When you amend your federal tax return, you can correct mistakes or errors made on your original. Here’s what you need to know about the process, including when to file, what documents you’ll need, and what timelines to expect.
An amended tax return, known as Form 1040-X, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, is an IRS document used to update information on your original tax return.
You can access Form 1040-X directly from the IRS website or by using online tax software, such as H&R Block, TaxAct, or TurboTax.
Not every error requires filing a 1040-X. The IRS generally corrects minor mathematical errors without requiring an amended return.
You also don’t need a 1040-X if the IRS asks for additional documents after your original return.
However, you may need to amend your return if, after your original filing, you have the following changes:
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Recording mode
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Dependents
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income
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Credits or deductions
If you’re not sure whether you should file, you can use the IRS’s Should I File an Amended Return tool to help you decide.
Follow these steps to file your tax return. You can file on your own or choose the help of a tax professional.
To begin, retrieve your original tax return that requires changes. You can file up to three amended returns electronically in a given tax year.
You’ll also need to gather supporting information that validates the changes you’re making.
For example, if you need to update your wages, you will likely need a new or amended W-2. Or, if adding a dependent, make sure you have their Social Security number.
Even changes to deductions or credits will require documentation — such as a Form 1098-E to claim the student loan interest deduction.
In addition to Form 1040-X, you may need to fill out other IRS forms. For example, you need to complete Schedule A for changes in your itemized deductions or Schedule E for additional income, such as from a rental property.
You will submit additional tax forms with your 1040-X.
The 1040-X is very similar to Form 1040, the form you filled out for your original return. However, there are significant differences.
Columns A through C will highlight your changes. Column A is the original number, column B notes the change amount, and column C is for the new amount.
In the second part of Form 1040-X, you need to explain why you made a change on your tax return — for example, you forgot to claim a credit or you got a new W-2.
You can generally file an amended return within three years of filing your original return — or, if you owe money, two years after you paid taxes, whichever is later.
There are special circumstances where the IRS may grant an extension, such as if you are in an area that has been federally declared a disaster, a war zone, or if you are claiming bad debt or worthless securities.
Once you file your amended tax return, there are a few steps to take to ensure a smooth process.
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Reviewing your state tax return: If you need to repair, it is a separate process. Check your state’s website for how to file.
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Check the status of your amended tax return: You can check the status of your return three to four weeks after filing. However, it can take 8 to 12 weeks for the IRS to process your 1040-X, if there are errors or missing information.
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Prepare for a possible payment or refund: If you owe additional tax after amending your return, you need to pay it by the traditional tax deadline, April 15. If you can file a return electronically for tax years after 2021.
If it’s been more than 16 weeks since you filed your amended return, and you haven’t heard back, you can contact the IRS by calling 800-829-1040.
Yes, you can complete Form 1040-X and any required additional 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 an amended return, the IRS may charge fees for late tax payments, false claims, or unfiled returns.
You can check the status of your amended tax return three to four weeks after filing, using the IRS’s Where’s My Amended Return tool. It may take 8 to 12 weeks for the IRS to process your return, if it is returned for additional information, is incomplete, or requires special review.
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