How to clear up back tax issues?

1.  You can use TurboTax to prepare and file 2023.  Each tax year is separate.

2.   Read information in detail below----there is separate software for each tax year.   Past year software must be used on a full PC or Mac, and the returns must be filed by mail.  They cannot be e-filed.

3.  You find out how much she owes by preparing tax returns.   And...if she owes tax due, there will be penalties and interest for which she will be billed by the IRS.  The software will not calculate the penalties and interest.

4.   If she has all the W-2's, etc. needed, she can do it using the software for each year---at least going back as far as 2020.   A 2020 refund will be forfeited if that return is not filed by April 15, 2024.

What if I do not file my tax return?

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2572308-what-happens-if-i-don-t-file-my-taxes

Check for IRS transcripts to see the last year the IRS shows a tax return for her.

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript

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.

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?     There are ways to get W-2 information or to get 1099's if you need help.  

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/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.

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.

just a potential warning. her tax bill may be way more than the $1000.   failure to file imposes a 25% penalty (5% for the first 5 months late) on the amount due after that the penalty is .5% per month.  Then there are the interest charges. using a tax pro is expoensive even though they probably can get the bill reduced but the  bill may be as much or more that the reduction. if she can't afford to pay you might want to look into offer in incompromise.

https://www.irs.gov/site-index-search?search=offer+in+compromise&field_pup_historical_1=1&field_pup_historical=1