TurboTax has no ability to check for past use of the credit because any action with the IRS is protected and private. If you are wrong eventually the IRS will reconcile the tax return with prior years but it will take them a while, up to two years, which could potentially cost you penalties and interest.
The hope credit carries the same standing as the American Opportunity Credit (AOC) meaning if it was used then it's part of the four year maximum. If you believe you are entitled to at least one more year you can file that way or obtain the earlier transcripts and then amend your return if you run out of time waiting on the requested transcripts from prior years.
Prior year tax returns can be obtained in the following ways, which include options other than online. If you want an actual copy of the tax returns, notice the fee below.
There are three ways for taxpayers to order a transcript:
- Online Using Get Transcript. They can use Get Transcript Online on IRS.gov to view, print or download a copy of all transcript types. Taxpayers who are unable to register or prefer not to use Get Transcript Online may use Get Transcript by Mail to order a tax return or account transcript type. Please allow five to 10 calendar days for delivery.
- By phone. The number is 800-908-9946.
- By mail. Taxpayers can complete and send either Form 4506-T or Form 4506T-EZ to the IRS to get one by mail. They use Form 4506-T to request other tax records: tax account transcript, record of account, wage and income and verification of non-filing.
Those who need an actual copy of a tax return can get one for the current tax year and as far back as six years. The fee per copy is $50. Taxpayers can complete and mail Form 4506 to request a copy of a tax return and mail the request to the appropriate IRS office listed on the form.
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