Can I still access the forms to complete 2018 forms if I do not have the system requirements to open the software? How?

[jlazu]

I purchased the software before reading the system requirements and now I'm stuck.  I can't figure out how to access the form in order to complete it.

[retiree]

You can no longer start or prepare a 2018 return on-line (nor can you e-file a 2018 return).  If you have the 2018 Desktop software (for installation on your PC you may still start, prepare, and file a 2018 return but you will have to mail it to the IRS.

When mailing a printed return it is always a good idea to go to the Post Office and mail it 'Certified' with 'Return Receipt'.  That way you will have proof that they received it and when it was received.

[VolvoGirl]

Do you know anyone with a computer you can install it on?  Have you downloaded your .tax2018 file?  Otherwise you will have to start over and fill out the blank forms by hand or go somewhere else like an accountant or tax place.

Here is the IRS 2018 Form 1040

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040--2018.pdf

And instructions  https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040gi.pdf

2018 Tax and EIC Tables https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040tt.pdf

IRS 2018  Schedules 1 thru 6 (only if needed)

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040s1.pdf

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040s2.pdf

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040s3.pdf

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040s4.pdf

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040s5.pdf

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040s6.pdf

Don’t forget your state.  And you will have to print and mail your returns.  So be sure to attach copies of your W2s and any 1099s that have withholding on them.  You have to mail federal and state in separate envelopes because they go to different places.  Get a tracking number from the post office when you mail them for proof of filing.

[xmasbaby0]

If your own computer does not meet the system requirements to download/install the desktop software for 2018 then you are stuck--you need a computer that meets the requirements.  Online preparation is not an option.  Perhaps someone -- friend or family member-- will allow you to use their computer to use the desktop software you purchased.

The other option is to prepare it by hand and get the forms and instructions from the IRS and just do it all the old-fashioned way with a calculator and paper forms.

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040gi--2018.pdf

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/p17--2018.pdf

Form 1040 (2018)