Desktop Download
Every version has all forms and schedules
Forms mode to see all forms as you work and “what if” feature
Can e-file up to five federal returns and their associated state returns
If you have more than five federal returns the additional ones can be mailed
Tax file is stored on your own hard drive
Always available even after tax season ends
State e-file fee is an extra fee. State can be mailed to avoid e-file fee
Desktop is more cost effective for multiple returns for family members, etc.
Desktop software is available from Intuit or from various retailers—prices vary
Only works on full PC or Mac—not on any mobile devices
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.
Online TurboTax 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
**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.**
