Tax returns are becoming more and more complex on an annual basis. There are more forms to fill, more information to give and it always seems that there is not enough time to get it all done. It is therefore not surprising that you may make a mistake on your tax returns, particurly when there is a change in your financial status.

As this is such a common occurrence, the IRS has come up with a way to amend your tax returns. You can choose to either pay any extra money you owe as tax or get a refund for the extra money that you paid as tax. The IRS, however, does not allow you to file your amended tax return online; you have to do so through email.

To change your tax return, fill form 1040X and send it to IRS. This is the form that reveals the changes that you are making, which amend the tax return that you filed. You are also required to attach any forms, schedules and documents that are being changed as per the amendment.

How far back can you amend tax returns?

The IRS is strict on how far back one can amend their tax returns, whether you are seeking a refund, or you owe tax. The timeframe is usually 3 years after the due date of the original return or 2 years since you paid tax.

How can I amend tax returns for multiple years?

If you are filing an amendment return that spans more than one year, then you need to fill in separate 1040X form for each return. Once filled, these forms should be mailed in separate envelopes. Each envelope should be addressed to the appropriate IRS processing center. Where necessary, attach any other relevant forms.

How do I indicate the year that I am looking to amend?

At the top of the 1040X form, there is a section where you can write down which tax year you are seeking to amend. It is important to write the correct year, as tax calculations change from one year to the next. If you need information on the prior year instructions, you can access the IRS website where they are available. You will also find relevant tax tables and forms.

What is reported in the amendment?

The amendment should be filled when you want to report changes in your status, deductions, credits or income. Note that you do not need to file an amendment in order to correct a mathematical error that you made while filing your returns or in order to include some of the documents you forgot to include while filing for your returns.

Checking the status of your amended return

You are allowed to email your amended returns after which you can check the status online using the ‘where is my amended return’ tool from IRS website. According to the IRS, the filed amended return could take three weeks before it appears on their database and eight to twelve weeks before it is processed.