How Can I Check the Status of My Amended Tax Return?
There are times when it may be necessary to alter your original tax return. You may receive documentation (like W-2s or interest statements) after you've filed with the IRS that changes the reported amounts. Called an "amended return," there is only one way to check its status.
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Definition
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An amendment to your tax form is a formal change that you authorize after the initial form has been filed with the IRS. Any of the following may be reasons for tax return amendments: errors in your filing status, number of dependents, total income or credits reported.
Checking the Status
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According to the IRS website, "You will need to contact our assistance line at 800-829-1040 to receive information on the processing of your amended return. Amended/corrected returns are processed as quickly as possible. However, it could take eight to 12 weeks to process an amended return."
Additionally, you cannot file the amendment electronically. The IRS only accepts paper forms that must be mailed to your servicing center. It will be the same location with which you filed originally. If you filed electronically or do not have the address, locate your IRS servicing center (see Resources).
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Form 1040X
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The IRS requires you to complete form 1040X for any amendment. This form can be obtained by calling 800--829--3676 or visiting http://www.irs.gov. Form 1040X is used to make corrections to any of the following tax documents: 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, 1040EZ-T, 1040NR and/or 1040NR-EZ. You must complete a separate 1040X for each tax year that requires correction. If you need to submit multiple amendment forms, they must be mailed in separate envelopes as well.
This form must be filed within three years after the date of the original filing or within two years after the date of the tax payment whichever is later. Be certain to include the tax year for the amendment. Also, if there are changes to a schedule (e.g. Schedule A, B or D) or to another form that was submitted with the original 1040, those forms should be attached to the 1040X.
Changes Without Amendments
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Not all corrections to your tax form require an amendment. For example, the IRS will correct math errors. You do not need to amend your return if you discover one. If you forgot to include additional forms and schedules, do not amend your return. The IRS will request these documents from you.
Additional Refunds
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If you are entitled to an additional refund, do not amend your return until you've received the original refund. Once you have received it, you can mail your form 1040X. You can cash the original refund check when you receive it. You do not need to wait for the amendment to clear or for the additional refund.
Additional Taxes
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If you are amending because you owe additional tax, pay that amount as soon as possible to limit the interest and penalties you will incur. Interest on the overdue amount begins accruing on the due date (April 15th) regardless of whether you have filed for extensions or amended your return.
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