Reinstalling Turbo Tax 2018

[Rumple089]

My hard drive crashed and I lost everything.  My last back up was done in April 2019 so I still have my *TAX2018 and earlier data files and was able to download & install the TT2018 program.  When I tried to open my data file I got a pop up saying my federal return was now on my computer but now needed to get my state forms.  However, there was an error code (190).  I then tried numerous solutions in the TT FAQ section but nothing worked. There was also a button on the pop up to "download my state forms."  When I tried that I got another pop up error screen.  The program then terminates and I'm unable to open my 2018 federal return.  I suspect the problem is that the 2018 state returns are no longer available from TT but I should still be able to open my 2018 federal return, right?  Anyone know how I can get my 2018 state return (Kansas) or how to fix this so I can open my federal return?

[rjs]

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@Rumple089 wrote:

I suspect the problem is that the 2018 state returns are no longer available from TT . . .

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That's right.

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@Rumple089 wrote:

. . . but I should still be able to open my 2018 federal return, right?

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No. If the .tax2018 file contains a state tax return, you cannot open the file unless you have the state software installed.

If all you need is a PDF or printed copy of the federal or state return you could try TaxPrinter. You send them your .tax2018 file and they send you back a PDF of the tax return, which you can then print with Acrobat Reader. TaxPrinter has no connection with TurboTax. I have never used TaxPrinter, so I cannot make a recommendation. I'm just making you aware of it.

In the future, always save a PDF of your tax returns in addition to the .taxyyyy file, so at least you can look at them or print them if the TurboTax software is no longer available.

[CarissaM]

In order to open your return if you had it filed by desktop, you would need a copy of the return. You can click here to obtain a copy from the IRS.