Many US expats eventually realize that their federal income tax return wasn’t filed correctly. Whether it’s forgetting FATCA Form 8938, failing to report foreign bank accounts, or simply applying the same rules used while living in the US, mistakes are common. The good news is that the Internal Revenue Service allows you to fix these mistakes with an amended return.
This article explains when and how to file an amended return, the common errors expats make, what forms are involved, and how our team can prepare and submit your amended tax return for you—professionally and affordably.
Key Takeaways
- You can amend a return with Form 1040-X.
- You generally have three years from the original due date to claim a refund.
- If you owe additional tax, pay quickly to reduce interest.
- Expats often need to file an amended return due to unique reporting requirements.
Can You Edit a Tax Return After Filing?
Yes. If you discover that your original return had missing income, incorrect filing status, overlooked deductions, or forgot to include a required form like FATCA, you must file an amended return. The process uses Form 1040-X, a special IRS form with three columns—one for the original tax return, one for the changes, and one showing the corrected figures.
When You Need to File an Amended Return
You typically need to file an amended tax return if:
- You claimed the wrong filing status.
- You forgot to report foreign income.
- You missed important credits or deductions.
- You owe additional tax or qualify for an additional refund.
- You need to correct supporting documentation tied to your income tax return.
Expats especially run into problems with state tax returns, foreign pensions, or forgetting about forms like FBAR or FATCA. The IRS website even warns that common expat mistakes include leaving out foreign housing deductions, not reporting self-employment income, and not including international tax treaties.
How to File an Amended Return
To amend your federal return, you use Form 1040-X. Here’s the process:
- Use the three columns to compare your original return, the changes, and the corrected numbers.
- Include all updated forms and state forms if you must also amend a return with your state.
- If you owe additional tax, make an additional tax payment promptly to avoid penalties and interest.
- If your refund increases, choose direct deposit or a paper check.
The IRS now allows you to electronically file some amended federal returns (e-file), but many expats still need to file an amended tax return by mail. Always keep copies of your tax returns, supporting documentation, and all relevant forms.
How Long Do You Have to File an Amended Return?
The IRS limits the time you can make corrections. Generally, you have three years from the original due date (or from the original filing deadline) to file an amended return and claim a refund. If you owe additional tax, you should pay immediately—even if it’s past the deadline—to minimize additional interest.
Is There a Penalty for Filing an Amended Tax Return?
The IRS does not penalize you for simply filing an amended return. However, if you owe additional tax, you may face interest and additional tax charges from the due date of the original tax return until you pay in full. Filing sooner helps you avoid penalties.
Will the IRS Correct a Mistake on My Tax Return?
Sometimes the IRS will make small math adjustments automatically. But if you made a serious mistake—wrong filing status, missed income tax credit, or forgot international reporting forms—you must submit an amendment. The IRS will not fix those errors for you.
What About State Tax Returns?
If you amend your return at the federal level, you may also need to file an amended tax return with your state. Each state has its own rules, state forms, and due dates. Expats often forget that even if they no longer live in the US, a past residency connection may still require a state tax return amendment.
Common Expat Mistakes That Require Amendments
- Forgetting Form 8938 or FBAR.
- Using the wrong filing status when married to a non-US spouse.
- Double-taxing foreign pensions.
- Missing deductions for foreign housing or education.
- Overlooking credits like the foreign tax credit or child income tax credit.
These mistakes often lead to incorrect tax liability and sometimes result in expats who either owe additional tax or missed out on refunds.
Professional Help: Flat $400 Service
Preparing an amended return is not as simple as re-filing. Each form 1040-X must be carefully prepared, including adjustments to your original return, possible state tax return filings, and international considerations.
Our expat-focused tax professionals can prepare and submit your amended tax return for a flat fee of $400. Whether you need to file an amended return for one year or multiple tax years, we ensure full compliance and help you avoid penalties while maximizing your refund eligibility.
If you’re unsure whether you must file an amended return, contact us today. We’ll review your original return and let you know if an amended tax return is necessary.
