How to Amend a Federal Tax Return

Steps to filing an amended tax return

First, figure out if you need to file an amended return. If you’re unsure, the IRS provides an interactive tax assistant tool to help you determine whether an amended filing is necessary. You can also check in with a tax professional if you have specific questions about your situation.

If you find that you need to file an amended return, the IRS reminds taxpayers to do so only after you’ve filed your original return.

Ahead, we’ll provide an overview of the key steps to filing an amended return, but always  remember to check the IRS website for the most up-to-date instructions – tax rules are subject to change without notice.

Step 1: Fill out IRS Form 1040X

Complete Form 1040X, Amended US Individual Income Tax Return, if you need to correct a previously filed Form 1040-series return (e.g., 1040, 1040-SR, or 1040-NR).

Form 1040X provides the IRS a summary or overview of your corrections for a given tax year. In the form, you’ll have to provide an explanation of why you are filing an amended return and detail the changes you’re making. You can file up to three amended returns for the same tax year.

If you plan on filing an amended return for more than one tax year, be aware that you’ll need to file a separate Form 1040X for each tax year you’re amending. For detailed instructions on how to fill out Form 1040X line by line, see the official IRS instructions here.

Good to know: Keep in mind that if you have to amend your federal tax return, you may also have to amend your state tax return as well. The process to amending your state tax return(s) varies state to state. Contact your state tax agency for instructions.

Step 2: Assemble your amended tax return

Once you’ve filled out Form 1040X, it’s time to gather the necessary documents to be submitted with your amended return. The IRS requires you to submit all the same forms, schedules, and supporting documents as you did when you filed your original Form 1040 – even if you don’t have adjustments on them. However, you do not have to attach a copy of your original return unless you’re specifically required to do so.

Step 3: Sign and submit your amended tax return with any required documents

The IRS now allows you to file your completed Form 1040X electronically using a tax preparation software. Verify with your software provider to make sure this option is available for you. However, you’ll have to file on paper if you’re amending a return you filed on paper this year or for tax years before 2021.

Direct deposits: If a refund is due to you, you may request that the refund be directly deposited into your checking or savings account. This is only applicable if you electronically filed a Form 1040X for tax year 2021 or later. See IRS instructions here.

Tax payments: If you owe tax and don’t want to pay electronically, you may enclose (don’t attach) your check or money order in the envelope with your amended return. You may also use Form 1040-V, Payment Voucher, when mailing a paper check for payment made on an electronically-filed amended return.

How to check the status of your amended tax return

You can track the status of your Form 1040X in about three weeks after your submission. The IRS provides two ways to check in:

• Use the online “Where’s My Amended Return” tool.
• Call the IRS at 1-866-464-2050.

You should expect eight to 12 weeks for your amended return to be processed, but sometimes it can take up to 16 weeks.