At some point, you may have to file an old or previous tax return. This could be to receive a refund you were entitled to during a tax year you didn't file, or you need to file an amended return to correct an error. Filing an old or previous tax return follows the same process as filing the current year's return. Previous year forms can be downloaded from the IRS website or requested via telephone.
Tax season can be a stressful time for many people, but it can be more stressful if you find that there was a year, or maybe a few years, worth of taxes that were never filed. There could also be circumstances where taxes were filed, but new information requires filing amended returns on previous tax years. How do you file previous or old tax returns with the IRS? What happens when you file old tax returns? You can get more information on filing taxes by contacting IRS customer service here, and below are things you need to know about filing old returns.
If you were required to file a tax return during a prior tax period, or there was information that wasn't included on a return filed and needs to be added, you can file a late return or an amended return. There are several reasons why you should file your old returns, including:
Filing late or old tax returns follows the same process as filing the current year's forms. You can file a previous or old tax return with the IRS by completing the following:
If your previous filing is complicated, or you used a tax preparation service in the past and need to file an amended return, contact the tax professional that you used in the past. The commercial tax preparation service will be able to file your amended return.
Filing old or previous tax returns can help you avoid penalties and receive any refunds that you may have been owed. For more information and assistance, contact IRS customer service here.
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