How to File an Amended Tax Return Online

Form 1040-X, an amended tax return, is used to correct errors or omissions on a previously filed federal income tax return. Common reasons for filing an amendment include correcting income, deductions, credits, or a change in filing status or dependents. This article outlines the process for amending a federal tax return online.

Determining Online Eligibility

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers online filing for Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, but specific conditions apply. You can generally e-file Form 1040-X for the current tax year and the two prior tax years, provided the original return was also filed electronically. For older tax years, such as a 2018 return, paper filing is typically required. If your original return was submitted on paper, or if you are amending a tax year older than the current year minus two, the amended return must be mailed. Generally, you have three years from the date you filed your original return, or two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later, to file an amended return to claim a refund.

Gathering Information for Your Amendment

Before initiating the online amendment process, gather all necessary information and supporting documents. You will need a copy of your original tax return (Form 1040, 1040-SR, or 1040-NR) that requires correction. Collect any new or corrected supporting documentation related to the changes, such as W-2 forms, 1099 forms, K-1 statements, or receipts for new deductions or credits. Your tax software or the IRS online tool will guide you in inputting these changes, prompting for both the original figures and the corrected amounts. The online system helps you complete the information that would appear on Form 1040-X, detailing the original amount, the net change, and the corrected amount for each affected line item.

Submitting Your Amended Return Online

Submission of your amended return online typically begins by accessing the amendment feature within your tax software. If you used tax software for your original filing, log in and navigate to the section for amending a previously filed return; otherwise, use an approved tax software or the IRS Free File program. The online system will prompt you to select the tax year, input corrected figures, and then guide you through a review process to ensure accuracy. You will complete an e-signature process, often involving Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization, to authorize the electronic submission of Form 1040-X. If your amendment results in additional tax due, the online system will present payment options, and for tax years 2021 and later, direct deposit may be available for refunds.

What to Expect After Filing

After electronically submitting your amended tax return, expect longer processing times, as the IRS typically takes 16 weeks or more to process Form 1040-X due to a manual review process. You can track the status of your amended return using the IRS “Where’s My Amended Return?” online tool, usually three weeks after submission, by providing your Social Security number, date of birth, and ZIP code. Possible outcomes include receiving a refund, owing additional tax, or receiving a notice from the IRS requesting more information. Retain copies of your submitted amended return and all supporting documentation for your records.