If you use TurboTax online, the filing fees include both preparation and e-filing. There is no extra charge for e-filing and there is no discount if you don’t e-file. You are mainly paying for the preparation service, and if you print your tax return and mail it in, you have still received the preparation service.
If you use the TurboTax desktop version installed on your own computer from a CD or download, the federal program includes free e-filing and there is no discount if you don’t e-file. You still receive a prepared tax return that you can mail. There is an extra charge to e-file your state tax return when using the desktop program. If you paid that fee and were unable to e-file, you can call customer service to get a refund.
