You need the 2-D barcode ONLY if you are not e-filing. This is because TurboTax does not send either a paper return nor a PDF of the return to the IRS.
Instead, TurboTax converts the Missouri tax return to an XML format, which is data and tag names to identify the data. There are no forms (like with shading, lines, and boxes) in the XML.
You are not required to have the 2-D bar code on the MO-1040, even if you paper-file. The state just suggests that it's a good idea.
The 2-D bar code is used on the MO1040 to carry all the data for your return. Missouri says (page 2),
"The software encodes all your tax information into a 2-D barcode, which allows your return to be processed with fewer errors compared to traditional paper returns."
So, since most taxpayers here e-file, the missing bar code is not a problem. After I post this, I will go see if I can determine if a return that is to be paper-filed has the bar code.
Edit [4/4/2025 1:16PST | added "not" to the first sentence]
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