Over the last 30 years, the ability to e-file returns with the Internal Revenue Service has grown substantially. However, the 1040-X, Amended US Individual Income Tax Return, has always been required to be filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on paper. On August 17, 2020, the IRS announced that taxpayers can now electronically submit their amended 1040 returns, Form 1040-X, in an exciting major milestone in tax administration.

The IRS receives over 3 million Amended US Individual Income Tax Returns annually which all had to be filed on paper until now. This decision will make it easier, faster, and most importantly more accurate to file and process amended individual returns for everyone; including: taxpayers, tax professionals and the IRS.

The IRS, along with the tax software and tax professional industry, have worked toward this goal for many years. Due to the details required on the Form 1040-X and attachments that are required, it has been a challenge to convert these returns into an electronic process. The Internal Revenue Service Advisory Council (IRSAC) and the Electronic Tax Administration Advisory Committee (ETAAC) along with the Internal Revenue Service IT and business operations teams have worked tirelessly to accomplish this task.

The process is currently only available for tax year 2019 Forms 1040, US Individual Income Tax Returns,  and 1040-SR, US Tax Return for Seniors. The IRS is hoping to roll it out to more years as well. The IRS will still accept paper filing of the 1040-X if preferred.

In addition, the Where’s My Amended Return online tool is available to check the status of the amended return.

Ketel Thorstenson, LLP is here to help you with all your amended return questions and filings.