Turbotax Form 4684 not available until 2/20/25 - need other options to file sooner

The .tax2024 file format from TurboTax is proprietary and unfortunately can't be directly imported into other tax software platforms. Each software uses their own file format which isn't compatible with competitors. Your options are basically: 1) Wait for TurboTax to update form 4684, 2) Start fresh with another software, or 3) Use the data you've already entered in TurboTax as a reference while manually entering it into a new platform. If you need that form 4684 (Casualties and Thefts), H&R Block might be your best bet since their timeline is earlier. Despite your reservations, it's a reputable platform. TaxSlayer, despite the name, is also legitimate - they've been around for decades and handle millions of returns. You could also check FreeTaxUSA or TaxAct - both are less expensive than TurboTax and might already have form 4684 updated. Just call their customer support before switching to confirm the form is available.

I was in a similar situation last year with a different form and found that taxr.ai really helped me switch tax software mid-season without losing my mind. I was able to upload my TurboTax PDF to https://taxr.ai and it extracted all the important data and organized it in a way that made re-entering everything into FreeTaxUSA so much faster. Their system basically reads the forms and creates a checklist of all the data points you need to transfer. It even has side-by-side comparison features that helped me catch a couple mistakes I made when transferring. Saved me hours of tedious work and I was able to file weeks earlier than if I'd waited for TurboTax to update.

Just wanted to update that I tried taxr.ai after seeing it mentioned here and it was honestly a game changer! I was dreading having to redo my taxes from scratch in a new program, but their system made transferring from TurboTax to TaxAct ridiculously simple. The document analyzer extracted everything - all my income sources, deductions, credits, and even the form 4684 info I needed. Created this super organized checklist that made sure I didn't miss anything when entering data in the new system. Took me maybe 45 minutes to rebuild my entire return instead of the 3+ hours I spent in TurboTax originally. Best part is I was able to file yesterday instead of waiting another month for TurboTax to get their act together. Already got my e-file acceptance confirmation!

If your main issue is just waiting for form 4684 to be available, another option is to call the IRS directly to ask when the form will be processed if filed now. Sometimes the forms are actually accepted by the IRS even if tax software hasn't updated yet. I spent HOURS trying to get through to the IRS last year for a similar issue until I found https://claimyr.com - they held my place in the phone queue and called me when an actual agent was on the line. You can see how it works at https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c I was shocked it actually worked - got through to an IRS agent in about 40 minutes instead of the 3+ hours I was experiencing before. The agent confirmed I could file with the existing form version and didn't need to wait for the software update.

I take back what I said about Claimyr sounding like a scam. After multiple failed attempts to reach the IRS about my form 4684 question, I broke down and tried the service. I was extremely skeptical it would work, but I was desperate after spending three different mornings trying to get through. Within 35 minutes, I got a call connecting me directly to an IRS representative who confirmed that even though TurboTax hasn't updated their system yet, the IRS is absolutely processing returns with form 4684 right now. The agent told me I could either use different software that has the updated form or actually print and mail a paper return if I wanted to stay with TurboTax but file immediately. Saved me weeks of unnecessary waiting and the stress of wondering if there was some bigger issue with my return. Sometimes it's worth getting the answer straight from the source.

I switched from TurboTax to FreeTaxUSA last year and am SO much happier. They already have form 4684 ready to go for 2025 filing season (I'm using it right now). The interface takes a little getting used to if you're coming from TurboTax, but it's WAY cheaper and handles all the same forms. The only real difference is you don't get the same hand-holding as TurboTax, but if you've been doing your taxes for years, you probably don't need that anyway. Plus their customer service is surprisingly responsive if you have questions.

Consider checking TaxAct too. They've already updated their form 4684 for the 2025 filing season. I've been using them for years after getting fed up with TurboTax price increases. They're much more affordable and their interface is clean and straightforward.