Hello how do I find out what tax year to file? I know I've missed a year or two but I'm not sure how to find out which years I missed.

[zowieparker06-gm]

I didn't file taxes every year do I have to go back and file them before I start this year's taxes??

[ee-ea]

Ask for transcripts.  https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript

File returns in any order. 2023 can be done now.

[fanfare]

If you expect a refund for 2020 tax year, you have to file it now before April 15.

@zowieparker06-gm 

[xmasbaby0]

Ue the link that was provided above to see your transcripts.   When you figure out which years you need to file returns for:

Each tax year has to be filed separately using the forms for the specific tax year.  They cannot be combined in any way--do not even put them in the same envelope when you mail them.  Software for past years is available back to 2020.  Any earlier years can only be prepared on paper forms by hand--and those refunds have been forfeited now.

It might be better for you to seek local paid tax help in a situation when you are several years behind in filing your tax returns.  Do you even have all of the documents you will need to enter and show your income—like your W-2’s and any 1099’s?

Online preparation and e-filing for 2020, 2021, and  2022 is permanently closed.

To file a return for a prior tax year

 If you need to prepare a return for 2020, 2021, or 2022  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/

You may also want to explore purchasing the software from various retailers such as Amazon, Costco, Best Buy, Walmart, Sam’s, etc.

Remember to prepare your state return as well—if you live in a state that has a state income tax.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/state-taxes/help/how-do-i-contact-my-state-department-of-revenue/0... 

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.

Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses.  Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.

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.

If you are getting a refund, there is not a penalty for filing past the deadline.  If you owe taxes, the interest/penalties will be calculated by the IRS based on how much you owe and when they receive your return and payment. The IRS will bill you for this; it will not be calculated by TurboTax.

[AmyC]

No, you can file this year's taxes regardless of the prior year's not being filed. However, there is a 3 year limit to file for a refund. Therefore, I recommend you file this year, get a transcript, file any missing years, starting with those with a time limit. In 2024 we are filing TY 2023. So you will need to file 2020, 2021, and 2022 by this April 15 to get a refund. Any older returns can then be filed at your leisure.