Amended Tax Return Processing Time

Amending a tax return can be necessary if you made an error or missed including important information in your original filing. Understanding the amended tax return processing time is crucial for managing expectations and ensuring your corrections are properly addressed.

How Long Does Amended Tax Return Processing Take?

Here’s what to expect when filing an amended return:

Processing Time: Amended tax returns can take up to 20 weeks for processing, but most are completed within 16–20 weeks.
Factors Influencing Time:
- Accuracy Matters: Returns with errors may need additional time.
- IRS Workload: Processing may be delayed during high-volume periods.
- E-File vs. Mail: E-filing can shorten processing times compared to mailed paper returns.

When Should You File an Amended Tax Return?

File an amended return if you missed income, claimed incorrect deductions, or need to update your filing status.

Missed Income: If income was omitted from your original filing.
Incorrect Deductions or Credits: Mistakes in deductions, credits, or filing status.
Change in Filing Status: If marital status or dependency status changes after filing.

Steps to Track Your Amended Tax Return

Tracking your amended tax return is easy with the IRS-provided tool, “Where’s My Amended Return?” Here’s how to use it:

Visit the IRS Website: Use the “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool.
Enter Required Information: Provide your Social Security Number (SSN), date of birth, and ZIP code.
Check Status: Keep in mind that it can take three weeks for your return to appear in the system after submission.

Amended Tax Return Processing Time

Common Reasons for Amended Tax Return Delays

Amended return processing times may be delayed for several reasons:

Complex Changes: Returns involving complicated income or deduction changes may take longer.
Manual Review: Amended returns require manual review, which adds time.
High Volume at the IRS: During peak periods, delays are common due to backlogs.

Key Tips for Filing an Amended Tax Return

To ensure your amended tax return is processed as quickly as possible, follow these tips:

Accuracy is Crucial: Double-check all information before submitting.
Attach Supporting Documents: Include necessary documents, such as W-2s or 1099s, to support changes.
Wait for Refund: If expecting a refund from your original return, wait until you receive it before amending.

Potential Consequences of Not Filing an Amended Return

Consequence	Description
Penalties and Interest	Failing to correct errors may result in penalties and interest on the underpaid taxes.
Increased Audit Risk	Errors that remain uncorrected may raise red flags, increasing the risk of an IRS audit.
Loss of Refund Opportunities	Missing credits or deductions that could result in a refund means you may lose out on money.
Future Filing Complications	Inaccuracies in previous filings may cause issues or complications with future tax returns.

Our Services

Dimov CPA provides specialized services to help you file amended tax returns correctly and efficiently:

Review of Original Return: We review your original return to identify errors or missed opportunities for deductions and credits.
Preparation of Form 1040-X: We prepare the amended return, ensuring accuracy to avoid further delays.
E-Filing Assistance: Where applicable, we assist with e-filing to speed up processing.
IRS Correspondence: If additional information is required, we manage all IRS communication.

Conclusion

Amended tax return processing time can take up to 20 weeks, depending on various factors. Filing an accurate and complete amended return helps ensure timely processing. Contact Dimov CPA for expert assistance with your amended tax return to help you navigate the amendment process smoothly.

FAQs

How Can I File an Amended Tax Return?

File Form 1040-X to amend your return. For tax years 2019 and later, e-filing is available for certain amended returns.

How Long Will It Take to Get My Refund from an Amended Return?

If due a refund, expect it by check, even if the original was direct deposit.

When Should I Contact the IRS About My Amended Return?

Wait at least 20 weeks after mailing before contacting the IRS.

Why Is My Amended Return Taking Longer Than Expected?

High-volume periods, manual review needs, or return inaccuracies may cause delays.

Can I Expedite the Processing of My Amended Tax Return?

No, the IRS processes amended returns manually, and there is no way to expedite processing.

What Should I Do if My Amended Return is Rejected?

Review the IRS notice for rejection reasons, correct the errors, and refile the amended return.

Can I E-file an Amended Tax Return for Any Year?

The IRS currently allows e-filing for amended returns from tax years 2019 and later. For earlier years, amended returns must be mailed.

Will an Amended Return Delay My Current-Year Tax Refund?

No, an amended return does not affect your current-year refund, as it is processed separately.

Amended Tax Return Processing Time