Filing an amended return

When to File an Amended Return

Already filed your return but realized something is wrong? An amended return lets you correct errors or add missing information. You should file an amendment if:

• You **forgot to include income** (like a 1099 that arrived late)
• You **claimed the wrong filing status** (e.g., Single instead of Head of Household)
• You **missed a deduction or credit** you were eligible for
• You need to **correct dependents** (adding or removing)
• You **made a math error** that wasn't caught during filing

When You DON'T Need to Amend

You don't need to file an amended return if:

• You made a **simple math error** — the IRS often corrects these automatically
• You **forgot to attach a form** — the IRS will usually contact you to request it
• Your return is still **being processed** — wait until it's fully processed before amending

Form 1040-X

The amended return uses Form 1040-X, which shows:

• **Column A** — What you originally reported
• **Column B** — The changes you're making
• **Column C** — The corrected amounts

You also need to include an explanation of why you're amending. Keep it simple and factual: "Adding 1099-NEC income that was received after original filing" or "Correcting filing status from Single to Head of Household."

How to Amend in FileJoy

Step 1: Open Your Filed Return

Go to your tax year dashboard and find the return you need to amend. Click on it to open it.

Step 2: Start the Amendment

Click Amend Return in the top menu. FileJoy will create a copy of your original return for you to edit.

Step 3: Make Your Changes

Edit the sections that need correction. For example:

• Add missing income entries
• Update deductions or credits
• Change your filing status or dependents

FileJoy tracks what changed between your original return and the amendment automatically.

Step 4: Explain the Changes

You'll be prompted to write a brief explanation of what you changed and why. This goes on Form 1040-X.

Step 5: Submit

FileJoy will generate your completed Form 1040-X. You can then file it through the IRS (if e-filing is available for amendments) or print and mail it.

Time Limits

• You have **3 years** from the date you filed your original return to file an amendment
• Or **2 years** from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later
• Example: If you filed your 2024 return on April 15, 2025, you have until April 15, 2028 to amend it

Processing Timeline

Amended returns take longer to process than original returns:

• **E-filed amendments**: Typically 8–12 weeks
• **Paper amendments**: Can take **16 weeks or more**
• You can check the status at [irs.gov/wheres-my-amended-return](https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return) starting 3 weeks after you file

Tips

• File amendments for each tax year separately (if you need to amend multiple years)
• If your amendment results in additional tax owed, pay as soon as possible to minimize interest and penalties
• If your amendment results in a larger refund, the IRS will send you the difference
• Keep copies of your original return and the amendment for your records
• State returns may need to be amended separately if federal changes affect your state taxes