Where Is My Amended Return? How to Check Its Status

An amended tax return allows taxpayers to correct information on a previously filed tax return. Once an amended return, Form 1040-X, has been submitted, taxpayers often seek to determine its processing status.

Checking the Status of Your Amended Return

The primary method for checking the status of an amended tax return is through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) “Where’s My Amended Return?” online tool. This tool is accessible on the IRS website and provides current status updates for the current tax year and up to three prior years. To use the tool, taxpayers need to provide specific identifying information, including the Social Security Number (or Taxpayer Identification Number) of the primary taxpayer, their date of birth, and the Zip Code from the tax return.

Upon entering the required details, the tool will display the status of the amended return. It is recommended to wait about three weeks after submission before checking, as it takes time for the return to appear in the IRS system. The tool is typically available 24 hours a day, with status updates once daily.

While the online tool is the most efficient way to check status, taxpayers can also inquire by phone. The IRS offers a dedicated toll-free telephone line at 866-464-2050 for amended return status inquiries. When calling, taxpayers should be prepared to provide the same identifying information required for the online tool. However, phone support may involve longer wait times compared to the immediate access provided by the online service.

Deciphering Status Updates

When checking the status of an amended return, taxpayers will typically encounter a few common messages: “Received,” “Adjusted,” and “Completed.” A “Received” status indicates that the IRS has received the amended return and has begun its initial processing. This means the return is in the system, but the review process is still underway.

An “Adjusted” status signifies that changes have been made to the original tax return based on the amended filing. This adjustment could result in a tax refund, an additional balance due, or no change to the tax liability. The “Adjusted” status confirms that the IRS has processed the requested modifications.

The “Completed” status indicates that the processing of the amended return has finished. This means the IRS has finalized its review and any resulting refund or balance due has been issued or recorded. The overall processing timeframe for amended returns typically ranges from 8 to 20 weeks, depending on complexity and volume. Electronic filing may reduce mailing time, but the overall processing duration remains consistent with paper-filed returns.

Addressing Delays

If an amended return appears to be significantly delayed, meaning it has exceeded the typical 16 to 20-week processing window, taxpayers may consider further action. The IRS advises contacting them only if the “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool specifically directs the taxpayer to do so, or if the processing time has gone well beyond the standard timeframe. Common reasons for processing delays include errors or incompleteness on the return, a missing signature, or if the IRS requires additional information from the taxpayer. Returns involving certain credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, may also undergo additional review, contributing to longer processing times.

When contacting the IRS about a delayed amended return, it is important to have specific information readily available. This includes the Social Security Number, date of birth, Zip Code, the tax year being amended, and the date the amended return was filed. Having a copy of the filed Form 1040-X on hand can also be helpful for reference during the inquiry. Taxpayers should exercise patience and avoid refiling their amended return unless explicitly instructed by the IRS to do so.