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New Member
posted Jun 17, 2024 9:11:06 PM

How do I file back taxes

Do I file my currant taxes with my back taxes

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3 Replies
Level 15
Jun 17, 2024 9:19:44 PM

Each year has to be filled separately using the program for that specific year. 

Level 15
Jun 17, 2024 9:20:44 PM

Each year has to be filled separately using the program for that specific year. Only the 2023 return can be efiled. 

Level 15
Jun 18, 2024 7:01:54 AM

You cannot combine tax years in any way.   Each tax year has its own software, written to use the forms for the specific tax year in which the income was received and written to use the specific tax laws in effect for the year in which the income was received.   If you have returns to prepare for past years, you need to file those past years by mail; do not even put them in the same envelope when you mail them.

 

 

 

TurboTax has software for 2020 onward.   Software is no longer available from TurboTax for earlier years, nor would it be supported even if you find it on eBay, etc.  Updates are not available.   It is also too late to receive a tax refund for a tax year earlier than 2020---those refunds have been forfeited.   BUT if you owe tax due you still have to pay with penalties and interest.   There might be other software providers that have software for those years, but you will not receive refunds for the returns even if the forms show a refund.

 

 

It might be better for you to seek local paid tax help in a situation when you are several years behind in filing your tax returns.  Do you even have all of the documents you will need to enter and show your income—like your W-2’s and any 1099’s?

 

 

You cannot change the tax year.   The current online program is for 2023 only.   Only a 2023 return can be prepared online and only a 2023 return can be e-filed.

 

Online preparation and e-filing for 2020, 2021, and  2022 is permanently closed.

 

Note:  The desktop software you need to prepare the prior year return must be installed/downloaded to a full PC or Mac.  It cannot be used on a mobile device.

 

 

To file a return for a prior tax year

 If you need to prepare a return for 2020, 2021, or 2022  you can purchase and download desktop software to do it, then print, sign,  and mail the return(s)

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

You may also want to explore purchasing the software from various retailers such as Amazon, Costco, Best Buy, Walmart, Sam’s, etc.

 

Remember to prepare your state return as well—if you live in a state that has a state income tax.

 

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/state-taxes/help/how-do-i-contact-my-state-department-of-revenue/00/25573 

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.