How to Look Up Old Tax Returns on TurboTax: A Deep Dive

Want to access your past tax returns filed through TurboTax? You’re likely seeking this data for loan applications, mortgage refinancing, amending a return, or simply for your personal records. The process is generally straightforward, but can vary slightly depending on how you originally filed and how old the return is. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to find your historical tax information within the TurboTax ecosystem.

The core method to retrieve old tax returns on TurboTax involves logging into your TurboTax account used during the filing year. Your returns are usually stored in your account for several years, often up to seven years, depending on your subscription level and TurboTax’s data retention policies. Once logged in, navigate to the “Tax Home” or similar dashboard section. From there, look for an option labeled “Your Tax Returns & Documents” or something similar indicating access to prior year returns. You should then be able to select the specific tax year you need and view or download a PDF copy of your filed return. If the return isn’t readily available, you may need to use the “Tax Return Access” feature (if available) or explore alternative methods if the return is beyond TurboTax’s retention period.

Understanding TurboTax’s Data Retention Policies

While TurboTax strives to keep your data accessible, it’s crucial to understand their retention policies. They generally retain e-filed returns for a period, but this isn’t guaranteed indefinitely. Factors like your subscription level and the version of TurboTax used can influence the storage duration. It is best practice to download and save your returns locally for permanent archiving.

Checking Your TurboTax Account

This is the first and often the easiest step. Log in to the TurboTax account you used for filing your tax return. Navigate to your Tax Timeline or similar section, and you should see a list of your filed returns. If you used different TurboTax accounts over the years, you will need to log into each account separately to check for your respective return.

Accessing Your Data Through Tax Return Access

TurboTax sometimes offers a feature called Tax Return Access. This tool allows you to request a copy of your prior-year returns, even if they are not immediately visible in your account. The availability and process for using this feature can vary depending on the TurboTax version you used.

Utilizing the IRS Get Transcript Service

If you can’t find your return through TurboTax, or if the return is older than their retention period, you can obtain a tax transcript from the IRS. A tax transcript summarizes the information from your return and can be useful for many purposes. You can request a transcript online through the IRS Get Transcript service on the IRS website, by mail using Form 4506-T, or by phone.

Contacting TurboTax Customer Support

As a last resort, reach out to TurboTax customer support. They may be able to assist you in locating your returns or provide guidance on alternative methods for accessing your tax information. Have your account information readily available when contacting support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide more detailed information:

1. How long does TurboTax keep my tax returns online?

The duration TurboTax keeps your tax returns online varies. Generally, they retain e-filed returns for up to seven years, but this can depend on your subscription level and the specific version of TurboTax you used. Always download and save your own copies for permanent records.

2. What if I filed with TurboTax CD/Download?

If you filed using the TurboTax CD/Download version, your return is stored locally on your computer, not on TurboTax’s servers. You’ll need to locate the tax file (usually with a “.tax” extension) on your computer or backup drive. If you can’t find it, you’ll need to reconstruct your return using your tax documents or request a transcript from the IRS.

3. Can I access my tax returns from previous years even if I didn’t pay for TurboTax Online?

Even if you used the free version of TurboTax Online, your returns should still be accessible for a period, typically around seven years. Log in to your TurboTax account and check your Tax Timeline. However, free versions may have more limited data retention compared to paid subscriptions.

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

A tax return is the complete document you filed with the IRS, containing all the details of your income, deductions, and credits. A tax transcript is a summary of your tax information as it appears on the IRS’s records. Transcripts are often sufficient for verifying income or other information, but they don’t provide the level of detail found in the complete return.

5. Is it safe to store my tax returns on TurboTax’s servers?

TurboTax employs security measures to protect your data. However, storing sensitive information online always carries some risk. Downloading and saving your tax returns locally provides an extra layer of security and ensures you have access to them even if TurboTax’s servers are unavailable or experience issues.

6. How do I request a tax transcript from the IRS?

You can request a tax transcript from the IRS online using the Get Transcript tool on the IRS website. You’ll need to verify your identity through ID.me. You can also request a transcript by mail using Form 4506-T or by phone.

7. What information do I need to access my old tax returns?

To access your old tax returns on TurboTax, you’ll need the username and password for the TurboTax account you used when you filed the return. You might also need to answer security questions or provide other verification information. For accessing IRS transcripts, you’ll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and address from your most recently filed return.

8. I forgot my TurboTax username or password. What do I do?

If you’ve forgotten your TurboTax username or password, use the “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” links on the TurboTax login page. You’ll typically need to provide your email address or phone number associated with the account to reset your credentials.

9. Can I amend a prior-year tax return using TurboTax?

Yes, you can amend a prior-year tax return using TurboTax. However, you typically need to use the TurboTax version for the year you’re amending. You can purchase the specific year’s software or access it online if available. TurboTax will guide you through the process of preparing and filing Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.

10. What if I filed a state tax return with TurboTax?

State tax returns filed with TurboTax are generally stored in the same location as your federal return within your TurboTax account. Follow the same steps to access your prior-year returns, and you should find both your federal and state returns available for download.

11. Are there any fees associated with accessing old tax returns on TurboTax?

Accessing old tax returns on TurboTax is usually free if the returns are stored within your account and within their retention period. However, if you need to purchase a prior-year version of TurboTax to amend a return, there will be a cost associated with purchasing the software. Obtaining transcripts directly from the IRS is free.

12. What should I do if my identity has been stolen and someone filed a fraudulent tax return in my name?

If you suspect identity theft, report it to the IRS immediately. File an IRS Identity Theft Affidavit (Form 14039) and follow the instructions on the IRS website for identity theft victims. You should also contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and file a complaint. Monitor your credit reports and financial accounts for any suspicious activity.