How to Submit an Amended Tax Return

October 02, 2026 by Charla Suaste

It can happen to the best of us: life gets busy, and suddenly the tax deadline is upon us. In a rush to finish on time, we might scramble through the math and file our return without a second thought. On the flip side, some of us may be too eager – rushing to file the moment our W-2 arrives before we’ve received all our tax forms or double-checked any numbers. 
  
Whether you’re prone to racing against the clock or jumping the gun, both situations can create a recipe for an incomplete or inaccurate tax return. 
 
While the IRS discovers and corrects most errors (whether clerical or mathematical) during processing, there are times you will be responsible for correcting the record. For federal individual tax returns, this is done using an Amended Individual Income Tax Return, otherwise known as Form 1040X.  
 
To make the process as painless as possible, here are the essential do’s and don'ts for filing an amended tax return: 

 

The Do’s 

Do wait for any expected refunds.  
If you are due a refund from your original filed tax return, the IRS recommends waiting to receive it before filing Form 1040X. If you are expecting a physical check in the mail, you can go ahead and cash or deposit it. Once this is complete, file your amended return. Keep in mind: If your amended return reduces your refund, you may have to pay some or all of the refund you already received back.  
 
Do e-file if you can.  
Forget the old rumor that amendments can only be completed via paper! You can now file Form 1040X electronically using commercial tax software, provided you are amending the current tax year or the two prior tax years. E-filing is faster, minimizes manual data entry errors, and cuts out mailing transit time.  
 
Do choose direct deposit.  
If you file your Form 1040X electronically, you can now request your refund via direct deposit by entering your bank routing and account details. Note: If you choose to mail a paper Form 1040X, you will still receive a paper check.  
 
Do file to correct clear financial errors.  
You should file an amendment if you need to change your filing status, report additional income (like a 1099 form you received late), or claim missed credits and deductions that alter your overall tax liability.  
 
Do mind the three-year window. To claim a tax credit or refund, you must generally file Form 1040X within three years from the date you filed your original return, or within two years from the date you paid any tax—whichever is later.  

 

The Don’ts 

Don’t amend if you receive a math error notice.  
The IRS automated systems catch and fix math issues during initial processing. If they correct a math error on your original return, they will mail you a notice explaining the adjustment. No 1040X is required. 
 
Don’t panic over a simple missing form.  
If your original return was missing a particular schedule or W-2 form, the IRS will often find the discrepancy during processing and mail you a letter requesting the missing documentation. Hold tight until they ask for it. 
 
Don’t expect an overnight turnaround.  
Even with the speed boost of e-filing, amended returns require careful attention. The IRS states that standard processing for Form 1040X generally takes 8 to 12 weeks but can take up to 16 weeks depending on the complexity of the changes or seasonal backlogs.  
 
 

How to Track Your Updated Return 

If you filed an amended return and are feeling anxious about the wait, you can easily track your progress. The IRS offers a dedicated "Where's My Amended Return?" online tool (and a toll-free hotline at 866-464-2050). Your amendment will typically pop up in their system three weeks after you click submit or drop it in the mail. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and ZIP code ready to check the status! 

 

If You Need Assistance 

If you are unsure about whether to file an amended return, we always recommend checking with a tax professional to have them review your specific situation. They can guide you on the next steps and determine whether an amendment is necessary, and then provide assistance with filing one, if needed.