I had trouble submitting my return last year because my son accidentally filed as an independent which he was not. He amended his and I am now trying to submit mine. I paid to submit my last year but it was rejected. I downloaded the 2021 software for Mac and opened my tax file. Everything is good, except for two things:
1. It said that e-filing was closed and I needed to file on paper. I clicked the "continue" as prompted and it continued with e-file. Not sure what's going on there. Is it okay to continue or is there something else I should do?
2. When I got to the file page, it wants to charge me, but I already paid in the online version, but it was rejected. I am just resubmitting the same file that was not accepted without any changes.
How can I do this without being charged?
Thank you for your guidance.
You cannot e-file.
E-filing is closed permanently for 2021 returns. The only way to file a 2021 return is to print it, sign and date it in ink, and mail it in. Choose print for filing so that the pages you need to mail print out for you.
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.
Sorry it is too late to efile 2021. You have to print and mail it now. And since your son filed wrong you will have to print and mail it anyway so you didn't have to wait. Even if he amended his return you still have to mail your return. Once a ssn has been efiled you can't efile it again.
Are you using the 2021 Desktop program? You can't use the Online version now. Online is only for 2022. What's it trying to charge you for? The state efile? Go though the FILE tab again and print to mail it. Ignore any error messages about efiling.
If you have no changes you can just print out your return from online and mail it. Why did you download the Desktop program?
How to Access prior year online returns
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/prior-year-return/help/how-do-i-access-my-prior-year-return/00/27010