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Tax mistake

What if I made a mistake on my tax 

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2 Replies
Andrew_W
Employee Tax Expert

Tax mistake

If you know a mistake was made on your tax return, and it has already been filed, the appropriate remedy in most cases is to file an amended return to correct the mistake. There are a few scenarios where it's better to not amend however:

 

  • Don't amend your return if:

    • You received a notice from the IRS or State and it doesn't specifically tell you to amend your return. Follow the instructions on the notice in this case.
    • You entered the wrong bank account to get your refund. 

 

These articles describes the return amendment process in more detail: 
Do I need to amend my return? 
How to File an Amended Tax Return with the IRS 

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Terri Lynn
Employee Tax Expert

Tax mistake

To correct an error on a previously filed and accepted tax return, you will have to file an amended return. TurboTax will guide you through the process of amending the return. The most important thing is to address the mistake as soon as you find it.

When to Amend Your Return

First, you need to determine if an amendment is actually necessary. Not all errors require you to file an amended return.

You must amend if you need to correct:

  • Filing status
  • Income, deductions, or credits
  • Changes to Dependents claimed

Step-by-Step Guide to Amending in TurboTax

Since I am under the assumption that you used TurboTax to file your original return, TurboTax will pre-fill your original information and simplify the process of amending your tax return,

 

  1. Access Your Return: Log in to your TurboTax account and find the return you need to amend. In TurboTax Online, go to "Tax Home," then find "Your tax returns & documents" and select the year you need to amend.
  2. Start the Amendment Process: Look for the option to "Amend (change) return" and select it. TurboTax will guide you through the process of filing Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. This is the official form for correcting a filed return.
  3. Make the Necessary Changes: The software will prompt you to enter the correct information. You will only need to change the parts of your return that were wrong. 
  4. TurboTax will automatically calculate the new figures and show you the difference between your original return and the corrected one.
  5. Explain the Change: The 1040-X requires a brief explanation for the changes. TurboTax will walk you through this section, allowing you to provide a clear and concise reason for your amendment.
  6. File Your Amended Return: The IRS now allows you to electronically file Form 1040-X for the current  as long as your original return was also e-filed. This is the fastest and most reliable option. If you are amending an older return, TurboTax will instruct you to print and mail the completed form

 

Helpful Links:

Please feel free to reach out with any additional questions or concerns you may have and 

thank you for attending!  Please have an amazing rest of your day!

 

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Please feel free to reach out with any additional questions and
thank you so much for attending!

Please have an amazing rest of your day!
Terri H.

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