1040X question

[marn913]

This year we filed a 1040x because we had to make a correction on some earnings. I sent it in a few weeks back and the IRS cashed the check for the additional tax that I owed. However, I can't file my revised state return until I have confirmation that the IRS accepted the federal revision. How will I know that the IRS accepted the 1040X? Do they mail something, if so how long does it usually take?

 

[bjscheel]

I have never heard of IRS "accepting" an amended return (and I do taxes). It's more of a no news is good news thing. They will let you know if there is a problem, but not if it is fine. I also have not heard (in Iowa) of having to wait for IRS to accept your return before filing an amended state return. That might be true for an original e-filed return (in which you DO get a federal accepted acknowledgement). When we have to amend clients' returns, we send the federal and the state at the same time.

 

[deerhart]

I filed an amended 1040x one year and did not have to wait for it to be accepted until I could file my state taxes.

In fact, I didn't get the issue worked out with the IRS until late August.

They sent me a bill for $300 when I didn't owe anything. It was a 401(k) cash out and the taxes had already been withheld, but they misread the 1099.

I filed the amended form just so I didn't run the risk of getting audited. It did not change my taxes at all (since all the taxes had already been paid)

 

[marn913]

My Illinois 1040X requires that a "federal finalization" and date of acceptance be attached or else the won't accept the Illinois 1040. I just assumed I'd receive a letter or something verifying that the IRS accepted my federal 1040x, but so far nothing and it's been over a month since the IRS cashed my check for the additonal tax owed.

 

[bjscheel]

I would contact the Illinois Dept of Revenue and ask for clarification, either by phone or email. At least in Iowa, they are quick on the email.

 

[bjscheel]

I just looked at the IL 1040-X instructions and they are pretty insistent about that federal finalization. They do say, "If you do not have a copy of this notification, please contact the IRS at 1 800 829-0922 to request a record of your account." I would ask Illinois DOR if that's what you need to do.

 

[marn913]

Thanks for the advice. I called the IRS number today (from the IL-1040X instructions) and the person that helped me was very nice, but seemed not to have any clue what "federal finalization" even meant! I got a copy of my record faxed to me, but it looks like the processing may not be complete, because the record shows a credit for the amount I sent with the 1040x but does not indicate any of the other information from my 1040x. I guess I'll have to give it a while and see what happens.