Amended Tax Return | FAQs
Information for Tax Year 2022
If you make a mistake on your tax return or receive additional information that will affect your taxes after you file, then you may need to amend your tax return.
What is an amended tax return?
An amended tax return is used to change or update information that you previously submitted on your tax return.
When do I need to file an amended tax return?
If there's a change in one of the following areas, you will need to file an amended tax return:
Filing status
Income
Deductions
Credits
Tax Liability
You can also file an amended tax return to:
Make certain elections after the prescribed deadline
Change amounts previously adjusted by the IRS
Make a claim for a carryback due to a loss or unused credit
There are some instances the IRS may correct your tax return for you so you won't need to amend it. This may include mathematical or clerical errors.
How do I file an amended tax return?
You will need to file a Form 1040-X to correct your tax return. This applies:
Form 1040
Form 1040-SR
Form 1040A
Form 1040EZ
Form 1040-NR
Form 1040-NR-EZ
E-Filing vs. Paper Return
E-filing is available for tax year 2019 and later that were originally electronically filed, with some exceptions. If one of the following situations applies, then you will need to file a paper Form 1040-X:
The Primary's Social Security number is different than the original tax return
The Spouse's Social Security number is different than the original tax return
Your filing status differs from the one on the original tax return
You originally filed a paper tax return
You need to file an amended return for a tax return before 2019
Whether you would like to e-file or mail in a paper return, our tax preparers can help you file!
What do I need to include on my amended tax return?
You will need to report the original figures submitted on your original return, the net change, and the correct amount. There is an area on the back of Form 1040-X that allows you to explain the changes you've made and the reason for changing them. If you file yourself electronically, the IRS requires submissions of all necessary forms and schedules as if it's your original tax return, even if some forms have no adjustments.
When is the deadline to file an amended tax return?
Generally, if you're claiming a refund, you must file an amended return within 3 years after the date you filed your original return or within 2 years after the date you paid taxes, whichever is later. Please note that if you are expecting a refund, direct deposits are unavailable for amended tax returns.
If you owe additional tax, you should file an amended tax return as soon as possible to avoid or lower penalties and interest. For amended tax returns filed after the original tax deadline, don't include any interest or penalties; the IRS will adjust it accordingly.
How do I check the status of your amended tax return?
The IRS has an online portal, Where's My Amended Return?, that allows you to check the status of your 1040-X. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and zip code to find your status.
How long will it take for my amended tax return to process?
Amended tax returns take up to 16 weeks to process once received and up to three weeks after mailing them to show up in the IRS system.
Get Help Filing
Want one of our tax preparers to file an amended tax return for you? If you didn't file your original tax return with us, you will need to bring in a copy of your tax return with all supporting documents. For clients who filed with us last year, we will just need any additional documents you will be including on your amended return. Contact us at (360) 922-0235 to get started!
Disclaimer: This material is prepared for informational purposes only, and is not tax advice. Please speak with a tax professional or visit the additional resources below to see how this information may apply to you.
