Amending Your Tax Return Just Got Easier
The IRS is now accepting electronically filed amended tax returns.
Fixing errors on your tax return will be less of a hassle going forward. For the first time, taxpayers are now able to file Form 1040X, the document used to amend tax returns, electronically with commercial tax-filing software.
Taxpayers amend their federal tax returns for all kinds of reasons—for failing to report some income, for example, or because of an overlooked deduction that would have lowered their tax bill. But in the past, you had to submit the form by mail. You could use tax software to fill out the form but had to print it out and mail it in.
"E-filing has been one of the great success stories of the IRS, and more than 90% of taxpayers use it routinely," IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said in a statement. "But the big hurdle that's been remaining for years is to convert amended returns into this electronic process."
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
While taxpayers generally have up to three years from the date they filed their original return (or two years from the date they paid any tax due) to amend a return, e-filing will initially be limited to 2019 tax returns, the IRS says. If you want to amend an earlier return on Form 1040X, you'll still have to print it out and mail it in.
-
How to Plan a (Successful) Family ReunionFrom shaping the guest list to building the budget, here's how to design a successful and memorable family reunion.
-
These Unloved Energy Stocks Are a BargainCleaned-up balance sheets and generous dividends make these dirt-cheap energy shares worth a look.
-
You've Heard It Before, But This Investment Advice Still Pays Off"Time in the market beats timing the market" ¬— been there, done that, right? But don't write off the underlying advice. There's a reason it's a popular saying.
-
A Free Tax Filing Option Has Disappeared for 2026: Here's What That Means for YouTax Filing Tax season officially opens on January 26. But you'll have one less way to submit your tax return for free. Here's what you need to know.
-
When Do W-2s Arrive? 2026 Deadline and 'Big Beautiful Bill' ChangesTax Deadlines Mark your calendar: Feb 2 is the big W-2 release date. Here’s the delivery scoop and what the Trump tax changes might mean for your taxes.
-
Are You Afraid of an IRS Audit? 8 Ways to Beat Tax Audit AnxietyTax Season Tax audit anxiety is like a wild beast. Here’s how you can help tame it.
-
States That Tax Social Security Benefits in 2026Retirement Tax Not all retirees who live in states that tax Social Security benefits have to pay state income taxes. Will your benefits be taxed?
-
10 Cheapest Places to Live in WashingtonProperty Tax Is Washington your go-to ski destination? These counties combine no income tax with the lowest property tax bills in the state.
-
3 Major Changes to the Charitable Deduction for 2026Tax Breaks About 144 million Americans might qualify for the 2026 universal charity deduction, while high earners face new IRS limits. Here's what to know.
-
Holiday Tax Scams 2025: 'Tis the Season to be WaryTax Scams Navigating tax tricks of the holiday season may be daunting, but don't let that destroy your festive spirit
-
Retirees in These 7 States Could Pay Less Property Taxes Next YearState Taxes Retirement property tax bills could be up to 65% cheaper for some older adults in 2026. Do you qualify?
