Online vs desktop for mac tax year 2024

[diana123]

My Macbook operating system can no longer be updated, so I can't download the 2024 Turbotax. Can I use the online version?

[mesquitebean]

I assume you used the desktop product last year and have a *.tax2023 data file on your computer.   You can transfer it into your 2024 online return once you begin answering the initial questions to choose an online product.   Here's how:

https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/import-export-data-files/transfer-last-y...

See VolvoGirl's posting that follows below for additional info.

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

Yes.  If you can’t install the Desktop program you can switch to the Online version.  Then you can transfer your prior year returns from the Desktop program into the Online version.

If you used the Desktop program last year here’s How to transfer into the Online version, expand the blue link if you used the CD/download last year

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/entering-importing/help/how-do-i-transfer-last-year-s-return-into-...

If you used the Desktop program before you may notice several differences and not like the online version.  It has less features and no Forms Mode.  You can only do 1 return.  Your return is only saved online so be sure to save both the .tax2024 data file and the pdf file to your computer when you are done.  In case you need to amend in the future or if you need a copy to get a loan or something.  You might not be able to access your online return when you need a copy.

Start an Online return here,

https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/online/

[diana123]

Thank you so much for both the clear answer and the links!

[diana123]

Thank you so much!

[HRB]

Thank you, this was so helpful.  Not only the clarification that the online version will work when the desktop version is no longer compatible with the Mac OS I have but the warning that the online version may be lacking in features.  One year I used the online version and didin't like it at all and thats' probably why.  

I'm sure the link you provided has been helpful for many.  As for me, I'm deciding to use a newer smaller travel Mac that does have the compatible OS rather than the MB Pro I've always done my taxes on that isn't upgradeable enough anymore OS-wise to run this year's Turbo tax.  Hopefully, the 2024 TurboTax will find last year's 2023 in documents and I'll be on my way, we'll see.   

Thanks again.