Have you ever hit "submit" on your tax return, only to realize a crucial detail was missing or an error had crept in? Don't panic! It's a common scenario, and thankfully, the IRS provides a way to correct these mistakes through an amended tax return. But then comes the burning question: how long does it take the IRS to process an amended tax return?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about IRS amended tax return processing times, what to expect, how to track your return, and common reasons for delays. Let's dive in!
The Reality of Amended Tax Return Processing Times
Unlike original tax returns, which are often processed fairly quickly (especially if e-filed), amended returns, particularly Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, typically take a bit longer. The IRS processes these returns manually, which contributes to the extended timeframe.
Generally, you should allow 8 to 12 weeks for your Form 1040-X to be processed. However, it's crucial to understand that in some cases, processing could take up to 16 weeks or even longer. This is particularly true during peak filing seasons or if your amended return requires additional scrutiny.
Let's break down the process step-by-step.
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| How Long Does It Take Irs To Process Amended Tax Return |
Step 1: Realizing You Need to Amend Your Return – What Now?
So, you've discovered an error. Your heart might sink a little, but don't fret! The first step is to assess the type of error. Not all mistakes require an amended return.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling, read carefully here.
When You Might Need to Amend:
- Changes in Filing Status: If you filed as single but got married by the end of the tax year, or vice-versa.
- Incorrect Dependents: You forgot to claim a dependent, or incorrectly claimed someone who doesn't qualify.
- Missed or Incorrect Credits/Deductions: You realized you qualified for a tax credit (like the Child Tax Credit) or a deduction you didn't claim, or you claimed one you shouldn't have.
- Incorrect Income Reported: You received a corrected W-2 or 1099 form after filing your original return, or realized you omitted some income.
- New Tax Legislation: Sometimes, tax laws change retroactively, affecting a previously filed year.
When You Probably Don't Need to Amend:
- Math Errors: The IRS usually corrects these automatically and will send you a notice.
- Missing Forms/Schedules: If you simply forgot to attach a W-2 or other supporting document, the IRS will likely contact you to request it.
- E-filed Original Return Was Rejected: If your initial e-filed return was rejected, you should correct the issues and re-file the original return, not an amended one.
Important Note: If you receive an IRS notice (like a CP2000 for underreported income or an audit notice), do NOT file an amended return in response. You need to follow the instructions on the notice and respond directly to the IRS unit that sent it. Filing an amended return in this scenario can cause further confusion and delays.
Step 2: Preparing Your Amended Tax Return (Form 1040-X)
Once you've determined that an amended return is necessary, the next step is to prepare Form 1040-X.
Sub-heading: Gathering Your Documents
Before you start filling out the form, ensure you have:
- A copy of your original tax return for the year you are amending.
- Any corrected W-2s, 1099s, or other income statements.
- Any new or corrected forms, schedules, or documentation that support the changes you are making (e.g., receipts for new deductions, documentation for a newly claimed dependent).
Sub-heading: Filling Out Form 1040-X
Form 1040-X can be a bit tricky, as it requires you to show the original amounts, the net change, and the correct amounts.
- Personal Information: Fill in your name, Social Security Number, and current address accurately.
- Tax Year: Clearly indicate the tax year you are amending.
- Changes Explained: This is a crucial section (Part III). You must clearly and concisely explain the specific corrections you are making and the reasons why. Being vague can lead to delays. For example, instead of just "changed income," state "To report additional income from Form 1099-MISC, Box 7, totaling $X,XXX, which was inadvertently omitted from the original return."
- Recalculate: Recompute your tax liability based on the amended information.
Sub-heading: Electronic vs. Paper Filing
For tax years 2019 and later, if you originally e-filed your return, you generally have the option to e-file your Form 1040-X. This can sometimes lead to slightly faster processing times and offers immediate confirmation of receipt. However, most amended returns for prior years, or if your original return was paper-filed, still need to be mailed.
Tip: The details are worth a second look.
- E-filing: If your tax software supports e-filing Form 1040-X for the relevant year, it's often the preferred method due to error checking and quicker acknowledgment.
- Paper Filing: If mailing, ensure you send it to the correct IRS address. You can find this address in the instructions for Form 1040-X on the IRS website. Do NOT include a copy of your original return with the 1040-X. Only attach supporting documents related to the changes.
Sub-heading: Don't Forget State Taxes!
If your federal amended return results in a change to your income, deductions, or credits, it's highly likely that your state tax return will also need to be amended. Check your state's tax agency website for their specific amended return forms and instructions. You will usually need to attach a copy of your federal Form 1040-X to your state amended return.
Step 3: The Waiting Game – Understanding IRS Processing Times
This is where patience becomes a virtue. As mentioned, the general processing time for a Form 1040-X is 8 to 12 weeks, with some cases extending to 16 weeks or more.
Sub-heading: Why the Long Wait?
- Manual Processing: Unlike many original returns that are electronically processed, amended returns often require a manual review by IRS personnel. This involves comparing the amended return to the original, verifying the changes, and sometimes requiring additional research.
- Volume: During peak tax season or after significant tax law changes, the IRS experiences high volumes of returns, which can naturally lead to delays.
- Complexity: More complex amended returns, especially those involving multiple changes, significant income adjustments, or certain credits, may take longer to process due to the need for more in-depth review.
- Mailing Delays: If you paper-filed your amended return, factor in mail delivery time to the IRS and back.
Sub-heading: When to Expect Your Refund (If Applicable)
If your amended return results in a refund, it will generally be issued after your return has been processed. While original return refunds are often issued within 21 days for e-filed returns with direct deposit, an amended return refund can take up to three months to arrive after the 8-16 week processing period. So, the total time from filing an amended return to receiving a refund can easily be 4-6 months.
Step 4: Tracking Your Amended Tax Return Status
You don't have to wait blindly! The IRS provides a tool specifically for checking the status of your amended return.
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Sub-heading: Using "Where's My Amended Return?"
The official IRS tool is called "Where's My Amended Return?" (WMAR).
QuickTip: Ask yourself what the author is trying to say.
- Website: You can access it on the IRS website at IRS.gov/wmar.
- Information Needed: To check your status, you will need to provide:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN).
- Your date of birth.
- Your ZIP code.
- When to Check: You should allow at least three weeks from the date you mailed or e-filed your amended return before checking its status using WMAR. It takes the IRS that long for the return to show up in their system.
- Status Updates: The tool will typically show one of three statuses:
- Received: The IRS has received your amended return and it is in the initial processing stage.
- Adjusted: An adjustment has been made to your account. This could mean a refund, a balance due, or no change to your tax liability.
- Completed: Your amended return has been fully processed. You will receive all related information, including any refund or bill, by mail.
- Limited Information: While helpful, WMAR provides general statuses. It won't give you specific details about why a return is delayed or the exact date a refund will be issued until it's very close to being sent.
Sub-heading: Calling the IRS
If it has been longer than 16 weeks since you filed your amended return and you haven't seen an update on WMAR, or if the tool directs you to call, you can contact the IRS directly. The automated toll-free number for amended return status is 1-866-464-2050. However, be prepared for potentially long wait times, especially during peak periods. It's often best to try the online tool first.
Step 5: Understanding Potential Delays and What to Do
Even with the usual long processing times, some issues can prolong the wait further.
Sub-heading: Common Reasons for Delays
- Errors on the Amended Return: Even a small error on your Form 1040-X can cause significant delays. Double-check all calculations and ensure all required fields are complete and accurate.
- Missing Supporting Documentation: If you don't include all necessary forms or schedules that support your changes, the IRS will likely send you a notice requesting them, which adds to the processing time.
- Unclear Explanation: As mentioned, a vague or incomplete explanation in Part III of Form 1040-X can lead to the IRS needing more information, causing delays.
- Identity Verification Issues: If there are any discrepancies with your identity or potential fraud alerts, your return will be held for further review.
- Return Selected for Review: Sometimes, returns are randomly selected for a more in-depth review, which naturally extends the processing time.
- Original Return Not Yet Processed: If you filed your amended return too soon after your original return, before the IRS had fully processed the original, it can create confusion and delays. It's generally recommended to wait until your original return has been fully processed before filing an amendment.
Sub-heading: What to Do if Your Return is Delayed
- Check WMAR Regularly: Continue to check the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool. It's updated once a day, usually overnight.
- Look for IRS Notices: The IRS will typically communicate with you via mail if they need more information or if there's an issue with your return. Keep an eye on your mailbox.
- Call Only After 16 Weeks (or as Directed): Resist the urge to call the IRS before the 16-week window, unless the WMAR tool specifically instructs you to do so. IRS representatives often have access to the same information as the online tool.
- Consider Professional Help: If your amended return is particularly complex, or if you've been waiting an unusually long time without explanation, consider contacting a tax professional (like a CPA or Enrolled Agent). They may have insights or direct lines of communication with the IRS that can help resolve the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Amended Tax Returns
Here are 10 common questions related to amended tax returns, with quick answers:
How to check the status of my amended tax return? You can check the status using the IRS "Where's My Amended Return?" online tool at IRS.gov/wmar. You'll need your SSN, date of birth, and ZIP code.
How to file an amended tax return? You file an amended tax return using Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. You can often e-file for tax years 2019 and later if you originally e-filed, otherwise, you'll mail it.
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
How to know if I need to file an amended tax return? You need to file if you discover errors that affect your filing status, income, deductions, or credits. You generally don't need to amend for simple math errors or missing forms; the IRS usually handles those.
How to avoid delays when filing an amended return? Ensure all information on Form 1040-X is accurate, attach all necessary supporting documents, provide a clear explanation for the changes, and consider e-filing if available for your tax year. Also, wait for your original return to fully process before filing an amendment.
How to tell if the IRS received my mailed amended return? Allow at least three weeks after mailing before checking "Where's My Amended Return?" The status will change to "Received" once it's in their system.
How to get a copy of my original tax return if I need it to amend? You can usually access it through the tax software you used, or contact your tax preparer. You can also request a tax transcript from the IRS.
How to pay if my amended return shows I owe more tax? You should pay the additional tax as soon as possible to minimize potential penalties and interest. You can include a check with your mailed Form 1040-X, or pay online through IRS Direct Pay or EFTPS.
How to amend a tax return from several years ago? You generally have three years from the date you filed your original return (or its due date, whichever is later) or two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later, to file an amended return.
How to amend my state tax return after amending federal? If your federal amended return changes your income or deductions, you will likely need to amend your state tax return as well. Visit your state's tax agency website for specific forms and instructions.
How to contact the IRS about a delayed amended return? If it's been more than 16 weeks since you filed your Form 1040-X, and the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool hasn't provided a satisfactory update, you can call the IRS automated toll-free number at 1-866-464-2050.
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