A tax return can be incorrect or incomplete for many different reasons – from simple things like forgetting to sign a form to big issues like misreporting income or incorrectly calculating a credit. It can also happen because of various errors when filing electronically.
Depending on when you realize the error and what the error is, you have different ways to fix an incorrect or incomplete return.
If you’re using IRS’s fillable forms, and the Electronic Filing (E-file) system rejects your return, it’ll provide an error code telling you the problem. Some rejected returns are caused by incorrectly entering a Social Security Number or other taxpayer identification number.
Usually you can correct the error and try to e-file again. IRS.gov has a tool to walk you through common rejections. If you make the correction and the IRS still rejects the return, you can send it to the IRS by mail. (For more information about e-filing, see Free File Options.)
If information is missing, the IRS will either return the form or send you a notice asking for specific information it needs to finish processing your tax return. Simply send the information to the address on the notice or call the number on the notice, if you have questions.
The IRS sometimes makes changes because of a miscalculation. The IRS might also believe, based on other information on the return, that you’re eligible for a credit you didn’t claim.
No matter the reason for the change, if you disagree at all, reply to the IRS immediately.
This is called an audit. If it audits your return, the IRS will notify you by mail, and the notice will tell you if the audit will be handled by mail or in person. For more information, see Audits by Mail or Audits in Person.
Changes to tax returns during processing and other situations can change the amount of your refund.
The Where’s My Refund? tool can help you find your refund status.
If the IRS has contacted you about an error, it’s important for you to respond quickly. If you delay in responding promptly and correct errors or provide information, it can lead to:
If your refund is lost or stolen, it may take additional time to resolve. If you believe your refund was lost or stolen, the IRS needs time to verify what happened to it before issuing a replacement refund check. It’s extremely important to contact the IRS right away.
If you receive a refund you’re not entitled to, or an amount that is more than you expected, do not cash the check or spend the direct deposit refund until you receive a notice explaining the difference, then follow the instructions on the notice. If you cash the check or spend the refund and are ultimately not due that amount, you’ll have to repay it with interest.
The Taxpayer Advocate Service is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers and protects taxpayers’ rights. We can offer you help if your tax problem is causing a financial difficulty, you’ve tried and been unable to resolve your issue with the IRS, or you believe an IRS system, process, or procedure just isn’t working as it should. If you qualify for our assistance, which is always free, we will do everything possible to help you.
Visit www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov or call 1-877-777-4778.
Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) are independent from the IRS and TAS. LITCs represent individuals whose income is below a certain level and who need to resolve tax problems with the IRS. LITCs can represent taxpayers in audits, appeals, and tax collection disputes before the IRS and in court. In addition, LITCs can provide information about taxpayer rights and responsibilities in different languages for individuals who speak English as a second language. Services are offered for free or a small fee. For more information or to find an LITC near you, see the LITC page on the TAS website or Publication 4134, Low Income Taxpayer Clinic List.
Do you suspect you’re the victim of identity theft? Visit the Identity Theft page.
The taxpayer Bill of Rights is grouped into 10 easy to understand categories outlining the taxpayer rights and protections embedded in the tax code.
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