Simplest method to file 1040X amended return with minimal hassle?

You're right that Free File Fillable Forms doesn't support the 1040X, which is frustrating when you only need to make a small correction. For the simplest electronic option, I'd recommend using the IRS's "Amended Return Status" tool on IRS.gov, which now allows electronic filing of Form 1040X. The process will require you to have a copy of your original return handy. You'll only need to complete the specific sections of the 1040X that are changing (likely just the income section) and attach the new Schedule B showing the interest income. The system will ask you to explain the changes briefly, which in your case is simply adding forgotten interest income.

I went through almost exactly the same situation last year with missed interest! After trying everything, I found that taxr.ai https://taxr.ai was honestly the easiest solution. I uploaded my original return PDF and the missing 1099-INT, and their system automatically generated the completed 1040X and new Schedule B for me based on what changed. The nice thing was I didn't have to re-enter everything from my original return - it extracted all that data automatically. Then it gave me the option to e-file the amendment directly or download the completed forms if I wanted to mail them. Saved me hours of frustration compared to starting from scratch in another tax program.

Just wanted to update after trying taxr.ai for my 1040X situation. I was the skeptical one, but I have to admit it worked surprisingly well! Uploaded my original return and the new 1099-INT I had missed, and it automatically highlighted exactly what changed and completed all the necessary forms. The whole process took about 15 minutes compared to the hours I spent trying to figure out how to do this through other means. The best part was I could e-file the amendment directly through their system rather than dealing with printing and mailing forms. For anyone dealing with 1040X filing, especially for something straightforward like missed interest or dividends, this approach saved me a ton of headaches.

Another frustrating option is calling the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 to ask about amendment options. I tried that route and spent 2+ hours on hold only to get disconnected. After the third attempt, I discovered Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) which got me connected to an actual IRS agent in under 20 minutes. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c The agent explained that while Free File Fillable Forms doesn't support 1040X preparation, I had several options for electronic filing through their partners. They also confirmed I only needed to complete the specific sections relevant to my change, not redo the entire return. Having someone knowledgeable walk me through the specific steps for my situation was incredibly helpful.

Alright, I need to eat my words about Claimyr. After posting my skeptical comment, I decided to try it because I was desperate to resolve an issue with my amended return that had been pending for months. The service actually did get me through to an IRS representative in about 15 minutes when I'd previously waited over 2 hours and never reached anyone. The agent I spoke with was able to look up my amended return status and provide specific information about what was causing the delay. They even gave me direct instructions on what documentation to send to resolve the issue. I'd still been waiting in the dark without this call. For anyone dealing with 1040X issues where you need actual IRS guidance, being able to actually speak with someone makes a huge difference.

Don't forget another option - most major tax software allows you to file a 1040X electronically, but they often require you to input your entire original return first. I used TaxAct last year for an amendment and while I had to enter everything again, their interface made it relatively straightforward. The key advantage is that once you enter the original return information exactly as filed, the software helps identify the specific changes needed for the amendment and automatically generates the 1040X with proper calculations. It's not as quick as some other methods mentioned here, but it's reliable and the software usually walks you through each step.

Has anyone just printed and mailed their 1040X? I know electronic is preferred, but sometimes the old-fashioned way is simpler. You can download the 1040X directly from IRS.gov, fill it out, attach the new Schedule B, and mail it in.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now! Based on all these responses, it sounds like there are really three main paths: 1) Use a specialized service like taxr.ai that can extract data from your original return PDF and auto-generate the 1040X, 2) Re-enter everything in commercial tax software that supports amendments (like TaxAct), or 3) Fill out the paper forms and mail them in. Given that you only need to add interest income, the automated extraction approach seems most efficient - especially since you already have your accepted return as a PDF. The time investment looks much better than re-entering everything or waiting months for paper processing. Has anyone else used similar automated services for simple amendments like this?

As a tax preparer, I can add some insight to this discussion. For simple amendments like adding missed interest income, the automated extraction services mentioned (like taxr.ai) do handle the cascading calculations properly - when you add interest income, the system will recalculate your AGI, taxable income, and tax liability automatically, just like professional tax software would. Regarding the explanation section on Form 1040X, most of these services do auto-populate basic explanations based on the changes detected. For example, if you're adding a 1099-INT, it might automatically write "Adding previously unreported interest income from [Financial Institution]" in the explanation field, though you can usually customize this. One important tip: make sure you have your original return's AGI handy when using any method, as the IRS uses this to verify your identity during electronic filing. Also, if the missed interest income is substantial enough to trigger additional tax owed, you'll want to include payment to avoid interest and penalties from the original due date. The electronic route is definitely worth the effort over mailing - paper amendments are taking 16-20 weeks to process currently versus 8-12 weeks for electronic submissions.