How do I file my 2020 taxes now?

[craleigh1]

I had a family injury with a child and forgot to file taxes for 2020. How do I do that now?

[xmasbaby0]

You cannot use the online program---which is only for 2021.

Online preparation and e-filing for 2018 and 2019 and 2020 is permanently closed.

To file a return for a prior tax year

 If you need to prepare a return for 2018, 2019 or 2020 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/0... 

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.

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.

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.

Since you are filing a late 2020 return, the IRS will not have a 2020 AGI in the system for you.  When the 2021 software asks for your 2020 AGI so that you can e-file 2021, use “zero.”  If you cannot e-file by using zero then you will have to print, sign and mail your 2021 return.

[DianeW777]

You can file easily with the following information.  Click the link to begin the process. Keep in mind that e-file is no longer available except for tax year 2021. You will mail this tax return when complete.

• How do I prepare a 2020 tax return now?

Gather all of your tax documents and expenses such as mortgage interest and real estate taxes if you itemize your deductions.  If you usually use the standard deduction then those expenses will not be important for your federal return.