Turbo tax 2018 is asking me to update will that update to turbo tax 2019 or only change the inside of 2018 version? i need to file my 2018 taxes .

[xmasbaby0]

Each tax year has its own specific software.  Updating the 2018 software does not change it to 2019.  Go ahead and update it before you prepare your 2018 return.  

After you prepare your 2018 return, you will need to select the option to print and file by mail, since e-filing is closed for 2018.

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.

[Critter]

FYI ... you MUST update the 2018 program to the most current 2018 versi

Then make sure to save a PDF  AND   .TAXFILE of your return on a separate storage medium in case the computer blows up in the future.  

Save a Backup Copy of Your Tax File

To save a backup copy of your tax data file (.tax file) that can be opened and read by TurboTax CD/Download software, you'll need to choose your TurboTax product:

• TurboTax CD/Download software
• TurboTax Online

Similar-sounding—but very different—is saving a copy of your tax return as a PDF file, which is like a picture or "snapshot" of your tax return that you can view or print.

PDF files cannot be opened or read by TurboTax software, which means they cannot be used for amending or troubleshooting calculation issues.

Related Information:

• What's the difference between the tax data file and the PDF file?

 

 

 

Why should I save a PDF copy of my return?

Saving a copy of your return as a PDF (in addition to the proprietary tax data format TurboTax uses) lets you open, view, and print your return using the free Adobe Reader or Foxit Reader software.

This is a lifesaver if your tax data file gets corrupted or if you no longer have the TurboTax software to open it in. The government also accepts a paper-filed return printed from the PDF.

Please note that TurboTax PDF files cannot be "read" by the TurboTax software the way the tax data file can, which means they cannot be used for amending, troubleshooting calculation issues, or for full prior-year transfer capabilities.

For specific instructions, refer to the Related Information section, below.

Related Information:

• How do I save my 2018 turbotax online return as a pdf?
• How do I save my return as a PDF in the TurboTax software for Windows?
• How do I save my return as a PDF in the TurboTax software for Mac?
• What's the difference between the tax data file and the PDF file?

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1900937-why-should-i-save-a-pdf-copy-of-my-return

How can I protect the tax files on my computer?

Protect the sensitive information in your tax data files and tax-related PDF files with the following (the more, the merrier):

• If you're on Windows XP, upgrade to Vista or higher, as Microsoft has stopped patching XP
• Download and install the latest updates for Windows or Mac
• Keep your firewall on at all times
• Install and run virus- and spyware-protection software (and make sure to keep it updated)
• Store your files in a folder where they cannot be shared
• Password-protect your tax file
• Use PDF encryption software to protect PDF copies of your return
• Never email your tax or PDF files

Another option is to move your tax and tax-related PDF files off your computer and onto a storage device which you can then store in a secure location.

Related Information:

• How do I password-protect my tax file in the TurboTax CD/Download software?
• What's the difference between the tax data file and the PDF file?
• How do I back up my tax file in the TurboTax CD/Download software?