You’re likely here because somebody dropped “Form 843” on your desk, or perhaps you’re upset about a Social Security ruling that doesn’t sit well with you. Or maybe, geez, you’re 65 and have TRICARE and you’re wondering if Uncle Sam still wants you to sign up for Medicare. Ah—there’s a lot involved in this. But I’m going to take you through everything step by step, like we’re sitting around the kitchen table. So let’s go step by step.
IRS Form 843: What is it and how do you use it
Okay, picture this: The IRS assesses you a penalty or interest on your tax liability, and you’re saying, “Hold it!” This wasn’t my fault!” Maybe there was a natural catastrophe. Maybe the IRS booted. That’s when Form 843 comes into play.
What is it?
It’s the Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement. You use it to ask the IRS to refund money they shouldn’t have taken or cancel penalties/interest that look unfair.
How do you fill it out?
1. Obtain the form at [IRS.gov](https://www.irs.gov/).
2. Put in your basic details: name, address, Social Security number or EIN.
3. In Part I, check the box for what you want—refund or abatement.
4. Utilize any Line 7 to state why. Be honest, factual, and rational. Use such phrases as:
“Illness and hospitalization penalty”
or
“Interest charged on IRS delay.”
5. Attach supporting documentation if you have it—medical charts, FEMA letters, IRS notices, etc.
Where to send it?
It depends on where you are and what exactly you’re complaining about. There’s a page on the IRS website with the proper addresses to send them to. But again? Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
SSA Form 561: When Social Security makes a mistake
Ever get a Social Security notice that made your blood pressure go through the roof? If you think they made a mistake—like saying you owe money or that you’re not eligible for a benefit—Form SSA-561 is your salvation. It’s your Request for Reconsideration.
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How to fill it out:
1. Write your full name and Social Security number legibly.
2. Choose the box that best describes your situation—Medical, Disability, Retirement, etc.
3. Briefly, simply state the reason you are requesting reconsideration. For example:
I believe I earned the wages and shouldn’t be overpaid.
4. Sign and date.
5. Include evidence—pay stubs, doctor’s reports, or even a letter explaining your situation.
You can send it online, by mail, or to your local SSA office. Don’t wait—do this in 60 days of getting the letter.
Do veterans on TRICARE have to take medicare at age 65?
Here’s a shock that not many veterans expect.
Yes, if you’re covered by TRICARE For Life, you’ll still enroll in Medicare Parts A and B at age 65. Although you’ll never have to use Medicare, TRICARE won’t protect you from injury if you’re not enrolled in Medicare as well. Take Medicare to be your ticket in—TRICARE is the icing on the cake.
So if your 65th birthday is coming up? Mark your calendar and enroll in Medicare three months before your birthday month.
Final thought
Between confusing codes, late birthdays, and government letters written in what feels like ancient Greek, it’s okay to feel lost. But now you’ve got a map.
Use Form 843 when the IRS is in error. Use Form SSA-561 when Social Security is in error. And yes—sign up for Medicare at age 65, even if you’ve served your country and already have TRICARE.
You can do this. And if you ever do doubt, call a real person. Sometimes, that’s still the best tool of all.
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