Where’s My Amended Return? Tracking Your Taxes
Written by
Elizabeth Constantineau
Edited by
Emily Gadd
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If you make a mistake on your tax return, you must file an amended return. However, this could affect how long it takes for the IRS to process your return and send you any refunds.
Filing an Amended Return
To let the IRS know you made a mistake, fill out Form 1040-X. Here are step-by-step instructions.
You will have to tell the IRS what the mistake was. This could be your filing status, number of dependents or a calculation.
You will also have to attach proof of the correction.
How to Track Your Amended Return
According to the IRS, It takes about 8 to 12 weeks to process an amended return. The IRS processes electronic returns faster than mailed ones. Go to Where’s My Amended Return on the IRS website to check the status of your amended return.
Your status should be available three weeks after you’ve submitted your amended return. You’ll need your social security number, date of birth and zip code to view the status.
Tracking Limits
There “Where’s My Amended Return” service can’t track:
- Business returns
- Returns with foreign addresses
- Carryback applications and claims
- Injured spouse claims
- Form 1040 that is marked as an amended or corrected return, instead of 1040-X
- Returns processed by special units like Examination or Bankruptcy
Refunds and Payments with Amended Returns
If you are due a refund based you’ll receive it after the IRS processes your amended return. If you owe additional tax, pay it as soon as you can to avoid penalties or interest for late payments.
You can file your Form 1040-X electronically, and most tax preparation software programs support it. You have to file the amendment within three years of filing your original return to get a refund. Or, you can file within two years of paying the tax, whichever is later.
Final Take
Although filing an amended return can delay any refunds you’re owed, it’s important to correct any errors on your tax return. You can find form 1040-X on the IRS website or through most tax preparation software.
FAQ
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tracking amended returns.- How can I check the status of my amended return online?
- Use the IRS’s "Where's My Amended Return?" online tool or call the toll-free number 866-464-2050.
- Why is the IRS taking so long with my amended return?
- Amended returns take longer to process because they require manual review by IRS staff. Whereas initial tax filings are processed automatically.
- You may also notice a delay if you mail in your amendment or have a very complicated tax situation.
- How do I know if the IRS received my Form 1040-X?
- The "Where's My Amended Return?" online tool should show the status of your form three weeks after you submit it.
- Can I get a refund from an amended return?
- Yes.
- Should I call the IRS about my amended return?
- If you’re not sure about the status of your return, you can call them 866-464-2050. In most cases, it’s faster to check online through the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool.
Karen Doyle and Dawn Allcot contributed to the reporting for this article.
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