Tax Tip: File Form 1040X to Amend a Tax Return

Mistakes happen and tax returns are no exception. Filing an amended tax return corrects information that changes tax calculations. This includes making changes to filing status and dependents, or correcting income credits or deductions. Don’t file an amended return to fix math errors because the IRS will correct those.

The I.R.S. offers tips on how to amend a tax return:

1. File using paper form.
   Use Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, to correct errors to
   an original tax return the taxpayer has already filed. Taxpayers can’t file amended returns electronically. Mail
   the Form 1040X to the address listed in the form’s instructions.
2. Preparing Form 1040X.
   Many taxpayers find the easiest way to figure the entries for Form 1040X is to
   make the changes in the margin of the original tax return and then transfer the numbers to their Form
   1040X. Taxpayers should be sure to check a box at the top to show the year they are amending. Form
   1040X will be the taxpayer’s new tax return, changing the original entries to include new information.
   Taxpayers should explain what they are changing and why on the second page of Form 1040X in Part III.
3. Know when to amend.
   Taxpayers should amend a tax return to correct their filing status, the number of
   dependents or total income. They should also amend to claim deductions or credits not claimed or to
   remove deductions and credits they are not entitled to on the original return. The instructions for Form
   1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, list more reasons to amend a return.
4. Know when NOT to amend.
   In some cases, it is not necessary to amend a tax return. Taxpayers should
   not worry about math errors because the IRS will make the correction. Taxpayers do not need to amend
   their return if they forgot to include a required form or schedule. The IRS will mail a request to the taxpayer,
   if needed.
5. Use separate forms for each tax year.
   Taxpayers amending tax returns for more than one year will need a
   separate 1040X for each tax year. Mail each tax year’s Form 1040X in separate envelopes. See “Where to
   File” in the instructions for Form 1040X for the correct address.
6. Include other forms or schedules.
   If a taxpayer makes changes to any form or schedule, they should
   attach them to the Form 1040X when filing. Not doing so could cause a delay in processing.
7. Wait to file for corrected refund for tax year 2016.
   Taxpayers should wait for the refund from their original
   tax return before filing an amended return. It is okay to cash the refund check from the original return before
   receiving any additional refund. Amended returns can take up to 16 weeks to process.
8. Pay additional tax.
   Taxpayers filing an amended return because they owe more tax should file Form 1040X
   and pay the tax as soon as possible. This will limit interest and penalty charges.
9. File within three-year time limit.
   Generally, to claim a refund, taxpayers must file a Form 1040X within
   three years from the date they timely filed their original tax return or within two years from the date the
   person pays the tax, whichever is later. For taxpayers who filed their original return early (for example,
   March 1 for a calendar year return), their return is considered filed on the due date (generally April 15).
10. Track your amended return.
    Taxpayers can track the status of an amended return three weeks after filing.
    Go to “Where’s My Amended Return?” or call 866-464-2050.