Accounting Articles > Federal Payroll Tax:

How to amend Form 941: Quarterly Withholding Tax Return

The form used for this is the 941X.

The 941X or amendment form for the federal 941 is one of the most confusing and difficult federal forms to complete. It requires us to show the tax totals filed on the original 941 form, the new totals as adjusted, as well as the changes in between the two sets of totals in detail. This is very difficult to complete successfully because the change must be based upon existing tax law and the compliance principles as proscribed by The IRS. This isn't something that the The Internal Revenue Service simply rubber stamps and accepts, especially if you are seeking a refund. Most of these are not accepted and processed by The IRS because they do not include a reasonable explanation for the change. It can't be based upon, “just because you want a refund.”

Another one of the reasons why a 941 form amendment is rejected by the IRS is that the accounting is done incorrectly on the form. You actually have to know the proper way to complete a 941 and perform all of the accounting correctly in order to have these accepted. One of the great misconceptions of this new century is that you can get the accounting software to do a form correctly. Whatever software system that you are using is only as good as its operator. If you don't know what you are doing, you can't expect the software to magically become a degreed experienced CPA and do it correctly.

If you need to amend a Form 941, don't try to do this yourself. You may just end up making things worse. Call our offices today. As highly recommended CPA's and tax accountants in the Chicagoland Area, we have the experience you need to get the job done right the first time. Our Standard Accounting Services section may have what you need. We will amend your 941 for as little as $350 per quarter, complete 941s starting at $175 per quarter, or if your 941s are being audited we will review your case and represent you beginning at $1,500. Simply call our offices or click today.