Mistakes happen, and when they do, it’s important to know how to correct them. If you’ve made a mistake on your tax return, you can amend it by filing Form 1040X. But how far back can you amend your taxes?
The IRS allows you to amend your tax return for up to three years from the date you filed the original return, or within two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later.
For example, if you filed your 2020 tax return on April 15, 2021, you have until April 15, 2024, to file an amended return. However, if you paid your 2020 taxes on October 15, 2021, you have until October 15, 2023, to file an amended return.
It’s important to note that you can only amend a tax return that has already been filed. If you haven’t filed your tax return yet, you can simply make the corrections on the original return.
When Should You Amend Your Tax Return?
You should amend your tax return if you:
- Made a mistake on your original return
- Forgot to include a form or schedule
- Omitted income or deductions
- Claimed the wrong credits
- Received a notice from the IRS stating that you made a mistake
How to Amend Your Tax Return
To amend your tax return, you will need to file Form 1040X. You can download the form from the IRS website or you can get a copy from your local IRS office.
The Form 1040X is a three-column form. In the first column, you will enter the information from your original return. In the second column, you will enter the corrected information. In the third column, you will enter the difference between the two columns.
You will also need to attach any supporting documentation to your Form 1040X. This documentation could include W-2s, 1099s, or other forms that support the changes you are making to your return.
Once you have completed Form 1040X, you will need to mail it to the IRS. The address for the IRS is:
Internal Revenue Service
Ogden, UT 84201
What Happens After You Amend Your Tax Return?
Once you have mailed your amended return to the IRS, it will take 8-12 weeks for the IRS to process it. The IRS will then send you a notice of assessment, which will show you the amount of any refund or additional tax that you owe.
If you are due a refund, the IRS will send you a check or direct deposit the refund into your bank account. If you owe additional tax, you will need to pay the IRS the amount of tax that you owe.
Amending your tax return can be a daunting task, but it’s important to do it if you have made a mistake. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can amend your tax return and correct any errors that you have made.
How Far Back Can I Refile a 1040X Amended Tax Return – TurboTax Tax Tip Video
FAQ
Can I amend a tax return from 10 years ago after?
How far back can tax returns be audited?
Can old taxes be amended?
How many years back can you file a tax return?
Can I amend my state tax return after 3 years?
Keep in mind that you will likely have to amend your state tax returns for the years in question, too. In a few limited circumstances, the IRS does allow taxpayers to file an amended tax return after three years.
How far back can I change my tax return?
Generally, you must file an amended return within **3 years after the date you filed your original return or 2 years after the date you paid the tax, whichever is later** . If you filed early,
How long do you have to file an amended tax return?
The IRS limits the amount of time you have to file an amended return to claim a refund to: Within two years of paying the tax due for that year, if that date is later. If you’re outside of that window, you typically can’t claim a refund by amending your return. How do you file an amended tax return?
How do I amend a tax return for more than one year?
If you’re amending tax returns for more than one year, you must fill out one form for each year. You can complete the form online if you amended your tax return from 2019 or later and you originally filed your taxes online. Otherwise, you’ll need to fill out a paper copy and mail it to the IRS. Follow the instructions on the IRS website.