Uploading previous tax returns

Why Upload Previous Returns?

Uploading your prior year tax returns to FileJoy can save you a lot of time and help ensure accuracy. Here's why it's helpful:

• **Year-to-year comparison** — FileJoy can show you how this year's return compares to last year's, making it easy to spot differences or missing items
• **Import data automatically** — We can pre-fill information that carries over from year to year, like your name, address, filing status, and dependent information
• **AGI verification** — When e-filing, the IRS requires your prior year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) to verify your identity. Uploading your previous return gives FileJoy this number automatically
• **Catch missing items** — If you had a W-2 or 1099 last year and don't have one this year, FileJoy can flag it as a reminder

How to Upload

Step 1: Go to Documents

From your dashboard, click Documents in the sidebar.

Step 2: Select Previous Returns

Click the Previous Returns tab, then click Upload Previous Return.

Step 3: Choose Your File

Select the PDF of your prior year tax return. Most tax software lets you download a PDF copy of your filed return. You can also upload a scanned copy.

Step 4: Confirm the Tax Year

FileJoy will detect the tax year from the document. Confirm that it's correct.

Step 5: Let FileJoy Extract the Data

Our AI scans your previous return and extracts key information:

• Filing status
• Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
• Dependents claimed
• Income sources
• Deductions and credits used

This usually takes just a few seconds.

Viewing Imported Data

After the upload is complete, you can:

• View a **summary** of what was extracted on the Previous Returns page
• See **year-over-year comparisons** on your dashboard
• Check which fields were **pre-filled** from your prior return in each section

FileJoy highlights any differences between years so you can quickly spot changes.

What Formats Are Accepted?

• **PDF** — the best format for tax returns (most accurate extraction)
• **Images** (JPEG, PNG) — if you only have a photo, we can work with that too, though PDF is preferred

Tips

• Upload returns from the **most recent year** first for the best pre-fill experience
• You can upload returns from multiple years if you want a broader comparison
• If the AI extraction misses something, you can always enter the information manually
• Your uploaded returns are encrypted and stored securely—only you can access them