@ kkonz wrote:
You stated that there is a Free Form that includes the Schedules and other forms if you fall under ONE of the noted conditions. However, that is just not true.
I tried to do that because income is well under the $36k and when I got to the end, it shot me back the whole "pay $80 because you have Schedule 3, non-refundable credits".
And, I'm a less than part-time college student for heaven's sake! I don't make half that amount in a year. And, I cannot be listed as a Dependent on my parent's tax returns.
TurboTax has 2 free products. If you were asked to pay anything, it sounds like you are in the wrong free product, and I'll explain both products and how to switch. You probably were using regular Free Edition. The other free product (TurboTax IRS Free File Program) that I describe below can handle all the usual forms and schedules and has no fees for Federal and state returns. It is the TurboTax IRS Free File Program that allows one free preparation and filing if they meet 1 of the qualifications, such as AGI less than $36,000 etc. See more about it below.
The regular Free Edition is for very simple returns and not everyone can use it. Certain forms are not available in Free Edition and require an upgrade to Deluxe, such as one of Schedules 1-3, itemized deductions, education credits, student loan, interest, etc.
FAQ: Why do I have to upgrade from Free Edition?
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/upgrading/help/why-do-i-have-to-upgrade-from-free-edition/00/26379
The other free product (TurboTax IRS Free File Program) is fully-featured and can prepare all the usual forms and schedules. For example, it can prepare Schedules 1-3, as well as Schedule C, D, E, F, etc., and enter K-1. It is even more powerful than Deluxe, if you qualify. But one has to meet one of the qualifications to use. See below:
To qualify for free 2019 federal and state tax returns through the IRS Free File Program delivered by TurboTax, you just need to meet one of these requirements:
- Your 2019 household AGI is $36,000 or less; or
- You qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC); or
- In 2019, you served as active duty military (including Reservists and National Guard) with a maximum AGI of $69,000, and you have a military-issued W-2.
If you qualify for that program and want to use it, see these 2 FAQs, including how to switch:
FAQ: What is the TurboTax IRS Free File Program?
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/choosing-a-product/help/what-is-the-turbotax-free-file-program/01/...
and
FAQ: How do I switch to the TurboTax IRS Free File Program?
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/downgrading/help/how-do-i-switch-to-turbotax-free-file-program/00/...
