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Level 1
October 19, 2020
Solved

Can a file a return for 2018?

  • October 19, 2020
  • 2 replies
  • 31 views
CAN A GET A 2018 TAX PACKAGE TO FILE?
Best answer by Anonymous_

You can file a return for 2018 but you will have to use a TurboTax desktop (installed) product.

 

See https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/2018

2 replies

Level 15
October 19, 2020

You can file a return for 2018 but you will have to use a TurboTax desktop (installed) product.

 

See https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/2018

Carl
Level 11
Level 11
October 19, 2020

The online version of TurboTax can only be used for completing a current tax filing year tax return, and for 2019 that has been shut down since Oct 15, 2020.  To complete a prior year tax return you must use the CD version of TurboTax 2018 that you physically install on your computer.

You can purchase TurboTax 2018 at https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/  Just click on the "File 2018 Taxes" link and go from there to purchase the CD version of whatever flavor you need. After you pay for it, you will be able ot download the installation file so you don't have to wait for the CD to arrive in the mail.

Once downloaded, double-click the downloaded file to install it. Once installed, click the TurboTax 2018 icon on your desktop to get started.

Take note that a prior year tax return can not be e-filed. The IRS says so. You will have to print, sign and mail it to the IRS. When you select the "Print and Mail" option an instruction sheet will be printed with it. That instruction sheet will tell you what forms you need to include with your mailing, along with the address to mail it to.

If you will also be completing a state return, a physically separate instruction sheet is printed for the state return. The state return will ***NOT*** be mailed to the same address as your federal return. So pay attention to detail.

 

Level 15
October 19, 2020

@Carl11_2 wrote:

Take note that a prior year tax return can not be e-filed. The IRS says so.


The IRS does not actually "say so", it is simply that, essentially, only professional tax preparers can e-file prior year returns; TurboTax does not currently support e-filing prior year returns.

 

If you want to e-file a prior year return, you need to use a professional income tax preparer (with the appropriate credentials and software).

Level 15
October 19, 2020

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.

**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**