How to amend an individual return (1040X) in Lacerte

Before you start:

• The IRS supports e-filing for certain 1040X returns (starting in 2019). For details on which returns can be e-filed, refer to E-filing individual amended returns, Form 1040X.
• We recommend you make a copy of the client file to preserve the amounts as originally filed and all e-file history.
• You can e-file amended returns even if the original return was created and e-filed outside Lacerte. Make sure the name and SSN match the original return.

Table of contents:

Follow these steps to generate Form 1040X:

1. Select the client you created to open the Detail tab.
2. Go to Screen 59, Amended Return (1040X) before making any changes.
3. Select the returns to amend from the dropdown in Federal/State return(s) to amend (Ctrl+T) (MANDATORY) and select OK to continue.
4. Verify the time and date listed in the information window, then select OK.
   • Lacerte will automatically bring over original amounts from the return into the Original Amounts column on this screen. If the amounts don't auto-populate, make sure the F4 status of the return isn't marked as Return Complete.
5. Use the primary input screens to make the necessary corrections to the return. For example, if you're amending to report additional wages, go to Screen 10, Wages, Salaries, Tips to correct the wage amount.
6. Use the Forms tab to review the 1040X for accuracy.

To e-file the amended return:

1. Go to Screen 1, Client Information.
2. Make sure the federal return is selected for e-file.
3. Go to the Diagnostics tab and clear any e-file critical diagnostics.
4. Have your client sign and return Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization.
5. Go to the Clients tab.
6. Select the client you want to e-file.
7. Go to the E-file tab.
8. Select Start e-file Amended Return Wizard.
9. You'll receive a warning message about maintaining your e-file history. Read the message carefully, then select No to continue the e-file process.
   • If you haven't made a copy of the client file, select Yes to exit the wizard and make a copy now.
10. Make sure the federal amended return is listed in the wizard, and press Next to continue.
11. Select Send e-file Return Now to transmit the return.

What years can I e-file?

The 1040-X follows typical e-file availability rules, where the current year and two prior can be filed electronically.

What filing types will be able to e-file?

Only an e-filed Form 1040 or 1040-SR can be amended this way due to IRS limitations.

Will the ability to add direct deposit of refund be included with the return?

Beginning in processing year 2023, direct deposit can be requested for electronically filed amended returns for tax year 2021 and tax year 2022.

What if I'm amending a return to report a change in filing status?

These returns must still be paper filed. The filing status of any e-filed amended return must match the filing status of the originally filed return.

What if I need to make a change to the taxpayer's or spouse's SSN?

These returns must still be paper filed. The taxpayer's (and spouse's) TIN or SSN must match that of the original filing when e-filing.

What if I'm amending to claim a dependent who was wrongly claimed by a different taxpayer?

These returns must still be paper filed. Dependents claimed on someone else's return can't be claimed on an e-filed amended return.

Do I need to get my client's signature before e-filing the 1040X?

Yes, you should have your client sign a new Form 8879, IRS e-file Signature Authorization.

How many amended returns can I e-file for the same client?

Per the IRS Amended Return Frequently Asked Questions page: Filers will be allowed to electronically file up to three "accepted" Amended Returns. After the third accepted Amended Return, all subsequent attempts will reject.