Do I have to file amended taxes for 2016 before I can file for 2017 so I can fix my mis-report in 2016 of a Roth IRA contribution as a Traditional IRA contribution?

[tramorejohnny]

The mis-reporting will mean I owe my State and the USG about $25 each.  TurboTax is asking me to state my 2016 Roth contribution as part of reporting my 2017 Roth contribution and I am concerned about confusing the IRS.

[macuser_22 · Accepted solution]

No. It takes 4 months to process an amended return so whether you mail if before or after filing 2017 will make no difference as long as you do amend it.

Just enter into 2017 the information as if you had amended 2016.

[tramorejohnny]

Thanks, that is really helpful.  When I file the amended return do I send a check for the difference or wait for each government to bill me?  I assume TurboTax will not compute the penalty.

[macuser_22]

You send the payment with the amended return.  The taxing authority will bill you if they impose a penalty.