We Cannot Provide Any Information on Your Amended Return—What It Means and What to Do

Seeing “We cannot provide any information on your amended return” when checking your IRS status can be frustrating. This message means the IRS has no updates available, leaving many taxpayers unsure of what to do next.

There are several reasons why this might happen, ranging from processing delays to verification holds. Understanding these potential causes and knowing how to respond can help you determine your next steps efficiently.

Filing Inconsistencies

Discrepancies between an amended return and the original filing can slow processing. Even small differences—such as mismatched income figures or incorrectly reported deductions—can trigger a review. The IRS cross-references amended returns with previously filed documents, and any inconsistencies may require additional verification.

Missing supporting documentation is a common issue. If an amended return adjusts reported income due to a corrected W-2 or 1099 but the IRS has not received the updated form from the employer or payer, the return may be flagged. Changes to tax credits—such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit—must also align with IRS records to avoid delays.

Timing matters as well. If the IRS has not finished processing the original return before receiving the amended version, the system may not recognize the changes immediately. This is especially relevant for taxpayers who file Form 1040-X soon after submitting their initial return, as original filings are typically processed first.

IRS Verification Holds

When an amended return is flagged for further review, it may be placed on an IRS verification hold. This occurs when the agency needs to confirm the accuracy of the changes before proceeding.

Significant changes in taxable income, deductions, or credits can trigger these holds. If an amended return reports a large increase or decrease in income or expenses, the IRS may pause processing to ensure the adjustments are justified. For instance, if a taxpayer revises business expenses on a Schedule C, the IRS may compare the new figures against prior filings and industry standards.

Adding new tax forms or schedules can also prompt additional scrutiny. If an amended return includes Form 8862 (used to reclaim disallowed Earned Income Credit) or Form 2555 (Foreign Earned Income Exclusion), the IRS may take extra time to verify eligibility. The agency must confirm that all supporting documentation is present before approving changes.

Some verification holds stem from automated IRS filters designed to detect errors or fraud. If a return is selected for review, an IRS examiner may manually assess the changes, extending processing times beyond the standard 20-week timeframe for Form 1040-X.

Identity Protection Issues

Delays may also result from IRS identity verification procedures. The agency monitors filings for signs of identity theft, which can lead to processing holds when discrepancies arise. If an amended return is flagged for potential fraud, the IRS may require the filer to verify their identity before updates appear.

One reason for this is when a taxpayer’s Social Security number (SSN) has been linked to multiple returns in a given year. Fraudsters often submit false returns early in the tax season to claim refunds before legitimate taxpayers file. If an amended return is submitted after such an incident, the IRS may place a hold on the account to prevent unauthorized changes.

Mismatched taxpayer information can also trigger a hold. If an amended return includes a new address or banking details that do not match prior filings, the system may flag it as a precaution. This can be problematic for those who have relocated or changed financial institutions. The IRS may require additional documentation, such as Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit), to confirm the legitimacy of the changes.

Online Account Limitations

Taxpayers checking the status of their amended return through the IRS’s online tools often find limited or outdated information. The “Where’s My Amended Return?” tracker does not update in real time and can take up to three weeks just to acknowledge receipt.

Beyond timing issues, the system does not provide detailed reasoning for a return’s status. If an amended return is under review due to unusual adjustments or missing documentation, the tracker will not specify the cause of the delay. Unlike the “Where’s My Refund?” tool for original returns, which offers more detailed updates, the amended return tracker only shows three phases: received, adjusted, or completed. This lack of transparency forces many taxpayers to wait without knowing if action is required.

Coordinating With IRS Support

When online tools provide no updates, direct communication with the IRS may be necessary. However, reaching an agent can be difficult due to high call volumes, especially during peak tax season. The IRS recommends calling their amended return hotline at 866-464-2050, though wait times can be long. Calling early in the morning or midweek may improve the chances of getting assistance.

For more in-depth support, scheduling an appointment at a local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) may be an option. These offices provide face-to-face help, though availability varies. Bringing a copy of the amended return, supporting documents, and any IRS notices can help expedite the process. If a return is under extended review, taxpayers may also consider reaching out to the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS), which assists with significant delays or processing issues that cause financial hardship.

Actions to Take When No Updates Appear

If weeks pass without progress on an amended return, taking proactive steps can help prevent unnecessary delays. First, confirm that the return was received. If mailed, using certified mail with a return receipt ensures proof of delivery. For electronically filed amendments, checking the submission confirmation from tax software or the IRS e-file system can verify successful transmission.

If the return has been received but remains stagnant in processing, reviewing the original filing for potential errors or missing documentation is advisable. In some cases, submitting additional information, such as a signed statement clarifying changes, can help move the process forward. If the delay extends beyond the standard 20-week timeframe, filing Form 911 to request assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service may be necessary, particularly for those experiencing financial hardship due to a delayed refund.