Sounds like you purchased the "Desktop" software......for that software, that is actually installed on your computer.....it allows one state software to be free to download...BUT...-e-filing the state has been $20-to$25 for the last 25? years or so. (though, you can print and mail in the state yourself for free at the post office)
BUT, it sounds like you are confusing the "Desktop" software, with the "Online" software.
The "Online" software is prepared by using a Browser (Edge, Chrome Safari..etc), and is not installed on your computer. Yes....when using the Online software, and you buy the state...that includes the e-file....but the state has to be purchased separately.
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No....your Desktop prepared file is only stored on your computer...os back it up on a USB flash drive.
No....you cannot combined it with your "Online" documents that TTX stores....the software storage systems are completely separate.
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The desktop software has several advantages...you can see the forms at any time without paying more for it...you can prepare new tax files for working children, or a family member without starting a new account and paying the full software fees again.
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make sure you download PDF files form every old tax return you have in your Online account...and back them up. The Online storage eliminates one of the oldest PDF files every successive year (TTX only saves ~7 years back)...if you don't that, then you lose access to what you did that year.
Again...back up the PDF of your tax return EVERY YEAR..to a USB flash drive.
____________*Answers are correct to the best of my knowledge when posted, but should not be considered to be legal or official tax advice.*
