Filed incorrect Form 8863, how do I fix?

Question

I was notified that I needed to send in my Form 8863 to back-up my 1040. I did submit Form 8863 incorrectly. I have not received my refund and the IRS letter is very vague in terms of instructions. Do I just send in a correct 8863 or do I also send Form 1040X? I am asking because most people say that you only use 1040X once you receive your refund. Thanks.

Answer 1

You said that you "needed to send in your Form 8863 to back-up for 1040".  That means that you may have just forget to include the 8863 when you sent the return in and that is all they want  - so they know how your calculated the credit.  That means I would send the 8863 with a copy of their letter back to them.

If you indeed want to change your return - specifically the amount of the credit, you will have to amend with the 1040X.  And, no, what people have told you about waiting until your refund before you can amend is wrong.  You can amend as soon as know you did something wrong even if it is the day after you send in your original return.  I would also include a copy of their letter so they know why you are amending.

Answer 2

Photocopy the letter that was sent to you.

Do the 8863 correctly.  Even if the total is different than what was on the original return.

Add a paragraph letter.  Here is the 8863, sorry the total's different.  Thank you.

Once they have it, they can enter it into the computer as is.  No 1040x required.

Fax (if allowed) or mail it back in.

Answer 3

You claimed an education credit but did not submit Form 8863.  You later sent in Form 8863 but you think it is wrong.  

I think you should speak to someone at the IRS before sending them another form.  Sending another form or amendment may slow things up.