The IRS Modernized e-File (MeF) system shuts down annually in mid to late November for 1040 returns and mid to late December for business returns in order to prepare for the following tax season. If you would like to file your return during the IRS MeF system shutdown period, or if you did not e-file your 1040 return by the November shutdown date, you will need to paper-file your return by mail.

To paper-file your return:

1. From within your TaxAct return (Online or Desktop), click Filing down the left. On smaller devices, click in the upper left-hand corner, then click Filing.
2. Click Mail Paper Return, select the appropriate option (Federal and/or State returns), then follow the onscreen instructions.

Note. This process will prompt you to print the forms necessary to file and the filing instructions for both your federal and state returns.