How to Download Old Tax Returns from TurboTax: Your Comprehensive Guide

Need to access that old tax return you filed with TurboTax? Whether it’s for a loan application, mortgage refinancing, or simply to refresh your memory, retrieving your past tax documents is usually a straightforward process. Here’s how you can download your prior-year tax returns from TurboTax:

1. Log into your TurboTax account: Go to the TurboTax website (www.turbotax.com) and sign in using the same username and password you used when filing your taxes.
2. Access your tax returns: Look for a section typically labeled “Your Tax Returns & Documents,” “Tax Home,” or something similar. The exact wording may vary depending on the specific version of TurboTax you used.
3. Select the tax year: You’ll usually see a list of tax years for which you filed using TurboTax. Choose the specific tax year you need to download.
4. Download your tax return: Once you’ve selected the tax year, look for a link or button that says “Download/Print Return (PDF),” “Download Tax PDF,” or something similar. Click this button to download a PDF copy of your tax return.
5. Save the PDF: Save the downloaded PDF file to your computer or cloud storage for safekeeping.

That’s the gist of it! However, there are some nuances and potential hurdles you might encounter. Let’s delve deeper into the details to ensure a smooth and successful retrieval process.

Understanding TurboTax’s Data Retention Policy

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand how long TurboTax keeps your tax returns accessible. TurboTax generally retains access to your tax returns for at least three years, sometimes extending to seven years, depending on the product and service tier you used. However, availability beyond seven years is not guaranteed.

This means if you’re looking for a tax return from more than a decade ago, it might not be readily available online through TurboTax. In such cases, you might need to request a transcript from the IRS directly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, retrieving your tax returns from TurboTax isn’t as simple as it seems. Here are a few common issues and how to address them:

Forgetting Your Username or Password

The most common roadblock is forgetting your TurboTax login credentials. Don’t panic! TurboTax has robust account recovery options.

1. Password Reset: Use the “Forgot Password” link on the login page. You’ll likely need to answer security questions or receive a verification code via email or phone.
2. Username Retrieval: If you’ve forgotten your username, there’s usually a “Forgot Username” link as well. You’ll likely need to provide your email address or phone number associated with the account.
3. Contact Support: If you’re still struggling, TurboTax customer support is your best bet. Be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity.

Difficulty Locating Your Tax Returns

Even after logging in successfully, locating your tax returns can sometimes be tricky. Here are some tips:

1. Check Different Sections: Explore all sections related to “Tax Returns,” “Documents,” or “Tax History“. The location might vary depending on the TurboTax version you used.
2. Use the Search Function: If TurboTax has a search function, try searching for the tax year or a relevant keyword like “2020 Tax Return“.
3. Review Your Purchase History: Check your email for purchase confirmations from TurboTax. These emails might contain links directly to your tax returns or provide information about the TurboTax product you used.

Issues with Downloading the PDF

Sometimes, you might encounter problems while downloading the PDF of your tax return.

1. Check Your Browser Settings: Ensure your browser isn’t blocking pop-ups, as the download might open in a new window. Also, clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
2. Try a Different Browser: If the issue persists, try using a different web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari).
3. Check Your PDF Reader: Make sure you have a working PDF reader installed on your computer (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader).
4. Contact TurboTax Support: If none of the above solutions work, reach out to TurboTax support for assistance.

Alternative Solutions: IRS Transcript and Amended Returns

If you can’t retrieve your tax return from TurboTax, or if you need information beyond what’s available, the IRS offers alternative solutions.

Requesting a Tax Transcript from the IRS

The IRS provides tax transcripts, which summarize your tax information. You can request a transcript online, by phone, or by mail.

1. Online: Use the “Get Transcript Online” tool on the IRS website (www.irs.gov). You’ll need to verify your identity using the IRS’s Secure Access process.
2. By Phone: Call the IRS at 1-800-908-9946 to request a transcript.
3. By Mail: Use Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, and mail it to the address listed on the form.

Obtaining Amended Returns

If you need a copy of an amended tax return (Form 1040-X), you’ll need to request it directly from the IRS. The process is similar to requesting a tax transcript.

TurboTax Online vs. Desktop Version

The process for downloading tax returns might slightly differ depending on whether you used TurboTax Online or the TurboTax Desktop version.

• TurboTax Online: As described above, you typically access your tax returns through your online account.
• TurboTax Desktop: If you used the desktop version, your tax return files are stored on your computer. Look for files with a “.tax” extension. You’ll need to open these files using the TurboTax software to view or print them.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about downloading old tax returns from TurboTax:

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

TurboTax generally keeps your tax returns accessible for at least three years, and sometimes up to seven years, depending on the product version. Availability beyond seven years is not guaranteed.

2. Is there a fee to download my past tax returns from TurboTax?

No, downloading your tax returns from TurboTax is usually free as long as you have an active account and the returns are within their retention period.

3. What if I no longer have access to the email address I used to create my TurboTax account?

Contact TurboTax support as soon as possible. They will guide you through the process of verifying your identity and updating your email address.

4. Can I download my tax return as a file other than PDF?

In most cases, TurboTax only offers tax returns in PDF format for download. This ensures the document’s integrity and readability.

5. I used a free version of TurboTax. Does that affect my ability to download past returns?

No, the free version of TurboTax should still allow you to download your past returns within the standard retention period. However, the availability of customer support might be limited.

6. What if I used TurboTax CD/Download version and no longer have the software installed?

You’ll need to reinstall the TurboTax software from the original CD or download. If you no longer have the software, you might need to purchase a new copy.

7. Can I download my spouse’s tax return from my TurboTax account if we filed jointly?

Yes, if you filed jointly, you should be able to download the joint tax return from either spouse’s TurboTax account, provided you both used the same account credentials or linked your accounts.

8. What if I used a tax professional who filed my return through TurboTax?

You’ll need to contact your tax professional directly to obtain a copy of your tax return. They should have a record of your filings.

9. How do I download state tax returns from TurboTax?

The process for downloading state tax returns is generally the same as for federal tax returns. Look for the state return alongside the federal return in your TurboTax account.

10. Can I download amended tax returns from TurboTax?

Downloading amended returns from TurboTax is less common. If you filed an amended return through TurboTax, check your account for availability. Otherwise, you’ll need to request it from the IRS.

11. What if my TurboTax account has been deactivated?

If your TurboTax account is deactivated, you’ll likely need to contact TurboTax support to reactivate it and access your tax returns. Be prepared to verify your identity.

12. Is it safe to store my downloaded tax returns on cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox?

Yes, storing your tax returns on reputable cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox is generally safe, as they employ strong security measures. However, be sure to enable two-factor authentication for added security.

By following these steps and understanding the nuances involved, you should be well-equipped to retrieve your old tax returns from TurboTax efficiently and securely. Remember to always prioritize the security of your financial information and seek professional assistance when needed.