How to File Amended Federal Income Tax Returns

The Internal Revenue Service allows you to amend a previous tax return if you feel you need to make alternations to your original return. You don't need to file an amendment to take care of math errors, as the IRS corrects those automatically. Adding deductions or changing income or payment figures are reasons you may need to file an amended return. The same form is used no matter what tax year return you are amending, although you do have to file a separate amendment for each return.

Instructions

1. Open your web browser and navigate to the Internal Revenue Service's publications web page. Download Form 1040X.

2. Open Form 1040X and use the tax filing you are amending to make sure you type all the same personal information in the top section of Form 1040X.

3. Enter your filing status on line A. Check the tax year you are amending on line B. Type the amendment reason in line C.

4. Enter any corrected amounts under the "Income and Deductions," "Tax Liability," "Refund or Amount You Owe," "Exemptions" and "Payments" sections.

5. Sign and date the form. Go to the IRS website to get the correct mailing address for amended returns in your state.

References

• IRS: Form 1040X
• IRS: Amended Returns