Did you just file an amended tax return using Form 1040-X and are now wondering, "Where's my amended refund?" The IRS offers a couple of ways to track the status of your amended return and see if a refund is coming your way. But before you dive in, be prepared for a wait. Unlike regular tax returns, amended returns take longer to process – up to 20 weeks or more, according to the IRS.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about checking your amended tax return status, including:

• How to use the Where's My Amended Return? tool
• What the different status updates mean
• Why your amended return might be taking a long time
• What to do if you can't find your amended return status

Freepik | creativeart  | Possible reasons for the delay in processing your amended return.

Finding Your Amended Refund Status

There are two main ways to check the status of your amended return:

1. Where's My Amended Return? online tool: This handy tool allows you to track your amended return. You'll need to wait at least three weeks after filing before the tool will show any updates. To use it, you'll need your Social Security number or individual tax ID number, date of birth, and ZIP code.
2. Call the amended return hotline: You can also call the IRS at 1-866-464-2050 to check your amended return status. Again, wait at least three weeks after filing before calling.

Understanding Your Amended Return Status

Once you locate your amended return using either of the methods above, the IRS will provide a brief description of its status. Here's a breakdown of what the different statuses mean:

• Received: This means the IRS has your amended return, but they haven't started reviewing it yet. Buckle up, as processing could take up to 20 weeks from this point.
• Adjusted: The IRS has reviewed your amended return and made adjustments to your tax account. This could result in a refund, a balance due, or no change to your taxes.
• Completed: The IRS has finished reviewing your amended return, and you will receive all the information related to its processing by mail. This is the final stage, and it means you'll be getting your amended refund soon!

Where's My Amended Refund?

Freepik | Where's My Amended Return? is your go-to source for the latest updates on your amended return status and potential refund.

If your amended return results in a refund, you won't be able to track its progress using the Where's My Amended Return? tool. This tool remains the best resource for up-to-date information on your amended return, including any potential refund.

Why the Wait?

Several factors can slow down the processing of your amended return. Here are some common culprits:

• Errors, incomplete information, or missing signatures on your amended return.
• The IRS needs more information from you and is sending your return back for clarification.
• Your return including Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation.
• Identity theft or fraud concerns related to your return.
• Needing review by a specialized IRS section, like the bankruptcy unit.

The IRS will contact you if they require more information. In general, processing times have slowed down in recent years, with amended returns taking significantly longer than the standard 16 weeks.

Can't Find Your Amended Return Status?

Freepik | roman | For amended returns filed with a foreign address, please reach out to the IRS directly for status updates.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to find your amended return status using the Where's My Amended Return? tool and are wondering, "Where's my amended refund":

• Business tax returns: The tool is only for amended returns filed for individual taxes.
• Carryback applications and claims: If your amended return involves carryback provisions, it won't be trackable through this tool.
• Foreign address: If you filed your amended return with a foreign address, you'll need to contact the IRS for status updates.

Remember: Patience is key when dealing with amended returns. While the wait can be frustrating, using the Where's My Amended Return? tools or calling the IRS hotline are the best ways to stay informed about the status of your amended return and any potential refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

So, where's my amended refund?
Simple answer? Check out the IRS tool to find out.

Does filing electronically speed up processing?
No, both paper and electronic amended returns have a processing time of approximately 20 weeks.

How soon will the Where's My Amended Return? tool show an update?
You can expect to see an update around three weeks after filing your amended return.