TurboTax sets its pricing policies that way. You pay separately for federal and state when you use online software. For many users, desktop software is more cost effective, especially if they have multiple returns to prepare for various family members. And retailers can set their own prices for the CD--often cheaper than the TT prices. Beware of purchasing from online retailers offering deep discounts--they may be selling pirated software full of malware or be trying to scam your credit card information. If you purchase from a retailer, stick with familiar reputable ones like Costco, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, Staples, etc.
When you use Online TurboTax, you get one return per fee. Each return needs its own account and user ID. If you use the same account and user ID for a second return, you overwrite the first one and lose it forever.
When you use Desktop TurboTax, which you install from a CD or download to your own hard drive, you can prepare and e-file multiple returns for the cost of the software. You can e-file up to 5 Federal returns—more if you mail the additional ones. If you have multiple returns to prepare for family members, Desktop is more cost effective.
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