TurboTax would not accept my taxes, gave no reason and no updates

Question

I attempted to file my taxes last year through TurboTax. I tried several times and each time I received an error message stating my taxes could not be accepted. TurboTax didn't give me any details as to why or how to go about fixing the problem. I had to look up information on the IRS website which told me I needed to mail in hard copies of my attempts to file my taxes, as well as a printout of the error message I kept receiving.

I have not yet received my refund for my 2019 taxes (it's been approximately six months), TurboTax never sent me any further information or updates, and when I try to check the IRS website for "Where's my refund?" it just says "Processing". It's been processing for a month now.

xmasbaby0 · Answer

If your return was rejected last year, it was rejected by the IRS--not TurboTax. Only the IRS can accept or reject a tax return. If you did not understand the rejection notice or fix the return and re-file it, then the only possible way to file it was by mail. TurboTax never knows anything about your tax return after you file it--whether you e-file it or mail it. The IRS gives TT no information whatsoever about your return after you file it.

There are a LOT of delays for 2019 refunds--especially mailed returns.

MAILED RETURNS

The IRS has just started to work through millions of mailed returns that have been piling up in trailers during the pandemic. All you can do is watch the IRS refund site to see when your return makes it to the surface and goes into processing. Sorry.

Per the IRS website IRS Operations During COVID-19: Mission-critical functions continue:

IRS operational status and alternatives

Processing Delays for Paper Tax Returns: Taxpayers should file electronically through their tax preparer, tax software provider, or IRS Free File.

We’re experiencing delays in processing paper tax returns due to limited staffing. If you already filed a paper return, we will process it in the order we received it.

Do not file a second tax return or contact the IRS about the status of your return.

If you mail a tax return (or a payment) to the IRS, it is a good idea to use a mailing service that will track it like UPS or certified mail so you will know it was received.

When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s.

TurboTax will not know anything about your mailed return, and will continue to show “Ready to Mail” on your account. TurboTax will not know that you put your tax return in an envelope and took it to a mailbox. TurboTax does not get updates on mailed (or e-filed) returns.

When the IRS finally opens its mail and begins to process mailed returns you can check the status on the IRS site. https://www.irs.gov/refunds

State returns have to be mailed to the state.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1899433-how-do-i-track-my-state-refund

To call the IRS:IRS: 800-829-1040 hours 7 AM - 7 PM local time Mon-Fri

Listen to each menu before making the selection.

First choose your language. Press 1 for English.

Then do NOT choose the first choice re: "Refund", or it will send you to an automated phone line.

Instead, press 2 for "personal income tax".

Then press 1 for "form, tax history, or payment".

Then press 3 "for all other questions."

Then press 2 "for all other questions." It should then transfer you to an agent.

TAX ADVOCATE