Hey there! So you've gone through the meticulous process of preparing your taxes, hit that print button, and now you're holding a physical copy of your return. You might be wondering, "Do I really have to mail this in? Can't I just e-file it?" The good news is, yes, absolutely you can e-file it even after printing! Often, printing is just a way to review your return one last time or keep a physical record. E-filing is almost always the faster, more secure, and more convenient option.
Let's dive into exactly how you can transition from your printed masterpiece to a successful electronic submission with TurboTax.
How to E-file on TurboTax After Printing: A Step-by-Step Guide
It's a common misconception that once you print your return, you've committed to mailing it. Thankfully, TurboTax is designed to offer flexibility. As long as you haven't actually mailed the physical copy, you can still switch to e-filing.
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| How To Efile On Turbotax After Printing |
Step 1: Reconnect with Your Return on TurboTax
Online Version Users: Did you prepare your taxes using TurboTax Online? If so, the first thing you need to do is log back into your TurboTax account. Don't worry, your progress is saved!
Navigate to the TurboTax website (turbotax.intuit.com).
Click on "Sign In" and enter your user ID and password.
Once logged in, you should land on your "Tax Home" or a similar dashboard. Look for your current tax year's return.
CD/Download Desktop Software Users: If you used the TurboTax CD/Download software on your computer, you'll need to open the software on your computer and then open the specific tax file (.tax file) for the return you wish to e-file.
Launch the TurboTax program.
Go to "File" > "Open Tax Return" and select your saved tax file.
Engagement Tip: Take a deep breath and give yourself a pat on the back for getting this far! Tax season can be stressful, but you're almost there. Ready to get this officially filed?
Step 2: Locate the "File" Section
Regardless of whether you're using the online or desktop version, the key is to find the "File" section within TurboTax.
Online Version: On the left-hand menu (you might need to expand your browser window or click on a menu icon in the top left corner), you should see an option labeled "File." Click on it!
Desktop Software: Look for a "File" tab or section, usually in a prominent place or under a main menu option.
Step 3: Confirm Your Filing Method
Tip: Highlight sentences that answer your questions.
Once you're in the "File" section, TurboTax will typically present you with options for how you want to submit your return.
Online Version: You'll likely see a screen titled something like "Just one more step" or "Let's get ready to e-file." You'll want to ensure that e-file is the selected method.
If it's already selected, great!
If it's showing "File by Mail" or "Print & Mail," look for a button or link that says "Change" or "Switch to E-file." Select it to switch your filing preference.
Desktop Software: The process will be similar. You'll be prompted to choose between e-filing and printing/mailing. Make sure to select the e-file option.
Step 4: Address Any Remaining Pre-Checks or Errors
TurboTax performs a rigorous check before allowing you to e-file. Even if you've reviewed your printed copy, the e-filing process has its own set of validations.
Review Prompts: TurboTax will guide you through a series of screens to double-check your information. Pay close attention to any warnings or errors. Common issues include:
Missing or incorrect Social Security Numbers (SSNs) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs).
Discrepancies in AGI (Adjusted Gross Income) from a prior year, which is used to verify your identity for e-filing.
Incomplete forms or missing information.
Forms that cannot be e-filed (rare, but can happen with certain complex or amended returns).
Resolve Errors: If TurboTax flags any issues, it will provide instructions on how to correct them. Do not proceed until all errors are resolved. You'll be unable to transmit your return electronically otherwise.
Step 5: Verify Your Identity
To securely e-file your federal return, the IRS requires you to verify your identity. The most common method is using your prior-year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
Prior Year AGI: Have your previous year's tax return handy. TurboTax will ask you to enter your AGI from that return.
Where to find it: Your AGI is typically found on Line 11 of your Form 1040.
If you used TurboTax last year, it might even pre-fill this for you, but it's always good to double-check for accuracy.
If you don't know your prior-year AGI, you can often retrieve it from your IRS online account or by requesting a tax transcript from the IRS.
Self-Select PIN (Less Common Now): In some cases, you might be asked to create a 5-digit Self-Select PIN. This acts as your electronic signature.
Step 6: Transmit Your Return!
Once all checks are clear and your identity is verified, you'll reach the final stage: transmitting your return.
Federal and State (if applicable): TurboTax will typically give you the option to transmit your federal return first, followed by any state returns you are filing.
Click "Transmit Now" or "E-file Now": This is the moment of truth! Click the button to send your return to the IRS (and state tax agency, if applicable).
Confirmation: TurboTax will provide a confirmation screen indicating that your return has been sent. It's crucial to note that "sent" does not mean "accepted."
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Step 7: Track Your E-file Status
Tip: Reading with intent makes content stick.
After transmitting, your job isn't quite done. You'll want to confirm that your return has been successfully accepted by the IRS and your state.
Email Notifications: TurboTax will send you email updates regarding the status of your e-filed return (e.g., "Pending," "Accepted," "Rejected"). Keep an eye on your inbox!
TurboTax Account: You can always log back into your TurboTax account to check the e-file status directly. Look for a "My Returns & Documents" or "E-file Status" section.
IRS "Where's My Refund?" Tool: Once your federal return is accepted, you can also use the IRS's "Where's My Refund?" tool (irs.gov/refunds) to track your refund's progress. You'll need your SSN, filing status, and the exact refund amount.
State Tax Agency Websites: For your state refund, visit your respective state's Department of Revenue or Tax Commissioner's website. They usually have a "Where's My Refund?" tool as well.
Step 8: Save a Copy of Your E-filed Return (Digitally!)
Even though you printed a copy earlier, it's always a good idea to save a digital copy of your final, e-filed return, including all forms and worksheets, as a PDF.
Access in TurboTax: In TurboTax Online, go to "Tax Tools" > "Print Center" > "Print, save or preview this year's return" (or similar options).
Download: Download the PDF to your computer or cloud storage. This is your official record for future reference and for next year's filing.
Important Considerations for E-filing
Deadlines are Critical: Even if you printed early, you still need to e-file by the official tax deadline (typically April 15th for federal, though states may vary). If you miss it, you may need to file an extension.
Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is vital for successful e-filing.
Accuracy is Key: Double-checking all your information before transmitting can save you the headache of rejections and amendments.
Amended Returns: Generally, amended returns (Form 1040-X) for prior years cannot be e-filed through self-preparation software like TurboTax. These often need to be paper-filed. However, some recent changes allow for e-filing of amended federal returns for the current and two prior tax periods with tax software. Always verify the current IRS guidelines for amended returns.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Check My E-file Status in TurboTax After Submitting?
You can check your e-file status by logging into your TurboTax account. On your Tax Home or dashboard, look for a section like "Your tax returns & documents" or "E-file Status."
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
How to Fix a Rejected E-file in TurboTax?
If your e-file is rejected, TurboTax will usually notify you via email and within your account, explaining the reason for the rejection. Log back into your return, address the specific error (e.g., incorrect AGI, SSN mismatch), and then re-transmit your return.
How to Get My Prior Year AGI for E-filing Identity Verification?
You can find your prior year AGI on Line 11 of your previous year's Form 1040. If you don't have a copy, you can get it from your IRS online account or by requesting a tax transcript from the IRS.
How to Know if My Federal Return Was Accepted by the IRS?
You will receive an email notification from TurboTax confirming acceptance. You can also log into your TurboTax account to see the status. For federal returns, you can also use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool (irs.gov/refunds) after 24-48 hours.
How to Know if My State Return Was Accepted?
Similar to federal, TurboTax will email you with state acceptance status. You can also check your TurboTax account. Additionally, most state tax agencies have their own "Where's My Refund?" or "Check My Refund Status" tools on their official websites.
Tip: Jot down one takeaway from this post.
How to Amend a Return After E-filing with TurboTax?
If you need to make changes to a return after it has been accepted, you'll need to file an amended return (Form 1040-X). While some current year and two prior year amended returns can now be e-filed, many still require paper filing. TurboTax can help you prepare the amended return, and it will provide instructions for filing.
How to Get a Copy of My Tax Return After E-filing?
You can always log back into your TurboTax account and access your filed return. Go to "Tax Tools" or a similar section and look for options to print or download your tax return as a PDF.
How to Pay My Taxes After E-filing with TurboTax?
If you owe taxes, TurboTax will guide you through payment options during the e-filing process. This can include direct debit from your bank account, paying by credit card (third-party fees apply), or printing payment vouchers to mail a check.
How to E-file if I Missed the April 15th Deadline?
If you missed the deadline and haven't filed, you should still prepare and e-file your return as soon as possible. If you owe taxes, penalties and interest may apply. If you expect a refund, there's generally no penalty for filing late.
How to Get Help if My TurboTax E-file Keeps Getting Rejected?
If you've tried to fix errors and your return is still being rejected, first double-check the exact rejection code and message provided by TurboTax. Then, visit the TurboTax support website (ttlc.intuit.com) and search for that specific error code. If you're still stuck, you may need to contact TurboTax customer support for personalized assistance.
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