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New Member
posted Jun 4, 2019 7:18:12 PM

I just finished my 2015 tax return can I e file it or do I have to mail it why does it keep asking me if I want to e file if I cant

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1 Best answer
Level 15
Jun 4, 2019 7:18:14 PM

Did you use 2015 software to prepare your 2015 return?  You cannot use the current software to prepare a 2015 return; if you did that you have made a mistake and must not file the return.  The current software is only good for a 2016 tax return. The tax laws change each year; you must use the software designed for the tax year you are filing. Only a 2016 tax return can be e-filed.  A 2015 return has to be printed and mailed.

To file a return for a prior tax year

Only a 2016 return can be prepared online and e-filed. 

 If you need to prepare a return for 2013, 2014 or 2015 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/

  (if you want to prepare on paper for free:  )

You can download the Forms and Instructions from the IRS web site:

https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs

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

3 Replies
Level 15
Jun 4, 2019 7:18:14 PM

Did you use 2015 software to prepare your 2015 return?  You cannot use the current software to prepare a 2015 return; if you did that you have made a mistake and must not file the return.  The current software is only good for a 2016 tax return. The tax laws change each year; you must use the software designed for the tax year you are filing. Only a 2016 tax return can be e-filed.  A 2015 return has to be printed and mailed.

To file a return for a prior tax year

Only a 2016 return can be prepared online and e-filed. 

 If you need to prepare a return for 2013, 2014 or 2015 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/

  (if you want to prepare on paper for free:  )

You can download the Forms and Instructions from the IRS web site:

https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs

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

New Member
Jun 4, 2019 7:18:15 PM

thank you

Level 15
Jun 4, 2019 7:18:16 PM

You are welcome.