I filed an amended return after my first submission was accepted on 2/14. Do they process the first one and then I pay back the difference?

[DawnC0 · Accepted solution]

Yes, that is exactly how it works.  They process the first one and send you the full refund.  Then you complete, print, sign and mail the 1040X (it will show the net change only) and include any amount due from the 1040X.  Make sure to pay the balance due by the tax deadline to avoid any interest and penalties.

How to Amend... 

[VolvoGirl]

You will still get the first refund or need to pay the original tax due.  Then the amended return is only for the difference you get back or owe.  In fact you should not even amend until the first return has fully processed and you get the first refund or your tax due payment has cleared.  And make sure the original refund or tax paid shows up on the amended return.  You can confirm this by printing your amendment and looking at the 1040X. Line 18 should be your original refund amount and line 22 should be your additional refund.  If you paid on your original return it will be on line 16.  If there is an amount owed with the amendment, it will be on line 20.

You have to include a check for a tax due when you mail the amended return.  Do not use any vouchers that may print out.  If you have a refund they will mail you a check.  They don’t do Direct Deposit for refunds.