Does the IRS compare tenant/landlord tax returns?

[CJ F]

For example, if I state on my return I made 21000 for the year from a duplex, while one tenant says they paid 12000, and the other tenant says they paid 13000. Anyone know if the IRS computers go through and compare addresses & rents and pick up on this?

[Dawn Anastasi]

Tenants do report rent on state returns -- at least in Wisconsin. It asks how much you paid in rent with heat included or without heat included. Tenants can request a rent certificate from me if they wish to have the amount stated in writing. The poster CJ F is from Milwaukee so that is where the question is coming from.