How to Check the Status of an Amended Tax Return

Where to Check Your Amended Return Status

The IRS tracks amended returns separately from original returns, and you check the status through the same account you use for everything else: IRS.gov. Log into your IRS online account at irs.gov/account, then look for "Where's My Amended Return?" under the tools section. This tool shows you the status of Form 1040-X (the amended return form) you filed.

If you filed by mail, the tool may take four to eight weeks to show your return at all — the IRS has to receive it, open it, and enter it into their system first. If you filed electronically through a tax software or tax professional, it usually appears within one to two weeks.

You can also call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 (the main tax line) and speak to a representative who can look up your amended return by your Social Security number and filing status. Wait times are shorter early in the morning and outside of tax season (after April 15).

Key Takeaways

Check your amended return status through "Where's My Amended Return?" on IRS.gov after logging into your account.
Mailed amended returns take four to eight weeks to enter the IRS system; electronically filed returns usually show up within one to two weeks.
The IRS processes amended returns more slowly than original returns — expect six to eight months for a refund or adjustment.
You need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your amended return to check status by phone.
If your amended return shows an error or rejection, the IRS will mail you a notice; do not assume silence means approval.

What the Status Messages Actually Mean

The IRS uses a few standard messages when you check your amended return. "Return received" means the IRS has it in their system but has not started reviewing it yet. This is the first stage and can last several weeks. "Being processed" means someone is actually looking at it — checking the math, verifying your income against W-2s and 1099s, and making sure the reason you amended makes sense.

"Adjustment in progress" means the IRS found an issue and is working through it. This could be a math error they caught, a discrepancy with your employer's records, or a question about a deduction you claimed. The IRS will mail you a notice if they need more information from you. "Completed" means the review is done and your refund or adjustment is being processed — but this does not mean the money has hit your account yet.

If you see no status at all after eight weeks from mailing or two weeks from e-filing, your return may not have been received. Call the IRS to confirm they have it.

How Long Amended Returns Actually Take

An amended return takes longer than an original return because the IRS processes them in a separate queue. You should expect six to eight months from the date you file your amendment until you see a refund or adjustment. Some amended returns move faster — three to four months — but planning for eight months keeps you from being surprised.

The timeline depends partly on how busy the IRS is that year and partly on whether your amendment raises any red flags. If you amended because you forgot to claim a deduction or made a math error, the process is usually straightforward. If you amended to claim a large refund you did not claim on the original return, the IRS scrutinizes it more closely and may take longer.

Do not file multiple amended returns for the same tax year unless the IRS asks you to. If you realize you made another mistake after filing your first amendment, wait to see if the IRS contacts you about it. Filing a second amendment creates confusion and slows everything down.

What Information You Need to Check Status

To use "Where's My Amended Return?" on IRS.gov, you need to log into your account. This requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a filing status, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or email address on file with the IRS. If you have not set up an IRS online account yet, you can create one at irs.gov/account in about 10 minutes.

If you call the IRS instead, have your Social Security number, filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.), and the exact refund amount or tax owed from your amended return ready. The representative will ask these questions to confirm you are the person filing the return. If you filed jointly, either spouse can call, but the IRS will ask for both Social Security numbers.

When the IRS Rejects or Denies Your Amendment

If the IRS finds a problem with your amended return, they will mail you a notice — they do not reject it silently. The notice will explain what they found and what you need to do next. Common reasons for rejection include math errors, missing signatures, or filing an amended return for a year that is too old (generally you have three years to amend).

If the IRS denies the change you requested — for example, they disallow a deduction you claimed — the notice will explain their reason and tell you how to appeal if you disagree. You have 30 days from the date on the notice to respond. If you do nothing, the IRS's decision stands and you owe any additional tax they assessed.

Keep a copy of your amended return and any supporting documents (receipts, statements, letters) for at least three years. If the IRS asks questions later, you will need to show your work.

Amended Returns Filed Through a Tax Professional

If a tax professional or tax software company filed your amended return on your behalf, they may have a tracking number or confirmation email showing when it was submitted. Ask them for this information — it helps you know when to expect the return to show up in the IRS system.

Some tax software companies (like TurboTax, H&R Block, or TaxAct) let you track your amended return through their platform as well as through IRS.gov. Log into your account with the software company and look for a status tracker. This is often faster than waiting for the IRS tool to update.

If you used a CPA or tax attorney, they can call the IRS on your behalf using a power of attorney form (Form 2848). This can speed up getting information, especially if there is a problem with your return. Ask your tax professional whether they have already filed this form with the IRS.

What to Do If Your Amended Return Is Taking Too Long

If your amended return has been in "being processed" for more than six months, or if you have not seen any status update in eight weeks, contact the IRS. Call 1-800-829-1040 and explain the situation. Have your Social Security number, filing status, and the date you filed the amendment ready.

The IRS can sometimes locate a return that appears lost in the system or escalate it if there is a genuine delay. They cannot speed up the review itself, but they can confirm the return was received and tell you where it is in the queue. If the IRS cannot find your return after you mailed it, you may need to file it again.

If you need your refund urgently — for example, you have a financial hardship — mention this when you call. The IRS has a hardship program that can sometimes prioritize your case, though this is not may provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check my amended return status if I filed it more than a year ago?

Yes. The IRS keeps records of amended returns indefinitely for tax purposes. If your amended return is more than a year old and you have not heard anything, it was likely processed and approved. You can still check the status through IRS.gov or by calling 1-800-829-1040 to confirm.

What if I filed an amended return but the IRS never received it?

If you mailed it and the IRS has no record after eight weeks, file it again. Keep a copy of the first one for your records. If you are worried about mailing, consider having a tax professional e-file it instead — electronic filing is faster and you get confirmation of receipt.

Does checking my amended return status affect an audit?

No. Checking your status through IRS.gov or calling the IRS does not trigger an audit or change your chances of being audited. The IRS already has your return and knows you filed an amendment. Checking status is just looking at information they already have.

Can I withdraw an amended return after I file it?

Once you file an amended return, you cannot withdraw it. If you realize you made a mistake on the amendment itself, you can file another amended return to correct it. The IRS will process whichever amendment is most recent.

Why does the IRS website say my amended return is still being processed after six months?

Amended returns genuinely take longer than original returns — six to eight months is normal. If your amendment involved a large refund, a complex deduction, or something that does not match your W-2 or 1099, the IRS reviews it more carefully. This is not a sign something is wrong; it is just how the system works.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.