2008 Earned income Credit- missed out, can I re-file?

Teenie · #1 Oct 23, 2009, 10:29 AM

I filled my 2008 tax return using TurboTax, and was mis-advised regarding the Earned Income Tax Credit. Turns out I was eligible, but had not filed as such. Can I re-file? How do I go about doing so? I don't owe, but my return for 2008 was horrendously low. In comparing with my peers, I found out I had indeed been eligible. Is there any way for me to cash in on this missed opportunity at a later date?

twinkiedooter · Oct 23, 2009, 10:39 AM

What makes you think Turbo Tax was wrong?

Teenie · Oct 23, 2009, 03:15 PM

My Uncle, who makes much more money than I do and, therefore, does not qualify for EIC, was "helping" me to speed through the TurboTax preparation process and when we came upon the window that said, "check box if you are eligible for EIC," he said, "Mark no. That doesn't apply to you." So I did as he directed without even the chance to actually read what the option even was, so as not to tick off the tempermental fellow who was assisting me and allowing me the use of his computer.
After the I filed, in comparing the amount of my return with people whom I worked and others whose income approximated my own, I was receiving a paltry sum! When a friend asked me what I had earned for the year, she exclaimed, "You did file for the EIC didn't you!?"
You pickin up what I'm putting down?
She was unmarried with no dependants as I am, filed late, did not even file her extension by the deadline, had made a $800 less than me, had a lower percentage of her money deducted for taxes, and she received 5 times as much money as I did on her tax return! (And yes, we fell under the same tax bracket).
So having recently suffered identity theft during a crucial re-location, and having found out a mere 3 days before the move that I am unexpectedly expecting- I am forced to pursue all avenues through which I may better my situation in life before the arrival of my son or daughter.
How's that for an answer?
What do you work for the company that puts out TurboTax or something?
Believe everything that you find out on Google is true?
GeeWhiz- I hope every one doesn't answer a question with a question around here!

twinkiedooter · Oct 26, 2009, 11:21 AM

So, it was not Turbo Tax's fault. It was your fault afterall.

And yes, as AtlantaTE above stated, you can amend your return.

Teenie · Nov 8, 2009, 05:09 PM

Thank You AtlantaTaxExpert for your reply. Now that I know that my efforts may be worthwhile I will look into ammending my return.
TwinkieDooter, I apologize for my short tempered, long winded reply to your initial response! I was already feeling a little silly for niot being more educated and thorough in my misguided tax preparation with my Uncle- didn't mean to take it out on you bud. Thanks taking the time to read and respond to my inquery at all!
With Thanks, Christine