You can convert returns from one file type to another at Tools > File Maintenance > Change File Type. For example, an 1120 return can be converted to an 1120S, or an individual return can be converted to another type of return, such as a partnership.
Change File Type will convert name, address, fiscal year, all depreciation, screens 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. In Corporation to Sub-S Corporations conversions, the Balance Sheet and Schedule A information also transfers.
WARNING: Make a backup of any file you intend to change before you begin the change. Not all data converts, and if the new file type doesn’t contain the data you are expecting, then the data is permanently lost. Changing a converted file back to its original type will not recover lost data.
To change a file to another type, go to Tools > File Maintenance > Change File Type. You see this screen. In the field, enter the SSN or EIN of the return that you want to convert and click Continue.
The next screen displays the SSN/EIN. Confirm or correct the number. (If you change the number and click OK, the file type description and the available choices will change to reflect the file type of the new entry and you can proceed as follows.)
This screen also displays your choices for converted file types. In this example, the selection Individual is grayed out and not available, since the file to be converted is already an individual return. From the available choices, select the type to which you want to convert. Click Continue.
(If you are converting an individual into a return type that requires an EIN rather than an SSN, you will be prompted for the new EIN.) You're advised when the conversion is completed. Click OK and return to the home screen.
Open the return and confirm the file and data conversion.
If you want to revert to the original file type and don’t want to keep the converted file, delete the converted file and restore the backup that you made of the original. Use care in deleting the converted file to ensure that you delete the correct file. Deleted files generally cannot be restored except from a backup.
