I have Net Operating Loss this year and need to fill form 1045. Should I carryback or carryforward and do I need to print and mail this separate than when I e-file?

[Vtec]

I anticipate 2022 and onward to be more profitable for me than 2021. Please advise the simplest route for me without creating red flags.

[MaryK4]

Most taxpayers no longer have the option to carryback a net operating loss (NOL). For most taxpayers, NOLs arising in tax years ending after 2020 can only be carried forward. The 2-year carryback rule in effect before 2018, generally, does not apply to NOLs arising in tax years ending after December 31, 2017.

The CARES Act provided for a special 5-year carryback for taxable years beginning in 2018, 2019 and 2020. Exceptions apply to certain farming losses and NOLs of insurance companies other than a life insurance company. Also, for losses arising in taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2020, the net operating loss deduction is limited to 80% of the excess (if any) of taxable  income (determined without regard to the deduction, QBID, and Section 250 deduction over the total NOLD from NOLs arising in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2018.