- Mark as New
- Bookmark
- Subscribe
- Subscribe to RSS Feed
- Permalink
- Report Inappropriate Content
After you file
It is too late to file a 2020 return and get the 2020 stimulus money. The deadline to do that was May 17, 2024. If no one could claim you as a dependent in 2021, you could still file a 2021 return to seek the recovery rebate credit for the 3rd stimulus. If someone could claim you as a dependent in 2021, you cannot get the stimulus money. The credit is in Federal Review and will show up on line 30 of the tax form 1040.
You cannot change the tax year. The current online program is for 2024 only. Only a 2024 return can be prepared online and only a 2024 return can be e-filed.
Online preparation and e-filing for 2021, 2022, and 2023 is permanently closed.
Note: The desktop software you need to prepare the prior year return must be installed/downloaded to a full PC or Mac. It cannot be used on a mobile device.
To file a return for a prior tax year
If you need to prepare a return for 2021, 2022, or 2023 you can purchase and download desktop software to do it, then print, sign, and mail the return(s)
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/
You may also want to explore purchasing the software from various retailers such as Amazon, Costco, Best Buy, Walmart, Sam’s, etc.
Remember to prepare your state return as well—if you live in a state that has a state income tax.
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 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.
Or use the paper forms to prepare by hand to mail in.
Here is the IRS 2021 Form 1040
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040--2021.pdf
or if you want bigger type use 1040SR for Seniors,
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s--2021.pdf
And 2021 Instructions
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040gi--2021.pdf
2021 Tax and EIC Tables
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040tt--2021.pdf
Sch 1 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s1--2021.pdf
Sch 2 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s2--2021.pdf
Sch 3 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s3--2021.pdf