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March 4, 2020
Question

I have two different year W-2s. If I e-file the current year how do I file the previous year? I do understand they have to be file separately, right?

  • March 4, 2020
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1 reply

GiseleD
March 4, 2020

Only 2019 W-2s can be filed with a 2019 return. You will have to file prior-year W-2s separately. 

 

If you already filed a return for the prior-year in question, you will need to amend the original return to add in this W-2. Here's how:

 

You can amend returns that have been accepted by the IRS. If your return is pending, you won't be able to make any changes until it's accepted or rejected by the IRS. If you don't know your e-file status, we can help you check it.

 

Select a tax year for specific amending instructions.

 

Keep in mind: You have 3 years from the date you filed your return (or 2 years after you paid the tax due, whichever is later) to file an amended return, which means you don't have to get it done by the April 15 filing deadline.

If you haven't yet filed the return to which the prior-year pertains, you will need to file an original return. It is best to start with the first unfiled year and move forward from there. To learn how, see this original article, or read below to prepare a prior-year tax return:

 

For tax years 2018, 2017, or 2016

You'll need to purchase and download the TurboTax software for PC or Mac, as TurboTax Online and the mobile app are only available for the current tax year.

 

After installing the software, open it and follow the onscreen instructions.

 

Prior-year returns must be paper-filed, as e-filing is no longer available. We'll walk you through that process when you get to the File section in the software.

 

For tax years 2015 or earlier

We no longer sell or support TurboTax products for 2015 and earlier tax years. 

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