Paying is not the issue--in fact I thought that I had to pay to use the software. I just want to make sure that when I finish the return I can print it and see where it says I come out in terms of taxes and then compare it to what my accountant gives to me. If it is reasonably close then next year I will probably just use Turbotax and actually file.
Yes you can either use the online version or buy the Desktop program. Many of us set up accounts and do test returns to help answer questions.
The Desktop program has several advantages over the online version. Desktop has a Forms Mode to see and enter into the actual forms and worksheets. It can do more than 1 return line for other people or test returns. And you can buy a lower version. All the Desktop programs have the same forms. You just get more help and guidance in the higher versions.
The online version is only good for 1 return and you may need to upgrade to a higher version to enter something. You can't enter directly into the forms or see them until you pay and print it out.
If you fill out 2019 to test and compare then you will have 2019 to transfer into 2020 next year.
You can buy the Desktop CD/Download program now here,
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/cd-download/
Start an Online return here
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/online/