I e-filed my tax return for 2018 with TurboTax and took the standard deduction. Can I see if the itemized deduction would have been better without amending my return?

[forsythfd922]

The software suggested I take the standard deduction, and I did not run the itemization because of this. After filing, I've done some research and I may be eligible for a bigger return if I itemize. 

[AnthonyC]

If you entered the itemized deductions in TurboTax, then the program would have run the calculation in the background to determine if the standard deduction was higher.

It is possible to get back into your return without amending, but you only want to use this option to view a specific entry (i.e. if you want to look at the Deduction and Credits summary) and you need to be very careful because if you make any changes, then you will change your original tax file and this will cause problems if you ever really need to amend.

Here is how to get back into to view your entries -

1. Log into your account (make sure correct username)
2. On your Tax Homepage, scroll down to the section entitled “Your Tax Returns and Documents"
3. Click "Add a State” below where your tax returns are showing (this will allow you back into your return without actually adding a state)

If you didn't enter any itemized deductions at all in the program originally, then you will likely want to use the amend option to enter the information and see if it changes your refund.  You can then cancel the amendment.  Or, prepare a Schedule A by hand and compare the numbers to the standard deduction.

Note:  Many itemized deductions are no longer available in 2018 (such as job-related expenses) and some are far more limited (state and local income and property taxes are capped at $10,000).