Why Is My Amended Return Taking So Long and What Causes Delays

Filing an amended return can be a frustrating experience, especially when it takes longer than expected to process. In fact, the IRS receives over 13 million amended returns each year, which can lead to delays.

The IRS has a complex system in place to process amended returns, which can contribute to delays. According to the IRS, amended returns are typically processed in 8-12 weeks, but this timeframe can vary depending on the specific circumstances.

One common reason for delays is the need for additional documentation. If the IRS requires more information to process your amended return, it can significantly slow down the process.

For another approach, see: How Long Do Returns Take to Process on Credit Cards

If your amended return is taking longer than expected, there are several reasons why. One possible cause is that the IRS may have sent your return back to you, asking for more information.

The IRS is still dealing with a significant backlog of unprocessed amended returns. As of April 22, 2023, there were still 3.4 million unprocessed amended returns.

Here are some specific reasons why your amended return might be delayed:

Manual processing is a major contributor to the delay. The IRS takes approximately seven months to process an amended return, which creates a significant backlog.

Processing time for amended returns can be unpredictable, but there are some general guidelines to keep in mind.

The IRS processes amended returns in the order they are received, which can take up to 8-16 weeks. If your return is incomplete, has errors, is unsigned, is associated with identity theft or fraud, or includes Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation, it may take longer than 16 weeks to process.

The processing time for amended returns can also depend on the type of form. For example, Form 1040-X, the Amended Individual Tax Return, had a processing time of up to 20 weeks or longer as of May 13, 2023.

Here's a breakdown of the processing times for some common forms:

It's worth noting that the IRS has been working on reducing the backlog of unprocessed amended paper tax returns. As of April 22, 2023, there were still 3.4 million unprocessed amended returns, but this number has decreased by 200,000 compared to the previous year.

If you're wondering why your amended return is taking so long, you're not alone. Many people face challenges when trying to amend their tax returns.

There are several reasons why your amended return may be delayed. The IRS is currently experiencing delays in processing amended returns that are mailed or filed electronically, which can take up to 8-16 weeks to process.

Amended returns can take longer to process if they are incomplete, have errors, are unsigned, are associated with identity theft or fraud, or include Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation. This is because the IRS has to manually process these returns, which can cause delays in both data intake and refund issuance.

Some types of tax returns can't be checked using the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool, including business tax returns, amended returns filed by mail, prior year amended returns, multiple amended returns, and amended returns in certain situations.

If you filed your amended return by mail, it may not be available for online tracking immediately. Amended returns filed by mail typically take longer to process compared to electronically filed returns, and there may be delays in updating the online system with the status of these returns.

For another approach, see: Can You Go to Jail for Not Paying Business Taxes

Here are some common challenges with amended returns:

The good news is that you can track the status of your amended return around three weeks after you have filed. You can visit “Where’s My Amended Return?” or call 866-464-2050 to check the status of your return.

Intriguing read: Check Federal Tax Payment Status