Has anyone tried the Free File Fillable Forms on the IRS website for older returns? I wonder if that would work instead of paying for old TurboTax versions.

For anyone still struggling with this, I want to emphasize what others have said about the 3-year E-File window. The IRS is very strict about this - once October 15th passes for any given tax year, that year's E-File system permanently closes. However, there's one important thing to keep in mind: if you're filing these old returns because you owe money, interest and penalties continue to accrue until you file and pay. So even though you have to mail paper returns, don't delay getting them submitted. Also, if you're expecting refunds on these old returns, be aware that you generally only have 3 years from the original due date to claim a refund. For 2018, that deadline was April 15, 2022 (with some COVID extensions), so any 2018 refunds may already be forfeited. You should still file for record-keeping purposes, but don't expect a refund check. Make sure to send your paper returns via certified mail so you have proof the IRS received them!

Wait I'm still confused. So if my wife and I file separately, does that mean our combined standard deduction is LESS than if we filed jointly? Like do we lose money by filing separately?

I can definitely understand the confusion! As several others have mentioned, you get the full $13,850 standard deduction each when filing separately - you don't split it. The math works out to the same total as joint filing ($27,700). But here's something I haven't seen mentioned yet: if you're considering MFS because you think it's simpler or safer, be aware that it actually makes your tax situation more complex in many cases. You'll need to coordinate with your spouse on certain decisions (like whether to itemize), and you might need to file in the same state if you live in different states. Also, one practical consideration - if you use tax software, most programs will automatically calculate both MFJ and MFS scenarios for you and show the difference. This can be really helpful to see the actual dollar impact of the credits and deductions you'd lose with MFS. Sometimes seeing those numbers side by side makes the decision much clearer than trying to figure it out from IRS publications alone.

Have you possibly filed a change of address form with the IRS already? It might be worth considering whether the check will be sent to your previous address if that's what was on your tax return. Also, did you by chance set up direct deposit information in your tax software that might override what the IRS has on file?

As someone who's dealt with this multiple times due to military moves, here's what typically happens: The bank will reject the deposit within 1-3 business days, then the IRS gets notified and processes a paper check. Timeline is usually 2-3 weeks total, but can stretch to 4-5 weeks during peak tax season. Key things to do NOW: 1. Verify your current address is updated with the IRS (Form 8822 if needed) 2. Check your transcript on IRS.gov in a few days for code 841 (rejection) 3. Don't stress about calling - the automated system will handle this Since you mentioned a deployment coming up, make sure your mail forwarding is set up properly with USPS. The check will go to whatever address was on your return unless you've filed an address change. Good luck with the PCS and deployment!

idk why everyone makes this so complicated lol just use taxr.ai - it literally tells you everything you need to know about filing old returns. Best $5 I ever spent no cap

Just wanted to add that you should also check if you had any stimulus payments you might have missed in 2021 - those Recovery Rebate Credits can be claimed on your return too! I filed a late 2021 return last year and got an extra $1400 I forgot about. Also make sure to use certified mail when you send it in so you have proof of delivery 📮

8 Has anyone successfully had a tax warrant COMPLETELY REMOVED (not just satisfied) from public records? I dealt with this 4 years ago and was told it would be on my record for 10 years minimum even though I paid it immediately.

I went through something very similar about 6 months ago with a $380 state tax warrant that I completely missed due to a move where my mail wasn't forwarded properly. The panic when I found out was real! Here's what I learned: First, pay it immediately if you can - every day it sits unpaid can potentially make things worse. Second, ask specifically about your state's "withdrawal" vs "satisfaction" options when you call to pay. Many states have provisions for complete removal if it's your first offense and under certain circumstances. In my case (Colorado), I was able to get it completely withdrawn by demonstrating it was an honest mistake and paying within 30 days of notification. I had to submit a formal request with supporting documentation, but it was worth it. The key was being proactive and not just accepting that satisfaction was my only option. Don't let this stress you out too much - $470 is relatively small in the grand scheme of things, and the fact that you're addressing it quickly shows responsibility. Most mortgage lenders have seen much worse situations and will work with you if you can show it's resolved.