IRS’s own instructions<\/a> to guide you through the form. Those instructions have everything you need to know about each section in the form as well as where to send it when you’re done.<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. Use 1040X For Corrections<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you know that you made a mistake in advance of being contacted by the IRS, you still need to use the 1040X. With the 1040X you can amend any credits or deductions that are missing on your original form. If you forgot to write something off, it’s not too late to make it known to the IRS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many people write off business losses, major donations, or assets handed over. In the span of a year, it can be easy to forget even something big. Hold onto your receipts and all of your paperwork until you’re sure you don’t need it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Know When You Don’t Need To Amend<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Don’t freak out if you made a simple math or arithmetic error. They’re pretty common among people who don’t do taxes for a living. When the IRS gets your tax return form, they’ll do the math one more time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If they find a mistake, they’ll send you a letter or ask for any additional documentation. If you subtracted a loss and didn’t account for it, they might need to see receipts or bank statements that back up what you’ve done or where you’ve been. Until that time, don’t stress about it.<\/p>\n\n\n