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New Member
posted Jan 18, 2020 5:22:19 PM

Mistake While Filing

I Think A Mistake Was Made While Filing Online But The Status Is Pending Can Your Return Be Canceled Once Submitted? 

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4 Replies
Level 15
Jan 18, 2020 5:23:17 PM

You cannot change or add anything on the return that you just e-filed, nor can you stop it.  It is too late, just like when you put an envelope in a US mailbox on the corner.

If you left out a W-2, or a dependent, or a 1099 etc…DO NOT change your return while it is pending.  The changes will go nowhere.

Now you have to wait until the IRS either rejects or accepts your return.  If your return is rejected, you will be able to go into your account and make the necessary changes to your tax return and re-submit your return.

 If the IRS accepts your return, however, then you have to wait longer until it has been fully processed and you have received your refund.  THEN you can prepare an amended tax return and mail it in. You have to be able to work from that return exactly the way it was when it was e-filed originally.  You will need to use a form called a 1040X. You cannot e-file an amended return.  They have to be mailed, and it takes at least 2-4 months for the IRS to process an amended return.  Meanwhile, DO NOT go in and start changing anything on your return in the system, or you will make a mess for yourself.  Sit tight and wait until you see what the IRS does with the return you just e-filed

Level 15
Jan 18, 2020 5:24:58 PM

No, an e-filed tax return cannot be retrieved, canceled or changed.  You will need to wait for the IRS to either accept or reject the tax return before you can make any changes to the return.  Either directly if rejected and then re-file.  Or amending if accepted.  An amended tax return using Form 1040X can only be printed, signed, dated and mailed by you to the IRS, it cannot be e-filed.

Level 1
Jan 22, 2020 10:00:44 AM

IF I DO AN AMENDED RETURN, WILL I HAVE TO PAY BACK MY REFUND?

Level 15
Jan 22, 2020 10:07:25 AM

No.  The amended return is only for the difference you need to pay or get back.  Whether you have to pay back the whole refund depends on why you need to amend.