IRS Form 1040 (Schedule LEP) – IRS Forms, Instructions, Pubs 2026 – Struggling with IRS notices in English? If English isn’t your first language, understanding tax correspondence can be overwhelming. That’s where IRS Form 1040 Schedule LEP—officially the Request for Change in Language Preference—comes in. This simple one-page form lets taxpayers with limited English proficiency (LEP) request written communications from the IRS in one of 20 supported languages.
Whether you’re filing your 2024 taxes in 2025 or updating your preferences, Schedule LEP ensures future IRS letters, notices, forms, and publications arrive in your preferred language. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything: what it is, who needs it, how to fill it out, and why it’s a game-changer for millions of taxpayers.
What Is IRS Schedule LEP (Form 1040)?
Schedule LEP is an attachment to your Form 1040 (or 1040-SR, 1040-NR, or 1040-SS) that lets you select a preferred language for IRS written communications.
Introduced to support the IRS’s commitment to LEP taxpayers, it helps bridge language barriers. “Written communications” include:
- Formal notices and letters
- Tax forms and instructions
- Publications and inserts
- General correspondence
Important note: The IRS is rolling out translations on a multiyear timeline (starting in 2023). You may still receive some items in English initially, but your preference will be honored as materials become available.
The current version is Rev. December 2024, perfect for 2024 tax returns.
Who Should File Schedule LEP?
This form is not mandatory, but it’s ideal for:
- Taxpayers with limited English proficiency who want notices in their native language.
- Anyone who previously selected a language and now wants to switch back to English (or to another language).
- Non-U.S. residents or those using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of an SSN.
Pro tip: If you’re filing jointly, each spouse must submit their own Schedule LEP—even if they choose the same language.
20 Languages Available on Schedule LEP
The form supports 20 languages, each with a unique code. Check only one box on Line 1:
| Code | Language |
|---|---|
| 000 | Cancel previous election |
| 001 | Spanish (Español) |
| 002 | Korean (한국어) |
| 003 | Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) |
| 004 | Russian (Русский) |
| 005 | Arabic (العربية) |
| 006 | Haitian Creole (Kreyòl Ayisyen) |
| 007 | Tagalog (Tagalog) |
| 008 | Portuguese (Português) |
| 009 | Polish (Polski) |
| 010 | Farsi (فارسی) |
| 011 | French (Français) |
| 012 | Japanese (日本語) |
| 013 | Gujarati (ગુજરાતી) |
| 014 | Punjabi (ਪੰਜਾਬੀ) |
| 015 | Khmer (ខ្មែរ) |
| 016 | Urdu (اردو) |
| 017 | Bengali (বাংলা) |
| 018 | Italian (Italiano) |
| 019 | Chinese (Traditional) (中文 (繁體)) |
| 020 | Chinese (Simplified) (中文 (简体)) |
Download the Spanish version for bilingual filers: IRS.gov Schedule LEP (SP).
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out IRS Schedule LEP
Filling out Schedule LEP takes just minutes. Here’s the exact process:
- Gather your info:
- Your tax return (Form 1040 series).
- Full name exactly as it appears on your return.
- SSN (or ITIN).
- Complete the header:
- Name of person making request: Print clearly.
- Social security number: Must match your return (use ITIN if applicable).
- Line 1: Select your language:
- Check the box for your preferred language (or “000” to cancel).
- Only one choice!
- Sign and date (if required by your tax software).
For e-filing: Most tax software (like TurboTax, H&R Block) includes Schedule LEP automatically. No paper form needed.
Download the official PDF here: IRS Form 1040 Schedule LEP (Rev. December 2024).
When and Where to File Schedule LEP
- Deadline: Attach it to your current year’s tax return (e.g., 2024 Form 1040 filed in 2025).
- Future years: You can refile annually to update or maintain your preference.
- Can’t file for past years: Only 2020 and later.
- Mailing: If paper-filing, include it with your return. E-filers: Software handles it.
Joint filers: Submit separate forms for each qualifying spouse.
Benefits of Filing Schedule LEP
- Clearer communication: Reduce errors from misunderstood notices.
- Fewer delays: Better understand deadlines and requirements.
- Accessibility: Part of IRS’s LEP initiative for equitable service.
- Free assistance: Use VITA/TCE programs for help (IRS.gov/VITA).
Taxpayers report feeling more confident handling IRS matters in their preferred language.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Schedule LEP
- Q: Does filing Schedule LEP change my tax return language?
A: No—it only affects future written communications from the IRS, not your filed return. - Q: What if I want to switch languages later?
A: File a new Schedule LEP with your next tax return. - Q: Is it available for 2025 taxes?
A: Yes—the December 2024 revision applies to 2024 returns (filed 2025) and beyond. - Q: Can I use it for state taxes?
A: No, it’s federal IRS only. - Q: Where can I get help?
A: Call 800-829-1040 or visit a VITA site. Spanish support: IRS.gov/Espanol.
Take Action Today: Download IRS Schedule LEP
Don’t let language barriers complicate your taxes. IRS Form 1040 Schedule LEP is your straightforward solution for clearer IRS interactions.
Ready to file?
Download Schedule LEP PDF
View Full Instructions
Official IRS Page
For the latest updates, always check IRS.gov. If you need tax software support, most free and paid options include Schedule LEP.
This guide is based on official IRS resources as of February 2026. Tax laws can change—consult a professional or IRS.gov for personalized advice.