After filing two returns, TurboTax is requesting a $40 charge to e-file my 3rd tax return. I thought there was a 5 free returns to file?

[Fanta-Sea]

I file my daughters and grandchildren returns.

[xmasbaby0]

Are you using the desktop download?   If you are using the download you get five federal e-files.   If you are using online TurboTax, you get one return per fee.

We see people get confused and they keep logging in to online software which will require them to pay at the end.   You need to use the desktop software.   One way to tell if you are using the right software---your tool bar.   Online software has the toolbar in a black vertical column on the left side of the screen.   Desktop software has the tools up on the top of your TT screen.