You will not be able to e-file your own return for 2018 no matter what. You have to print, sign and mail your 2018 tax return, since your granddaughter's SSN is already in the system now. SHE has to prepare an amended return and print, sign and mail it to the IRS to change her answer to the question about whether she can be claimed as someone else's dependent. It will take about 4 months for the IRS to process her amended return. YOU do not have to wait for that--just go ahead and mail your own return that claims her.
When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s. Use a mailing service that will track it, such as UPS or certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.
For your dependent:
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1894381-how-to-amend-change-or-correct-a-return-you-already-filed?...
A 1040X cannot be e-filed. It must be printed and mailed. It will take about 3-4 months for the IRS to process an amended return. It is a good idea to use a mailing service that will track it, like UPS or certified mail, so you will know it was received.
Wait about 3 weeks from mailing and you can check the status of your amended return:
https://www.irs.gov/Filing/Individuals/Amended-Returns-(Form-1040-X)/Wheres-My-Amended-Return-1
https://www.irs.gov/filing/individuals/amended-returns-form-1040-x/amended-return-frequently-asked-q...
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1908543-do-i-need-to-amend
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2566895-what-does-it-mean-to-amend-a-return
If it is any comfort to you, this is a very common problem--teenagers and students often do this without realizing the problem they will cause for the person who can claim them as a dependent. Then they learn the hard way.
**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**
