ONLINE
The Online web version is different than the Desktop CD/Download program you install. The pricing structure is totally different.
Online is only for the current year. You pay to prepare the return whether you efile or print and mail. Efiling is free and included in all versions. And state is a separate additional charge in Deluxe and above. Oh and Online is only good for 1 Account and 1 return.
In the Online versions you have to use a higher versions to enter certain types of income like investments and self employment. Online you can’t see the actual forms like the Desktop program until you pay.
You can access an online return from any computer and device. Your return is stored at Turbo Tax. So be sure to download the pdf and .tax files to your computer when you are done or you may not be able to access it when you need a copy. Or if you ever need to amend.
You can see the prices and start an Online return here,
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/online/
DESKTOP
Desktop vs Online
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/choosing-a-product/help/what-s-the-difference-between-turbotax-onl...
Some advantages of the Desktop CD/Download program over the Online version, https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/choosing-a-product/help/what-are-the-advantages-of-the-turbotax-cd...
Desktop you buy and install the program which can do unlimited returns. The returns are only saved on your computer and can not be accessed from anywhere else. And not saved at Turbo Tax. So Be sure to save Frequently and make backups. You get 5 federal efile for free. In Deluxe and above you get 1 state PROGRAM download to prepare unlimited state returns (in that state). Each state return including the first one is $20/25 to efile or you can print and mail the state for free.
Desktop also has many other features and advantages over the Online version. You can do more than 1 return. You can see and enter into the actual forms. And you can use a lower version because all the Desktop versions have ALL the same forms. You just get more help in the higher versions. In online you have to upgrade to enter certain kinds of income. Like Premier for investments.
You can buy the Desktop CD/Download program now here,
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/cd-download/
FOR PRIOR YEARS
You can only buy the Desktop program. You buy the last 3 years of Turbo Tax here. And you can use any version. All the Desktop programs have the same forms. You just get more help and guidance in the higher versions.
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/
You will need a full Windows or Mac to install it on.
You will have to print and mail in prior year returns. And if you are doing more than 1 year, send each year in a separate envelope. Sometimes the IRS will just staple all the sheets together and miss a second return. Be sure to attach copies of your W2s and any 1099s that have withholding on them. Don't forget state. You have to mail federal and state in separate envelopes because they go to different places. Get a tracking number from the post office when you mail them for proof of filing.
