opening a 2021 .tax file

Forum|Forum|5 months ago
March 16, 2026
3 replies
139 views

Hello,

I used turbotax live self employed in 2021. I paid the amount owed but I forgot to file the 2021 return. Now I need to file my 2021 return. I do not have a .pdf of it. I only have the TurboTaxReturn.tax2021 file that I was able to download from the taxHome page on TurboTax Online. How can I access this file so that I can print it and send it in?

I have seen suggestions that I can download a copy of the software from 2021 but I have not been successful in doing so. Can you help?

Adam

TurboTax Live Self-Employed Online

DoninGA

Level 15

TurboTax does not support tax year 2021 so there is not a download available to install on your computer.

If you used the TurboTax online editions for the 2021 tax return, download the PDF. Then print, sign, date and mail the tax return to the IRS since it cannot be e-filed.

To access your current or prior year online tax returns sign onto the TurboTax website with the User ID you used to create the account - https://myturbotax.intuit.com/

Scroll down to the bottom of the screen and on the section Your tax returns & documents. Click on the Year and Click on Download/print return (PDF)

AvolioAuthor

Level 2

Other years that were actually filed offer me the option to download a .pdf. But I only have the .tax2021 file for 2021 because I messed up and did not hit "file". Can I open that .tax file with amend tools? I just need to find a way to print that year's return.

I'm open to creative solutions here.

Mike9241

Level 15

if you do not have a PDF, it seems you're out of luck. The only service I know of that handles prior-year TurboTax returns is TaxPrinter. However, they do not handle returns after 2017. In any case, it's too late to claim a refund. If you owe, you'll either need to use the IRS forms and prepare them manually or seek the help of a tax pro. Many have apps that go back that far, but you would need the tax documents for 2021. The IRS might have them if you request a transcript of your 2021 wage and income.

Mike9241