Ever stared at the daunting task of filing taxes, only to realize you need to file more than one? Whether it's for yourself and a family member, or perhaps an individual return and a business return, the thought can be overwhelming. But fear not! TurboTax, with its user-friendly interface, can make this process surprisingly manageable.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of filing multiple tax returns using TurboTax. Let's get started, shall we?
Understanding the Landscape: TurboTax Versions and Multiple Returns
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, it's crucial to understand a key distinction within TurboTax:
TurboTax Online: The online version typically allows for one federal and associated state return per account and User ID. If you need to file for another individual (e.g., your spouse separately, a child, or a friend), you will generally need to create a new TurboTax Online account with a new User ID for each additional return. While you can often use the same email address for multiple accounts (up to 5), each return will incur its own fee.
TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download): This is where the magic happens for multiple returns! The desktop software, which you install on your computer, allows you to prepare and e-file up to five federal returns. You can also prepare multiple state returns for the same state included with the software. If you need to file for different states for different individuals, you might need to purchase additional state software downloads. This option is generally more cost-effective if you're filing for multiple people.
Important Note: This guide will focus primarily on filing separate returns for different individuals or distinct return types (like an individual and a business) within the capabilities of TurboTax. It does not cover filing an amended return (Form 1040-X) for a return you've already filed.
Scenario Examples for Multiple Returns:
Married Filing Separately: You and your spouse choose to file individual tax returns.
Dependent Child: You need to file a separate return for your child who has income.
Parents/Family Members: You're assisting elderly parents or other family members with their taxes.
Individual & Business (Separate Entities): You're filing your personal 1040 and also a business return (e.g., for an S-Corp or Partnership, which often requires TurboTax Business software, a separate product).
Let's proceed with the assumption that you're using TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download) for the most flexibility in handling multiple individual returns.
Step 1: Getting Started and Setting Up Your First Return (Engage the User!)
Are you ready to conquer those tax forms? Great! Let's begin by getting your first tax return squared away in TurboTax. This will be the foundation upon which we build your multiple filing strategy.
Sub-heading 1.1: Installing and Launching TurboTax Desktop
If you haven't already, your first order of business is to install the TurboTax Desktop software.
Purchase and Install: Acquire your TurboTax Desktop software (either via CD or digital download). Follow the on-screen instructions to install it on your computer.
Launch the Program: Once installed, launch the TurboTax application. You'll likely see a welcome screen or an option to start a new return.
Sub-heading 1.2: Initiating Your First Tax Return
Now, let's get your personal tax journey underway.
Start a New Return: Click on the option to "Start a New Tax Return" or "File" > "New Tax Return" from the menu bar.
Initial Information Entry: TurboTax will guide you through entering your personal information, such as your name, Social Security Number, address, and filing status. Be sure to accurately input all details for this first return.
Importing Last Year's Data (Optional but Recommended): If you used TurboTax last year, the program will likely offer to import your previous year's data. This is a huge time-saver! Confirm the imported information is correct.
Progress Through the Interview: Continue through the guided interview process, entering all your income, deductions, and credits. Take your time, and utilize the built-in help features if you have questions about specific entries.
Step 2: Completing and Saving Your First Return
Once you've diligently entered all the necessary information for your first tax return, it's time to ensure it's accurate and properly saved.
Sub-heading 2.1: Reviewing for Accuracy
This is a critical step! Even with TurboTax's helpful guidance, errors can occur.
Run the "SmartCheck" or "Review" Feature: TurboTax has a built-in review process (often called "SmartCheck" or "Error Check"). Run this feature to identify any potential errors, omissions, or areas that need clarification.
Address Warnings and Errors: Pay close attention to any warnings or errors identified by the program. Do not ignore them! Go back to the relevant sections and correct the information.
Final Review: Once the automated check is clear, take a moment to manually review your entire return, especially key figures like your adjusted gross income (AGI) and tax liability. Compare it to your expectations.
Sub-heading 2.2: Saving Your First Return File
Proper saving is paramount when handling multiple returns. This prevents accidental overwriting.
"Save As" with a Unique Name: Go to the "File" menu at the top of the TurboTax window.
Select "Save As..."
Choose a Clear File Name: Instead of the default "tax20XX," save your file with a unique and easily identifiable name, such as "YourName_20XXTax" (e.g., JohnDoe2024Tax.tax2024). This is especially important if you're filing for people with similar names.
Select a Secure Location: Choose a secure and easily accessible location on your computer to save the file (e.g., a "Taxes" folder).
Step 3: Starting Your Second (and Subsequent) Tax Return
This is the moment we've been building towards! Starting a new return for another individual or entity is straightforward with the desktop software.
Sub-heading 3.1: Initiating a New Tax Return File
Do NOT simply continue working in the same file! This will overwrite your first return.
Go to the "File" Menu Again: With your first return still open (or after closing it, it doesn't matter), navigate to the "File" menu at the very top of the TurboTax program window.
Select "New Tax Return": Choose the option "New Tax Return".
Crucially, "Continue Without Transferring": When prompted, if TurboTax asks if you want to transfer information from the previous year, ensure you select "Continue Without Transferring" or a similar option if you are starting a return for a different person. Transferring would bring over the previous person's data, which is not what you want for a new individual.
Sub-heading 3.2: Entering Information for the Second Return
You're now on a fresh slate for the second tax return.
Repeat the Information Entry Process: Just like with the first return, proceed to enter all the personal and financial information for the second individual or entity.
Be Meticulous: Double-check every entry, especially names, Social Security Numbers, and income figures. A small typo here can cause significant issues with the IRS.
State Returns (If Applicable): If the second individual also requires a state return, TurboTax will guide you through that process after the federal return is complete. Remember that state e-filing may incur an additional fee, but you can usually print and mail state returns for free.
Step 4: Saving Your Second Return (and Beyond!)
Just as important as saving the first return, correctly saving the subsequent returns is vital for organization and to prevent data loss.
Sub-heading 4.1: Saving with a New Unique Name
Use "Save As" Again: Go to the "File" menu and select "Save As..."
Create Another Distinct File Name: Save this return with another clear and unique name, different from your first. For example, "SpouseName_20XXTax" or "ChildsName_20XXTax" (e.g., JaneDoe2024Tax.tax2024).
Keep it Organized: Save all your tax files for the current year in the same dedicated folder. This makes it easy to find them later.
Sub-heading 4.2: Repeating for Additional Returns
If you need to file more than two returns, simply repeat Step 3 (starting a "New Tax Return" and not transferring data) and Step 4 (saving with a unique name) for each additional return. Remember, the desktop version allows you to e-file up to five federal returns.
Step 5: E-filing or Printing and Mailing Each Return
With all your returns prepared and saved, it's time for the final step: submission!
Sub-heading 5.1: E-filing Your Returns
E-filing is generally the quickest and most secure way to submit your taxes.
Open Each Return Individually: Go to the "File" menu and select "Open". Navigate to your saved tax files and open one return at a time.
Proceed to the "File" Section: Within each opened return, navigate to the "File" section (usually the last step in the TurboTax flow).
Follow E-file Prompts: TurboTax will walk you through the e-filing process for that specific return. This includes:
Confirming your information.
Choosing direct deposit for refunds or payment methods for taxes owed.
Entering any required PINs or electronic signatures.
Clicking the final "E-file Now" button.
Receive Confirmation: After successful e-filing, you will receive confirmation from TurboTax, and then, typically within 24-48 hours, confirmation from the IRS (and state, if applicable) that your return has been accepted. Save these confirmation emails!
Sub-heading 5.2: Printing and Mailing Returns (If Preferred or Required)
While e-filing is common, you might choose to print and mail for various reasons, especially for state returns to avoid e-file fees.
Open Each Return Individually: Just like with e-filing, open each tax file separately.
Navigate to Print Options: Go to the "File" menu and select "Print" or look for a "Print & Mail" option within the "File" section.
Print All Required Forms: TurboTax will generate all the necessary forms, including your federal and state returns. Ensure you print all pages, including instructions for mailing.
Sign and Date: Crucially, sign and date your printed returns where indicated. Unsigned returns will be rejected by the IRS/state.
Attach Supporting Documents: If required (e.g., Form W-2 if mailing a paper return, or specific schedules), attach any necessary supporting documents.
Mail to the Correct Addresses: Double-check the mailing addresses for the IRS and your state tax agency. These are typically provided within the TurboTax instructions or on the official IRS and state tax websites. Send via certified mail for proof of mailing if you desire.
FAQs: How to File Two Tax Returns on TurboTax
Here are 10 common questions related to filing multiple tax returns with TurboTax, starting with "How to":
How to file two federal returns for different individuals on TurboTax Desktop?
You open your first return, complete and save it with a unique name. Then, go to "File" > "New Tax Return" and choose "Continue Without Transferring" to start a fresh return for the second individual. Complete and save this second return with another unique name.
How to manage multiple state returns for different people in TurboTax Desktop?
For each federal return you prepare, you can generally prepare a state return for that same individual. If you have different individuals residing in different states, you may need to purchase additional state software downloads for each unique state, but you can prepare and print as many as needed. E-filing state returns usually incurs a separate fee per state.
How to avoid overwriting a tax return when starting a new one in TurboTax?
Always use the "File" > "New Tax Return" option when starting a return for a different individual. Crucially, when prompted, select "Continue Without Transferring" so you begin with a blank slate instead of importing the previous person's data.
How to save each individual tax return with a unique name in TurboTax?
After completing each return, go to "File" > "Save As..." and give the file a distinct name that clearly identifies the taxpayer (e.g., "JohnDoe2024.tax2024," "JaneSmith2024.tax2024"). This prevents confusion and accidental overwriting.
How to switch between different tax returns in TurboTax Desktop?
To switch between saved returns, go to "File" > "Open," and then select the specific tax file (.tax20XX) you wish to work on. Each return will open in its own window.
How to e-file multiple federal returns using TurboTax Desktop?
The desktop version allows you to e-file up to five federal returns. You'll open each saved return individually, navigate to the "File" section, and follow the on-screen prompts for e-filing.
How to handle state e-file fees when filing multiple state returns on TurboTax Desktop?
Each state e-file typically incurs a separate fee. To avoid these fees, you can choose to print and mail the state returns instead of e-filing them.
How to file an individual tax return and a business tax return with TurboTax?
For a business return (e.g., S-Corp, Partnership, C-Corp), you will generally need a separate TurboTax Business product, not just the personal tax software. You would complete your individual Form 1040 with the personal TurboTax software and then use the dedicated TurboTax Business software for your business entity.
How to get confirmation that my multiple tax returns were successfully e-filed and accepted?
After e-filing each return, TurboTax will provide an initial confirmation. Within 24-48 hours, you should receive separate email confirmations directly from the IRS (and state tax agency, if applicable) indicating whether your return was accepted or rejected. Save these emails for your records.
How to amend a previously filed return if I made a mistake on one of the multiple returns?
To amend a return you've already filed, you would open that specific return in TurboTax and look for an option to "Amend My Return" or "Start an Amended Return" (often found under the "Tools" or "Tax Tools" menu). TurboTax will then guide you through the Form 1040-X process. You typically cannot e-file amended returns for prior years.
