How do I open .tax files from previous years returns? I want to convert and save them to a PDF format.

[DoninGA]

The tax data files can only be opened by the TurboTax software for the year of the tax data file.

[VolvoGirl]

If you have a .tax or .tax20xx file you need that year's Desktop program installed to open it.

Turbo Tax doesn't have programs older than 3 years.  You might be able to find one on Ebay or Amazon or somewhere but you wouldn't be able to update it or download the state program.

You could try the TaxPrinter service (not connected with Turbo Tax) to convert a .tax file to pdf at

http://www.taxprinter.com

They might be expensive and it is probably not safe to email tax returns back and forth.

[fanfare]

The time to do that is before you e-File or right after.

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Always print a copy of your completed tax return for your records, and review it carefully before e-Filing.
You will need it if you are audited by the IRS, to contact the IRS, or to amend if a TurboTax update changes your return or for any other reason,

AND, to find your AGI next year.

@andrewjblack6 

[xmasbaby0]

SAVE YOUR TAX RETURN !

EVERY year before mid-October you should save a copy of your tax return as a pdf and print a copy of it for your records.  That way you will not be searching online frantically when you need it for a lender, FAFSA forms, your next tax return, etc. 

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1900937-why-should-i-save-a-pdf-copy-of-my-return

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1899779-what-s-the-difference-between-the-tax-data-file-and-the-pd...

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1912466-how-do-i-save-my-return-as-a-pdf-in-the-turbotax-software-... •

NOTE:  TurboTax and the IRS save returns for seven years.  Returns older than seven years are purged.