Here’s how to address a dealer’s refusal to provide a clean vehicle time-of-sale report:
1. Direct dealer communication
Formally request the report in writing, citing IRS requirements: Dealers are legally obligated to provide the report within 3 calendar days of any updates. Emphasize this is necessary to claim your clean vehicle tax credit.
2. IRS intervention
Contact the IRS through these channels if the dealer remains uncooperative:
- Energy Credits Online (ECO) Portal Secure Messaging: The IRS’s preferred communication method for these issues (though responses may be delayed).
- IRS Clean Vehicle Hotline: Available through the IRS’s clean vehicle credits contact page for taxpayer assistance.
3. Tax filing workarounds
If the dealer never submitted the required report:
- For advance payment claims: The dealer cannot obtain IRS reimbursement without proper documentation.
- For tax credit claims: You’ll need the report to complete Form 8936. If unavailable, maintain all purchase documentation and consult a tax professional about alternative substantiation methods.
4. Legal escalation
Consider:
- State consumer protection agencies: Report the dealer’s noncompliance.
- Legal counsel: Explore potential breach of contract remedies.
- NADA/state dealer associations: File complaints through professional organizations (though voluntary compliance mechanisms).
Critical timing
For 2024 purchases, the IRS previously offered a submission window through December 10, 2024, but this has expired. Current guidance requires dealers to submit late reports immediately with explanations. If the dealer refuses, document all communication attempts and consult the IRS immediately.
Note: If the vehicle was leased or never put into service, the dealer should have canceled the original report – failure to do so could indicate systemic reporting issues requiring IRS intervention.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-can-i-escalate-the-issue-if-the-dealer-refuses-to-provide-the-time-of-sale-report/
