Amended tax return and IRMAA: get the new income used
By Elder PaperworkUpdated
Short answer
If you amended the tax return Social Security used, it can use the amended one instead. No appeal is needed.
Send it with an IRS receipt letter or an IRS transcript.
Ask within 3 calendar years after the end of that tax year.
Sources: POMS HI 01120.045; POMS HI 01120.001, June 2026. Read November 4, 2026.
Key facts
Can Social Security use my amended return?
Yes. At your request, it can replace the tax data it used with your amended return.
It does so even if the result is higher, not lower.
What do I need to send?
- Your copy of the amended return and the IRS receipt letter
- Or an IRS transcript
- Or a copy of the amended return from the IRS
Is there a deadline?
Yes. Within 3 calendar years after the close of the tax year the return covers.
Social Security’s example: a 2005 amended return had to be provided by April 15, 2009.
See your possible savings first. No commitment.
Check my savingsHow do I tell Social Security?
Social Security asks you to call 1-800-772-1213 and say you want to lower your IRMAA.
This is not a Form SSA-44 case. Our IRMAA Check is built for life-changing events.
Questions
Do I need to appeal?
No. An amended return is a reason for a new decision, without an appeal.
Can it raise my IRMAA?
Yes. Social Security uses it even if the result is less favorable.
Is Form SSA-44 needed?
No. Call Social Security and send the amended return with the IRS receipt.