Tax Form 1040X Instructions
Filing taxes can be a challenging and unclear process, and sometimes mistakes are missed. The IRS has methods in place to change and amend previously filed tax forms, correcting mistakes and ensuring accuracy. These forms are available directly from the IRS, and from its website. It's a good idea to understand the process for filling out and filing a form 1040 correction, known as a 1040X.
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Form 1040X Overview
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IRS Tax Form 1040X is a document used to make corrections to previous tax submissions. It can be used to correct 1040-series income tax returns, including the common 1040EZ form. It can also be used to change amounts previously adjusted by the IRS.
The form 1040X should only be filed after an original return has been submitted. It is designed to be used only for updates or changes. The document can be obtained directly from an IRS office, or downloaded from the IRS website. Find a link to the form in the References section.
Filling Out 1040X
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Each line on the 1040X form should be carefully completed following these IRS instructions.
Calendar or Fiscal Year: Enter the calendar or fiscal year for the return you are changing.
Name, Address and Social Security number: Your legal name and Social Security number should be entered. If you are filing with a spouse, list both names in the same order as the original tax return.
Line A: To change your address on file with the IRS, check the "Yes" box. Your record will be updated with the address used on the 1040X.
Line B: If you and your spouse previously filed separately but would like to file jointly instead, enter each separate amount under Column A. Then combine these amounts and enter the total in Column B. Follow Column C directions, and both spouses must sign the form.
Lines 1 Through 33: If you are adding information, but not modifying previous details, you can skip these steps. However, these steps are necessary for changing information.
Column A: Enter the amount you submitted on the earlier return.
Column B: For each line that changes, enter the net decrease or increase. You must explain the changes in Part II.
Column C: For increases, add columns A and B. For decreases, subtract column B from A. Any negative numbers should be placed in parenthesis.
Income and Deductions -- Line 1: Adjusted Gross Income should be entered here.
Income and Deductions -- Lines 2 through 4: These lines are for filers using the 1040EZ form only. If this applies, follow the detailed instructions listed.
Line 5: Enter actual taxable income if the original taxable income was reported as $0, and you have made changes on lines 1, 2 or 4.
Tax Liability -- Line 6: Enter your income tax, calculated before using any credits.
Line 7: The total amount of nonrefundable credits should be entered here.
Line 9: Enter other taxes that have been paid. The chart on page 7 of the document is used as reference.
Payments: For lines 11 through 18, refer to the chart on page 7 to determine which line should be completed.
Refund or Amount Owed: Check the page 7 chart to find which line to fill in.
Line 19: This is the amount you owe.
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How to File 1040X
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The signed 1040X must be submitted to the IRS. If you owe money, it must be paid with a check or money order made out to the "United States Treasury." The payment should include your name, address, phone number and Social Security number. It should also note the tax year and type, such as "2009 Form 1040."
It is important to remember that tax instructions are very detailed and can change often. For these reasons, be sure to double-check all instructions directly from the latest IRS guides.
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