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Level 2

Solved

Filing Prior Year Return (eFile)

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
January 22, 2021
2 replies
17 views

I seem to be getting mixed answers to this question from google.

Does TurboTax support eFiling prior year's return (i.e., via Modernized e-File (MeF))? I previously purchased last year's software and l prepared the return, however, just need to get it eFiled. It seems like over vendors have this functionality, but since I already paid for TurboTax Premier 2019, want to make sure I am not missing something.

Given New York State's eFile mandate, I want to make sure I can get my 2019 Tax Returns filed as soon as possible.

Many thanks in advanced.

Best answer by DanielV01

@Richard_E9

It is addressed by New York State at the following link: NY E-file mandate.

Their requirement is to e-file when the return meets three conditions:

you use software to prepare your own personal income tax return; and
your software supports the electronic filing of your return; and (Italics added)
you have broadband Internet access.

Although TurboTax supports current-year e-filing (which would require a 2020 NY return to be e-filed), TurboTax no longer supports e-filing for any prior-year returns. So even though you get that diagnostic, you may ignore it and mail in the return to NY.

xmasbaby0

Level 15

Only a 2020 return can be e-filed. Prior years have to be printed, signed and mailed.

Online preparation and e-filing for 2017, 2018 and 2019 is permanently closed.

To file a return for a prior tax year

If you need to prepare a return for 2017, 2018, or 2019 you can purchase and download desktop software to do it, then print, sign, and mail the return(s)

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.

Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses. Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.

If you are getting a refund, there is not a penalty for filing past the deadline. If you owe taxes, the interest/penalties will be calculated by the IRS based on how much you owe and when they receive your return and payment. The IRS will bill you for this; it will not be calculated by TurboTax.

**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.**

Richard_E9Author

Level 2

@xmasbaby0

Thank you for the prompt response. However, after printing my return there is disclaimer that clearly states:

"New York State law requires income tax returns prepared using software to be e-filed. Because this New York State tax return was prepared using software, you MUST file it electronically."

That said - this implies I should be able to eFile, at least, my New York State return. How is this addressed by TurboTax?

DanielV01Answer

Level 15

@Richard_E9

It is addressed by New York State at the following link: NY E-file mandate.

Their requirement is to e-file when the return meets three conditions:

you use software to prepare your own personal income tax return; and
your software supports the electronic filing of your return; and (Italics added)
you have broadband Internet access.

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annacombs

Level 2

where do I go to efile my 2019 tax return

DoninGA

Level 15

@annacombs wrote:

where do I go to efile my 2019 tax return

A 2019 tax return can only be printed and mailed, it cannot be e-filed.

To complete and file a 2019 tax return using TurboTax you would need to purchase, download and install on a personal computer one of the 2019 desktop editions from this website - https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/

Critter-3

Level 15

In the FILE tab you will simply choose the mail in option then the mailing instructions will be included with the return ... follow those instructions for the mailing addresses.