The Desktop program doesn't have the Live expert help feature but still has phone support. The phone number isn't posted and you have to use the Contact Us link and to get a call back.
The Desktop program has more advantages over the Online versions. 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 don't need the Advantage auto renew plan. You can just buy the Desktop program on your own. You can find sales at stores and sometimes at Turbo Tax. I get mine at Costco when they have a coupon. The only Advantage is you get the program as soon as it comes out but at full price.
