When you amend a federal tax return, you can correct mistakes or mistakes made on the original. Here’s what you need to know about the process, including when to apply, what documents you’ll need, and what timeline to expect.
An amended tax return, known as Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, is a document from the IRS to update information from your original tax return.
You can access Form 1040-X directly on the IRS website or by using online tax software, such as H&R Block, TaxAct, or TurboTax.
Not all errors require filing a 1040-X. The IRS generally corrects minor math errors without requiring an amended return.
You also don’t need a 1040-X if the IRS requests additional documents after accepting your original return.
However, you may need to amend a return if, after you file the original return, it has changes to the following:
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Marital status for declaration purposes
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Dependents
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Income
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Credits or deductions
If you are not sure if you should file a return, you can use the IRS tool Should I File an Amended Return? to help you decide.
Follow these steps to amend your tax return. You can file on your own or choose the help of a tax professional.
To start, take your original tax return that needs the changes. You can file up to three amended returns electronically in a given tax year.
You will also need to collect supporting information that verifies the changes you are making.
For example, if you need to update your salary, you will probably have a new or modified W-2. Or, if you add a dependent, make sure you have their Social Security number.
Even changes to deductions or credits will require documentation, such as Form 1098-E to claim the student loan interest deduction.
In addition to Form 1040-X, you may need to complete other IRS forms. For example, you’ll need to complete Schedule A for changes to your itemized deductions or Schedule E for supplemental income, such as from a rental property.
You will submit any additional tax forms with your 1040-X.
The 1040-X has many similarities to Form 1040, the form you filed for the original return. However, there are important differences to highlight.
Columns A through C will highlight your changes. Column A is the original number, column B indicates the amount of the change, and column C is the new amount.
In part II of Form 1040-X, you must explain why you are making changes to your tax return; For example, you forgot to claim a credit or received a new W-2.
Generally, you can file an amended return within three years of filing the original return or, if you owed money, two years after the date you paid the tax, whichever is later.
There are special situations where the IRS may allow an extension, such as if you are in a federally declared disaster area, combat zone, or if you are claiming bad debts or worthless collateral.
Once you’ve filed your amended tax return, there are a few steps you should take to ensure a smoother process.
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Review your state tax return: If you need to modify it, it is a separate process. Check your state’s website to find out how to apply.
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Check the status of your amended tax return: You can check the status of your return three or four weeks after you file it. However, it could take the IRS 8 to 12 weeks to process your 1040-X, or longer if there are errors or missing information.
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Prepare for a possible payment or refund: If you owe additional taxes after amending your return, you’ll need to pay by the traditional tax deadline of April 15. Refunds for tax years after 2021 can be requested via direct deposit if you filed electronically.
If it’s been more than 16 weeks since you filed your amended return and you haven’t heard anything, you can contact the IRS at 800-829-1040.
Yes, you can complete Form 1040-X and any additional required tax forms and file them electronically or by mail. You can access all forms on the IRS website or use online tax software.
While there is no penalty for filing an amended return, the IRS may charge fees for late tax payments, erroneous claims, or frivolous returns.
You can check the status of your amended tax return three to four weeks after you file it, using the IRS Where’s My Amended Return tool? It may take 8 to 12 weeks for the IRS to process your return, longer if it is returned for more information, is incomplete, or needs special review.