I accidentally submitted the wrong tax papers. How can I fix this this when it is already submitted?

[xmasbaby0]

You cannot change or add anything on the return that you just e-filed.  It is too late, just like when you put an envelope in a US mailbox

Now you have to wait until the IRS either rejects or accepts your return. The IRS will begin processing returns on Janaury 23.  If your return is rejected, you will be able to go into your account and make the necessary changes to your tax return and re-submit your return. 

 If the IRS accepts your return, however, then you have to wait longer until it has been fully processed and you have received your refund.  THEN you can prepare an amended tax return and mail it in. You will need to use a form called a 1040X. You cannot e-file an amended return.  They have to be mailed, and it takes at least 2-3 months for the IRS to process an amended return.  Meanwhile, DO NOT go in and start changing anything on your return in the system, or you will make a mess for yourself.  Sit tight and wait until you see what the IRS does with the return you just e-filed

[24-jaclyn]

Is there a difference if you mail in your taxes verse e-file? Or does this same process apply? My friend submitted her taxes without her W-2 information and she can't change it now but they are making her mail in her taxes instead of e-file. Would like to know if she can still find out through turbo tax if her taxes are accepted or rejected? And go through the process from there. Thank you!

[xmasbaby0]

No matter whether you e-file or mail your tax return, you cannot change anything until your return has either been rejected or accepted and processed.  A return submitted without any income on it would be likely to be rejected.  If your friend had some other form of income on the return, it might be processed by the IRS.  We do not know what she put on it.  She can check the status of her return at the IRS website. <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">https://www.irs.gov/refunds</a>
If she is being instructed to mail now, it is because an amended return to make a correction cannot be e-filed.  An amended return has to be mailed.