Which term describes an adjustment made to a previously filed tax return?

The term that describes an adjustment made to a previously filed tax return is an amended return. When taxpayers discover errors or omissions in their initial tax filings, they can submit an amended return to the IRS. This allows them to correct the information, claim additional credits or deductions, or change their filing status. It is a crucial process for ensuring accuracy in tax filings and can help taxpayers avoid potential penalties or issues that might arise from discrepancies in their original returns. This process demonstrates how the tax system allows for corrections and promotes compliance among taxpayers.

Other options, while relevant to tax concepts, do not specifically describe the act of changing a previously filed return. For instance, a tax extension refers to the time granted to file a return, rather than revising one that has already been submitted. A credit adjustment usually relates to modifying the amount of tax credits claimed without altering the filed return itself. Tax abatement refers to a reduction in the amount of tax owed, often due to tax relief measures, which does not involve revising past returns.