Why Can't I Print My Tax Return (Form 1040)?

If you're having trouble printing your Form 1040 or another tax return, don't worry. In most cases, the issue is caused by an outdated web browser, PDF reader settings, pop-up blockers, or security software preventing the PDF from opening correctly. 

Common Reasons Your Return Won't Print

You may experience printing issues if:
  • Your web browser is out of date.
  • A PDF opens as a blank page.
  • Pop-up blockers prevent the return from opening.
  • Antivirus or security software blocks the PDF download.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader is outdated or not installed.
  • Your browser is not configured to display PDF files properly.
For the best experience, make sure you're using the latest version of a supported browser such as Google Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.

Please note that Internet Explorer is no longer supported by Microsoft, and you may experience technical issues accessing your account with it.

You must also have Adobe Reader (9.0 or higher) to be able to view and print the return. If you do not have the correct version of Adobe Reader, you may download it free of charge by going to the Adobe website.

How to Print a Current-Year Return

Once your return has been accepted, you can print a copy directly from your account.
  1. Log in to your account.
  2. From your Tax Home page, locate the return you want to print.
  3. Select Print.
  4. Choose the return you want to open.
A PDF version of your return will open. From there, you can:
  • Print the return using the Print icon or Ctrl + P (Windows) / Command + P (Mac).
  • Save a copy of the PDF using the Save icon or Ctrl + S (Windows) / Command + S (Mac).

How to Print a Prior-Year Tax Return

Returns filed before tax year 2026 are considered prior-year returns.

If your return was e-filed through our software and accepted by the IRS or state agency, you can access and print it by:

  1. Logging in to your account.
  2. Scrolling to the tax year you need.
  3. Selecting the three-dot menu and choosing View.
  4. Selecting Show Details for the return you want.
  5. Selecting Print.

Returns That Were Not Accepted

If a prior-year return was never e-filed successfully or was rejected and never accepted, a PDF copy may not be available unless the corresponding program year is still supported.

Currently, the 2023, 2024, and 2025 prior-year programs remain available for eligible users who need to access or print those returns from within the software.

For returns filed before 2022:

  • You may request a copy of your tax return directly from the IRS by calling 800-829-1040.
  • You may also obtain a tax transcript through the IRS transcript service.

Troubleshooting Printing Problems

If your return still won't print, try the following solutions.

Check for Hidden Print or Save Buttons

In some PDF viewers, the print and save options only appear when you move your cursor over the document window.

Update Adobe Acrobat Reader

Older versions of Adobe Reader may not display PDF files correctly. Installing the latest version often resolves printing and viewing issues.

Disable Pop-Up Blockers

Tax return PDFs open in a separate browser window or tab. If pop-up blockers are enabled, the PDF may never appear.

Temporarily disable your pop-up blocker and try opening the return again.

Review Antivirus or Security Software

Some antivirus programs prevent PDF downloads or interfere with browser-generated files.

Temporarily disable the software and attempt to print again. If the PDF opens successfully, re-enable your security settings after printing.

Verify Browser PDF Settings

If Adobe Acrobat Reader is installed:
  1. Open Adobe Acrobat Reader.
  2. Select Edit > Preferences.
  3. Choose Internet from the Categories list.
  4. Confirm that Display PDF in Browser is enabled.
This setting allows PDF files to open directly within your browser.

Try Another Computer or Browser

If the issue persists, attempt to access the return from another supported browser or a different computer. This can help determine whether the problem is related to your device settings.

Additional Information for Mac Users

If a downloaded return opens with an ".aspx" extension instead of ".pdf," rename the file extension to ".pdf" before attempting to open or print the document.
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While TaxSlayer strives to make the information and links contained in our KB articles as timely and accurate as possible, we make no promise or guarantee about the timeliness, accuracy, or completeness of the contents on these pages. The information contained in the Knowledgebase (KB) is for general information only and is not intended to be tax, financial, or legal advice. The user is encouraged to review additional state and federal resources and publications as needed.

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