How many of the thousands of pages of tax law do you want us to provide to you?
Here is the short version:
You cannot use the current online software to prepare a 2017 return. If you are getting a tax refund for 2017 there will be no penalty for late filing. If you owe tax due, then you will be penalized and billed by the IRS for the amount of penalty/interest you owe. They will calculate this when they receive your tax return and payment for the amount shown as owed on the tax return.
The current online program can be used to prepare a 2018 return; e-filing is still open until October 15, 2019; after that a 2018 return has to be printed, signed and mailed. Again--if you owe tax due for 2018, you are subject to penalty and interest; if you are getting a 2018 refund, no penalty.
Online preparation and e-filing for 2017 is permanently closed.
To file a return for a prior tax year
If you need to prepare a return for 2015, 2016, or 2017 you can purchase and download desktop software to do it, then print, sign, and mail the return(s)
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/
Remember to prepare your state return as well—if you live in a state that has a state income tax.
When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s. Use a mailing service that will track it, such as UPS or certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.
Note: The desktop software you need to prepare the prior year return must be installed/downloaded to a full PC or Mac. It cannot be used on a mobile device
**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**
