I accidentally filed my federal taxes twice, what should I do?

Question

I had been having my case researched by the IRS because for the longest time I couldn't figure out why I haven't gotten my taxes. Then I realized, that I had filed my federal taxes using only one pay stub...then I had filed them again using the rest of my pay stubs. I now am finding out I should have amended my 1040. I am 19, this is only the second time I've ever done my taxes. I was confused because I lived in NH for a while and thought I needed to file once for NH and once for MA, but now I see that that only goes for the state tax, and you're only supposed to do federal once. The IRS is supposed to call me this week about my case, and now that I've figured out why I haven't gotten my refund for the rest of those w2's, how do I explain this to them? What can they do about it? Am I just going to have to amend it and refile?

Answer 1

The second filing would have just been rejected.  Yes you'll have to file an amendment, showing ALL of your income on the amended return.  When the IRS calls you about your case, just tell them what you said here, that you filed two returns each with part of your income, and  now understand that you need to file an amendment to show all of your income on your return.  They might have figured it out by the time they call you.

Answer 2

Any time a duplicate or second return is filed the IRS opens an investigation to see which is the correct one. Generally speaking, there is not a need to file an amended return in this situation as the second return will be treated as such. It will all get sorted out in time--which could be a long time since the IRS is flooded with duplicate and amended returns due to the stimulus program.

Answer 3

Make copies of all your pay stubs, w2's and both federal returns. Take your copies and the originals with you to the IRS. Give the copies to the IRS, keep the originals. Be prepared to pay back any refunds you received. You will be fine.

Answer 4

Once the IRS representative calls you explain that you filed two returns, they will be able to combine the returns and you shouldn't have to file an amended tax return.  

The only thing that happened is that you filing two returns, make it look suspicious, such as trying to claim more refunds than you are due.  

Don't worry about it you are not in any trouble, and if you need to file an amend the representative will let you know.

Good luck.  

Next year to know to  wait until you are sure you have all your wage information (w2's) before filing.

Answer 5

It will be best to talk to them directly.  More than likely, you'll probably have to refile with an amended return, but it should be fairly straight forward, now that you have all of the data together.

I have found that the IRS employees are generally very knowledgeable, and extremely helpful.  Don't be afraid to just tell them the truth about what's going on...they're there to help, and you certainly aren't the first person (nor will you be the last) who was confused by the forms.