How to Check on an Amended Tax Return

An amended tax return, filed using Form 1040-X, allows individuals to correct information on a previously submitted federal income tax return. Taxpayers might file an amended return to fix mathematical errors, change their filing status, or claim overlooked deductions and credits. After submission, monitoring its status is important to ensure proper processing and understand potential adjustments to tax liability or refunds.

Using the IRS Tool to Check Status

Before checking the status of an amended tax return, individuals need to gather specific information. This includes the Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) of the primary taxpayer, their date of birth, and the ZIP code associated with the tax return. Having these details readily available helps streamline the lookup process.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides an online tool, “Where’s My Amended Return?”, on IRS.gov for taxpayers to track their Form 1040-X. Users access this tool and input the required personal identification details into the designated fields. The tool can provide status updates for the current tax year and up to three prior tax years.

Once the information is entered, the tool displays one of several status messages. “Received” indicates the IRS has received the amended return and has begun processing it. A status of “Adjusted” means the IRS has made changes to the return, which could lead to a refund, a balance due, or no change in tax liability. Finally, “Completed” signifies that the IRS has finished processing the amended return, and any resulting refund or payment has been handled.

Understanding Processing Timelines

Processing an amended tax return typically takes longer than an original tax return. The IRS generally advises a processing window that can extend up to 16 weeks or more from the date of submission.

Several factors can influence how long it takes for an amended return to be processed. The complexity of the changes made, such as adjustments involving multiple tax forms or schedules, can extend the processing duration. The overall volume of returns the IRS is handling at any given time, particularly during peak tax seasons, also plays a role in processing speed. While original returns are often filed electronically, Form 1040-X is frequently submitted by mail, which contributes to longer processing times due to manual handling and review.

The “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool remains the primary resource for taxpayers to obtain real-time updates on their specific amended return’s status. Although this tool offers current information, understanding the typical processing timelines helps set realistic expectations for when an amended return will be fully processed.

Addressing Delays or Issues

If an amended return takes longer than the expected processing time, wait at least 16 weeks from the mailing date before taking further action. The “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool may also provide specific guidance on when to contact the IRS if a significant delay is noted.

For significant delays or if the online tool’s status is unclear, taxpayers can contact the IRS directly. The general phone number for individual tax inquiries is 1-800-829-1040. When calling, taxpayers should have their original tax return, the filed Form 1040-X, and any supporting documentation ready to assist the IRS representative.