How to Amend a Tax Return in TurboTax

You amend a return when something on an already-filed return needs to change. Common reasons include:

• A W-2 or 1099 showed up after you filed.
• You forgot a deduction or credit.
• You entered income or a figure incorrectly.
• Your filing status or dependents need correcting.

This is an independent guide and not affiliated with Intuit. For your specific situation, consider getting professional advice.

Not every issue calls for an amendment. The IRS often corrects small math errors on its own, and a simple typo it catches may not need anything from you. Wait until your original return has been fully processed before amending, so you're correcting the figures the IRS actually has on file.

An amended return uses Form 1040-X. Rather than redoing everything, the form shows the original figures, the corrected figures, and the difference between them. TurboTax has an amend feature that opens your filed return and walks you through the changes, generating the 1040-X for you.

Open the return you already filed and choose the option to amend. The program first makes sure your numbers match what you originally submitted, then lets you make corrections. As you change entries, it updates the 1040-X to reflect the new totals and any change to your refund or balance due.

Depending on the tax year and your situation, you may be able to e-file the amended return or you may need to print and mail it. Follow the program's guidance. If you owe more as a result, pay promptly to keep interest down. If the change increases your refund, the IRS will process the additional amount.

Amended returns take longer to process than original returns, often several weeks or more. The IRS has a separate "Where's My Amended Return" tool you can use to check the status. Keep a copy of both your original return and the amendment with your records.