Confused - Online Vs. CD/download For State

[Stephen_Sr]

Hello,

Looking at either Deluxe or Premier. The CD allows 1 free state but charges for the e-file.

What does the Online version do? Is the state completion included? I don't see any need to pay $39 e-file when I can print 3 pages and an envelope. Besides it looks like I will owe this year anyway.

Thanks,

Steve

[xmasbaby0]

When you use online software you pay separately for federal and state.  The fee is the same whether you e-file or mail the return---you do not save anything by mailing it when you use online.

If you use the CD/download there is a fee to e-file state which you can avoid by mailing the state.

[Stephen_Sr]

Has this changed since last year? Last year I thought that Deluxe online didn't include state but Premier did include state.

Thanks,

Steve

[xmasbaby0]

@Stephen_Sr When you use online software the federal and state returns are always charged separately.

With the CD/download, the Deluxe software is sold by retailers both with and without state software so you have to pay careful attention when you purchase Deluxe from a retailer.   But any other desktop (CD/download) software does include software for one specific state of your choice.

When you use the CD/download you do pay a fee to e-file the state.   The fee is $20 to e-file state, and goes up to $25 in March.  The state e-file fee can be avoided if you print and mail the state.