The IRS provides several options for taxpayers to check the status of their amended tax returns.The main resource available is the “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool online tool on the IRS website. This tool allows taxpayers to track the processing of their Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
IRS Amended Return Status
Filing an amended tax return, also known as Form 1040-X, becomes necessary when you discover errors or omissions on your original tax return. This could involve claiming missed deductions or credits, reporting incorrect income amounts, or needing to adjust your filing status.
The main resource available is the “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool available on the IRS website. This tool enables taxpayers to monitor the status of their Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
To use the tool, taxpayers need to enter their Social Security number, the tax year of the amended return, and the refund or balance due amount. The tool will show the status of the amended return, including its receipt date, processing status, and refund issue date.
How to check the IRS Amended Return Status?
The IRS offers a convenient online tool called “Where’s My Amended Return?” to track the processing status of your electronically filed Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
- Visit the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return
- Scroll down to the “Where’s My Amended Return?” section.
- Click the “Check Your Amended Return Status” button.
- Enter your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Mention your date of birth in the criteria of DD-MM-YYYY.
- Type your zip code.
- Click “Submit.”
IRS Processing Timeframes for Amended Returns
The IRS has established timeframes for amended return processing, but several factors can influence the actual time it takes to receive a response.
The IRS generally processes electronically filed amended returns within 8 to 12 weeks. In some instances, the processing time can extend up to 16 weeks. This timeframe is established to allow the IRS to thoroughly review your amended return and ensure its accuracy.
The typical processing window includes:
- 8-12 Weeks: This is the most common processing timeframe for amended returns. The IRS prioritises processing electronically filed returns due to their efficiency.
- 12-16 Weeks: More complex amended returns or those requiring additional verification by the IRS may take longer to process.
- This could involve situations where you’re claiming significant deductions or credits, have a business involved in your tax return, or the IRS needs to contact you for more information.
- Paper-Filed Returns: Paper-filed amended returns generally take longer to process compared to electronic filings.The IRS doesn’t provide a specific time frame for paper returns, but expect a longer waiting period.
Potential Reasons for Delays in Processing IRS Amended Return
While the IRS strives to process amended returns within their established timeframes, there can be instances where delays occur. Some potential reasons why your amended return might be experiencing a processing hold-up:
- Missing Information: Ensure your Form 1040-X is filled out completely and accurately. Incomplete information, such as missing Social Security numbers for dependents or incorrect mailing addresses, can cause delays as the IRS needs to contact you for clarification.
- Inconsistent Information: Inconsistent information between your amended return and your original return or supporting documents can raise red flags and lead to delays for verification purposes.
- Significant Adjustments: Amending your return for substantial changes in income, deductions, or credits may require more scrutiny by the IRS, leading to a longer processing time.
- Business Income: If your amended return involves business income or losses, the IRS might need to dedicate additional resources to reviewing the information, potentially causing a delay.
- Verification Requirements: The IRS might request supporting documentation to verify the information on your amended return. This could include W-2s, 1099s, receipts, or other relevant documents. Delays can occur if you don’t respond promptly to these requests.
- Paper-Filed Amended Returns: Paper-filed amended returns generally take longer to process compared to electronically filed returns due to manual data entry and processing steps.
- IRS Backlogs: Occasionally, the IRS may experience backlogs due to staffing shortages or unforeseen circumstances. These backlogs can impact processing times for amended returns.
What should I do if my IRS Amended Return is delayed?
Facing a delay in processing your amended return can be frustrating. However, there are steps you can take to understand the situation and potentially expedite the process.
Evaluate the Reason for Delay:
- Review Potential Causes: Refer back to the section “Potential Reasons for Delays in Processing Your Amended Return” to understand factors that might be contributing to the delay.
- Consider if your amended return involved complexities, errors, or missing information.
Contact the IRS
- After 16 Weeks: If it’s been more than 16 weeks since electronically filing your amended return and the online tool or phone call hasn’t provided a clear explanation for the delay, consider contacting the IRS directly.
- Phone: Call the IRS at 1-866-464-2050 and explain the delay you’re experiencing with your amended return. Be prepared for a wait on hold and provide your tax information for verification.