How Long Does the IRS Have to Issue a Refund on an Amended Return?

File a Form 1040X if you need to amend your original Form 1040.

Tax preparation has become easier over the years due to electronic filing, tax software programs and direct deposit, but sometimes you forget to include something on your return or receive the information after you have filed your taxes. You then may have to file an amended return.

Definition of Amended Return

An amended tax return is used to make corrections to information such as income, deductions and tax credits on your original Form 1040. Use Form 1040X to file an amended return. The form can be filed by paper only.

Time Frame

It can take six months from the date you file an amended return to receive a check. If you owe money with your amended return, check back often to follow up on the status of your payment.

Other Factors

Other things can hold up the refund process. Processing backlogs, as well as the type of information that needed to be corrected, can slow things down. You have three years from the date you filed your original return to file an amended return. This includes any filing extensions.

References

• IRS: Amended Returns & Form 1040X
• IRS: Ten Facts about Amended Returns
• MSN: Tax mistake? You can make amends

Resources

• WorldWideWeb Tax: What is Form 1040X - Amended Tax Return?