3 Returns created and all are "Mail-In" Instructions and Paper Copy

[wpbelson]

I am transitioning from years of CPA prepared returns (thru 2023) to TT Premier in 2024.   I have entered information for 3 tax returns;  1 for me/my wife (MFJ) and 2 for my adult children (Single).   After saving all 3 returns, I noticed Filing Instructions are for "File by Mail".   I was planning on filing electronically and having either debit/credit to/from the bank account(s) depending on the results of the tax calculations.

I did NOT see a step / menu selection that asked whether I wanted to file paper or e-file and may have missed it in the step-by-step process.  I do see the Electronic Filing drop down menu under the File tab.  Is this where I select "File Electronically"?

If yes, does this change the information in the Forms AND can I go back to edit / change any Forms if necessary after this selection?

Also, where do I enter the bank routing number / account information AND select the option for use of this bank information for both payment or refunds?

[rjs]

You seem to be using the desktop TurboTax software, not TurboTax Online. Is that correct?

The drop-down where you see Electronic Filing is the File menu, not the File tab. The File tab is on the right end of the row of tabs, after State Taxes and Review. You have to click the File tab and go through the steps in the filing process. It will let you specify how you want to file and enter the bank information. As long as you don't click the "Transmit Returns" button you can go back and review or edit the forms.

[wpbelson]

Hi RJS,

Thanks for the clarification.   I am using the Premier Desktop version for the first time in 2024.   In prior years, I had a CPA prepare my returns but I have used the TT Online version for my kid's returns while in college as they were simple / free.

I now see the distinction of the File menu at the top of browser window which includes the Electronic Filing menu.

I did see the File tab as the 5th option of items to select.   I did NOT want to select that option at this time  as I am about 95 to 99% complete on the returns.  I have a few items listed as TBD on my returns and I did NOT want screw things up by selecting the File tab as I was afraid it would a point of no return.   Your description seems to indicate that my selection fears were not warranted and I could look at this tab as long as I do click on the "Transmit Returns" button.  That seems like the point of no return.

While I was waiting on a response to my initial submission, I found that Part V on the Info Wks form for both Fed and State shows the direct deposit and direct debit Y/N question along with the boxes to fill in the bank routing information.  I assume it can be done manually on this WKS and/or on the File tab.

[rjs]

You can enter the direct deposit or direct debit information on the worksheets, but you still have to go through the full sequence of screens on the File tab in order to actually file the return. I recommend doing everything in the Step-by-Step interview. There is no advantage to making the entries on the worksheets.

One quirk to be aware of is that when you go past the first screen on the File tab the software will save tax return data file without asking you, and without telling you that it has done it.

[wpbelson]

Hi RJS,

Thank you for those recommendations.  I will follow the Step-by-Step interview process on the File tab to add the banking information.

Also, thanks for the heads up on the SW quirk on the extra save process.  I will be on the lookout for this extra step.

[VolvoGirl]

Are you on Windows or Mac?  

FYI - be in the habit of saving Frequently!  When you are done save both the .tax data file and save it as a pdf file, go to File-Save to PDF.  Then you won’t need the program installed to view or print your return in the future.  Like if you need a copy to get a loan or something.  And save backups off of your computer like to a flash drive or burn a CD.

This is important.  If you do another return for someone else like your child and their name is the same or similar to yours then it might overwrite your return.  You have to save each return with different names so you can tell them apart.  Like if your name is John and your son is also named John it will save them with the same name so the second one will overwrite the first return.  Go to File-SaveAs and give it a unique name.

[wpbelson]

Hi VolvoGirl,

Windows - Premier Desktop version.

I have been saving frequently for each uniquely named return ( same last name, different first names) so no confusion on which one I am working on.   Also saving each .tax file in different directories to reduce the chande of overwriting the files.  Offline backups too.  I will also save the corresponding PDF files once I am complete on each return.

Thanks again for the information.