John R

I purchased a house in 2009 and applied for the $8,000 stimulus money on an amended 2008 tax return form. I never received the money. When I called the IRS they told me the 2008 amendment was not acceptable, I had to apply for it on my 2009 return. I did this and 2 months later I received a check, which I cashed. Then, several months later I received another check. Realizing a mistake was made I shredded the second check. I later received a bill from the IRS asking for the $8,000 back. I called and explained the situation and they asked me to write a letter detailing the problem, which I promptly did. I received another bill and again called them. They said they had not had a chance to look into it yet. Two days ago I received a certified letter saying they were going to put a lien on my house if I didn't pay them. I called again and again told them I cashed the first check and shredded the second check therefore I did not owe them any money. I was told to fill out a trace for the check I shredded but the person seemed unsure whether that would work. Do you have any suggestions?