Taxpayers often need to amend their tax returns due to errors or additional information affecting their original filing. Understanding the processing time for these amendments is crucial, as it can impact financial planning and cash flow.
Typical Processing Period
The processing period for an amended tax return often takes longer than standard returns. The IRS generally advises allowing 8–12 weeks for processing, though some cases can take up to 16 weeks. During peak tax season, higher volumes may extend processing times. Simple corrections, such as updating a Social Security number, are generally resolved faster than amendments involving complex financial transactions or multiple tax years. If changes include adjustments to income, deductions, or credits, the IRS may require additional time to verify accuracy, particularly when supporting documentation is involved.1Internal Revenue Service. Where’s My Amended Return?
Factors That Can Affect Timing
Several factors influence how long an amended tax return takes to process, including the IRS’s workload and taxpayer-specific circumstances.
Internal Verification Steps
The IRS conducts a detailed internal verification process to ensure the accuracy of amended returns. This includes cross-referencing amended information with the original return and third-party reports, such as W-2s or 1099s. Discrepancies flagged by automated systems may trigger further manual review, which can extend processing times—particularly for amendments involving complex financial data.
Errors in Original Filing
Mistakes in the original filing, such as incorrect Social Security numbers or misreported income, can delay processing. The IRS must resolve these issues before addressing the amendment, often requiring additional correspondence with the taxpayer. For example, correcting an income error may require documentation like pay stubs. Errors may also result in penalties or interest charges under Internal Revenue Code Section 6662, which imposes a 20% penalty on underpayments caused by negligence or substantial understatement of income tax.2Internal Revenue Service. Accuracy-Related Penalty
Additional Documentation Requirements
Amended returns often require supporting documentation to justify changes, such as receipts for new deductions or records related to business expenses. Gathering and submitting this documentation, combined with the IRS review process, can extend processing times. Taxpayers should organize and submit all necessary documents promptly to help expedite the review.
Methods to Monitor Progress
Taxpayers can track the status of their amended return using the “Where’s My Amended Return?” tool on the IRS website, which typically becomes available about three weeks after filing. This tool provides updates through three stages—Received, Adjusted, and Completed—and you can also call the dedicated line for amended returns at 866-464-2050 for status help.3Internal Revenue Service. Amended Returns & Form 1040-X: How to Check Status
Receiving the Adjusted Refund
After processing an amended return, the IRS issues the adjusted refund. If you amend a return for tax years 2021 or later and e-file Form 1040‑X, you can request direct deposit to your bank account; if you submit a paper Form 1040‑X, the refund will be issued by paper check. Ensuring the IRS has an up-to-date mailing address can help avoid delays.4Internal Revenue Service. File an Amended Return