Tax season can be confusing, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, we realize we've made a mistake on our tax return. Maybe you forgot to claim a deduction, discovered additional income, or realized your filing status was incorrect. Don't worry, the IRS provides a way to correct these errors by filing an amended tax return using Form 1040-X. But once you've sent it in, the waiting game begins: How do you check its status?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about checking the status of your IRS amended return, ensuring you stay informed every step of the way.
Checking Your IRS Amended Return Status: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let's dive into how you can effectively track your amended return.
Step 1: Understand the Timing - Patience is Key!
Before you even think about checking, it's crucial to understand the IRS processing timelines. This will save you a lot of unnecessary worry and calls!
- Initial Delay: It takes the IRS approximately three weeks after you file your amended return for it to even show up in their system. Don't expect to see it immediately after mailing or e-filing.
- General Processing Time: Once it's in the system, the IRS generally advises allowing 8 to 12 weeks for your Form 1040-X to be processed.
- Potential Delays: In some cases, processing can take up to 16 weeks or even longer. Factors like errors on the return, high volume, or specific issues can extend this timeframe.
So, before you start checking, ask yourself: Has it been at least three weeks since I filed my amended return? If not, it's best to wait.
Step 2: Choose Your Method - Online or Phone
The IRS offers two primary ways to check your amended return status:
- The "Where's My Amended Return?" Online Tool: This is the fastest and most convenient method for most taxpayers. It's available 24/7 (with some brief maintenance windows).
- The IRS Automated Telephone Line: If you prefer speaking to an automated system or don't have internet access, this is a viable option.
Let's explore each in detail.
Sub-heading 2.1: Using the "Where's My Amended Return?" Online Tool
This tool is your best friend for tracking your 1040-X.
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Access the Tool:
- Open your web browser and go to the official IRS website: www.irs.gov.
- Search for "Where's My Amended Return?" or directly navigate to the tool if you know the URL (it's usually linked prominently in the "Tools" or "Individuals" sections).
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Gather Required Information:
- To verify your identity and pull up your information, you'll need three key pieces of data:
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): For most individuals, this is your Social Security Number (SSN).
- Date of Birth: Your birthdate in the MM/DD/YYYY format.
- ZIP Code: The five-digit ZIP code you used on your amended return.
- To verify your identity and pull up your information, you'll need three key pieces of data:
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Enter Your Information and Submit:
- Carefully enter your SSN, date of birth, and ZIP code into the designated fields.
- Click the "Submit" or "Check Status" button.
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Interpret Your Status:
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The tool will display the status of your amended return in one of three stages:
- Received: This means the IRS has received your amended return. It's now in the queue for processing.
- Adjusted: The IRS has processed your amended return and made adjustments to your account. This doesn't necessarily mean a refund has been issued yet, but the changes have been applied.
- Completed: Your amended return has been fully processed, and any resulting refund or balance due has been addressed. If a refund is due, it should be on its way (either via direct deposit or paper check).
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The online tool also provides a helpful graphic that visually communicates the current processing stage, making it easy to understand where your return stands.
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Sub-heading 2.2: Calling the IRS Automated Telephone Line
If the online tool isn't for you, or you just prefer to use the phone, here's how:
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Dial the Number:
- Call the IRS automated toll-free telephone line for amended returns: 1-866-464-2050.
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Follow the Prompts:
- The automated system will guide you through the process. You'll need to provide the same information as for the online tool: your SSN, date of birth, and ZIP code to verify your identity.
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Listen for Your Status:
- The system will verbally inform you of your amended return's status, which will also fall into the "Received," "Adjusted," or "Completed" categories.
Step 3: What to Do If There Are Delays or Issues
Sometimes, your amended return might take longer than expected, or you might encounter an issue.
- Check the IRS Processing Status Dashboard: The IRS often provides updates on their general processing times on their website. Search for "IRS processing status dashboard" to see if there are widespread delays affecting amended returns.
- Avoid Calling Too Soon: As mentioned, do not call the IRS about your amended return unless the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool specifically directs you to do so, or if the processing time has significantly exceeded the 16-week mark. Calling too early can tie up their phone lines and won't expedite your return.
- Review for Common Errors: If your return is delayed, consider if there were any common reasons for delays. Did you:
- Mail a paper return instead of e-filing (if applicable)? Paper returns take longer.
- Include all necessary forms and schedules?
- Have correct and consistent information (SSN, name, address, calculations)?
- Have any identity verification issues with the IRS?
- Owe back taxes or other government debts? This can cause an offset to any refund.
Step 4: Understanding the "Why" Behind Your Amendment (and its Impact on Status)
The reason you filed an amended return can sometimes influence how it's processed, though the general status checks remain the same.
Sub-heading 4.1: Claiming a Refund or Owing More Tax?
- Refund: If your amended return results in a refund, the "Completed" status means the refund has been issued. Keep an eye on your bank account (if direct deposit) or mailbox (for a paper check).
- Balance Due: If your amended return indicates you owe more tax, the "Completed" status means the IRS has processed your updated liability. You should receive a notice from the IRS regarding the amount due and how to pay it.
Sub-heading 4.2: E-filed vs. Paper-filed 1040-X
While many original returns are e-filed, amended returns (Form 1040-X) have traditionally been paper-filed. However, the IRS now allows electronic filing for Form 1040-X for Forms 1040, 1040-SR, and 1040-NR.
- E-filed 1040-X: Generally, e-filing can potentially lead to faster processing, though the IRS still advises the same 8-12 (or up to 16) week window. It will still appear in the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool.
- Paper-filed 1040-X: Paper returns inherently take longer to process due to manual handling. They still go into the same system for status tracking after the initial data entry.
Step 5: When to Contact the IRS Directly (Human Interaction)
You should only consider calling the IRS directly to speak with a representative if:
- The "Where's My Amended Return?" tool or automated phone line directs you to call.
- It has been significantly longer than 16 weeks since you filed your amended return, and the status hasn't changed.
- You've received a notice from the IRS regarding your amended return that you don't understand.
When you do call, have your SSN, date of birth, and the tax year you amended readily available. Be prepared for potentially long wait times.
Frequently Asked Questions about Checking IRS Amended Return Status
Here are 10 common questions related to checking the status of your amended tax return:
How to Check My IRS Amended Return Status Online?
You can check online using the IRS "Where's My Amended Return?" tool at www.irs.gov. You will need your Social Security Number, date of birth, and the ZIP code from your amended return.
How to Check My IRS Amended Return Status by Phone?
You can call the IRS automated toll-free telephone line at 1-866-464-2050. Be ready to provide your Social Security Number, date of birth, and ZIP code.
How to Know if My Amended Return Has Been Received by the IRS?
The "Where's My Amended Return?" tool or automated phone line will show a status of "Received" once the IRS has logged your Form 1040-X in their system. This typically takes about three weeks after filing.
How to Understand the Different Statuses in "Where's My Amended Return?"
The tool displays three main statuses: "Received" (IRS has your return), "Adjusted" (IRS has processed the changes), and "Completed" (processing is finalized, and any refund/payment is being handled).
How to Know How Long It Takes for an Amended Return to Process?
Generally, allow 8 to 12 weeks for processing. In some cases, it can take up to 16 weeks. The status won't appear online for about three weeks after you file.
How to Check the Status of a State Amended Return?
Checking state amended return status is done through your individual state's tax agency website or phone line, not the IRS. Each state has its own system and processing times.
How to Find Out Why My Amended Return is Delayed?
If it's beyond the typical 16-week timeframe, common reasons include errors on the return, missing information, identity verification issues, or if you owe other government debts. The online tool might provide specific instructions if there's an issue requiring your action.
How to Get My Refund from an Amended Return?
If your amended return results in a refund and the status is "Completed," the refund will be issued via direct deposit (if you provided banking information on an e-filed 1040-X or corrected 1040-SS/PR) or a paper check mailed to your address.
How to Know if I Need to Call the IRS About My Amended Return?
Only call the IRS if the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool specifically instructs you to do so, or if it has been significantly longer than 16 weeks and there's no change in status.
How to Get the Information Needed to Check My Amended Return Status?
You will always need your Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN for most), your date of birth, and the ZIP code used on your amended return. Have these ready before using the online tool or calling.
