I made a mistake and got more refund than I should. What should I do?
Q) I made a mistake and got more refund than I should. What do I do?
A) According to the IRS: Many mistakes are corrected in processing and a letter of explanation is mailed at the time the refund is issued.
If the mistake was not corrected in processing, you need to:
- File an amended or corrected return using Form 1040X (PDF), Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, as soon as possible.
- Include copies of any schedules that have been changed or any Form(s) W-2 (PDF) you did not include.
- If you return the refund check with a letter of explanation, a refund in the correct amount will be issued when the IRS processes the amended return.
- Write “Void” in the endorsement section of the check, and return the check with a letter of explanation to the Service Center where you file your amended return as soon as possible to minimize the interest charges.
- Allow the IRS 8-12 weeks to process the amended return.
CALL FOR TAX REFUND ESTIMATE
Please see contact information for the IRS regarding your refund.
Individuals
800-829-1040
7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time
Businesses
800-829-4933
7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time
Non-profit taxes
877-829-5500
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time
Estate and gift taxes
866-699-4083
8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Eastern time
Excise taxes
866-699-4096
8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time
Overseas callers
Use our International Services page.
Callers who are hearing impaired
TTY/TDD 800-829-4059
Requesting a face-to-face meeting for help
You can make an appointment at an IRS local office to get help. Appointment times vary by tax issues and office locations.
You can find the office closest to you with our Taxpayer Assistance Locator tool. Once you find your local office, call 844-545-5640 to schedule an appointment.
IRS offices are closed on federal holidays.