There's no law or rule that says you have to file your 2015 return before you can do your 2016 return.
However, it's best to prepare your 2015 return first, if possible. This gives you several advantages:
- You'll be able transfer your 2015 data to your 2016 return, which saves time and prevents data entry errors;
- You'll have the answers to certain program questions that involve last year's return (and you'll avoid having to amend your return if you answered them incorrectly);
- You'll be able to use the AGI method to electronically sign your 2016 return so you can e-file it.
If you're not able to file your 2015 return before filing your 2016 taxes, no biggie. Just be sure to review your 2015 return after you've filed 2015. Should your 2016 return need corrections based on info in your 2015 return, you may need to amend.
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