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New Member
posted Jun 4, 2019 2:49:39 PM

Why don't you warn people BEFORE they start the process that they can't complete it without the prior year return? NOT COOL!!!

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1 Replies
Level 15
Jun 4, 2019 2:49:40 PM

First of all, you only need last year’s tax return if you want to e-file. You can always print your return and mail it to the IRS without having last year’s information.

Secondly, TurboTax does, or used to, send emails to new customers telling them that they needed their adjusted gross income from last year and telling them how to get it. But a lot of people complained because they thought the email was confusing. I guess there’s no pleasing everyone.

Thirdly, you should keep copies of your tax returns for at least three years after you file, and preferably six years.  Don’t you think you should take some responsibility for your own information?

Fourth, you can get your tax information from last year for free from the IRS by requesting a transcript. Depending on the authentication method you choose, you may be able to get your transcript immediately, or it may take 5 to 10 days for you to receive an authentication letter in the mail and answer online.