Question

[adamjerry]

How do I file my taxes from three years back when I don't have my w2's anymore and the IRS said that a number was off and last year they said that it was identity theft I don't know what to do I have a lot of money due back to me for my work I've done please can some one please help me

[tygrtchr]

Identity theft is happening more and more.  In order to straighten things out for last year, you must contact the Social Security Office in person and bring identifying documents with you so they can start their investigation into the theft.  My personal experience with this is that you will receive your refund due.  From then on (starting with this year), you will receive a special PIN to put on your return.  That way no one else can file in your name.  You will receive a new PIN each year.  Hope this helps.  It's a slow process, but you HAVE to go through the process.

[xmasbaby0]

And if you need to file returns from three years back, and need your W-2's, contact the old employers and beg for copies.  Phone them, email them and snail mail them if necessary, and make sure they have your current address so they can send them.

Another way to get past W-2's is to pay Social Security for them:

https://www.irs.gov/help-resources/tools-faqs/faqs-for-individuals/frequently-asked-tax-questions-an...

Another way to get income information when you do not have your W-2's is to get a Wage and Income transcript from the IRS for each of those years.  This will show the income that was reported to the IRS by your employers -- but it will only show federal information.  It will not have what you need to prepare a state return.

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

You can use TurboTax desktop software to prepare returns for as far back as 2016.  They cannot be e-filed.  They have to be printed, signed, and mailed.

To file a return for a prior tax year

If you need to prepare a return for 2016, 2017, or 2018 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/

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.

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.

Each tax return needs to be mailed in its own separate envelope.