E-file adjusting refund

[ILtaxpayer]

I filed my 2019 return and had an overpayment of $5,000 which I applied to 2020 estimated taxes, rather than getting a refund.   Later I discovered a $2,000 error (overstated deduction) which will reduce my refund to $3000.    I don't owe anything -- it just reduces my payment for 2020.   But TurboTax e-file keeps telling me I need to write a check for $2000.  How do I avoid that?

[ILtaxpayer]

Just to clarify my question, should've added -- I'm trying to e-file a 1040X for 2019 to reduce the refund and payment to apply to 2020. But I don't need to write a check and TurboTax keeps telling me that I do.

[Critter-3]

Since you must be using the downloaded program you will need to switch to the FORMS mode and make the adjustment on the 1040X line 18 manually ... do an override.  Then also adjust the amount applied to next year on line 23. 

[fanfare]

@Critter-3   @ILtaxpayer  I don't think you can do that. Once you apply the funds to next year you can't reduce it.

Line 23 is for a refund. Taxpayer owes.

Ergo TurboTax is right.

[Critter-3]

@fanfare 

I stand corrected ... however @ILtaxpayer  you can delay filing the amended return until you have the money if you wish since you have 3 years to amend.  

[ILtaxpayer]

@fanfare @Critter-3

Thank you both for your comments.    The problem is TurboTax is erroneously making me twice for the refund (I think).  Line 20 shows I owe an extra $2000.  I'd be okay with paying that but then I should still have $5000 refund to apply to 2020 estimated taxes.   BUT -- Lines 20 and 22 (amount applied to 2020 estimated taxes) are ALSO reduced by $2000 and that shouldn't be.   If I follow what TurboTax is doing I would pay twice.    If I'm going to pay the extra $2000 now, shouldn't I still have the full $5000 refund to apply to 2020?

[Critter-3]

Ok ... I think I understand where you are getting confused ... line 18 should show the $5000 that you applied to the 2020 return ... that is a done deal, it cannot be changed ... it is just like if you had gotten the refund and then sent a check to the IRS. 

Then the balance due you owe is on line 20 ... this is the amount you need to send with the 1040X.  Leave lines 21-23 blank.