Do Amended Returns Really Take Longer to Process? Tips from a 3-time Amender

Yes, amended returns definitely take longer. Here's the breakdown: 1. Regular e-filed returns: Currently processing in about 21 days for most filers 2. Amended returns (Form 1040-X): Processing time of 16+ weeks (4 months minimum) The longer timeframe is because: - Amended returns require manual review by IRS staff - They go through a separate processing pipeline - They're lower priority than current-year returns - They often involve more complex issues E-filing vs. paper: You can e-file amended returns now (this became available in 2020), and it's definitely faster than paper. Paper amended returns can take 6+ months. As for your 2024 return, you don't need to wait. File your 2024 return on schedule. The amendment for 2023 is processed completely separately.

OMG I filed an amended return last year and it was SUCH a nightmare waiting! I called the IRS literally 37 times trying to check on status and kept getting the "high call volume" message and disconnects. I was about to LOSE MY MIND! Finally used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and they got me through to an actual IRS agent in like 25 minutes. The agent confirmed my amended return was still in processing (ugh!) but at least I knew what was happening instead of being in limbo. Totally worth it for my sanity! Seriously, if you need to check on your amended return status, save yourself the frustration of calling directly. The IRS phone system is BRUTAL right now!

I filed an amended return on March 12, 2023, and it wasn't fully processed until August 29, 2023 - exactly 24 weeks later. The IRS says to allow up to 16 weeks, but in my experience (and from what I've seen on this sub), it's almost always longer than that. The "Where's My Amended Return" tool was basically useless - it just said "received" for 5 months straight, then suddenly updated to "completed" after I already received my check in the mail. I filed another amendment on January 15, 2024, and it's still showing as just "received" today. So I'm at week 18 with no updates yet. The April 15 tax deadline definitely slows things down even more.

If you're dealing with amended returns, I highly recommend using taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) to analyze your tax transcript. The IRS "Where's My Amended Return" tool is very limited, but your transcript will show all the behind-the-scenes activity. According to the IRS website (https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return), you should wait at least 16 weeks before calling about an amended return, but your transcript might show activity much sooner. The taxr.ai tool can interpret all those cryptic transcript codes and tell you exactly what's happening with your amendment. It helped me understand that my amended return was actually being worked on even when the official tool showed nothing.

I'm in a time crunch with amended returns right now and here's what I've learned: • TIMING: Plan for 20+ weeks minimum (not the 16 the IRS claims) • TRACKING: The "Where's My Amended Return" tool barely updates • PRIORITIES: - File your 2024 return on time regardless - Don't wait for the amendment to process first - E-file the amendment if possible • URGENT NOTE: If you're amending to claim additional refund, you must file within 3 years of original filing date! I'm currently waiting on an amendment from November 2023 and still nothing. If you need this money urgently, adjust your expectations!

Don't waste time with the "Where's My Amended Return" tool. It's useless. Call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 after the 16-week mark. Be prepared to wait, but at least you'll get actual information. And don't bother checking for updates constantly. The IRS batch processes amended returns, so nothing will change for weeks, then suddenly it's done. Set a calendar reminder for 16 weeks after you file, then start following up.

Just to clarify something important - there's a difference between the processing time and when you'll actually receive any refund from an amended return. In my previous amendments, I've noticed that even after the IRS shows the amendment as "completed" in their system, it can take another 2-3 weeks for a refund check to be mailed. They don't do direct deposit for amended return refunds, only paper checks. So when people say "16+ weeks," that's just until it's processed, not necessarily until you have money in hand.

Based on IRS data from the last 2 years, amended returns are taking an average of 22.3 weeks to process (about 5.5 months), with some taking as long as 32 weeks (8 months). This is significantly longer than the 16 weeks they officially state. I've been tracking my own amended return which I filed exactly 19 weeks ago. The online tool still shows only "received" status. I called the IRS after week 16 and they confirmed it's still in the processing queue and hasn't been assigned to a reviewer yet. Patience is definitely required with amendments. The regular return processing system is highly automated, but amendments still require substantial human review.

I actually had a surprisingly positive experience with my amended return last year! Filed in early February 2023, and it was fully processed by mid-June - about 18 weeks. The key was e-filing the amendment instead of paper filing. My previous amendment (paper filed in 2021) took over 10 months to process. The e-file option for Form 1040-X has been a game-changer. Most tax software now supports e-filing amendments, and it cuts the wait time significantly. My refund check arrived about 2 weeks after the "Where's My Amended Return" tool showed "completed." Not as fast as regular returns, but much better than I expected based on horror stories I'd heard!

Great question! I've filed 3 amended returns over the past few years, so I can share some real-world experience here. Yes, amended returns definitely take much longer than regular returns. Here's what I've observed: **My Timeline Experience:** - 2021 amendment (paper filed): 28 weeks total - 2022 amendment (e-filed): 21 weeks - 2023 amendment (e-filed): 19 weeks **Key Tips from My Experience:** 1. **E-file if possible** - This made the biggest difference for me. My paper-filed amendment took 7+ months, while e-filed ones were closer to 4-5 months. 2. **The "16 week" estimate is optimistic** - I've never had one processed in less than 19 weeks, and that was my fastest. 3. **Don't wait to file your 2024 return** - These are processed completely separately. I always file my current year return on schedule regardless of pending amendments. 4. **Set realistic expectations** - The waiting is honestly the hardest part. I now just assume 5-6 months and try to forget about it. One thing I learned: if you're expecting a refund from the amendment, they mail a paper check even if you normally get direct deposit. So factor in extra mailing time too. The good news is that once it's finally processed, you'll get interest on any refund amount from the original due date of the return you're amending!

I can definitely confirm that amended returns take significantly longer! I filed an amended return in October 2023 and it just got processed last month - that's about 26 weeks total. The frustrating part is that the IRS website kept showing "received" status for months with no updates. One thing I learned that might help: if you're amending because you forgot to report income (like your freelance gig), make sure you have all your documentation ready in case they request additional verification. The IRS sometimes sends correspondence asking for supporting documents, which can add even more time to the process. Also, since you mentioned you've amended before, just be aware that multiple amendments can sometimes trigger additional scrutiny. Not saying it will definitely happen, but it's worth being extra thorough with your paperwork. Definitely don't wait to file your 2024 return though - I made that mistake once thinking they were connected and it just delayed everything unnecessarily. File your current year return on schedule and let the amendment work through the system separately.

I'm currently going through my first amended return experience and this thread is incredibly helpful! I filed my 1040-X electronically about 8 weeks ago and have been obsessively checking the "Where's My Amended Return" tool daily - sounds like I need to adjust my expectations and stop torturing myself with daily checks. One question for those who've been through this multiple times: is there any pattern to when the IRS actually works on amended returns? Like do they process them in batches at certain times of the year, or is it just whenever they get to them in the queue? I'm trying to figure out if filing in March (like I did) vs filing in the fall makes any difference in processing time. Also, for the original poster - definitely don't wait to file your 2024 return! I almost made that mistake but my tax preparer told me the same thing everyone here is saying - they're completely separate processes.

This is such a timely thread! I'm actually in a similar situation - just discovered I need to amend my 2023 return for some 1099 income I missed. Reading everyone's experiences here is both helpful and slightly terrifying 😅 Based on what everyone's sharing, it sounds like the key takeaways are: - Plan for 20+ weeks minimum, not the official 16 weeks - E-file the amendment if possible (way faster than paper) - File your 2024 return on schedule - don't wait for the amendment - The "Where's My Amended Return" tool is basically useless for real updates - Expect a paper check for any refund, not direct deposit One thing I'm curious about - for those who have amended multiple times, do you think it's worth paying a tax professional to prepare the 1040-X, or is it straightforward enough to do yourself? I've always done my own taxes but I'm worried about making another mistake that would require yet another amendment. Also, has anyone had success getting faster processing by including detailed explanations with their amendment, or does that not really matter since it all goes through the same manual review process anyway?

I'm dealing with my first amended return situation too and this thread has been incredibly eye-opening! I had no idea the processing times were so much longer than what the IRS officially states. One thing I'm wondering about - for those who've been through this process, do you get any kind of confirmation when the IRS actually starts reviewing your amended return (not just when they receive it)? Or is it really just radio silence until it's suddenly completed? Also, I'm curious about the interest calculation that Teresa mentioned. If you're getting a refund from an amendment, does the IRS automatically calculate and include the interest, or do you need to request it separately? That could actually make the long wait a little more bearable knowing there's at least some compensation for the delay. Thanks to everyone sharing their real experiences - it's so much more helpful than the generic timelines you find on official websites!

This thread is incredibly helpful - thank you everyone for sharing your real experiences! As someone who's never filed an amended return before, I had no idea the processing times were so much longer than regular returns. I'm actually in a similar boat to the original poster. I just realized I forgot to include some contract work income from 2023 and need to file an amendment. Based on what everyone's shared here, it sounds like I should: 1. E-file the 1040-X rather than paper filing 2. Expect 20+ weeks minimum (not the official 16 weeks) 3. Stop checking the "Where's My Amended Return" tool obsessively 4. File my 2024 return on schedule and not wait for the amendment One question for those with experience: if I'm amending to report additional income that will result in me owing more tax, do I need to pay that amount immediately when I file the amendment, or do I wait until it's processed? I want to avoid any penalties or additional interest charges. Thanks again for all the insights - this is exactly the kind of real-world information you can't get from the IRS website!

This is such valuable information from everyone who's been through the amended return process! As someone who's currently preparing to file my first amendment, I really appreciate all the real-world timelines and experiences shared here. One thing I'm curious about - for those who've filed multiple amendments over the years, have you noticed any difference in processing times based on the type of amendment? For example, does adding missing income (like W-2s or 1099s) get processed differently than claiming additional deductions or credits? I'm amending to add some freelance income I initially forgot about, and I'm wondering if income-related amendments might move through the system faster since they typically result in additional tax owed rather than refunds. Or does it all go through the same manual review process regardless of the nature of the change? Also, thanks to everyone mentioning the e-filing option - I had no idea that was available for Form 1040-X until reading this thread!

I've been through the amended return process twice and can definitely confirm that the processing times are much longer than regular returns - and unfortunately, longer than what the IRS officially states. Here's what I experienced: - First amendment (2022): Filed in May, processed in December - about 30 weeks total - Second amendment (2023): Filed in February, processed in August - roughly 24 weeks Both were e-filed, which definitely helped compared to paper filing. The "Where's My Amended Return" tool was pretty much useless both times - it would show "received" for months, then suddenly jump to "completed" without any intermediate updates. A few practical tips based on my experience: - Set a realistic expectation of 6+ months and try not to stress about it - Don't bother checking the status tool more than once a month - Keep copies of everything you submit - If you're expecting a refund, remember it comes as a paper check, not direct deposit The good news is that if you do get a refund from the amendment, they include interest calculated from the original due date of that tax year. It's not much, but it's something for the long wait! Definitely don't delay filing your 2024 return - they're processed completely separately and there's no benefit to waiting.

I've been through the amended return process four times now (2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023), so I can definitely share some insights on the timing question! **My Processing Times:** - 2020 amendment (paper): 42 weeks (filed right during COVID chaos) - 2021 amendment (paper): 28 weeks - 2022 amendment (e-filed): 22 weeks - 2023 amendment (e-filed): 19 weeks The trend toward faster processing with e-filing is real, but even my fastest amendment took nearly 5 months. The 16-week estimate is honestly just wishful thinking at this point. **Key lessons from my experience:** 1. **E-filing makes a huge difference** - cut my processing time by about 6-10 weeks 2. **The type of amendment doesn't seem to matter much** - I've done everything from missing 1099s to claiming overlooked deductions, and they all took roughly the same time 3. **Don't wait to file your current year return** - I made this mistake once and it accomplished nothing except delaying my regular refund **Pro tip:** If you're amending multiple years, file them all at once if possible. I filed 2022 and 2023 amendments in the same week and they were processed within 3 weeks of each other, almost like they were batched together. The waiting is brutal, but just set it and forget it. Checking constantly will only drive you crazy!

As someone who just went through this process, I can confirm everything everyone is saying about the extended timelines. Filed my 1040-X electronically in September 2024 for my 2023 return, and it finally processed last week - exactly 22 weeks. A couple of things I learned that might be helpful: **Documentation is key:** Since you mentioned this is your third amendment, make sure you have rock-solid documentation for that freelance income. The IRS sometimes requests additional verification on amendments, especially from repeat amenders, which can add weeks to the process. **Payment timing:** If your amendment results in owing additional tax (which it probably will with unreported income), pay it immediately when you file. Interest accrues from the original due date (April 15, 2024 for your 2023 return), so every day you wait costs more money. **One positive note:** Since you're adding income rather than claiming a refund, there's a tiny chance it might move slightly faster through the system. The IRS generally prioritizes amendments where they collect money over those where they pay out refunds. The waiting is absolutely brutal, but try to set realistic expectations of 5-6 months minimum. And definitely file your 2024 return on schedule - I delayed mine unnecessarily thinking they were connected and it just caused more hassle. Good luck with the process! At least you caught the error and are fixing it properly.

I've been through the amended return process twice in recent years and can definitely confirm what everyone is saying about the extended timelines! Here's my experience: **My Processing Times:** - 2022 amendment (e-filed): 24 weeks - 2023 amendment (e-filed): 21 weeks Both took significantly longer than the IRS's 16-week estimate, but e-filing definitely helped compared to paper filing horror stories I've heard from friends. **A few additional tips from my experience:** **Interest calculations:** If you're amending because you owe additional tax (like with your freelance income), the IRS calculates interest from the original due date of that return. So for your 2023 amendment, interest would start from April 15, 2024. Pay the additional amount when you file the amendment to stop the interest clock - don't wait for processing! **Multiple amendments:** Since you mentioned this is your third amendment, just be extra thorough with your documentation. In my experience, the IRS doesn't necessarily flag repeat amenders, but having complete records definitely helps avoid any follow-up requests that could delay things further. **Status checking:** The "Where's My Amended Return" tool is pretty much useless for real updates. I learned to check maybe once a month just to maintain some sanity. It typically stays on "received" for months, then suddenly jumps to "completed." **Current year filing:** Definitely don't wait to file your 2024 return! These are processed in completely separate systems and there's no benefit to delaying your regular return. The waiting is honestly the hardest part, but at least you caught the error and are handling it properly. Set your expectations for 5-6 months and try to forget about it until then!

I can definitely relate to this situation! I've filed two amended returns in the past three years and the processing times are unfortunately much longer than regular returns. My experience: - 2022 amendment: Filed in April, processed in October (26 weeks) - 2023 amendment: Filed in January, processed in July (27 weeks) Both were e-filed, which I'd highly recommend over paper filing. The "Where's My Amended Return" tool was basically worthless - it showed "received" for months, then suddenly updated to "completed" after I'd already received my refund check. A few things I learned: - Plan for 6+ months, not the 16 weeks the IRS claims - E-file if your tax software supports it (most do now) - Don't delay your 2024 return - file it on schedule regardless of your pending amendment - If you owe additional tax from the amendment, pay it when you file to avoid interest charges The waiting is definitely frustrating, but at least you're catching and correcting the error. Since this is your third amendment, I'd suggest being extra thorough with documentation for that freelance income - having everything well-organized can help avoid any follow-up requests that might delay processing even more. Good luck with the process! Set it and try to forget about it for a few months.