I entered 'place-holder' RMDs and forgot to correct them before e-filing. The correct RMDs were less than the actual distributions. How do I correct incorrect RMDs?

[dmertz]

Did your report the correct actual distribution amounts?  If so, your filed tax return is likely correct.  The actual amount required to have been distributed is reported nowhere on your tax return unless you explicitly told TurboTax that you had less distributed than required, in which case TurboTax would have included Form 5329 Part IV.

[HelenaC · Accepted solution]

Before you edit your 1099-R forms and enter the correct RMD amounts:

• If your return is still pending, wait to see if it gets accepted or rejected. 

• If your return gets rejected, you'll be able to change your return.  See How do I fix a rejected return? and Where do I enter my 1099-R? /edit my 1099-R.

• If your return was accepted by the IRS, you'll have to amend your income tax return(s). Edit the 1099-R forms and enter the correct RMD amounts.

See How to amend (change or correct) a return you already filed 

• Wait until your first return has been processed by the IRS. If you're amending to claim more money, the IRS says to wait until you've received your original refund before filing an amendment.

• Once you've received your original refund, feel free to cash or spend it while your amendment gets processed (this can take 12–16 weeks).

• Three weeks after you mailed your amendment, you can start tracking its progress at the IRS Where's My Amended Return? site.