Can i file prior year tax returns free?

marfat17s — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:12:56 GMT

Re: Can i file prior year tax returns free?

ee-ea — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 08:49:53 GMT

Yes, if you fill the forms on paper. https://www.irs.gov/prior-year-forms-and-instructions

Google "prior year (state name) tax forms". For the state.

Re: Can i file prior year tax returns free?

fanfare — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 14:02:09 GMT

google "tax prep software" to find what you seek.

@marfat17s

Re: Can i file prior year tax returns free?

xmasbaby0 — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 14:06:35 GMT

You cannot use TurboTax online for free for past years. Online is only for 2023; it cannot be used for any other year, and you cannot change the year.

Each tax year has to be filed separately using the forms for the specific tax year. They cannot be combined in any way--do not even put them in the same envelope when you mail them. Software for past years is available back to 2020. Any earlier years can only be prepared on paper forms by hand--and those refunds have been forfeited now.

Online preparation and e-filing for 2020, 2021, and 2022 is permanently closed.

To file a return for a prior tax year

If you need to prepare a return for 2020, 2021, or 2022 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.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/state-taxes/help/how-do-i-contact-my-state-department-of-revenue/00/25573

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 UPS or 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.

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.

If you are getting a refund, there is not a penalty for filing past the deadline. If you owe taxes, the interest/penalties will be calculated by the IRS based on how much you owe and when they receive your return and payment. The IRS will bill you for this; it will not be calculated by TurboTax.

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Can i file prior year tax returns free?

Re: Can i file prior year tax returns free?

Re: Can i file prior year tax returns free?

Re: Can i file prior year tax returns free?