Cannot efile? Says I need Form 8995/QBI?

[rthurston91]

So I had to file for self employment because I made over $600 in ebay sales through paypal (MA). I'm trying  to finish my taxes but now it says the Form 8995 and QBI Deduction Simplified Calculation forms aren't ready so I can't do those. Problem is.. I don't have a business at all. How do I even do these?? Do I need to? This is causing me a lot of anxiety since I've never had to do these forms!

[AmyC]

The Social Security Administration wants to make sure you get credit for working towards your social security. You must pay Medicare and Social Security Tax on income earned. The IRS collects it for them on Form SE for the self-employed. While you may not feel self-employed, you must report your income and pay those taxes using the only form available.

Because you are now considered a business, you can also deduct any expenses you may have. You also qualify to deduct 20% of the income from the business and not pay taxes on it under QBI. The IRS requires you to take every deduction to which you are entitled. It will be an easy click of a button and poof, lower tax bill.

The IRS does not open until February 12. They work on forms from most common to least common. See Federal form availability for expected release dates. Once released, we work to incorporate them quickly.

[wgfpd154]

Thank you for posting that link, it shows today's date but doesn't say "available" yet. Will keep checking.

[AmyC]

Glad to help!

[corpusbonds]

Thank you. I also had an expert call me because I was near tears. I don’t think I’ll be selling in MA anymore after this.

[ntabayeh]

It says the form is available today, and I updated the software, but it is still telling me that form is unavailable and I have to mail my return. 

[AmyC]

Wait until it actually has the word Available rather than the date.

Related: Calculate Your Employment Taxes

@ntabayeh

[ntabayeh]

Do you mean wait until the word file is ready? When will that be? And how do I check to see when that is available?

[ntabayeh]

It says available. 

[DianeW777]

I concur about the availability.  First step is to make sure your software is up to date, next be sure to clear your cache and cookies from your browser.  Please update the issue if you continue to experience this.

[ntabayeh]

I have updated the software and cleared my cache and cookies but still no luck. It still says the forms are unavailable and I have to mail my return instead of e-file. 

[AmyC]

@ntabayeh I am so sorry you are having trouble. I suggest you change browsers since clearing C & C did not help. If changing browsers does not work,  you can fill this form out for someone to call you.

You should be able to file with the 8995 and receive the QBI without having to mail in your forms.

[ntabayeh]

Thanks for the help. But I am using the CD not online. Does the same apply?

[LinaJ2020]

The Form 8995 for desktop version should be available.  To check availability, click here: Forms available

• If you are using the TurboTax CD/Download software program, open TurboTax and select Check for Updates from the Online menu near the top.

Form 8995  "Qualified Business Income Deduction Simplified Computation" is used to figure your qualified business income (QBI) deduction. Individual taxpayers and some trusts and estates may be entitled to a deduction of up to 20% of their net QBI from a trade or business.  

[ntabayeh]

It is available. It says it’s been available since 2/4. I have done everything you have said and it still says the form is not available and I must mail in my forms.