1040X: How to Prepare IRS Form 1040X You should file an amended tax return if you need to correct your filing status, total income, tax deductions, or tax credits. You should not file an amended return if you are only correcting math errors. Tips for preparing an amendment. You should file an amended tax return if you need to correct your filing status, total income, tax deductions, or tax credits. You should not file an amended return if you are only correcting math errors. Tips for preparing an amendment. 1040xamendedamendingamendmentformincomeirsreturntax in Taxwith amendedcorrectfilefilingreturnstatustaxtotal