How Long Does It Take IRS to Process Amended Returns?
Hey tax fam! 😤 I'm SO frustrated with how slow this process is! I had to file an amended return to correct some military spouse income that wasn't properly coded on our original filing. I'm wondering if anyone knows how long it typically takes for the IRS to receive and process an amended return? I've been waiting for what feels like FOREVER and I'm starting to get really worried! As a military family, we NEED this sorted out before our next PCS move. I know my rights as a taxpayer and I deserve clear information! Thanks in advance for any help! 💙
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Geoff Richards
Amended returns take forever right now. The IRS is quoting 16 weeks minimum for processing, but in reality, many are taking 6-8 months. Paper returns are their lowest priority. They're still catching up from previous years. Don't panic though - just because it's taking long doesn't mean anything is wrong. Make sure you keep a copy of everything you sent, including proof of mailing.
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Simon White
I would generally agree with this assessment, though there are some factors that might potentially expedite or delay the process. In my experience handling amended returns for clients, I've noticed that simpler corrections tend to move somewhat faster. Military returns with specific provisions might qualify for certain processing considerations, although this isn't guaranteed in all cases.
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Hugo Kass
Did you send it exactly 16 weeks ago or longer? The IRS currently shows 20 weeks as their processing time for Form 1040-X. You can check the status online after 3 weeks from filing using the "Where's My Amended Return" tool. It requires exactly 3 pieces of information: your SSN, DOB, and ZIP code.
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Nasira Ibanez
Are you mailing it or e-filing the amendment? I remember last year when I had to amend my return, I was told different things by different people. Some said mail only, others said you could e-file. The whole process was WAY more complicated than I expected! 😩
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Khalil Urso
I mailed mine 😔 I checked the IRS website and it says I can't track it until at least 3 weeks after mailing. I've been obsessively checking the "Where's My Amended Return" tool but it still says no information available. The IRS.gov site mentions processing can take up to 16 weeks but some posts online say it's taking much longer? Does anyone know if that's accurate?
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Myles Regis
Have you tried calling the IRS directly? I know it's nearly impossible to get through on their regular lines these days. I was in a similar situation with an amended return last month and wasted hours on hold. Finally used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and got connected to an agent in about 15 minutes who confirmed they had received my amendment but hadn't started processing yet. Worth the fee just to know it wasn't lost in the mail. What's your situation - do you need to confirm they received it?
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Brian Downey
Did you send it certified mail? With tracking? Always important with tax documents. Especially amended returns. Gives you proof of delivery. Peace of mind matters too. Have you checked your transcript online? Sometimes shows pending amendments.
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Jacinda Yu
You might want to consider submitting Form 911 (Taxpayer Advocate Service Application) if this is causing financial hardship or if your PCS timeline creates special circumstances. The Taxpayer Advocate can sometimes expedite processing when there are compelling reasons. The normal 20-week processing timeframe might be problematic with your military relocation timeline.
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