How to Access Old Tax Returns on TurboTax: Your Definitive Guide

Accessing your previous tax returns filed through TurboTax is generally a straightforward process, but it can vary slightly depending on the year the return was filed and the version of TurboTax you used. In most cases, you can access your returns online through your TurboTax account. However, for older returns or returns prepared with the desktop version, you may need to retrieve them from your own files or contact Intuit directly.

Understanding Access Options for Old Tax Returns on TurboTax

Retrieving your old tax information is essential for many reasons, from applying for a loan to amending a previous return. Here’s a breakdown of how you can access your past TurboTax returns:

Accessing Returns Online Through Your TurboTax Account

This is the most common and convenient method for accessing returns filed in recent years.

1. Log in to your TurboTax account: Go to the TurboTax website and sign in using the same username and password you used when filing your taxes. If you’ve forgotten your login credentials, use the “Forgot username/password” recovery options.
2. Navigate to the “Tax Home” or “Your Returns & Documents” section: Once logged in, look for a section usually labeled “Tax Home,” “Your Returns & Documents,” or something similar. The exact wording may vary depending on the version of TurboTax you are using.
3. Select the Tax Year: You should see a list of tax years for which you’ve filed returns through TurboTax. Select the specific tax year you need to access.
4. Download or View your Return: You’ll typically have options to “Download/Print PDF” or simply “View” your return. Choose the option that best suits your needs. Downloading as a PDF allows you to save a copy to your computer for future reference.

Accessing Returns from the Desktop Version of TurboTax

If you used the desktop version of TurboTax, your return is saved on your computer or external drive.

1. Locate your Tax Files: The files are usually saved with a “.tax[year]” extension (e.g., “MyTaxes2022.tax2022”). The default save location is usually the “TurboTax” folder in your “Documents” directory, but you might have saved it elsewhere. Use your computer’s search function to find files with the “.tax” extension if you’re unsure of the location.
2. Open TurboTax Desktop: Launch the desktop version of TurboTax you used to prepare the return. Note: You may need to have the specific year’s version of TurboTax installed to open the file.
3. Open your Tax File: Within TurboTax, go to “File” -> “Open” and navigate to the location where you saved your “.tax” file. Select the file and click “Open.”
4. Print or Save as PDF: Once the return is open, you can print it directly or save it as a PDF file for easy sharing and storage.

Contacting Intuit for Older Returns

For tax returns filed many years ago, especially if you no longer have access to your online account or the desktop software, you may need to contact Intuit directly.

1. Visit the TurboTax Support Website: Go to the TurboTax help center.
2. Search for “Request Prior Year Tax Returns”: Use the search function to find articles or resources about requesting old tax returns.
3. Contact Support: You may find options to contact TurboTax support via phone or chat. Be prepared to provide information to verify your identity, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and the tax years you need.
4. Understand Potential Fees: Intuit may charge a fee for retrieving and providing older tax returns. Be sure to inquire about any applicable fees before proceeding.

Important Considerations When Accessing Old Tax Returns

• Account Security: Always use strong, unique passwords for your TurboTax account and any email accounts associated with it. Enable two-factor authentication for added security.
• Software Compatibility: If you’re using the desktop version, ensure you have the correct version of TurboTax installed for the tax year you are trying to access.
• Data Retention Policies: TurboTax retains tax returns for a certain number of years. While they strive to keep records accessible, very old returns might not be available online.
• IRS Transcripts: As an alternative, you can obtain tax transcripts directly from the IRS through their “Get Transcript” service. Transcripts provide key information from your tax return, but they are not a complete copy of your filed return.
• Cost: While accessing your returns online through TurboTax is generally free, contacting Intuit support for older returns might incur fees.

FAQs: Accessing Old Tax Returns on TurboTax

1. How far back can I access my tax returns on TurboTax online?

TurboTax typically allows you to access returns filed within the last 7 years online. For older returns, you may need to use the desktop version or contact Intuit directly.

2. I forgot my TurboTax login. How can I recover it?

Click on the “Forgot username/password” link on the TurboTax login page. You will be prompted to enter your email address or phone number associated with the account to begin the recovery process. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your password or retrieve your username.

3. I used the TurboTax CD/Download version. Where are my tax files located?

By default, TurboTax saves your tax files in the “TurboTax” folder within your “Documents” directory. The files have a “.tax[year]” extension (e.g., “MyTaxes2022.tax2022”). However, you may have saved them to a different location, so use your computer’s search function if you can’t find them.

4. Can I access my tax returns on the TurboTax mobile app?

Yes, if you filed your return using the mobile app and it’s still within the accessible timeframe (usually 7 years), you can log in to the app and access your prior year returns in the “Your Returns & Documents” section.

5. Does TurboTax charge a fee to access old tax returns online?

Accessing your tax returns online through your TurboTax account is generally free for returns within the accessible timeframe (usually 7 years). However, requesting returns from Intuit support, especially for older years, may incur fees.

6. I no longer have the computer I used to file my taxes with the desktop version. Can I still access my return?

If you backed up your tax files to an external drive or cloud storage service, you can access them from another computer. If not, and you didn’t upload the files to the online version, you will likely need to contact Intuit to see if they have a copy.

7. Can I get a transcript of my tax return from TurboTax?

TurboTax does not provide tax transcripts. You need to obtain tax transcripts directly from the IRS through their “Get Transcript” service.

8. What information do I need to provide to Intuit to request an old tax return?

You will typically need to provide your name, address, Social Security number, the tax years you need, and any other information that helps them verify your identity.

9. How long does it take to receive my tax return after requesting it from Intuit?

The processing time can vary, but it typically takes several business days to a few weeks to receive your tax return after requesting it from Intuit. Inquire about the estimated turnaround time when you contact support.

10. What if I used a different email address or phone number when I filed in a previous year?

If you used a different email address or phone number, try logging in using those credentials. If you can’t remember the exact details, contact TurboTax support and provide as much information as possible to help them locate your account.

11. I need to amend a previous year’s tax return. Will accessing my old return help with this process?

Yes, accessing your old tax return is crucial for amending it. It provides you with the necessary information to accurately complete Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. TurboTax can also guide you through the amended return process.

12. What’s the difference between a tax return and a tax transcript?

A tax return is a complete copy of the document you filed with the IRS, including all schedules and forms. A tax transcript is a summary of key information from your tax return, such as your income, deductions, and credits. Transcripts are useful for verification purposes but do not contain all the details found in a full tax return.