Filing 2018 By Mail = Delays To Start 2019 Return?

[MultiTaxer]

Hi all, 

Pardon my severe unawareness, but will mailing an overdue 2018 return by snail mail cause any issues with my 2019 return?

In other words, does my 2018 return have to already be received and accounted for by the IRS to serve as reference for any 2019 questions?

If that's not a concern, but a non e-filing  such as this one can cause any other types of snags, can anyone clarify what those would be? 

Furthermore, what might an eta for a mailed return + eventual 2018 tax data update by the IRS look like during Covid for that matter? 

Thanks very much,

Alex

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

No mailing a 2018 now should not affect your 2019 return.  When you go to efile 2019 you will need to enter 0 for the 2018 AGI since you didn't file it on time.  You can go ahead and efile 2019 (even before they get 2018).

Yes it will take awhile for the IRS to open all the mail.   They just started opening the mail that's been stacking up in trailers for months.  So you will have to wait for any refund.

See this IRS page for the latest information

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-operations-during-covid-19-mission-critical-functions-continue

Prior year returns can only be printed and mailed. 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 received the return. And don't forget state.

Important! Mail Federal and State in separate envelopes and mail each year in separate envelopes.

[MultiTaxer]

Hi @VolvoGirl

Really helpful stuff, much appreciated 👍🙂