Amend 1040 due to name change?

[kellieneedshelp]

My husband adopted my son in 2020. I filed my 2020 taxes with my son's new last name. We received a partial return and a notice that the IRS changed our credits. That led me to realize my error. I changed my son's birth certificate but failed to update his social security card, so now it doesn't match the IRS records. Should I file an amended 1040? Or should I change his name on his social security card and provide that info to the IRS? Not sure the easiest/quickest way to go about this.

[KrisD15]

If the IRS letter includes directions for disputing the change, and it should, follow those directions and submit the proof/documentation that way. 

[kellieneedshelp]

Unfortunately, the directions the IRS gave in the notice was (1) call, which I did. No one could help me. 5 hours wasted.... and eventually I figured out the issue on my own. (2) "contact us in writing within 60 days of the date of this notice". But that's basically it. It doesn't say what to provide or what needs to be included. No one has been able to tell me how to best rectify my error, now that I know it's related the the social having a different last name. 

[MaryM428 · Accepted solution]

Make the change to the social security card.  Then file the amended return.  With the amended return, include a letter that details exactly what happened, so that the agent who reviews your return will understand the issue and be able to resolve it.  Make sure you include copies of the new SS card, the original SS Card, and any other documents which will help the agent to understand.  

@@kellieneedshelp

[kellieneedshelp]

Wonderful. Thank you @MaryM428!