How to File an Amended Return Form for 2020
Amending your tax return can be a necessary step if you’ve made a mistake on your original return or if you’ve discovered additional income or deductions after filing. This guide will walk you through the process of filing an amended return for the 2020 tax year.
Understanding the Purpose of Amending Your Tax Return
Before diving into the specifics of how to file an amended return, it’s important to understand why you might need to do so. Here are some common reasons for amending your tax return:
- Mistakes in calculating your tax liability
- Discovered additional income or deductions after filing
- Changes in your filing status
- Corrections to your dependents’ information
Amending your return can help ensure that you’re paying the correct amount of tax and receiving any refunds or credits you’re entitled to.
Choosing the Right Form
For the 2020 tax year, you’ll need to use Form 1040X to file an amended return. This form is specifically designed for correcting errors on your original tax return. Here’s how to choose the right form:
- Use Form 1040X for individual tax returns.
- Use Form 1040X-EZ if you’re eligible to use the simplified version of Form 1040X.
- Use Form 1040X for partnerships, S corporations, estates, and trusts.
Make sure to use the correct form for your specific situation to ensure your amended return is processed correctly.
Gathering the Necessary Information
Before you start filling out Form 1040X, gather all the necessary information to ensure a smooth filing process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- Your filing status
- Your original tax return
- Any additional income or deductions you want to include
- Proof of any changes to your filing status or dependents
Having all this information on hand will help you complete the form accurately and efficiently.
Filling Out Form 1040X
Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to fill out Form 1040X. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Enter your name, Social Security number, and filing status on the first page.
- Enter the information from your original tax return on the second page.
- On the third page, enter the corrected information.
- On the fourth page, enter any additional income or deductions.
- On the fifth page, enter any changes to your filing status or dependents.
- On the sixth page, sign and date the form.
Be sure to double-check your work to ensure accuracy. If you’re unsure about any part of the form, consult a tax professional or the IRS website for guidance.
Submitting Your Amended Return
Once you’ve completed Form 1040X, you’ll need to submit it to the IRS. Here’s how to do it:
- Print the completed form and sign it.
- Mail the form to the appropriate IRS processing center. You can find the correct address on the IRS website or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
- Do not staple or clip the form together.
- Include any supporting documentation, such as proof of additional income or deductions.
Keep a copy of your amended return and any supporting documentation for your records.
Tracking Your Amended Return
After you’ve submitted your amended return, you may want to track its progress. The IRS offers several ways to do this:
- Use the IRS’s “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool on their website.
- Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
- Check your IRS account online if you have one.
It typically takes the IRS about 8-12 weeks to process an amended return. If you have any questions or concerns
