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How to View Your Tax Return on TurboTax Before Filing: Your Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve painstakingly inputted all your financial data into TurboTax, navigated the deductions, and are ready to file. But wait! A seasoned taxpayer never files without first taking a peek at the finished product. How do you view your tax return on TurboTax before filing? The answer is straightforward: within the TurboTax platform, navigate to the “Review” section, often located in the top navigation bar. Look for options like “Preview My Return” or “View Tax Summary“. This will generate a printable or viewable PDF version of your complete tax return, allowing you to scrutinize every line before hitting that final “E-file” button. Don’t skip this crucial step!

The Importance of Reviewing Your Tax Return Before Filing

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let’s emphasize why previewing your tax return is non-negotiable. Filing taxes is not a game of chance. It’s a legal declaration, and accuracy is paramount.

Avoiding Costly Errors

Even with the user-friendly interface of TurboTax, mistakes can happen. A misplaced decimal point, an incorrectly entered Social Security number, or a missed deduction can all lead to unwanted attention from the IRS, potential penalties, and headaches down the road. Reviewing your tax return allows you to catch these errors before they become official.

Maximizing Deductions and Credits

Sometimes, we overlook potential tax breaks. The preview feature in TurboTax gives you one last opportunity to ensure you’ve claimed all eligible deductions and credits. You might discover a deduction you forgot about or realize you qualify for a credit you weren’t aware of.

Peace of Mind

Finally, reviewing your tax return before filing offers invaluable peace of mind. Knowing that you’ve thoroughly checked your work and are confident in the accuracy of your return will alleviate stress and allow you to file with confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide to Viewing Your Tax Return on TurboTax

Here’s a detailed walkthrough of how to access the preview feature in TurboTax:

Complete Your Tax Information: Ensure you’ve entered all relevant income, deductions, and credits into the TurboTax platform. This includes your W-2s, 1099s, and any other applicable tax forms.
Navigate to the “Review” Section: This is usually located in the top navigation bar or on the left-hand side menu. Look for a tab labeled “Review,” “Check Return,” or something similar.
Initiate the Review Process: TurboTax will guide you through a series of checks, highlighting potential errors or missed information. Follow these prompts carefully and correct any issues identified.
Find the “Preview My Return” or “View Tax Summary” Option: Once you’ve completed the initial review, look for an option that allows you to view the complete tax return. This might be labeled “Preview My Return,” “View Tax Summary,” “Print Center,” or something similar. This option is usually found after you have answered all the questions in the “Review” section of TurboTax.
Choose Your Viewing Method: TurboTax typically offers two options: viewing the return on-screen or generating a PDF document. We recommend generating a PDF document as it allows you to easily save, print, and share the return (if needed).
Scrutinize the PDF: Carefully review every line of the PDF document, paying close attention to your income, deductions, credits, and tax liability. Verify that all information is accurate and consistent with your records.
Make Corrections if Necessary: If you spot any errors, return to the relevant sections of TurboTax and make the necessary corrections. Regenerate the PDF document to confirm that the changes have been applied.
Repeat the Review Process: Don’t hesitate to repeat the review process multiple times. The more thorough you are, the less likely you are to encounter problems later.

Key Areas to Focus on During Your Review

While reviewing your tax return, pay special attention to the following areas:

Personal Information

Verify that your name, Social Security number, address, and filing status are all accurate. Even a minor error in your personal information can cause processing delays.

Income

Ensure that all your income sources are reported correctly, including wages, salaries, self-employment income, investment income, and any other taxable income. Double-check the amounts against your W-2s, 1099s, and other income statements.

Deductions

Review all the deductions you’ve claimed, such as the standard deduction, itemized deductions, and any other applicable deductions. Make sure you have the necessary documentation to support your deductions.

Credits

Verify that you’ve claimed all eligible tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and education credits. Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for each credit.

Tax Liability and Refund/Amount Owed

Pay close attention to your final tax liability (the amount of tax you owe) or your refund amount. If either number seems unusually high or low, investigate further to identify any potential errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about viewing your tax return on TurboTax before filing:

1. Can I view my tax return on TurboTax for free?

Typically, you can view a summary of your tax return on TurboTax for free. However, accessing the complete, printable PDF version of your tax return might require upgrading to a paid version of the software. This often depends on the complexity of your tax situation and the specific version of TurboTax you’re using.

2. What if I find an error after filing my tax return?

If you discover an error after filing your tax return, you’ll need to file an amended tax return using Form 1040-X. TurboTax can assist you with preparing and filing an amended return.

3. How do I save my tax return as a PDF on TurboTax?

After previewing your tax return in TurboTax, there will be an option to “Save as PDF” or “Print.” Choose the “Save as PDF” option and select a location on your computer to save the file.

4. Can I print my tax return from TurboTax before filing?

Yes, you can print your tax return from TurboTax before filing. Simply choose the “Print” option after previewing your return, and select your printer.

5. Where can I find my prior year tax returns on TurboTax?

You can access your prior year tax returns by logging into your TurboTax account and navigating to the “My Account” section. Look for an option to “View Past Returns” or “Tax Documents.”

6. What is the difference between the “Tax Summary” and the “Complete Tax Return” preview?

The “Tax Summary” provides a high-level overview of your key tax figures, such as your total income, deductions, credits, and tax liability. The “Complete Tax Return” preview shows you the full IRS forms with all the details filled in.

7. Does TurboTax automatically review my tax return for errors?

Yes, TurboTax has a built-in error check system that automatically reviews your tax return for potential errors and omissions. However, it’s still essential to manually review your return to catch any mistakes that the system might have missed.

8. How long does it take to get my refund after filing with TurboTax?

The IRS typically issues refunds within 21 days of receiving your electronically filed tax return. However, processing times may vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your return and the volume of returns being processed.

9. Can I file my state tax return using TurboTax?

Yes, TurboTax supports the filing of both federal and state tax returns. You’ll need to complete the state tax section within the TurboTax platform after completing your federal return.

10. What if I don’t have all my tax documents yet?

It’s best to wait until you have all your tax documents before starting your tax return. This will ensure that you have all the necessary information to accurately complete your return. TurboTax allows you to save your progress and return to your tax return later.

11. What if I need help using TurboTax?

TurboTax offers various support resources, including online help articles, FAQs, and live chat support. You can also consult with a tax professional if you need more personalized assistance.

12. Is it safe to use TurboTax?

TurboTax is a reputable tax preparation software with robust security measures in place to protect your personal and financial information. However, it’s always a good idea to be cautious and protect your information by using strong passwords and avoiding phishing scams. Always access the TurboTax website directly, rather than clicking on links in emails.

By following these steps and FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to view, review, and file your tax return on TurboTax with confidence. Remember, taking the time to carefully review your return before filing is crucial for avoiding errors, maximizing your tax benefits, and ensuring a smooth tax season. Happy filing!