What is the penalty for an updated return?

If you discover an error on your tax return after filing, the IRS allows you to amend your return using Form 1040-X. This form corrects mistakes, such as incorrect income, missed deductions, or credits. While filing an amended return is a necessary step to ensure your return is accurate, many taxpayers wonder if penalties apply. Here’s what you need to know about the potential penalties for updating your tax return.

Filing an Amended Return

To correct an error, you must submit an amended return using Form 1040-X. The IRS encourages taxpayers to fix mistakes, so there is no penalty for simply filing an updated return. However, penalties may apply depending on the nature of the correction.

Penalties for Updating a Return

1. Late Payment Penalties
   If you owe additional taxes due to the amendment, you may face a late payment penalty. This penalty is 0.5% of the unpaid taxes for each month the payment is late, up to a maximum of 25%. It’s important to pay any balance owed as soon as possible to reduce these penalties.
2. Interest on Unpaid Taxes
   In addition to late payment penalties, interest will accrue on any unpaid taxes. The IRS charges interest daily, starting from the original due date (typically April 15) until the balance is paid in full.
3. Accuracy-Related Penalty
   If the amendment corrects a significant error or intentional misstatement (like underreporting income or inflating deductions), the IRS may impose an accuracy-related penalty. This penalty is typically 20% of the underpaid taxes due to the mistake.
4. Fraud Penalty
   In cases of fraud (e.g., deliberately understating income or overstating deductions), the IRS can impose a fraud penalty. This penalty is much higher, typically 75% of the unpaid taxes due to fraud.

When No Penalties Apply

• If the amendment corrects an error but doesn’t change the taxes owed, no penalty will be assessed.
• If you amend your return to claim a missed refund, the IRS will process it without penalty.
• No penalties for filing an amended return if taxes owed were paid on time and in full.

Final Thoughts

Filing an amended return can help resolve mistakes, but there are potential penalties if taxes owed aren’t paid promptly. The sooner you correct your return and pay any outstanding taxes, the lower your penalties and interest will be. If you need help navigating the amendment process, consider consulting a tax professional.