topic Why would a past desktop TurboTax user want to switch to online TurboTax? in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

Why would a past desktop TurboTax user want to switch to online TurboTax?

MountainGuy16 — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 01:02:10 GMT

I've been wondering what the reasons are to move to the cloud version when the desktop version has worked well for me for many years.

Re: Why would a past desktop TurboTax user want to switch to online TurboTax?

MarilynG1 — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:21:44 GMT

TurboTax Desktop offers "Forms Mode" to view/edit forms directly, up to five Efiled returns for one price, and better data privacy as files are stored locally. TurboTax Online is better for convenience, allowing access from any device, but charges per return and stores data on Intuit's servers.

TurboTax Desktop (Download/CD)

Best for: Complex returns, multiple tax returns (investors, small business owners), and privacy-conscious users.
Features: Features a "Forms Mode" to directly view and edit tax forms.
Cost/Returns: Higher initial cost, but allows for unlimited federal returns.

TurboTax Online

Best for: Simple returns, convenience, and users who prefer a "guided" interview experience.
Features: No "Forms Mode." You can only view the final 1040 form before paying.
Cost/Returns: Lower cost, but you must pay for each return filed.
Storage: Data is stored on Intuit's secure servers.
Access: Access from any browser or mobile app

Here's more info on Desktop vs. Online.

@MountainGuy16

Re: Why would a past desktop TurboTax user want to switch to online TurboTax?

NotSoTurbo — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:01:37 GMT

@MountainGuy16

Although Turbo Tax response states "Cost/Returns: Lower cost, but you must pay for each return filed.", the response fails to be transparent that there is additional costs (varies) for filing state returns. As you probably know there is one stated included in the "FED + State" versions of the desktop software.