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Returning Member
posted Jan 4, 2024 3:47:32 AM

I accidentally deleted last year's Tax Return from TurboTax (the 2022 tax return)

I accidentally deleted my 2022 Tax Return from TurboTax; what do I do now? I loaded the CD for tax year 2023 but previous return data is not in TurboTax, it says the file is corrupted.  I have a hard copy and a PDF soft copy but Nothing in TurboTax for tax year 2022.

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4 Replies
Level 15
Jan 4, 2024 7:12:20 AM
Level 15
Jan 4, 2024 9:03:51 AM

you may not have deleted all versions of the 2022 tax file. when you use a Windows desktop a backup is created. It's usually in the c:\users\"user name" \documents\ TurboTax folder and starts with a ~ (tilde). It should show up when you click on start a new return. if it's there you can delete the tilde. If it's not there then all copies are probably gone. if it is there whether it reflects your 2022 return as filed is unknown.  PDF's are virtually worthless since only limited data is transferred.  You could order a copy of the 2022 return by filing form 4506 with the IRS - no state data and there is a fee. 

Level 15
Jan 4, 2024 5:59:54 PM

A backup file created by TurboTax, if there is one present at all, might not be the same as a later version used to file the tax return.  If you find a backup file, you'll need to review it carefully and make any corrections to bring it into agreement with what you filed.  If you are unable to find a backup file, you'll need to create a new 2022 tax file from scratch using the information on the pdf or printed copy of your tax return, an as Mike9241 said, those might not have all of the information needed.

Returning Member
Jan 6, 2024 5:10:02 AM

Thank you.  We subsequently accidentally deleted my daughter's 2022 Tax Return. I wish we knew what we did wrong so we don't repeat this mistake.  I was wondering if there's a real beginner's intro on using TT Desktop. We're looking in the resources and videos .... there's a lot of helpful information. We're just thankful for this community forum and how members respond with answers.