The IRS allows electronic filing of tax returns for the current tax year only. Prior year returns can only be filed electronically by registered tax preparers, and only when the Modernized e-File System is available. The IRS posts the status of the Modernized e-File (MeF) system on the MeF Status Page.

How far back can you e-file a return?

two years
​Yes, you can e-file the current and prior two years if you use tax software. Note: the IRS closes e-file each year in mid-November and reopens it in January. During the e-file closure period, taxpayers must paper file prior year returns.

Which tax years can be e filed?

The current year and two previous years of returns for regular, superseded, or amended electronic returns. For the 2020 tax year, you can file 2020, 2019, and 2018 tax year returns.

Is it possible to still e-file my 2018 tax return?

A 2018 tax return can only be printed and mailed, it cannot be e-filed. Print, sign, date and mail the tax return to the IRS. Include with the mailed return any forms W-2 and 1099 which have taxes withheld. Go to this IRS website for mailing addresses –

How to contact the IRS for past due tax returns?

Contact us at 1-866-681-4271 to let us know. Contact the payer (source) of the income to request a corrected Form W-2 or 1099. Attach the corrected forms when you send us your completed tax returns.

Can you print and Mail a 2018 tax return?

A 2018 tax return can only be printed and mailed, it cannot be e-filed. Print, sign, date and mail the tax return to the IRS. Include with the mailed return any forms W-2 and 1099 which have taxes withheld.

When do you hold a past due tax return?

We hold income tax refunds in cases where our records show that one or more income tax returns are past due. We hold them until we get the past due return or receive an acceptable reason for not filing a past due return.