Fill out Form 1040-X (Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return) online
Form 1040-X is used to correct errors or make changes to a previously filed Form 1040 tax return. You can use it to change your filing status, correct income or deductions, or claim credits you missed on the original return.
How to fill out Form 1040-X (Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return)
Gather your original return and supporting documents
Obtain a copy of the original Form 1040 you filed. Collect any new or corrected documents (W-2s, 1099s, receipts) that support the changes you need to make.
Enter the tax year and corrected amounts
Check the calendar year or enter the fiscal year you are amending. For each line that changes, enter the amount from your original return in Column A, the net change in Column B, and the corrected amount in Column C.
Explain the changes in Part III
Provide a clear, specific explanation for each change. For example, state that you received a corrected W-2, discovered an unreported 1099, or are claiming a previously missed deduction.
Attach supporting forms and schedules
Include any new or changed schedules (Schedule A, Schedule C, etc.) and forms that support the amendments. Only attach the forms that have changed, not the entire return.
Sign and submit the amended return
Sign and date the form. If filing jointly, both spouses must sign. File electronically or mail to the appropriate IRS address. If you owe additional tax, include payment to avoid interest and penalties.
About Form 1040-X (Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return)
Who needs this form
Taxpayers who need to correct errors on a previously filed Form 1040, such as an incorrect filing status, unreported income, missed deductions or credits, or wrong dependent information. You generally have three years from the original filing date to file an amended return.
Where to submit
File electronically using tax software that supports Form 1040-X, or mail to the IRS address listed in the instructions. Amended returns filed on paper are processed by hand and can take up to 16 weeks.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-24
- Check the latest official form instructions for the filing year that applies to you.
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not waiting for the original return to be processed before filing the amendment
- Forgetting to attach supporting schedules and forms that changed
- Not explaining the reason for each change in Part III of the form
- Filing an amended return when a simple math error correction is being handled automatically by the IRS
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How long does it take the IRS to process an amended return?
Electronically filed amended returns are typically processed within 8 to 12 weeks. Paper-filed amended returns can take up to 16 weeks or longer. You can check the status at irs.gov using the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool starting three weeks after you file.
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