Why amending last yr tax filing status from MFS to MFJ doesn't return any money even though standard deduction is changed to $25,000 on amendment?

[JamesG1]

Difficult to know without seeing the tax return(s) involved.  

Some credits are not available for MFS.  Have you reviewed the Deductions & Credits portion of the software to see whether there are any benefits available?

[skkumar29]

In 2021 tax return file, I did pay more tax due to standard deduction of $12,500. In amendment, updated filing status from MFS to MFJ which did change standard deduction from $12,500 to $25,000 but couldn't see any refund even though gross income wasn't changed. Do I need to do manually update any item to reflect tax return?

[xmasbaby0]

Do keep in mind that if you filed married filing separately last year, that BOTH of you had a standard deduction of $12,500  on your tax returns.  Or did your spouse not file at all?

[skkumar29]

yes she has no income and didn't file and i filed MFS incorrectly last year

[skkumar29]

What needs to be done to fix it for a return in amend?

[xmasbaby0]

@skkumar29 

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1899507-how-do-i-amend-a-separate-return-to-married-filing-jointly

https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/tax-return/amend-change-correct-return-a...

Only certain paid tax pros can still e-file past year amended returns. You cannot e-file an amended return that you prepared yourself using TurboTax.  Your 1040X must be printed, signed and dated in ink, and then you need to mail it in.  Use a mailing service like certified mail so you will know the IRS received it, since you will have a long wait for it to be processed.

Even during “normal” times it takes about four months for the IRS to process an amended return.  During the pandemic and due to the severe backlog at the IRS it is taking much longer—six to nine  months or more for many amended returns.  Do not expect quick results from amending.  When the IRS issues a refund for an amended return it will be by check.  They do not make direct deposits for refunds for amended returns.  You can watch for information here:

https://www.irs.gov/Filing/Individuals/Amended-Returns-(Form-1040-X)/Wheres-My-Amended-Return-1