Millions of taxpayers are experiencing extended wait times for their amended tax returns in 2025, with the IRS warning that processing could take up to 16 weeks—double the normal timeframe. Here’s what you need to know about checking your amended return status and navigating the current delays.
What’s Causing the Delays?
The IRS continues to experience delays due to the lingering effects of COVID-19, creating a perfect storm for taxpayers who filed amended returns. Recent data shows several factors contributing to the extended processing times:
- Higher volume of paper returns than expected in early 2025
- Increased identity verification checks slowing automated processing
- Manual review requirements for returns with mismatched information
Current Processing Times
The IRS now states you should generally allow 8 to 12 weeks for your Form 1040-X to be processed, but in some cases, processing could take up to 16 weeks. This represents a significant increase from previous years when amended returns typically processed within 8-12 weeks.
Quick Access Links
Check Your Amended Return Status: https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return
Phone Support: 866-464-2050 (expect longer hold times)
How to Check Your Status
The fastest way to track your amended return is through the IRS’s “Where’s My Amended Return?” online tool at https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return. You can check the status of an amended return around 3 weeks after you submit it, and the system shows status information for the current tax year plus up to 3 prior years.
For phone support, taxpayers can call the toll-free number 866-464-2050, though expect longer hold times due to increased call volume.
What to Expect in Your Status Check
Amended returns take up to 3 weeks to show up in the IRS system and up to 16 weeks to process. Don’t panic if your return doesn’t appear immediately—this is normal processing behavior.
The online tool will show one of three statuses:
- Received: Your amendment is in the system
- Processing: Your return is being reviewed
- Completed: Processing is finished, refund issued if applicable
Recent IRS Developments
The IRS opened the 2025 tax filing season in January, receiving millions of returns on the first day. However, the agency has also acknowledged ongoing challenges with electronic payment processing, which may impact some taxpayers’ experiences.
Pro Tips for Faster Processing
- File electronically when possible – Electronic amended returns process faster than paper
- Double-check all information – Errors require manual review, adding weeks to processing
- Use direct deposit – This is the fastest refund method once processing completes
- Avoid calling unless necessary – Use online tools first to check status
When to Be Concerned
Contact the IRS only if:
- Your amended return shows no status after 3 weeks
- Processing time exceeds 16 weeks with no update
- You receive conflicting correspondence about your return
The current processing delays are frustrating but not unusual given the IRS’s ongoing operational challenges. Most taxpayers will eventually receive their refunds, though patience is required during this extended processing period.
Stay updated on your amended return status through the official IRS tools, and avoid third-party websites that may charge fees for information available free directly from the IRS.