I only need to file my state tax return from 2018... how do I go about it without paying the federal tax return again?

[carbajalamairani]

I received a notice from the state of CA that they did not locate a valid state tax return. I only filed federal so now I am trying to file the state tax return without paying again for federal(self-employed). How can I submit and only pay for my state taxes for CA for 2018?

[xmasbaby0]

Well-you cannot e-file a 2018 return.  You have to print, sign and mail the 2018 state return.  E-filing for 2018 has been closed since mid-October of 2019.

In order to prepare a 2018 state return you will need the desktop software that you download/install to a full PC or Mac.  Or you could just get the state forms and prepare them by hand on paper if you prefer.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1900990-how-do-i-file-a-prior-year-tax-return

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.

[Opus 17]

If you originally prepared a California state return using TurboTax online, then you should be able to go to your account and download the PDF for “all forms and worksheets.“ Select the pages you need from the PDF and print them out, then sign them and mail them in.

If you previously prepared a federal return only using the TurboTax desktop version, then you should be able to open the return using TurboTax 2018, click “add a state“ and add the California module and only pay for the California module.

If you previously only prepared a federal return using TurboTax online, then you will need to purchase and download a copy of the TurboTax home and business desktop version for 2018, and also download your online data file. When you open the 2018 data file in the 2018 desktop program, you can then add the state module.  The desktop home and business version includes federal preparation and one free state. Unfortunately, there is no way to disassociate the two parts of the program to only pay for the state part. You may be able to call customer support and get a price adjustment on the cost of the full download, but that is not something we can authorize on this forum. The desktop home and business version includes federal preparation and one free state. Unfortunately, there is no way to disassociate the two parts of the program to only pay for the state part. You may be able to call customer support and get a price adjustment on the cost of the full download, but that is not something we can authorize on this forum.