How to Find Last Year’s Tax Return on TurboTax: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’re on the hunt for last year’s tax return within TurboTax? Don’t sweat it; you’re not alone. Whether you need it for applying for a loan, verifying your identity, or just plain old record-keeping, accessing past tax returns on TurboTax is generally straightforward. Here’s the lowdown:
Finding Your Tax Return: The exact steps depend on whether you’re using TurboTax Online or TurboTax Desktop.
TurboTax Online:
- Sign In: First things first, log in to your TurboTax account using the same username and password you used to file last year. This is crucial; using a different account won’t get you anywhere.
- Access Your Tax Timeline: Once logged in, look for a section like “Your Tax Timeline” or “Your Returns & Documents.” It might be located on the main dashboard or in a menu option.
- Select the Relevant Tax Year: You should see a list of tax years for which you’ve filed using TurboTax. Click on the year you’re interested in (e.g., “2022 Tax Return”).
- Download or Print: From there, you should be able to download a PDF of your complete tax return. Look for buttons or links labeled “Download/Print Return,” “View PDF,” or similar. The availability of options to download or print might be restricted based on your subscription type.
TurboTax Desktop:
- Locate the Tax File: This is key! Your tax return is saved as a .tax file (e.g., “MyTaxes2022.tax”) on your computer. You need to remember where you saved it – typically in your “Documents” folder or a specific folder you created for tax returns.
- Open TurboTax Desktop Software: Launch the TurboTax Desktop software for the tax year you are trying to retrieve. You must use the correct year’s software as each year’s version is designed to open that specific year’s .tax files.
- Open Your Tax File: Within TurboTax Desktop, go to “File” > “Open Tax Return.” Navigate to the location where you saved your .tax file and select it.
- View, Print, or Save as PDF: Once opened, you can view your tax return, print it, or save it as a PDF for easier sharing and storage.
Navigating Common Roadblocks
Sometimes, things aren’t as simple as they seem. Here are a few potential snags and how to address them:
Forgetting Your Login Credentials
This happens to the best of us. Use the “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” links on the TurboTax login page. They’ll guide you through the process of recovering your account access, usually by verifying your identity through email or phone.
Not Finding the .tax File on Your Computer
If you can’t find your .tax file for TurboTax Desktop, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Search Your Computer: Use your computer’s search function (e.g., Spotlight on Mac, Windows Search on PC) and search for “*.tax”. This will list all files ending in .tax on your hard drive.
- Check Your Backup Drives: Did you back up your computer? If so, your tax file might be lurking there.
- Recycle Bin/Trash: Sometimes files accidentally get deleted. Take a peek in your Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac) to see if it’s there.
Difficulty Downloading the PDF
Make sure your internet connection is stable. Also, ensure that you have a PDF reader installed on your device (like Adobe Acrobat Reader) and that it is updated to the latest version. If you still have issues, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies or using a different browser.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions people have about finding their tax returns on TurboTax:
1. Does TurboTax store my tax returns forever?
Generally, TurboTax stores your tax returns for at least three years, and often longer. However, relying solely on TurboTax for permanent storage isn’t recommended. It’s always best practice to download and save your tax returns yourself for long-term access. Specific storage policies vary based on product and subscription type.
2. What if I used a different email address last year?
If you think you might have used a different email address last year, try logging in with that email. Many people have multiple email addresses, and it’s easy to forget which one you used for your taxes.
3. I used TurboTax Free Edition. Can I still access my past returns?
Yes, even if you used the free edition, you should still be able to access your prior year returns. The access methods are the same as for paid versions: log into your account and look for the tax timeline.
4. Can I access my tax returns from the TurboTax mobile app?
Yes, the TurboTax mobile app mirrors many of the functionalities of the website. You should be able to access your past tax returns directly from the app by logging in with your credentials and navigating to your tax timeline or documents section.
5. I filed with TurboTax Desktop, but I switched computers. How do I get my return?
You’ll need to locate the .tax file from your old computer and transfer it to your new computer. You can use a USB drive, cloud storage (like Dropbox or Google Drive), or an external hard drive to move the file. Then, open the file using the appropriate TurboTax Desktop software on your new computer.
6. Is it safe to download my tax return as a PDF?
Yes, downloading your tax return as a PDF is generally safe, provided you store the file securely. Use a strong password to protect your computer and avoid sharing the file with unauthorized individuals. Consider storing it on an encrypted drive for extra protection.
7. How long should I keep a copy of my tax return?
The IRS generally recommends keeping your tax returns for at least three years from the date you filed or two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. However, for certain situations, such as claiming a loss from worthless securities or if you didn’t report income that you should have, the IRS may go back further. Many experts recommend keeping tax returns for seven years for peace of mind.
8. Can I amend my tax return through TurboTax if I find an error?
Yes, TurboTax allows you to amend your tax return. You would access the relevant tax year in TurboTax, then look for an “Amend” option or a similar feature to start the amendment process. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and refile the amended return.
9. What if I no longer have access to the computer where I filed my taxes with TurboTax Desktop?
If the computer is no longer accessible and you didn’t back up your .tax file, unfortunately, recovering your tax return directly is impossible. You’ll need to request a transcript of your tax return from the IRS.
10. How do I request a tax transcript from the IRS?
You can request a tax transcript from the IRS in several ways: * Online: Use the IRS’s “Get Transcript” tool on their website. * By Mail: File Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, and mail it to the address specified on the form. * By Phone: Call the IRS’s automated phone service to request a transcript.
11. I paid extra for “Audit Defense” from TurboTax. How does that work?
If you purchased Audit Defense, TurboTax partners with a third-party service, typically TaxAudit, to provide assistance if you’re audited. Contact TaxAudit directly using the contact information provided in your Audit Defense documentation. They’ll guide you through the process and represent you during the audit.
12. What if my TurboTax account was compromised?
If you suspect your TurboTax account has been compromised, immediately change your password. Also, contact TurboTax support to report the issue and take any steps they recommend to secure your account and protect your information. Monitor your credit report for any signs of identity theft.
Finding last year’s tax return on TurboTax shouldn’t be a Herculean task. By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you should be able to access your documents without too much trouble. Always remember to keep a personal backup for added security and accessibility!
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