Accidentally Filed Single When Married to an Australian
Updated on August 12, 2025
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Filed single while married in Australia? Steps for US expats
Mistakenly filing as “Single” on a US tax return when you’re legally married to an Australian can cause more than just paperwork headaches–it can lead to IRS penalties, tax overpayments, and complications for both your and your spouse’s tax obligations.
This guide gives you the steps to fix your filing status today to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with the US and Australian tax systems.
1. Contact the IRS about an incorrect filing status
When you notify them, explain that you’re seeking help to correct a filing status mistake related to your marriage. While the IRS takes compliance seriously, it recognizes that honest mistakes happen and offers a process to correct them.
Need help contacting the IRS?
- International helpline: +1 267-941-1000
- Fax questions: 681-247-3101
- Website: IRS International Services
2. Obtain and complete Form 1040-X
Form 1040-X is specifically used for amending federal tax returns. You can obtain Form 1040-X on the IRS website. You can fill it out electronically or print and complete it by hand.
How do I fill out Form 1040-X?
- Start by filling in your personal details exactly as they appeared on your original return, such as your name, SSN, and address.
- Continue filling out columns A, B, and C:
|
Column |
What it represents |
|
A |
What you originally filed |
|
B |
The change (difference between A and C) |
|
C |
The corrected filing status |
3. Provide a clear explanation on why you’re amending your tax return. Be direct and accurate.
4. Lastly, sign and date Form 1040-X to finalize and validate your changes. This confirms that the form is complete and ready for submission.
📌 Important: If you are filing a joint return, both you and your spouse must sign Form 1040-X
3. Gather all relevant documents
Additionally, you’ll need to include any forms or documents that support your corrected filing status on Form 1040-X, such as:
- Your marriage certificate
- Your new tax return with the corrected “Married” status
- Notices from the IRS on any adjustments to that return
- Include any other documents that prove your marital status, such as joint bank account statements or shared lease agreements
4. Submit the amended return
You can now submit the forms electronically using tax filing software. If you can’t file online, you’ll need to mail it to the IRS center that applies to you.
5. Wait for processing (after submission)
Processing an amended return typically takes 8 to 12 weeks. To get updates regarding your return, you can check the status of your amended return on the IRS website.
Also, keep an eye out for follow-up requests from the IRS. The IRS may contact you for additional information or clarification.
📌 Note: Delays beyond 12 weeks are common, especially for international filers or paper returns. Be prepared to provide any requested documents to the IRS promptly.
Made a mistake on your tax return? You can still fix it.
What happens when I don’t correct my filing status?
Failing to amend your tax return can result in:
- Tax penalties: You may face underpayment penalties, late payment penalty, and even interest on unpaid taxes
- Inaccurate tax liability: Married filing jointly and single filers are subject to different tax rates. Incorrect status can result in miscalculated tax bills.
- Delayed or denied refunds: The IRS may delay or withhold your refund until the filing error is corrected.
- Impact on your spouse’s return: If your spouse also files a U.S. return, conflicting marital statuses can trigger IRS review or penalties for both of you.
- Loss of tax benefits: You could lose access to important credits and deductions, such as:
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- Child Tax Credit (CTC)
- Education-related tax breaks
How long do I have to correct the error?
You can file an amended return using Form 1040-X within 3 years of filing your original return, or within 2 years of paying the tax, whichever is later.
Your amended return may take several months to process. Extensions are sometimes available if you’re outside the US.
📌 Note: The deadline for correcting errors on a US tax return may change if fraud or an IRS error is involved.
Will my mistake affect my spouse’s tax obligations in Australia?
No. Your US filing status error does not affect your spouse’s Australian tax obligations as long as they aren’t included in your US tax return or required to file with the IRS.
Your spouse should continue filing in Australia as normal. Australia’s tax laws are separate from US tax law, even if you’re married.
Conclusion
If you’ve mistakenly filed as “Single” on your US tax return, it’s important to act quickly. The most crucial step is to file Form 1040-X to amend your return with the correct marital status.
Filing Form 1040-X typically resolves most related issues. This step helps ensure compliance with IRS rules and reduces the risk of unnecessary tax complications for you and your spouse.
FAQs
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Can I e-file my Form 1040-X?
Yes, some IRS-authorized e-file tax preparation firms can e-file amended tax returns, such as Expat Tax Online.
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Can I file separately if I’m married?
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Will I face penalties for filing as Single instead of Married?
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