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posted Jun 7, 2019 4:27:25 PM

Can I make changes to my return files, if I already downloaded it but not mailed or e-filed?

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1 Best answer
Level 15
Jun 7, 2019 4:27:27 PM

Yes, you can make changes IF you have not actually filed the 2017 return (have not efiled and haven't actually mailed).  Here's how to open your return back up to continue working on it.

  • Log in and go to the section "Your Tax Returns & Documents."
  • Click on that line or the word SHOW to expand that section.
  • Under 2017, look for a link "Add a State" and click. (that doesn't really add one; that's just to open the return back up.)
  • Once the return is open, you can resume working on your return to make any corrections.
  • Depending on what you change on the Federal side, you may need to review the screens in your State Taxes as well to make sure the changes occurred.
  • Then go through the REVIEW tab to be sure all is still in order.
  • Then go through the FILE tab to choose a filing method, etc.
  • If filing by mail, it should prompt you to print the return and filing instructions.
  • If efiling, be sure you go all the way to the end to the final screen and click the button "Transmit My Returns Now".

NOTE:  Do NOT use this method to open a return to make changes/edits to an already-filed return (one that has actually been mailed or efiled.)   If you later need to make changes to an already-filed return, you have to go through the formal amending process, and your return must start off exactly as originally filed.

1 Replies
Level 15
Jun 7, 2019 4:27:27 PM

Yes, you can make changes IF you have not actually filed the 2017 return (have not efiled and haven't actually mailed).  Here's how to open your return back up to continue working on it.

  • Log in and go to the section "Your Tax Returns & Documents."
  • Click on that line or the word SHOW to expand that section.
  • Under 2017, look for a link "Add a State" and click. (that doesn't really add one; that's just to open the return back up.)
  • Once the return is open, you can resume working on your return to make any corrections.
  • Depending on what you change on the Federal side, you may need to review the screens in your State Taxes as well to make sure the changes occurred.
  • Then go through the REVIEW tab to be sure all is still in order.
  • Then go through the FILE tab to choose a filing method, etc.
  • If filing by mail, it should prompt you to print the return and filing instructions.
  • If efiling, be sure you go all the way to the end to the final screen and click the button "Transmit My Returns Now".

NOTE:  Do NOT use this method to open a return to make changes/edits to an already-filed return (one that has actually been mailed or efiled.)   If you later need to make changes to an already-filed return, you have to go through the formal amending process, and your return must start off exactly as originally filed.