Form 8379 is used by individuals who have filed a joint tax return and need to request their share of a refund that may be applied to their spouse's past-due debts, such as federal tax, state income tax, child or spousal support, or a federal nontax debt, like a student loan. This form helps ensure that the injured spouse receives their portion of the refund.

Individuals who filed a joint tax return and are not responsible for their spouse's debts that could affect the tax refund.

Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation, allows a spouse to claim their portion of a tax refund that may be withheld due to the other spouse's debts.

This form is necessary when one spouse has debts that could reduce the joint tax refund, ensuring the injured spouse can claim their rightful share.

Form 8379 can be submitted with your joint tax return or separately if you file it after the return. Follow the instructions for the correct mailing address.