Can I submit a return twice?

Forum|Forum|6 years ago
May 26, 2020
1 reply
16 views

I prepared a joint return for our 2019 taxes using Turbotax (yeah!). I signed and mailed a paper copy on 20 March (I didn't feel comfortable e-filing with all the fraud crap going on). I didn't track the mailing (no receipt requested--I know, foolish--just forgot). Turbotax says I have a refund coming but we haven't received it yet. In order to see when we'd get that check (I did NOT enter any bank routing information for direct deposit; instead, opted for a paper check in the mail), I went to IRS.gov and used their search button to see when we could expect the refund check. The results of the search were 'negative' (no return filed). Nothing has changed on my return; I want to just either e-file it or mail another paper copy (this time with a receipt requested). Here's my question: If the IRS receives a second copy of the return with no changes, would that create a problem? Could I just explain a second submission with a cover letter?

Thanks for your time at this busy time of year.

Best answer by DoninGA

No, do not try and send a second tax return. It will confuse the IRS systems and you will not get your federal tax refund for many months.

The IRS is not processing any paper tax returns at this time.

See this IRS website for information - https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-operations-during-covid-19-mission-critical-functions-continue

The IRS is not currently able to process individual paper tax returns. If you already have filed via paper but it has not yet been processed, do not file a second tax return or write to the IRS to inquire about the status of your return or your Economic Impact Payment. Paper returns will be processed once processing centers are able to reopen.