05/04/2026
Amended Tax Returns – Did You Know?
After filing their tax returns, people sometimes realize that they made a mistake like missing a deduction, adding incorrectly or choosing the wrong filing status. In some cases, fixing the mistake may require filing an amended return that shows both the originally reported figures and the corrected ones. However, for some errors, filing an amended return is not necessary.
For example, if you made a minor math mistake on your return, IRS personnel will generally just fix the error and send you a notice explaining any resulting change to your refund or tax due. Similarly, if you neglected to include a required form with your return, the IRS will typically just send you a letter requesting that form. In these cases, filing an amended return would actually only cause confusion and further delay the processing of your refund.
For other mistakes, you can use the IRS "Should I File an Amended Return?" tool (link below) to determine whether filing an amended return is required. Generally, if you need to correct anything regarding the filing status, income, deductions, credits, and tax liability. If you just want to check the status of your return and/or refund, you can use the "Where's My Refund?" tool.
Should I File An Amended Return? https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/should-i-file-an-amended-return
Where's My Refund? https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund