Filing an Amended Tax Return: Instructions for Form 1040-X

When you amend your federal tax return, you can correct mistakes made on your original return. Here’s what you need to know about the process, including when to file, what documents you need and what timeline to expect.

An amended tax return, known as Form 1040-X, Amended US Individual Income Tax Return, is an IRS document you can use to update information on 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 every error requires a 1040-X to be filed. The tax administration usually corrects minor mathematical errors without requiring a corrected return.

You also don’t need a 1040-X if the IRS asks for additional documents after your initial return is approved.

However, you may have to correct your return if, after submitting your original report, you have changes to the following:

• Archiving status

• Dependents

• Revenue

• Refunds or deductions

If you are not sure whether you should file a declaration, you can use the tax office Should I file an amended return? a tool to help you decide.

Follow these instructions to change your tax return. You can submit the application yourself or choose the help of a tax expert.

Start by obtaining the original tax return that requires changes. You can submit a maximum of three amended returns electronically during a given tax year.

You must also collect supporting information that validates the changes you have made.

For example, if you need to update your wages, you likely have a new or amended W-2. Or, if you’re adding a dependent, make sure you have their social security number.

Even changes to deductions or credits require documentation – such as a Form 1098-E to claim a student loan interest deduction.

In addition to Form 1040-X, you may need to fill out other IRS forms. For example, you’ll need to complete Schedule A to change itemized deductions, or Schedule E for additional income, such as a rental property.

Submit any additional tax forms with your 1040-X number.

The 1040-X has many similarities to Form 1040, which is the original return form. However, there are notable differences.

Columns A–C highlight the changes. Column A is the original number, column B marks the amount of 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 refund or you received a new W-2.

You can usually file an amended return within three years of filing your original return – or, if you owe, within two years of the date you paid the tax, whichever is later.

There are special circumstances in which the IRS may allow an extension, such as if you are in a federally declared disaster area, a 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’ll need to take to ensure a smooth process.

• Check your state tax return: If you need to change it, that’s a separate process. Check your state’s website how to archive.

• Check the status of your amended tax return: You can check the status of your return three or four weeks after submitting the application. However, it can take 8-12 weeks for the IRS to process the 1040-X, or longer if there are errors or missing information.

• Prepare for a possible payment or refund: If you owe additional tax after changing your return, you must pay by the traditional tax deadline of April 15. Refunds for tax years after 2021 can be applied for by direct deposit if you submitted the declaration electronically.

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 fill out Form 1040-X and the necessary additional tax forms and submit them electronically or by mail. You can use all forms on the IRS website or use online tax software.

Although there is no penalty for filing an amended return, the IRS may charge fees for late tax payments, incorrect claims, or unnecessary returns.

You can check the status of your amended tax return three to four weeks after filing with the IRS Where is the My Amended Return tool. It may take 8-12 weeks for the IRS to process your return, or longer if it is returned for additional information, is incomplete or requires special review.