Don't forget to complete Form 8833 if you're claiming treaty benefits! I made this mistake my first year as a resident alien.

@Ellie Simpson - I went through almost the exact same situation! Also forgot to update my bank after becoming a resident alien and got a 1042-S instead of a 1099-INT. FreeTaxUSA handled it just fine in my experience. When you get to the income section, look for "Foreign Income" or "Other Income" - there should be a specific option for 1042-S forms. Just enter the information exactly as it appears on your form (the $780 interest amount and the income code which is probably "01" for interest). The main thing is NOT to report it as 1099-INT income since they're different forms with different tax implications. Since no tax was withheld, you won't get any withholding credits, but you'll still need to pay regular income tax on the $780. Definitely submit that W-9 to your bank ASAP so you get proper 1099-INT forms next year. Most banks will process the change pretty quickly once you submit the form. One tip: double-check if your home country has a tax treaty with the US that might affect how this income is taxed. Some treaties provide benefits for interest income that could save you money, though you might need additional forms if you claim those benefits.

Did you claim any credits? They've been super strict about documentation this year

Don't panic - this happens more often than you'd think! The good news is they have to follow due process, so you'll get that notice on April 11th before any collection actions start. I'd recommend calling them with reference number 9024 as soon as possible rather than waiting for the notice. Sometimes it's just missing documentation (especially with EIC claims like you mentioned) that can be resolved quickly over the phone. Have your original return, W-2s, and any supporting documents ready. If it turns out to be a legitimate adjustment, they usually offer payment plans that can make the $1,719 much more manageable. The fact that they're being transparent about the timeline and giving you resources shows they want to work with you on this.

Check if you claimed any credits like EIC or CTC. Those always take longer to process cause the IRS has to verify everything.

This happened to me too! Filed in January and state refund came in 10 days but federal took 4 months. Turns out I had a code 570 hold on my account for additional review. The key is definitely checking your transcript like others mentioned - it'll show you exactly what's happening. Don't panic though, as long as there's no notice about errors in your return, it's probably just routine verification. The wait is brutal but you'll get it eventually!

Quick tip: If you do decide to amend, make copies of EVERYTHING before sending it in. I had an amended return get "lost" by the IRS last year and had to resend the whole package. Also, if you mail it, use certified mail with tracking so you have proof it was delivered!

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through this exact situation a couple years ago! I missed claiming about $400 in student loan interest and ended up amending to get back around $85. Here's my honest take: Yes, absolutely do it! Not just for the money (though $69 is definitely worth it), but also because it's great practice for understanding the tax system better. The amendment process taught me so much about how deductions actually work. One thing I'd add to the great advice already here - when you're filling out the 1040-X, the form asks you to explain the changes you're making. Be specific but concise. I wrote something like "Adding previously unreported student loan interest deduction of $381 per Form 1098-E" and attached a copy of my 1098-E form. Also, don't stress too much about making it perfect. The IRS will contact you if they need clarification on anything. Good luck with your first amendment - you've got this! 😊

Quick tip: make sure you create an account on irs.gov if you haven't already. Sometimes they post notices there before sending by mail

Code 810 can be frustrating but it's pretty common. The good news is it usually resolves itself once the IRS completes their review. In addition to checking for ID verification letters, also look out for any requests for additional documentation about your income or deductions. Keep checking your transcript weekly - you'll see the freeze lift when they update it with a new transaction code. Hang in there!