Almost half (47%) of Americans are bothered by the complexity of our nation’s tax system. While it remains challenging, things have improved since IRS tax returns went digital. Electronic filing helps taxpayers feel more confident about understanding confusing forms, and it can help reduce errors, too.
But despite all those changes, tax return mistakes can still happen. When they do, you’ll need to file an amended return.
Are you currently attempting to learn more about your amended tax return status? Have you been wondering, Where’s my amended return? Don’t panic! We’re here to put your mind at ease. You can learn everything you need to know about an amended tax return below.
What To Do If You Find an Error On Your Taxes
Even if you file your taxes online, you might still make a mistake. If you realize you made a mistake, don’t panic or call the IRS right away. First, figure out what went wrong.
Maybe you made a mistake with the math. If so, fixing the error might not be necessary at all—most math mistakes are automatically corrected when your return is processed.
Perhaps you made an error with your filing status, like forgetting to include certain income streams or deductions. If that’s the case, these errors call for filing an amended return.
How To File an Amended Tax Return
One common tax problem is not knowing how to fill out the forms correctly. If you made a mistake on your tax return, you can fix it by filing a 1040-X form.
This form is broken down into three sections:
In Section A, you will input the amount from your original return. In Section B, you will put the total difference between the inaccurate and amended returns. Lastly, in Section C, you will add the accurate figures.
If your error resulted in you owing more money to the IRS, it is advised that you pay as soon as possible.
Do you need additional help with your tax forms or have questions about filing your taxes? If so, contact us for help.
Amended Tax Return Refund Timeline
Once you finish filing your amended return, it can take up to three weeks for the return to even reach the IRS, depending on whether you file via mail or electronically. Once they have it, you may be looking at up to 16 weeks to process the return.
While you wait, why not learn how to check 1040-X status?
How Do I Check My IRS Amended Refund Status?
To find my amended return status, you’ll need your Social Security number (or tax ID), date of birth, and ZIP code. Once you have that information, go to the IRS’s “Where’s My Amended Return” page.
There, you’ll find a status like:
- Return received
- Return adjusted
- Return completed
Once the IRS receives your amended return, that’s when your 16 weeks starts. Once an adjustment has been made, your return is in progress. Once the return is completed, that means your return is on its way.
The IRS updates this system at least once a day, usually at night. So, feel free to check your status on a daily basis to see how far along in the process your return is so far.
How To File an Amended Return Online
Filing an amended return online is a relatively simple process. The first step is to log into your account on the IRS website. Once you are logged in, you will need to locate the section for amended returns.
When you have found the appropriate section, you will need to enter the necessary information, including your Social Security number and the reason for filing an amended return. You will then be able to submit your amended return electronically.
In most cases, the IRS will process your amended return within 16 weeks. However, if you have any questions or concerns, you can always contact the IRS directly for assistance.
I Have Not Received my Amended Tax Refund: Next Steps
If you are wondering where your amended refund is, check the 1040-X status to see if it is on the way. It is normal to feel anxious about getting the money you deserve, but keep in mind that the IRS is very busy during tax time—it may take at least 16 weeks before you get your refund.
Does it really take 16 weeks for an amended return to process? Yes, it often does. It can happen faster, but you should expect to wait at least that long.
Will My Amended 1040-X Status Trigger an IRS Audit?
The answer is complicated. The IRS won’t initiate an audit based on the fact that you amended it, but it can make an audit more likely. If you end up getting audited, be prepared to provide proof of your amended estimates.
If you’re concerned that an audit could cause problems for you or you have more questions about filling out your taxes, then consider looking around at our tax help resources.
Do You Need More Tax Help?
If you’ve been waiting patiently to learn more about your IRS 1040-X status, then you’re not alone. It’s important to understand that the IRS will likely look at your returns much more closely, and your chances of getting audited increase, too. For all these reasons, your return will likely take longer to process.
If you have more questions about your taxes, then we invite you to leave your tax worries behind with expert guidance from a team that has over 30 years of experience working with the IRS. Contact us today to learn more about how our team of tax experts can help you get through even the most complex tax situations.
