Filing A Return with a refund due the next year

[Lanainvegas]

I was told by IRS that if I was due a refund I had a year to file my taxes. Now I am nervous. Is that true? Does anyone know what is going to happen when I file now?

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

You have 3 years to file for a refund.  What year do you need to file?  2018?

You can only buy the download for prior years.  You have to buy a separate program for each year.  They only sell the last 3 years.  You need a full Windows or Mac computer to install it on.  You can buy any version.  All the Desktop programs have the same forms.  You just get more help and guidance in the higher versions. Buy the download here   

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

You have to print and mail prior year returns.  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.  Don’t forget state.

How to file a prior year

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/using-turbotax/help/how-do-i-prepare-a-prior-year-tax-return/00/25...

Did you start an online return?  How to finish a prior year online return   

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/prior-year-return/help/how-do-i-finish-a-prior-year-return-that-i-...

[Bees · Accepted solution]

You can't use the online version of any software now for a 2018 return or file it electronically. You will need to buy the 2018 software or look on the IRS site for forms for the tax year 2018.

  Fill out your information and send it in. It will take a little longer but you should receive you refund without any problems. https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/   https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/prior-year

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-time-guide-check-refund-status-online-with-wheres-my-refund

[Lanainvegas]

Thanks so much for a really very complete answer. You even supplied the links for me.  How thoughtful.   I had already bought the software, just too lazy to complete the return because I was under the impression just what you told me.  

You have made my stomach stop fluttering and now the rest of the weekend will be wonderful.

I hadn't thought about it, you are right, I must mail it certified to make sure it gets there.  I am lucky - no state.  

So again thanks and have a good weekend.

[Lanainvegas]

Forgot to tell you, yes it is 2018.

[Lanainvegas]

Thanks so much for your answer.  As I told VolvoGirl, I have the software, just too lazy to finish, so I'm all set now that I am sure the IRS cops won't be coming for me.