Avoid the wrath of the IRS without going into hiding. This tax tip helps anyone who has found a mistake on a previously filed return. Regardless of how meticulous you are about keeping accurate tax records, things can happen that you don't expect. As The Wall Street Journal reports, one source of the problem can be erroneous information on forms received from institutions.
Information regarding interest, dividends or mortgage payments can be incorrect.
You may also receive information you hadn't expected after you file a return. According to the IRS, this is appropriate whether your original return was filed on paper or electronically. The IRS Service Center usually corrects mathematical errors, and if a form such as a W-2 or a schedule is left out, they will request them. According to National Tax Services Inc., there is no reason to amend your return in cases like these. However, there are three instances where they definitely do recommend filing an amended return.