Can You File an Amended Return Electronically?
Understand the evolving process for adjusting your filed tax return. Explore the modern submission options available and when traditional methods are still necessary.
An amended tax return, known as Form 1040-X for federal individual income taxes, allows taxpayers to correct errors or make changes to a return they previously filed. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has expanded electronic filing capabilities for amended returns. While it was once exclusively a paper process, electronic filing is now an option for certain tax years and specific circumstances.
Electronic Filing for Federal Amended Returns
Electronic filing of Form 1040-X is now available for federal individual income tax returns for recent tax years. Taxpayers can e-file amended returns for tax years 2021, 2022, and 2023. Electronic submission occurs through tax preparation software, as direct e-filing through the IRS website is not an option for amended returns.
To e-file, your original Form 1040 or 1040-SR for the same tax year must have been electronically filed and accepted by the IRS. The process involves revising your tax return within your chosen tax software to reflect the necessary changes. Once the amended return is prepared, the software will guide you through the electronic submission.
After e-filing, the IRS advises allowing 8 to 12 weeks for processing. You can track the status of your e-filed Form 1040-X using the IRS’s “Where’s My Amended Return?” online tool three weeks after submission. Beginning in processing year 2023, direct deposit is available for refunds from electronically filed amended returns for tax year 2021 and later.
When Paper Filing is Required
If you are amending a tax year prior to those currently eligible for e-filing, such as 2020 or earlier, you must mail a paper Form 1040-X. Additionally, certain complex situations or specific forms may not be supported by electronic filing, necessitating a paper submission.
You cannot e-file an amended return if the primary taxpayer’s or spouse’s Social Security number is different from the original return, or if you are amending to claim a dependent who was claimed by another taxpayer. If your original return was paper-filed, you must also paper-file your amended return. In these instances, you will need to print, sign, and mail the completed Form 1040-X to the appropriate IRS mailing address, which can be found in the form’s instructions.
Amended State Tax Returns
Amending state tax returns involves different rules than those for federal returns. While some states allow electronic filing of amended returns, many still require a paper submission. Even if your federal Form 1040-X was e-filed, you might still need to print and mail your amended state return.
Consult your specific state’s tax agency website for current information on their amended return filing procedures. States often have their own unique forms and requirements for amending previously filed returns.