Don't Just File, Conquer Your Taxes! A Step-by-Step Guide to Printing and Mailing Your TurboTax Return
Are you staring at your completed tax return in TurboTax, a mix of relief and slight apprehension washing over you? You've navigated the complex world of deductions and credits, and now it's time for the final, crucial step: filing. While e-filing is incredibly popular and often recommended, there are times when printing and mailing your tax return is necessary. Perhaps you prefer a physical record, or your specific tax situation requires a paper submission. Whatever your reason, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every single step, ensuring your TurboTax-prepared return gets to the IRS and/or your state tax agency correctly and efficiently.
Ready to turn that digital triumph into a tangible, mailed success? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Confirm Your Filing Method – Are You Sure You Want to Print and Mail?
Before you even think about hitting "Print," take a moment to confirm that mailing your return is the right choice for you. While perfectly valid, e-filing often offers advantages like faster processing and instant confirmation.
Consider these points carefully:
E-file Benefits: Faster refunds (especially with direct deposit), instant confirmation of receipt by the IRS/state, fewer errors due to automated checks.
Print & Mail Considerations: Slower processing times, no immediate confirmation, potential for mailing errors (incorrect address, missing documents).
Why Mail? You might choose to mail if:
You're filing an amended return.
You're filing a prior year's return that can no longer be e-filed.
You have attachments that cannot be submitted electronically.
You simply prefer a paper trail.
If you've weighed these factors and decided that mailing is indeed your path, then let's move forward with confidence!
Step 2: Accessing and Preparing Your Return for Printing in TurboTax
Once you're logged into your TurboTax account, whether it's the online version or the desktop software, you'll need to navigate to the printing options.
Sub-step 2.1: Locating the Print Center
For TurboTax Online:
After you've completed your return and reached the "Finish and File" or "Filing Hub" section, you should see an option to "Print and mail your returns" or something similar.
If you're already past the filing stage or just want to print a copy for your records, look for "Tax Tools" on the left-hand navigation pane. Under "Tax Tools," you'll usually find "Print Center."
If you've already filed (even e-filed) and need to access the Print Center, you might need to "Add a State" to re-enter your return and reveal the "Tax Tools" option.
For TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download):
Typically, after completing the "Review" step, you can go to the "File" menu at the top.
Look for an option like "Print/Save for Your Records" or "Print Tax Return."
Sub-step 2.2: Selecting What to Print
Within the Print Center or print options, you'll likely have several choices.
Always select the option to include "government and TurboTax worksheets" if available. This ensures you get all necessary forms and the crucial filing instructions.
You'll typically see options to print your Federal return, your State return, and sometimes other forms. Select all the returns you intend to mail.
Sub-step 2.3: Generating the PDF and Reviewing
TurboTax will generate a PDF of your complete return. This is your chance to do a final, critical review.
Crucial Checkpoint: Look for the "Filing Instructions" page. This is usually the first page of your printout and is absolutely vital as it contains the correct mailing address for your specific return (Federal and State, if applicable), and any other special instructions. If you don't see this page, something isn't right, and you should re-evaluate your print settings.
Scroll through every page of the PDF. Ensure all your forms, schedules, and worksheets are present and appear correct.
Verify your personal information, income, deductions, and credits. Double-check your Social Security Number(s) and names.
Step 3: Printing Your Tax Return
Once you've reviewed the PDF and confirmed everything looks correct, it's time to physically print it.
Use a reliable printer with enough ink and paper. A misprint or faded pages can cause issues.
Print in black ink on white, standard-sized paper (8.5" x 11").
Do not print on colored paper.
Do not staple or bind your return in any unusual way unless specifically instructed. The IRS and state tax agencies often have automated processing systems that can be disrupted by non-standard binding.
Step 4: Assembling Your Tax Return for Mailing
This step is critical for ensuring your return is processed smoothly. Incorrect assembly can lead to delays or even rejection.
Sub-step 4.1: Signing Your Return
Sign and Date: You must sign and date your Form 1040 (and any state equivalent) in blue or black ink. Both spouses must sign a joint return.
Preparer Section: If you used a paid preparer, they should sign in the appropriate section.
Ensure all required signatures are present before moving on.
Sub-step 4.2: Attaching Required Documents
The "Filing Instructions" page from TurboTax will list exactly what documents you need to attach. Do not skip this step.
Form W-2 and 1099-R: If federal income tax was withheld, attach Copy B of all Forms W-2 and Forms 1099-R to the front of your Form 1040.
Other Forms: Other forms like Form 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, or K-1s generally do not need to be attached unless specified in your filing instructions or by the IRS/state. Keep copies for your records.
Payment Voucher (Form 1040-V) and Payment:
If you owe federal tax, include a payment voucher (Form 1040-V) and your check or money order. Make your check payable to "United States Treasury."
Write your name, address, Social Security number, daytime phone number, and the tax year and "Form 1040" on the memo line of your check or money order.
Attach the payment to the front of Form 1040, usually in the lower left corner, using a single paper clip. Do not staple checks.
For state taxes, the process is similar. Refer to your state's specific filing instructions for payment details and attachment requirements.
Sub-step 4.3: Ordering Your Forms
The IRS and state tax agencies prefer documents in a specific order for efficient processing. Your TurboTax printout should organize them correctly.
Federal Return: Generally, Form 1040 comes first, followed by any schedules (Schedule 1, Schedule A, Schedule B, etc.) in alphabetical or numerical order, and then other forms.
Attachment Sequence Number: Many forms have an "Attachment Sequence No." in the upper right corner. This number indicates the order in which they should be placed behind your main form (Form 1040). Ensure your printed return follows this sequence.
State Return: Your state return will have its own ordering instructions, usually found on the state filing instruction page.
Use a single staple in the upper left corner to secure all pages of your federal return together. Do the same for your state return if mailing separately.
Step 5: Addressing Your Envelope and Mailing Your Return
The correct mailing address is paramount. Sending your return to the wrong address will significantly delay processing.
Sub-step 5.1: Finding the Correct Mailing Address
Your "Filing Instructions" page generated by TurboTax is your primary source for the correct mailing address. This page is tailored to your specific return type and your state of residence.
IRS Website: If for any reason you can't find the address in your TurboTax instructions, you can always refer to the official IRS website. Search for "Where to File Paper Tax Returns" on IRS.gov. The address varies based on the form you're filing and whether you're enclosing a payment.
State Tax Agency Website: For your state return, visit your state's Department of Revenue or Tax Agency website to find their specific mailing addresses.
Sub-step 5.2: Preparing the Envelope
Use a sturdy envelope that can accommodate all your documents without folding them excessively. A standard business envelope (No. 10) is often sufficient for most returns, but larger envelopes may be needed for very thick returns.
Clearly write the IRS or state tax agency's address in the center of the envelope.
Include your complete return address in the upper left corner.
Affix sufficient postage. Take your assembled return to the post office and have it weighed to ensure you apply the correct postage. Insufficient postage will result in your return being returned to you, causing delays.
Consider Certified Mail with Return Receipt: For peace of mind, especially if you're sending a large payment or it's close to the deadline, consider sending your return via Certified Mail with a Return Receipt. This provides proof that you mailed it and that the IRS/state received it.
Step 6: Keeping Records
Make a Copy: Before you seal the envelope and send it off, make a complete copy of your signed return and all accompanying forms and documents. This is incredibly important for your own records, in case of questions from the IRS/state, or for future reference.
Proof of Mailing: If you used Certified Mail, keep your mailing receipt and the green return receipt card (once it's returned to you).
Supporting Documents: Keep all your original W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductions, and any other supporting documentation in a safe place. You do not need to mail these unless specifically instructed by the IRS or state.
By following these detailed steps, you can confidently print and mail your TurboTax-prepared tax return, ensuring it reaches its destination accurately and on time. Congratulations on completing your tax filing!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to access the Print Center in TurboTax Online if I've already e-filed?
You can usually access the Print Center by logging into your TurboTax Online account, scrolling down to "Your Tax Returns & Documents," and selecting the year you wish to print. If that doesn't work, sometimes clicking "Add a State" (even if you don't intend to add one) will bring you back into the return and reveal the "Tax Tools" menu where the Print Center is located.
How to ensure my federal and state returns print with filing instructions?
When in the TurboTax Print Center, always select the option to "Include government and TurboTax worksheets." This option is designed to include the crucial filing instructions page, which contains the mailing addresses and assembly details.
How to find the correct mailing address for my federal tax return?
The most reliable source for the correct federal mailing address is the "Filing Instructions" page that prints with your TurboTax return. Alternatively, you can visit the IRS website (IRS.gov) and search for "Where to File Paper Tax Returns," which provides addresses based on your state and whether you're including a payment.
How to find the correct mailing address for my state tax return?
Similar to federal returns, your TurboTax "Filing Instructions" page for your state return will provide the precise mailing address. If you can't find it there, navigate to your state's official Department of Revenue or Tax Agency website and search for their tax filing addresses.
How to correctly sign my printed tax return?
Sign your Form 1040 (and any state equivalent) in blue or black ink. If it's a joint return, both you and your spouse must sign. Ensure your signature is legible and matches the name on the return.
How to attach my W-2s and payment to my mailed tax return?
For federal returns, attach Copy B of your W-2s and 1099-Rs (if tax was withheld) to the front of your Form 1040. If enclosing a payment, attach your check or money order (with your name, SSN, and tax year on the memo line) along with Form 1040-V to the front of Form 1040 using a single paper clip (do not staple the payment). Refer to your specific filing instructions for precise placement.
How to order the pages of my printed tax return for mailing?
Your TurboTax printout should automatically arrange the pages in the correct order. Generally, for federal, this means Form 1040 first, followed by schedules (like Schedule A, B, C, D) in alphabetical or numerical order, and then other forms. Many forms have an "Attachment Sequence No." in the upper right corner to guide the order. Use a single staple in the upper left corner to secure the entire federal return. Follow similar instructions for your state return.
How to ensure I have sufficient postage for my mailed tax return?
Take your assembled and sealed envelope to the post office and have it weighed. They will calculate the exact postage needed. Do not guess, as insufficient postage will lead to your return being returned to you.
How to get proof that I mailed my tax return?
To get proof of mailing and delivery, use Certified Mail with Return Receipt service provided by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). This provides a mailing receipt and a postcard confirming delivery.
How to make a copy of my tax return for my records?
Before sealing your envelope, scan or photocopy your entire signed tax return, including all forms, schedules, and the filing instructions page. Save both a digital and a physical copy for your records. This is crucial for future reference or in case of any issues with your filing.