Most taxpayers already have filed their federal tax returns, but many may still have questions about their refund status, proper recordkeeping, how to correct mistakes on their return, and what to do if they move. Here is some information to help:

Refund Information

You can go online to check the status of your 2009 refund 72 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of your e-filed return, or 3 to 4 weeks after you mail a paper return. Make sure to have a copy of your 2009 tax return available because you will need to know your filing status, the first Social Security number shown on the return, and the exact whole-dollar amount of the refund. You have three options for checking on your refund:

• Go to IRS.gov, and click on “Where’s My Refund” which will take you to a secure link to check the status of your tax refund
• Call 1-800-829-4477, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for automated refund information
• Call 1-800-829-1954 during the hours shown in your tax form instructions

What Records Should I Keep?

Normally, tax records should be kept for at least three years from the date the tax return is filed which relates to those records. However, some documents—such as records relating to a home purchase or sale, stock transactions, IRAs and business or rental property—should be kept longer. You should keep copies of tax returns you have filed and the tax forms package as part of your records. These may be helpful later in amending already filed returns or preparing future returns. There also are many records you have that may help document items on your tax return. You’ll need this documentation in case the IRS selects your return for examination. Here are some tips about keeping good records:

1. Normally, tax records should be kept for at least three years from the date the return is filed which relates to the records, because the IRS generally must assess any additional tax within three years of the return filing date (although there are exceptions to this rule).
2. Some documents—such as records relating to a home purchase or sale, stock transactions, IRA and business or rental property—should be kept longer, in particular where it might be necessary to prove basis for capital gain or depreciation purposes.
3. In most cases, the IRS does not require you to keep records in any special manner. Generally speaking, however, you should keep any and all documents that may have an impact on your federal tax return. The most efficient manner is to keep records together by the specific tax year to which the records relate.
4. Records you should keep include copies of the tax returns you have filed and the tax forms package; bills, credit card and other receipts; invoices; mileage logs; canceled, imaged or substitute checks and checking account statements; proofs of payment; and any other records to support deductions or credits you claim on your return.
5. For more information on what kinds of records to keep or how long to retain records, consult your professional tax preparer or other professional tax advisor, or see IRS Publication 552, Recordkeeping for Individuals, which is available by clicking on the embedded link herein, or by going to the official IRS website at www.IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676). 

What If I Made a Mistake?

Errors may delay your refund or result in notices being sent to you. If you discover an error on your return, you can correct your return by filing an amended return using IRS Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. Here are some additional things to know about amending your federal tax return:

1. If you need to amend your tax return, use Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
2. Use Form 1040X to correct previously filed Forms 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ. The 1040X can also be used to correct a return filed electronically. However, you can only paper file an amended return.
3. You should file an amended return if you discover any of the following items were reported incorrectly: filing status, dependents, total income, deductions or credits.
4. Generally, you do not need to file an amended return for math errors. The IRS normally will automatically make the correction.
5. You usually do not need to file an amended return because you forgot to include tax forms such as W-2s or schedules. The IRS normally will send a request asking for those documents.
6. Be sure to enter the year of the return you are amending at the top of Form 1040X. Generally, you must file Form 1040X within three years from the date you filed your original return or within two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later.
7. If you are amending more than one tax return, prepare a 1040X for each return and mail them in separate envelopes to the IRS campus for the area in which you live. The 1040X instructions list the addresses for the campuses.
8. If the changes involve another schedule or form, you must attach it to the 1040X.
9. If you are filing to claim an additional refund, wait until you have received your original refund before filing Form 1040X. You may cash that check while waiting for any additional refund.
10. If you owe additional tax for 2009, you should file Form 1040X and pay the tax as soon as possible to limit interest and penalty charges. Interest is charged on any tax not paid by the due date of the original return, without regard to extensions.

Change of Address

If you move after you filed your return, you should send IRS Form 8822, Change of Address to the Internal Revenue Service. If you are expecting a refund through the mail, you should also file a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service.

For more information on checking refund status, proper recordkeeping, address changes and amended returns, consult your professional tax preparer or other professional tax advisor, or visit the official IRS website at IRS.gov.