Spouse passed on 1/4/19. When I filed, I thought to use the status as of 12/31/18. I filed as if he were alive. Refund seems to be "stuck".. Do I need to amend?

[CALNY]

Additional info- I changed my bank account info also.  I am assuming IRS thinks it's a bogus filing since his SS number was "killed" due to his death report.. They haven't contacted me as of yet.  Should I amend, or wait?

[Kat · Accepted solution]

First, please accept my sincere condolences on the death of your spouse.

You did file correctly by reporting the status of the taxpayers as of 12/31/18.  So you're good there.  I'm not sure about changing the banking info, but I doubt that's an issue.

You won't want to amend your return until your originally filed return has processed and a refund has been issued.  If your return was accepted by the IRS and your refund "Approved", the IRS will issue your refund.  You can check the official status of your refund by using the IRS'  "Where's My Refund" webpage, linked below.

https://www.irs.gov/refunds

If the bank somehow rejects your direct deposit (doubtful), the IRS will issue a paper check and mail it to the address on your tax return.  For now, waiting is the only option you have.  You can try to contact the IRS by telephone by calling 1-800-829-1040.