with the IRS; more specifically, with the center where the person you act for files their tax returns. Receivers and assignees file with the IRS Insolvency function instead. Form 56, defining fiduciary responsibility, is sent by mail; the instructions list mailing addresses only.