Turbotax insisted I download Turbotax desktop program, and I downloaded my 2023 .tax file, but now it wants me to start over after I already created 2023 online return??

[Irasaco]

I have tried several time to get the IRS to accept my 2023 tax return, but it keeps getting rejected because what I have on file for 2022 line 11 doesn't match what IRS says it should be. So, this morning, I attempted to change my return via TurboTax Online (which I paid for), but TurboTax stated that I had to pay again for and download the desktop version. So, I downloaded the desktop version and I download the 2023 .tax file from Turbotax. But when I open that 2023 .tax file, which causes the TurboTax desktop to run, the desktop TurboTax wants me to start over entering information. TurboTax says "Getting started with TurboTax" adding that it will start asking me simple questions. But on the top of the same screen, it shows in green font, the dollar amount for my Federal Return refund and my State refund. When I proceed, everything for 2023 is blank. Instead, the program states that it will use my 2022 TurboTax information to fill in 2023.

How do I get TurboTax desktop to use the information from the 2023 .tax file. I just want to make some small changes.  I don't want to start over. I don't have time to start over.

[DoninGA]

When you start the 2023 TurboTax desktop edition, click on File at the top left of the desktop program screen.  Then click Open Tax Return.  Then Browse to the location where you saved the 2023 tax data file. 

[xmasbaby0]

You are not going to be able to e-file your 2023 tax return, no matter whether you change the AGI or not.  E-filing for 2023 is permanently closed.  The only way you can file a 2023 tax return now is by mail.   You have to print it, sign and date it in ink, and mail it to the IRS and state.

When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s.  Use a mailing service that will track it, such as UPS or certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.

Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses.  Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.

[VolvoGirl]

And if you did a state return and get error 119 or 190 when trying to open your .tax2023 file….

After you get the program installed or reinstalled the first thing to do before you open your tax return is to update the program and install any state programs you had. Then open your file. So you first might need to start a fake return to be able to download the state program (go to File-New Tax Return).

After you get the state program downloaded you can close the fake return and open the real .tax file.  Just go up to File-Open and try to open your return.   It will either show up in the box to Continue or you can browse to where it is.