I just filed my 2018 tax return and realized that I didn't see a way to input the 2017 state taxes paid in 2018. The amount was a few thousand. Do I amend my return?

[shirleypblakeney]

I do estimated taxes for Federal and State taxes. When inputting taxes paid for my 2018 tax return, I put down the withholding, state and federal taxes paid, but I didn't put down the "2017 state taxes paid in 2018" because I didn't see the option. The amount was a few thousand and I don't know if amending this is as simple as explaining the error, or if amending a return is considered a huge deal. I also don't know if amending the return to include those taxes paid could reduce the federal tax bill I had to pay.

[AnnetteB]

You would need to amend your return to make the change and include the state taxes for 2017 that you paid in 2018.  Amending is not a big deal, it is simply making a correction to the return you have already filed.  A short sentence explaining the correction will be included as part of the amended return.

If you claimed itemized deductions on your Federal return, you can take a look at your Schedule A to determine if amending your return would make a difference.  Look at Schedule A line 7.  If line 7 is $10,000 (or $5,000 if you used Married Filing Separate filing status), then amending your return would not make a difference.  You have already hit the maximum limit for Taxes You Paid.

If you did not claim itemized deductions on your Federal return, then amending your return may make a difference if the additional amount would increase your deductions above the standard deduction. 

See the information below for instructions to amend your return. 

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