What is this service?
If you find an error after filing your return, or receive a form that was missing, you can correct it with Form 1040-X. An amendment is used for changes to filing status, income, deductions, credits, or dependents.
It is not always needed: the IRS corrects some errors during processing. We review your case and tell you whether an amendment makes sense.
To claim a refund, the amendment generally must be filed within 3 years after you filed the original return, or within 2 years after you paid the tax, whichever is later.
Who may need it?
- People who forgot to report income or received a W‑2 or 1099 after filing.
- People who need to change their filing status, or add or remove a dependent.
- People who did not claim a deduction or credit they were entitled to.
How long does it take?
- Form 1040-X can be e-filed for the current year and the two prior years; older years are filed on paper.
- The IRS says an amended return generally takes 8 to 12 weeks to process, and up to 16 weeks in some cases.
- You can check the status with the IRS "Where's My Amended Return?" tool about 3 weeks after filing.
What documents may you need?
- A complete copy of the original return for the year being corrected.
- The new form or document (for example, a corrected or missing W‑2 or 1099).
- Proof of the change (for example, documents for a dependent or an expense).
- Any IRS letters about that return.
- Photo ID.
Not every document on this list is needed for every taxpayer. After you request the service, we will send you a questionnaire and a personalized list based on your situation. Please do not send Social Security numbers, ITINs, or documents through the form on this page.
How does our service work?
- Request the service.Fill out the form on this page.
- Receive the questionnaire.We email you a questionnaire in Spanish and the list of documents.
- Send your information.Send back the questionnaire with the original return and the documents for the change.
- We prepare the amendment.We review what changes, prepare Form 1040-X, and explain the result.
- Review and approval.You review and approve what we prepare before it is filed, signing Form 8879 when it is e-filed and applicable.
We prepare everything with the information and documents you give us. We do not promise refunds, credits, or results: the IRS decides them or, for state returns, the tax agency of the state involved.
Costs
Our fees
Payments to the IRS
The IRS does not charge to file an amendment. If the correction results in a balance due, that payment goes directly to the IRS and is not part of our fees.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to amend for a small error?
Not always. The IRS corrects some errors during processing. We review your case and tell you whether an amendment makes sense.
Can you correct a return you did not prepare?
Yes. We need a complete copy of the original return, with all its schedules.
Until when can I amend to get a refund?
Generally, within 3 years after you filed the original return or within 2 years after you paid the tax, whichever is later.
What if the correction shows I owe more?
That payment goes directly to the IRS. Interest and some penalties keep adding up until the balance is paid in full, so it is best to correct and pay as soon as possible.
Official sources
Ge Chanfon Services LLC provides document preparation and administrative assistance services. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. Approval of any application is decided by the appropriate government agency.