What is canceled debt?
Cancellation of debt (COD) is the forgiveness of debt obligations by a creditor. Debt relief can be achieved through direct negotiations, debt relief programs, or bankruptcy. Canceled debt must be reported as taxable income and filed through Form 1099-C. If the canceled amount is $600 or more, then an individual is required to file with the IRS.
Do I have to report canceled debt on my tax return?
You should verify with the creditor your specific situation. Your responsibility to report the taxable amount of canceled debt as income on your tax return for the year when the cancellation occurs doesn't change whether or not you receive a correct Form 1099-C.
What are the exceptions to debt cancellation?
These exceptions will be discussed later. Cancellation of a debt may occur if the creditor can't collect, or gives up on collecting, the amount you're obligated to pay. If you own property subject to a debt, cancellation of the debt also may occur because of a foreclosure, a repossession,