Is it too late to file 2019 taxes and still get the refund without having to file it through my taxes?

[donisham314]

Stimulus check refund

[SundayInSalem]

It’s too late. The IRS stopped sending the first two Economic Impact Payments (stimulus) last year, though the mail was slow and some people got the last payment early this year.

The only way to get your money now is to file a 2020 income tax return. The missing amounts will be added to your refund as a Recovery Rebate Credit.

If you did not file 2019 or 2020 your third payment that’s going out now may be delayed.

[xmasbaby0]

You can still get a tax refund if you file a 2019 tax return.   You will not receive stimulus money based on a 2019 return now.   The stimulus checks are based on your 2020 return now, and you need to use the recovery rebate credit on your 2020 return to get the first two stimulus amounts.  That credit is in the Federal Review section.  The IRS is sending out the 3rd stimulus checks on its own timetable---you do not put anything about the 3rd check on a 2020 tax return.

If you need to prepare and file a 2019 return:

The current online program can only be used for a 2020 return--no other year.  And if you did not file a 2019 return you will have trouble e-filing 2020.  When it asks for your 2019 AGI try using zero.  If zero does not work then you have to print, sign and mail 2020.

Online preparation and e-filing for 2017, 2018 and 2019 is permanently closed.

To file a return for a prior tax year

 If you need to prepare a return for 2017, 2018, or 2019 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.

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.