Yes, you can amend Form 8936 to correct a VIN error caused by a typo. Here’s how to proceed:
1. Verify and correct the VIN
Double-check the VIN against Form 15400 provided by the dealer, ensuring it matches the vehicle’s physical VIN and the IRS records. Typos often occur in transposed characters or omitted symbols.
2. Refile with corrections
After fixing the typo in Schedule A (Form 8936), resubmit the corrected form either:
- E-file: If the original return accepted without the credit, amend it electronically with the corrected VIN
- Paper file: If the original return rejected (e.g., SA-F8936-030-01), include a PDF of Form 15400 as substantiation when refiling
3. Special considerations
- Dealer reporting delays: If the dealer hasn’t yet reported the sale to the IRS via Energy Credits Online (ECO), filing may still trigger rejects. Contact the dealer to confirm submission timing.
- Eligibility confirmation: Cross-check the corrected VIN at fueleconomy.gov for new vehicles or energy.gov for previously owned ones.
4. Post-correction steps
If the original return already processed without the credit, claim the corrected amount via Form 1040-X amended return. Document the VIN correction rationale in your amendment.
Pro tip: For repeated rejects despite corrections, the IRS may require paper filing or a binary attachment of Form 15400. TurboTax users have reported success by manipulating form generation order or clearing cached data.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/can-i-amend-form-8936-if-the-vin-error-was-due-to-a-typo/
