Online Software
Forms and schedules supported vary by which version you use
No Forms mode, but you can “preview” Form 1040 and Schedules 1, 2, or 3 before filing
One return per fee
Separate fees for federal and state returns
Each return needs its own account and user ID
Tax file is stored in online account for seven years
Online software only available on Intuit site
Can be used on any device with internet access
When you use Desktop TurboTax, which you install from a CD or download to your own hard drive, you can prepare and e-file multiple returns for the cost of the software. You can e-file up to 5 Federal returns—more if you mail the additional ones. If you have multiple returns to prepare for family members, Desktop is more cost effective.
Desktop --unless you specifically buy federal Deluxe only from a retailer-- will include the software for one specific state. You can prepare as many returns for that state as the number of federal returns you prepare. E-filing state returns is an extra fee which can be avoided by printing and mailing the states. Additional--other--state software is an additional fee for the software.
Desktop software includes "Forms" mode so that you can access and view all of the forms as you prepare your return; also includes a "What if?" feature which can be used to create estimated returns or to try out various scenarios.
**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**
