topic Online vs Desktop in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

Online vs Desktop

jf_sly_fox — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:21:38 GMT

When using TurboTax Online, can we opt to save the tax data file (.taxyyyy) locally and not save data in the cloud? It would be really nice to have it use a locally saved .taxyyy file instead of storing information on your servers.

How does one go about filing an amendment (if needed) using the online version? (How many previous years are available via Online?

With upcoming changes for Windows 11, I may be forced to use online vs Install version at some point (Unless you finally decide to come out with a Linux desktop version).

Re: Online vs Desktop

MichelleLO — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 22:02:57 GMT

You can choose to save your TurboTax Online return as a tax data file. Please see How do I save my TurboTax Online return as a tax data file? for more information. When using TurboTax Online, once you've paid or registered, TurboTax is required to store copies of your return. These are the same requirements imposed on accountants, CPAs, and other professional tax preparers. For more information, see Can I delete my tax return in TurboTax Online?

When you use TurboTax Online you can access returns for the past seven years.

For instructions on how to amend a return in TurboTax Online, please see How do I amend my 2020 return?

Re: Online vs Desktop

VolvoGirl — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 22:08:02 GMT

If you are thinking about switching to the online version in the future here's some info.....

If you used the Desktop program before you may not like the online version. It has less features and no Forms Mode. You can only do 1 return. Your return is only saved online so be sure to save both the .tax2021 data file and the pdf file to your computer when you are done. In case you need to amend in the future or if you need a copy to get a loan or something. You might not be able to access your online return when you need a copy.

How to transfer into the Online version, expand the blue link if you used the CD/download last year........

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/entering-importing/help/how-do-i-transfer-last-year-s-return-into-turbotax-online/00/25953