How to Track Your Amended Tax Return Status

An amended tax return allows you to correct errors, add missed deductions or credits, or update filing information on your original federal income tax return. To file an amended return, you must use IRS Form 1040X, which applies to original Forms 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ. Understanding how to track your amended tax return status helps you monitor your refund or outstanding balance and provides peace of mind during the often lengthy processing period.

What Is an Amended Tax Return?

An amended tax return is a revised version of a tax return previously filed with the IRS. Taxpayers typically file an amendment to address mistakes, update income or deductions, change filing status, or claim credits that were omitted on the original submission. The official form used is IRS Form 1040X. For more about this form, see FinHelp’s article on Form 1040-X – Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.

How Does Tracking Your Amended Tax Return Status Work?

The IRS provides an online tool called Where’s My Amended Return? which lets taxpayers track the status of their Form 1040X. This tool updates once daily, usually overnight, providing near real-time information. The status moves through three main phases:

• Received: The IRS has received your amended return.
• Adjusted: The IRS is reviewing and processing your changes.
• Completed: The IRS has finished processing your amendment; refunds or payments are finalized.

When Can You Start Tracking Your Amended Return?

You must wait at least 3 weeks after mailing your Form 1040X before the IRS tracking tool shows any status updates. Because amended returns are manually reviewed, processing times typically range from 8 to 12 weeks, but delays can extend longer depending on complexity and IRS workload.

Step-by-Step: How to Track Your Amended Tax Return Status Online

1. Visit the IRS Where’s My Amended Return? page.
2. Enter your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), date of birth, and the ZIP code from your amended return.
3. Review the current status of your amendment.
4. Check regularly, as the tool updates daily.

Can You Call the IRS Instead?

If online information isn’t available or you need to ask questions after 12 weeks, call the IRS at 1-866-464-2050 for amended return inquiries. Have your tax details ready and expect potential wait times.

Paper Filing vs. Electronic Filing

Currently, the IRS primarily requires mailed (paper) submissions for Form 1040X. However, some tax software providers now offer electronic filing for amended returns which may speed up delivery but tracking still uses the same IRS tool.

Real-Life Example

Consider Jane, who discovered she missed deducting medical expenses on her 2022 tax return. She mailed her amended Form 1040X and waited three weeks. Upon checking the IRS tool, her status was “Received.” After a few more weeks, the status updated to “Adjusted” as the IRS reviewed her changes. Two months post-submission, it marked “Completed,” and she received her refund promptly.

Tips for Effective Tracking

• Keep a copy of your filed Form 1040X and proof of mailing.
• Wait at least three weeks before checking status.
• Use exactly the SSN, date of birth, and ZIP code from your tax documents.
• Check the tracking tool weekly to stay updated.
• Be patient; amended returns require more time than original returns.

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

• Expecting immediate updates: The IRS system takes at least 3 weeks to process.
• Assuming original refund status covers amendments: Amended returns have a separate tracking system.
• Calling the IRS without proper details: Always have your personal and tax information ready to avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does processing take? Usually 8-12 weeks but can be longer during busy seasons.

Can I amend multiple tax years at once? Yes, but file a separate Form 1040X for each year.

Will the IRS notify me when the amendment is processed? Sometimes by mail, but best to track online or via phone.

Is electronic filing of amendments allowed? Some software providers support e-filing for amended returns, though paper filing remains common.

Summary Table for Tracking Amended Returns

For comprehensive guidance on filing an amended tax return, see The Process for Amending a Federal Tax Return.

For official IRS instructions, visit IRS Form 1040X Instructions.

This tracking system helps you stay informed and prepared while the IRS processes your corrections, reducing uncertainty and ensuring timely follow-up if necessary.