E-filing fee in desktop software
Did you purchase desktop software with state software included? They sell Deluxe both with and without state software--so you have to be careful which one you choose. And even if it does have the state software download included, that is for preparing the state. There is an extra fee to e-file the state. You can avoid the state e-file fee if you print and mail the state instead of e-filing it.
Yes, it is a desktop version. I paid the fee and sent it electronically. Last year I learned my lesson when I sent my returns through the mail to save money. They never received it due to Covid mail issues (at least they were not able to confirm receiving it) so I resent it electronically. That way I had proof from an email confirmation. It's worth the 25.00 for something that important.