Question I received my refund, but I made a mistake on my return so the refund is more than I should have received. I haven't cashed the check. What should I do now? Answer Since the IRS didn't catch your mistake during processing, you should: File an amended return using Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return as soon as possible. Include any forms and/or schedules that you're changing and/or didn't include with the original return. Return the refund check with a letter of explanation. Write "Void" in the endorsement section of the check when you return it. Don't staple, bend, or paper clip the check. When your amended return has completed processing, the IRS will issue a new refund check. Please note: Due to processing delays, it’s taking us more than 20 weeks to process amended returns. Additional Information Should I File an Amended Return? Instructions for Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return Tax Topic 308 - Amended Returns Tax Topic 161 - Returning an Erroneous Refund – Paper Check or Direct Deposit Category IRS procedures Sub-Category Amended returns & Form 1040X
