The Online web version is different than the Desktop CD/Download program you install. The pricing structure is totally different.
Online you pay to prepare the return whether you efile or print and mail. Efiling is free and included in all versions. And state is a separate additional charge in Deluxe and above. Oh and Online is only good for 1 Account and 1 return.
Desktop you buy and install the program which can do unlimited returns. The returns are only saved on your computer and can not be accessed from anywhere else. And not saved at Turbo Tax. So Be sure to save Frequently and make backups. You get 5 federal efile for free. In Deluxe and above you get 1 state PROGRAM download to prepare unlimited state returns (in that state). Each state return including the first one is $20/25 to efile or you can print and mail the state for free.
Desktop also has many other features and advantages over the Online version. You can do more than 1 return. You can see and enter into the actual forms. And you can use a lower version because all the Desktop versions have ALL the same forms. You just get more help in the higher versions. In online you have to upgrade to enter certain kinds of income. Like Premium for investments.
