Amended Tax Return (Form 1040-X)
Definition
A form filed to correct errors on a previously filed tax return. Common reasons include forgetting to report income, claiming incorrect deductions, or changing your filing status. You generally have three years from the original filing date to amend. Amended returns must be filed separately for each tax year and cannot be e-filed if amending a return from before 2019.
Example
You realized you forgot to claim the $2,500 American Opportunity Credit on your 2024 return. Filing Form 1040-X could get you a $2,500 refund.