Cameron Miranda
While it is not explicitly illegal to file taxes twice, it is also not recommended. Filing taxes twice will result in the IRS rejecting the second submission and sending a notification with an error code. The IRS will only process the first submission received, and the second will be returned to the taxpayer. If you have made a mistake on your tax return, the correct procedure is to file an amended tax return using Form 1040-X, rather than submitting the same tax return twice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is it possible to file taxes twice? | No |
| What happens if someone files taxes twice? | The IRS will reject the second submission and send a notification |
| What should one do if they've filed taxes twice? | File an amended tax return using Form 1040-X |
| Will there be a fine for filing taxes twice? | No |
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What You'll Learn
IRS duplicate submission safeguards
The IRS processes tens of millions of returns every year and has implemented reliable safeguards against duplicate filings. Here are some of the IRS duplicate submission safeguards:
Automated Systems
The IRS's automated systems typically detect duplicate submissions immediately and reject the second submission. The system alerts the filer with an error notification labelled as a duplicate submission. The IRS will return the second tax return and will not consider it.
Manual Review
In the rare case that two returns are accepted, the IRS will eventually examine both. Once they identify the duplicate, they will send a notice alerting the filer in writing, requiring clarification. The filer must respond clearly and promptly, confirming the correct return, submitting requested documentation, or correcting any discrepancies.
Amended Returns
If you've already submitted your tax return and later find a mistake, you should file an amended return using IRS Form 1040-X, rather than resubmitting your original return. The IRS generally allows you to file an amended return within three years from your original tax return due date or within two years from when the taxes were paid, whichever is later.
Streamlined Filing
If you qualify, you may make a streamlined submission for the most recent three years, as they are fully compliant and will not incur penalties. Attach the certification to a Form 1040X for the most recent tax year and write "Streamlined Domestic Offshore" in red ink at the top.
Clean Financial Records
Keeping clean financial records is a simple way to avoid duplicate submissions. Automated expense-tracking software can help streamline this process by capturing, sorting, and categorizing expenses throughout the year, providing accessible reports when it's time to file taxes. This reduces the risk of errors and provides a clear audit trail.
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How to correct a mistake on your tax return
While it is not a criminal offence to file taxes twice, it is not recommended as it can lead to confusion and delays. The IRS will only process one tax return and will reject the second filing. If you have made a mistake on your tax return, you can correct it by filing an amended return. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Step 1: Identify the mistake
Carefully review your tax return and identify the mistake that needs to be corrected. Common mistakes include incorrect income, deductions, credits, or tax liability.
Step 2: Check for an IRS notice
Before filing an amended return, check if you have received an IRS notice informing you of any incorrect information on your tax return. The IRS may give you the opportunity to make corrections before officially processing your return.
Step 3: Determine if an amended return is necessary
In some cases, you may not need to file an amended return. For example, if the mistake is minor and does not affect your tax liability, the IRS may correct it for you without requiring further action from you.
Step 4: Gather the necessary forms and documentation
To file an amended return, you will need to use Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. You will need to submit all the same forms and schedules as you did with your original return, even if you are only making changes to a few items.
Step 5: File the amended return
You can file your amended return electronically or by mail. If you are claiming a refund, you must file the amended return within three years after the date you filed your original return or within two years after the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. If you owe additional tax, be sure to pay by the April due date to avoid penalties and interest.
Step 6: Follow up as needed
After filing your amended return, you may need to follow up with the IRS to ensure that your corrections have been processed correctly. You can check the status of your amended return using the "Where's My Amended Return?" tool on IRS.gov. If you made changes to your state tax return, you may also need to contact your state tax agency to ensure they have the updated information.
Remember to keep clean financial records and consider using automated expense-tracking software to streamline your tax preparation and reduce the risk of errors in the future.
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IRS duplicate submission consequences
The IRS will not accept two tax returns from the same person. Their systems typically detect duplicate filings immediately and reject the second submission, sending a notification labelled as a duplicate submission. The IRS will return the second tax return due to duplicate filing and will not consider it.
If you made a mistake on your original tax return, you do not need to contact the IRS. Instead, you should file an amended tax return using IRS Form 1040-X. This can be done by mailing Form 1040-X and any supporting documentation to the address provided, or by e-filing for amended tax returns from 2021 onwards. The IRS generally allows you to file an amended return within three years from your original tax return due date or within two years from when the taxes were paid, whichever is later.
If you receive a duplicate submission rejection and are sure that you didn't already file a tax return, check that you entered your social security number correctly. If the social security number is correct, you will need to print and mail your tax return, including Form 14039, as this could be a case of identity theft.
If the IRS notifies you of a duplicate submission and you are confident that you didn't file your taxes twice, contact the IRS and the Federal Trade Commission, as someone may be using your social security number to file taxes, which would lead to a criminal investigation.
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IRS identity theft investigation
While filing taxes twice may not be illegal, it is not recommended and can lead to confusion and delays. The IRS will only process one tax return and will reject the second filing.
If you are a victim of identity theft, the IRS is committed to resolving your case as quickly as possible. Here are the steps you should take if you suspect tax-related identity theft:
- If you receive a notice from the IRS that indicates someone may have used your SSN fraudulently, notify the IRS immediately using the contact information provided on the notice or letter.
- Complete Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit, and attach it to your paper tax return or submit it online. Do not submit duplicate forms, as this will cause delays.
- Your case will be assigned to the Identity Theft Victim Assistance organization, where it will be researched and resolved by an employee with specialized identity theft training.
- The IDTVA organization will assess the issues and determine if your identity theft issue affects one or more tax years. They will address all issues related to the fraudulent return(s) and ensure your tax return is properly processed.
- Once your case is resolved, your tax account will be marked with an identity theft indicator, and you will be placed in the Identity Protection PIN program to prevent future identity theft.
It is important to act quickly and follow the instructions provided by the IRS if you suspect or are notified of potential identity theft.
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Tax software to prevent duplicate submissions
Filing taxes twice is not ideal, as it can lead to confusion, delays, and even legal ramifications in some cases. While the IRS has safeguards against duplicate filings, it is still important to take steps to prevent this from happening. Here are some ways tax software can help prevent duplicate submissions:
Automated Expense-Tracking Software
Tools like ExpenseMonkey can automate the process of capturing, sorting, and categorizing expenses throughout the year. This reduces the risk of errors, including duplicated deductions and missing documentation. It also provides a clean audit trail, which can be helpful for identifying and correcting any duplicate submissions.
Regular Audits and Reconciliation
Regular audits and reconciliation of payroll data with employee records can help identify discrepancies early on. This allows for timely corrections before tax forms are issued, reducing the chances of duplicate submissions.
Robust Internal Controls and Verification Processes
Implementing robust internal controls and verification processes within payroll systems can help prevent duplicate submissions. This includes educating employees on reviewing their pay stubs and reporting inconsistencies, fostering a collaborative approach to payroll management, and maintaining a reliable payroll process.
Systematic Approach to Receipt Tracking
A systematic approach to receipt tracking, such as Shoeboxed's service, can help prevent duplicate submissions by providing a clear overview of expenses and submissions.
Clean Financial Records
Keeping clean and organized financial records is a simple yet effective way to avoid duplicate submissions. This includes maintaining clear and up-to-date records of transaction identifiers, payment dates, and amounts.
While these tax software tools can help prevent duplicate submissions, it is still important to remain vigilant and carefully review any notices from the IRS to promptly address any issues that may arise.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not against the law to file taxes twice. However, the IRS will only process one tax return. The second submission will be flagged and rejected by the IRS's automated system.
If you accidentally file taxes twice, you will receive a notification from the IRS with an error code. The IRS will only process the first tax return submitted.
If you need to correct a mistake on your tax return, you should file an amended tax return using Form 1040-X. Do not submit a second tax return, as this will only generate an error message.
If you receive a notification for a duplicate tax return and you did not file it, contact the IRS and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) immediately. This could be a case of identity theft, and the IRS will need to investigate.
Common reasons for filing taxes twice include forgetting that you've already submitted a return, making a mistake on the first return, or being a victim of identity theft. Keeping clean financial records and using automated expense-tracking software can help prevent duplicate filings.
