When you use desktop download software you can e-file up to five federal returns and their related state returns. The only "extra" fee is the state e-file fee, which can be avoided if you print and mail the state return instead of e-filing it.
As for your self-employed dependent---if they have even $400 of self-employment income, they are required to file a tax return and pay self employment tax for Social Security and Medicare. On their own return they must say that they can be claimed as someone else's dependent.
**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.**
