Tax Question Filing a 1040x - Do I send them back money?

[Anonymous]

So - I filed my return. Getting back a little under $6,000. I just receieved another w-2 totaling 
$16,000 in earned income. A few people have told me not to worry about it. "You're a small fish in a huge ocean.." I was told, but it doesn't seem right to me. Not to mention if I am caught the penalty/interest they'll lay on top of me will be greusome. 

Any-hoo. I filled out a 1040X and looks like I was over paid by the IRS about $2,357.00. 

My question is, do I send out my 1040x with a check for $2,357 in the amount of over payment they sent me or do I wait for the IRS to bill me for the amount? 

[Anonymous]

I'll just quote directly from page 11 of the Instructions for Form 1040x:

To pay by mail. Send your signed Form 1040X with a check or money order for the full amount payable to “United States Treasury.” Do not send cash. Do not attach your payment to Form 1040X. Instead, enclose it in the envelope with your amended return.

You should read that entire section in the instructions to make sure you understand the other payment options and that you're reading it all in context. I think it's all pretty straightforward, but, you know, I don't give tax advice. 

[Anonymous]

..Appreciate the help.

[Anonymous]

Yes you should send them the money.  You should wait until your refund is distributed before you send in your 1040X with the payment.

[Anonymous]

---

@Anonymous wrote:

Yes you should send them the money.  You should wait until your refund is distributed before you send in your 1040X with the payment.

---

Thanks Jemster. I supposed to was more concered that if I send too much / too little because I did my 1040x wrong if they'd bill me / send me back the overpayment. I've never had to file one. This is what I get for not being patient. 

[tacpoly]

Yes, send a check for the amount you owe to the IRS with the 1040X.

Don't forget that you might owe state and city tax as well.  You might need to correct your state tax return.

[Anonymous]

Not reporting would be a terrible idea as your employer is required to report this info to the IRS. Correcting it was the right move!