"What about poor planners, like myself? "
Poor planners often suffer the consequences of poor planning -- in many areas of life including filing tax returns.
If you did not request an extension for 2020, that refund has also been forfeited---and it could have included the recovery refund credit for the stimulus money if you did not receive it.
What if I do not file my tax return?
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2572308-what-happens-if-i-don-t-file-my-taxes
Each tax year has to be filed separately using the forms for the specific tax year. They cannot be combined in any way--do not even put them in the same envelope when you mail them. Software for past years is available back to 2020. Any earlier years can only be prepared on paper forms by hand--and those refunds have been forfeited now.
The current online program can only be used for a 2023 return--no other year.
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.
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/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.
**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.**
