Unable to e-file amended return for 2019 (both online and via desktop software)

[dalyb10]

I just finished amending my 2019 federal return using TurboTax Amend 2019 desktop software, but I am unable to locate an option to e-file the amended return.

The original 2019 return was done online using the TurboTax Free File Program. I searched the TurboTax website for information pertaining to amending a 2019 return and found the TurboTax Help post titled "How do I amend my TurboTax Online return?" I followed the instructions, but when I clicked on Amend (change) 2019 return I was given instructions for downloading my .tax file and TurboTax Desktop 2019 software (as opposed to an option to amend the return online, like the linked post states).

I used the Windows software download link that was under the heading: "If you used 2019 TurboTax Free, Basic, Deluxe, or Premier to file." After installing the software and updates and importing my .tax file I made the necessary changes to my federal return and completed the review process. The final page of the desktop software, with the heading "You're Done! Print and Mail Your Returns" includes the following statement at the bottom: "New as of August 2020! You may be eligible to electronically file your amended return. If you'd like to file electronically, click on the "File" tab above to proceed." However, there is no mention of what factors make one "eligible" or whether my amended return qualifies as eligible or ineligible. Additionally, there is no "File" tab on the screen, as referenced in the statement.

I do not know if the absence of a "File" tab means that I am not eligible to e-file (which I would have to infer based on incomplete information) or if I am simply missing something in the application. In searching the TurboTax website I am unable to find any additional information specifying which products are eligible to e-file an amended return and which are not. The posts I did find about amending past returns make no mention of "eligibility" requirements with regards to e-filing. I am hoping that someone can clarify whether any 2019 amended return can be e-filed using TurboTax, or whether this option is only available to customers of certain TurboTax products (presumably not including the Free File Program).

Thank you

[DoninGA]

Using TurboTax you cannot e-file a 2019 tax return since e-filing for tax year 2019 closed after October 2020.

You will have to print and mail the 2019 amended tax return.

[dalyb10]

Thank you for the prompt and concise response.

[schmooth]

How can I link the two computer programs? I filed using TurboTax software and when I go online it made me upload a PDF of taxes (for 2020...weird) and is not showing that I used TurboTax for tax years in the past. How can I bring it over? 

[Yolie333]

According to the IRS, due to the pandemic, there is an update to efiling your 2019 return (as of 7/29/23) and we can efile our return. This is part of my issue as well

[xmasbaby0]

@Yolie333 Sorry.

Only certain paid tax pros can still e-file past year amended returns. You cannot e-file an amended return that you prepared yourself using TurboTax.  Your 1040X must be printed, signed and dated in ink, and then you need to mail it in.  Use a mailing service like certified mail so you will know the IRS received it, since you will have a long wait for it to be processed.

It will take the IRS at least six months to process an amended return, so do not expect quick results.

 You can watch for information here:

https://www.irs.gov/Filing/Individuals/Amended-Returns-(Form-1040-X)/Wheres-My-Amended-Return-1