Filing7 min read

How to File Your Taxes With TurboTax Step by Step

From gathering your documents to hitting submit, here's the full path through a typical TurboTax return so nothing catches you off guard.

Person working through documents at a desk

Heads up: InstallTurboTax.us is an independent, taxpayer-friendly help site. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Intuit Inc. or TurboTax®, and we are here only to make your tax software easier to use. Always verify pricing and features on the official TurboTax site. Full disclaimer.

Gather your documents

Filing goes a lot faster when everything's right in front of you. Pull together the forms you expect to receive, such as:

W-2 forms from your employers.
1099 forms for freelance work, interest, dividends, or other income.
Records of deductible expenses, like mortgage interest, charitable gifts, or student loan interest.
Last year's return, which makes carrying over information much easier.

This is an independent guide and not affiliated with Intuit. It walks through the general process, not personalized tax advice.

Start your return

Open TurboTax and either start a new return or transfer last year's data to pre-fill your personal details. The program walks you through an interview, asking plain-language questions and filling in the forms behind the scenes. You don't need to know which form goes where.

Enter your income

Work through each income source. You can often import a W-2 or 1099 directly, or just type the numbers from the boxes on your forms. Take your time matching each entry to the right box, since a transposed number here is the most common reason a return ends up inaccurate.

Claim deductions and credits

Next, TurboTax asks about deductions and credits. It compares the standard deduction against itemizing and points you toward whichever one lowers your tax more. Answer the questions honestly and completely, because credits for things like education or dependents can make a real difference.

Review for errors

Before you file, run the built-in review. It flags missing information, entries that look off, and items that could cause problems. Treat every flag as worth a second look. Fixing an issue now is far easier than dealing with it after you file.

File federal and state

When your return is complete and reviewed, choose how to file. E-filing is the fastest route and gives you confirmation that the IRS received your return. You'll also handle any state return at this stage. If you owe, you can set up payment; the IRS "Where's My Refund" tool lets you track a refund afterward.

Save a copy

After you file, save and print a PDF of your complete return for your records. Keep it with your tax documents. You'll be glad to have it on hand next year, or if you ever need to reference or amend the return.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to file with TurboTax?＋

A simple return can take under an hour, while returns with multiple income sources, investments, or a business take longer. Having your documents ready is the biggest time saver.

When will I get my refund after filing?＋

Refund timing is up to the IRS, not TurboTax. E-filing with direct deposit is generally the fastest. Track the status using the IRS "Where's My Refund" tool.