Why Hasn’t My Amended Return Been Processed Yet?

Filing an amended tax return can be frustrating, especially when weeks or months pass without updates. Many taxpayers expect a quick resolution but find themselves waiting longer than anticipated. Understanding why delays happen can help manage expectations and determine if further action is needed.

Typical IRS Processing Time

The IRS now takes up to 20 weeks to process an amended return, an increase from the previous 16-week timeframe. This reflects staffing shortages and a high volume of returns. Unlike regular tax returns, which are largely automated, amended returns require manual review, slowing the process.

How the return is submitted also affects processing speed. While electronic filing is available for amended returns from tax year 2020 onward, many taxpayers still mail their forms. Paper submissions take longer because they must be manually entered into the system before processing begins, adding several weeks.

Once received, an amended return moves through multiple stages: intake, review, and approval. If accepted, adjustments are made to the taxpayer’s account, and any refund is issued. If the IRS needs additional information, it will send a notice, further extending the timeline.

Reasons for Potential Delays

Several factors can slow processing times beyond the IRS’s estimated timeline.

Incomplete or Incorrect Details

Errors or missing information can significantly extend processing time. Form 1040-X must be completed accurately, including all required schedules and supporting documents. Common mistakes include incorrect Social Security numbers, miscalculations, or missing signatures. If details are incomplete, the IRS may need to contact the taxpayer, adding weeks or months to the process.

A frequent issue is failing to explain the reason for the amendment. The IRS requires a clear explanation in Part III of Form 1040-X detailing what changes were made and why. If this section is vague or incomplete, the return may be flagged for further review.

Taxpayers amending returns due to income changes should ensure all related documents, such as W-2s or 1099s, match IRS records. Discrepancies can trigger further scrutiny and additional delays.

Backlog in Processing

The IRS continues to face a backlog of amended returns, particularly paper-filed ones. As of early 2024, high return volumes and staffing shortages have contributed to longer wait times.

During peak tax season from February to April, processing times slow further as the IRS prioritizes current-year tax filings. Mailed returns must also be scanned and entered into the system before processing begins, adding more time.

The IRS has hired additional staff and expanded electronic filing options to reduce backlogs, but delays remain common, especially for complex amendments involving multiple tax years or adjustments to previously audited returns.

Additional Verification

Some amended returns require extra scrutiny, which can extend processing time. If the IRS identifies discrepancies between the amended return and its records, it may conduct a more detailed review.

This often happens when taxpayers amend returns to claim additional credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC), which have strict eligibility requirements.

Large changes in reported income or deductions may also trigger further verification. For example, if a taxpayer significantly increases reported business expenses on Schedule C, the IRS may request documentation. Similarly, if an amended return results in a large refund, the IRS may take extra steps to confirm accuracy before issuing payment.

In some cases, the IRS may send a CP2000 notice if there is a mismatch between reported income and third-party data, such as W-2s or 1099s. If this happens, the taxpayer must respond with supporting documents, which can further delay processing. If the IRS suspects fraud or identity theft, the return may be placed under review, requiring the taxpayer to verify their identity before the amendment is processed.

Methods to Check Status

Tracking an amended return’s progress helps determine whether it is still within the expected timeframe or if further action is needed.

The IRS provides an online tool called “Where’s My Amended Return?” which updates daily. Taxpayers must enter their Social Security number, date of birth, and ZIP code to check their status. The tool provides three possible updates: Received, Adjusted, or Completed. If the status remains unchanged for an extended period, additional review may be required.

For those who prefer to check by phone, the IRS operates a dedicated amended return hotline at 866-464-2050. However, wait times can be long, especially during peak tax season. Having a copy of the amended return on hand can help when speaking with an IRS representative.

If an amended return was mailed, tracking its delivery through USPS or a private courier service can confirm when it reached the IRS. Since mailed returns take longer to enter the system, knowing the exact delivery date can help estimate when processing might begin. If weeks pass without an update in the IRS tracking tool, verifying the mailing address used is important, as sending a return to the wrong IRS processing center can cause significant delays.

If more than 20 weeks have passed with no updates, contacting the IRS directly through a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) may be necessary. These centers offer in-person support, though appointments are typically required. Taxpayers experiencing financial hardship due to a delayed refund may qualify for assistance through the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS), an independent division within the IRS that helps resolve long-standing processing issues.

Correcting Mistakes

Errors in an amended return can lead to further delays or rejection, making accuracy essential.

One common mistake is failing to update all affected tax forms when making changes. For example, if a taxpayer adjusts reported income, they must also revise related schedules, such as Schedule SE for self-employment tax or Form 8862 for credit eligibility verification. Overlooking these adjustments can result in discrepancies that require additional IRS review.

Mathematical miscalculations are another frequent issue. While tax software can help minimize errors, those filing manually should double-check all figures, particularly when recalculating adjusted gross income (AGI), taxable income, or credits. Even minor mistakes can cause processing delays.

Selecting the correct tax year on Form 1040-X is also important. Each amended return corresponds to a specific year, and using the wrong version of the form can lead to processing errors. Taxpayers should verify they are using the most recent version and that the tax year at the top is correctly marked.

When Further Action May Be Required

If an amended return remains unprocessed beyond the expected timeframe or if the IRS indicates an issue, taxpayers may need to take additional steps.

If the IRS tracking tool shows no updates for an extended period, contacting the IRS directly may be necessary. Calling the amended return hotline or visiting a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) can clarify whether the return is simply delayed or if additional information is required. If the IRS has sent a notice requesting documentation, responding promptly is crucial to avoid further setbacks.

In cases where a refund is significantly delayed and causing financial hardship, the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) may be able to intervene and expedite processing.

If the IRS rejects an amended return due to errors or missing details, taxpayers should carefully review the rejection notice to determine the issue. Common reasons for rejection include failing to include required schedules, discrepancies in reported income, or submitting an amendment that contradicts IRS records. If a return is rejected, filing a corrected version as soon as possible can help minimize further delays.

If an amended return results in a balance due and the IRS has not processed it, taxpayers should ensure they have made any necessary payments to avoid penalties or interest.