Update: I proceeded with the state fiduciary download and it looks like I’ll be able to file this in spite of the bug.
So here’s some tips and tricks.
1) Before the download, make a copy of your TurboTax Business file (e.g. MomEstate2020.tax2020).
2) If TurboTax gets into a mode where you can’t see the “Get Another State” or “START” button (when you switch back to Step-By-Step mode), you’ll have to exit and restore the earlier copy of your tax file. Then try switching to forms mode to change the Executor’s state (you don’t have to change the zip or anything else) and then switch back to Step-By-Step mode. I haven’t figured out how I got it into that quirky mode (where nothing appears in that screen) but it happened several times. Fortunately, it’s fixable if you have that earlier copy of your TurboTax file to restore.
3) Technically speaking, you don’t have to download the “fiduciary state” from within the TurboTax program (which helps ensure you’re paying for the right download). Instead, you can log into your online TurboTax account, pay for the state download (make sure you do the fiduciary for the desired state) and download the exe to your computer. Then install that EXE. You’ll have to make sure TurboTax is not running, as the state installer will complain. I usually reboot before I install any software, but that’s because I’m a software developer and have been taking that precaution for decades.
Hope this helps.
