Unemployment tax return

[Marwilli]

We filed our taxes before they pass the last stimulus stating they were not going to charge taxes on the unemployment benefits up to $10,200.  We didn't have an amendment filed for this. Should we of done that since we haven't received any back?

[conniem123]

Great question!  So many taxpayers filed before the American Rescue Plan was signed.  The IRS is automatically adjusting the returns that were filed without the unemployment compensation exclusion.  The IRS is working on this process in phases, and did begin in mid-May with the simplest returns and will continue through the summer adjusting returns.

The good news is you do not need to do anything!  There are a few exceptions of needing to file an amended return if the lower adjusted gross income will then qualify you for a credit you originally did not qualify. 

This link below lists the three reasons a taxpayer may need to file an amended return.

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-readies-nearly-4-million-refunds-for-unemployment-compensation-over...

[R-SchuleCPA]

IRS is still in the process of issuing unemployment  refunds, so I would advise a little more patience. The link below will provide more information.

IRS Unemployment Refunds

[drc845443]

According to the IRS, "Unless you're entitled to a new credit or additional deductions ...., there's no need to file an amended return (Form 1040-X) to report the amount of unemployment compensation to exclude. The IRS will perform the corrections starting in late May and continue throughout the summer and into the fall."  Please refer to the link below where the IRS answers frequently asked questions.

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/2020-unemployment-compensation-exclusion-faqs-topic-d-amended-return-fo...

The IRS has experienced delays with processing refunds this year, but I would also recommend that contact Turbo Tax support for them to assess if you are (i) due any additional refunds, and (ii) do need to amend your tax return. 

If you are due a refund and do not need to amend, then you may have to just wait for the IRS to get caught up.