@Steerpike58
For the "Desktop " software only:
1) Deluxe, Premier, and H&B will allow you to download and use 1...."one" free state software set.
2) For any extra states beyond that one....you have to pay for each extra different state you want to download and use
3) For each state you use (free one or extra ones you buy/downlaod) you can e-file up to 3 states associated with that particular Federal tax return. If you have purchased more states beyond the 3 you may have, they can be used and prepared, but the extra ones have to be printed-mail-filed by you at your Post Office.
4) For any state that you do e-file (with the desktop software) there is an extra e-file fee....usually $20 until March...then $25 after some day in March, even though you may have purchased the software for a couple of them. (Except the state of NY. NY e-filing is free).
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Only the Online software includes a free e-file after you have purchased the state software....but every state has to be purchased...no "one Free" state set.
Finally....some Desktop Deluxe programs purchased thru 3rd parties, some do not contain one free state download, so check your purchase carefully. These are primarily for folks who happen to live in a state without an income tax, where they don't need a state software set.
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.............And Desktop BASIC never contains one free software set.....you have to buy any state you want to use, so Deluxe with one state is usually cheaper.
____________*Answers are correct to the best of my knowledge when posted, but should not be considered to be legal or official tax advice.*
