How do I file my 2019 taxes?? I've bought the product and downloaded it. the system is not showing me a simple way to file the taxes. Please help

[godsbeauty10]

I need immediate advice, please.

[xmasbaby0 · Accepted solution]

The only way to file a 2019 return is by mail.  E-filing has been permanently closed for a 2019 return since mid-October of 2020.

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.

[Mike9241]

unless the 2019 return was extended it was due 4/15/2020 (extended due 10/15/2020). if it was not extended you have lost any refund because the return was not filed within 3 years of its original due date.  if extended the return can still be filed to get a refund. If you owe pay ASAP because penalties and interest are accumulating.  

[VolvoGirl]

Have you filled out your return?  Where are you stuck?  After you downloaded it did you install it?  Then go up to File-New.  

[godsbeauty10]

Thank you so much!

[godsbeauty10]

Yes it was extended. From my understanding. today was the last day. No I don’t owe any money… I’d hate to lose money. Thank you so much for your response!

[godsbeauty10]

The system will not let me get on the correct screen it continues to take me on the 2022 screen.

[NCperson]

@godsbeauty10 - are you using a laptop?

when you say you bought the product, did you purchase the 2019 version?  the software is published each year and is only good for a specific tax year.  In otherwords, if you purchased the 2022 version of the software, you can only complete the 2022 tax year and not the 2019 tax year. 

you should be launching the icon on your desktop for 2019 if you indeed purchased the 2019 version. 

if you are opening a browser and going to the TT website, then yes, you will see 2022. 

[LadyPiper]

I don't quite understand what you mean; but if you are referring to how to file after completing the file manually by printing the completed forms and mailing them.

[NCperson]

@LadyPiper who are you responding to? 

you have to paper file the completed return, which has to be post marked by OCt 15 to be eligible for any refund. 

sounds like you are having problems launching hte software on a laptop. first things first 

[godsbeauty10]

Thank you all so much!! You all have been amazing and extremely helpful!

[xmasbaby0]

@godsbeauty10 

It sounds like you are logging in to online TurboTax instead of opening up your downloaded software that is on your own hard drive.  You do not "log on" to use the desktop software.    After you download the 2019 software you need to update it and then just go to File>New Return to start a tax return.   You just open the program like you open other programs that are installed on your computer.

We see people get confused and they keep logging in to online software which will require them to pay at the end.   You need to use the desktop software.   One way to tell if you are using the right software---your tool bar.   Online software has the toolbar in a black vertical column on the left side of the screen.   Desktop software has the tools up on the top of your TT screen.