IRS Form 15080 Somalia – In today’s complex tax landscape, accessing free tax preparation services can be a game-changer for low-income individuals, seniors, and non-English speakers. One essential document for those utilizing Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs is IRS Form 15080-SO, the Somali version of the consent form for disclosing tax return information. This form ensures compliance with federal privacy laws while enabling seamless data sharing for efficient tax prep. If you’re a Somali-speaking taxpayer seeking guidance on IRS Form 15080 Somalia, this article breaks down its purpose, usage, and how to access it using official IRS resources.
What Are VITA and TCE Programs?
The VITA program offers free tax help to people who generally make $64,000 or less annually, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. TCE focuses on assisting those aged 60 and older with pension and retirement-related issues. Both are IRS-sponsored initiatives run by trained volunteers at community sites, libraries, and schools. These programs prepared over 3.5 million returns in recent years, helping underserved communities file accurately and claim eligible credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
For Somali-speaking individuals in areas like Minnesota or other U.S. regions with large Somali communities, the Somali-translated forms make these services more accessible, reducing language barriers during tax season.
Purpose of IRS Form 15080-SO
IRS Form 15080-SO, revised in October 2025, is titled “Oggolaanshaha Shaacinta Macluumaadka Soo celinta Cashuurta ee VITA/TCE Goobta Diyaarinta Cashuurta” in Somali. It serves as a consent document allowing the IRS to disclose your tax return information to VITA or TCE sites for preparation purposes. Federal law mandates this form to protect taxpayer privacy—without it, the IRS cannot share your data with third parties beyond the immediate tax filing.
Key to its function is the “Global Carry Forward” feature, facilitated by software like TaxSlayer. This allows your current year’s tax data (such as name, address, SSN, income sources, deductions, and dependent details) to be pre-populated in the next filing season at any participating VITA/TCE site using the same software. Consent is voluntary and valid through November 30, 2027, but you can limit its duration or scope if desired. Importantly, signing this form doesn’t obligate you to use the services, and any consent obtained by pressuring taxpayers is invalid.
This Somali version mirrors the English Form 15080, ensuring cultural and linguistic inclusivity for Somali immigrants and refugees navigating U.S. tax obligations.
Who Needs IRS Form 15080-SO and When to Use It
This form is particularly relevant for taxpayers engaging in virtual or drop-off tax preparation at VITA/TCE sites. For instance, in virtual setups (no in-person interaction), it’s combined with Form 14446 for additional consents. If you’re switching sites year-over-year or using remote services, signing enables data carryover, saving time on re-entering information.
Somali-speaking users might encounter this during tax events in states like Ohio, Washington, or New York, where multicultural VITA sites operate. It’s not required for in-person, same-site preparations where data isn’t shared externally. However, for privacy-conscious individuals, note that disclosed information may not be protected from further use under federal law once shared.
How to Fill Out IRS Form 15080-SO
Filling out the form is straightforward:
- Read the Federal Disclosure: Understand that consent allows sharing of personal details like SSN, income, and dependents.
- Consent Section: Check if you agree to the disclosure. You can opt to limit the duration (before November 30, 2027) or scope, but doing so may require denying consent altogether.
- Signatures: Provide printed name, signature, and date for primary and secondary taxpayers (if applicable). A preparer PIN can verify electronic consent.
- Receive a Copy: Always get a signed copy for your records.
If misuse occurs, report to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at 1-800-366-4484 or online.
Where to Download IRS Form 15080-SO
The official Somali version is available directly from the IRS website. Download the PDF here: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f15080so.pdf. For the English counterpart, visit https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f15080.pdf.
Other language versions, such as Arabic (Form 15080-AR) or Bengali (Form 15080-BN), are also listed on IRS.gov for multilingual support. Always use the latest revision (October 2025) to ensure compliance.
Benefits and Considerations for Somali Taxpayers
For Somali Americans, this form streamlines access to free, volunteer-based tax help, potentially maximizing refunds and avoiding costly errors. However, weigh the privacy implications—once shared, data might be used beyond initial preparation. Consult a VITA/TCE volunteer or IRS hotline (1-800-829-1040) for personalized advice.
By understanding and using IRS Form 15080-SO, you empower yourself in the tax process. Stay informed with IRS updates, and file confidently this season.