How to Read Your Form 8288-A: A Line-by-Line Guide
Form 8288-A is the document the IRS stamps and mails to you after your DVC sale closes. It is your official receipt for the FIRPTA withholding, and you need it when you file your tax return. Here is what each section of the form means.
Part I: Transferor Information (That's You, the Seller)
Lines 1 through 4 identify you: your name, address, taxpayer identification number (ITIN or SSN), and your type of taxpayer (individual, corporation, etc.). Check that your name and address are correct. If you do not yet have an ITIN, this section may show "Applied For" or a placeholder — that is normal if your closing happened before your ITIN was assigned.
Part II: Transferee Information (The Buyer)
This section identifies the buyer of your DVC contract. Their name and address should match what was on the closing documents. You do not need to verify this in detail for your tax return, but it should look familiar from your closing paperwork.
Part III: Description of Property
This section describes the DVC contract that was sold: the resort name, the location (typically Orange County, Florida for WDW resorts), and sometimes the contract details. Verify that the resort and property description match your contract.
Part IV: Withholding Information
The most important section for your tax return. It shows:
- Amount realized: The gross sale price of your DVC contract
- Amount withheld: The 15% FIRPTA amount sent to the IRS
- Date of transfer: Your closing date
The amount withheld on this line is what you enter as a credit on your Form 1040-NR. Make sure it matches what is on your closing statement.
The IRS Stamp
The IRS stamps a copy of the 8288-A to confirm they received and processed the withholding payment. If your stamped copy never arrives (the IRS can take 2 to 4 months to send it), contact your closing agent for the unstamped copy. You can still file your return with the unstamped version.
