Written by Lorrie Contreras | Last updated: February 2026
Realized something was wrong with your tax return after filing? An amended return (Form 1040-X) lets you correct mistakes. But not every situation requires one.
When You SHOULD File an Amended Return
- You received a W-2 or 1099 after filing
- You forgot to claim a deduction or credit you were entitled to
- You need to change your filing status
- You need to add or remove a dependent
- You reported income incorrectly
When You Should NOT File an Amended Return
- Math errors: The IRS typically catches and corrects these automatically
- Missing forms: The IRS will usually send a notice requesting missing schedules
- To speed up your refund: Amending does not make your refund arrive faster
- State-only changes: Some state corrections can be filed separately without a federal amendment
How the Amendment Process Works
- We review your original return and identify changes needed
- We prepare Form 1040-X with corrected information
- We explain the changes and expected outcome
- The amended return is filed (electronically for recent years, by mail for older years)
- Processing typically takes 8-16 weeks
Time Limits
You generally have 3 years from the date you filed the original return (or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later) to file an amended return for a refund.
Need to amend a return? Learn about our amended return service or contact us.