Amending several years

[YaMu]

I need to amend 2018, 2019, and 2020 - both federal and state (GA) taxes. I expect an extra refund for all - several hundred $s each.

Can I file (e-file/mail) them at the same time or do I need to wait for 2018 to be processed first and then continue with 2019? And then wait for 2019 being processed before amending 2020?

Reason is: does changing 2018 - when itemizing 2019 - affect 2019 after amend?

Same for 2019 amend - but in 2020 I used standard deductions.

Thx.

[HelenC12 · Accepted solution]

You can only mail in prior year amendments. 

I suggest you wait for the 2018 amended return to be processed before sending in your 2019 amended return. Likewise, wait for the 2019 amended return to be processed before sending in the 2020 amended return. I don't know the specifics of what you're amending but it may affect subsequent years. Another reason to wait is to make sure the IRS allows the amendments.

For tax year 2019, since you itemized, the state refund should be taxable on the federal return. You want to make sure you get the refund. If you enter the 2019 amended state refund on your 2020 amended return but the amount is different or not allowed, you'll have to amend your amended return.  

Additional information: How to amend (change or correct) a return you've already filed?