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Level 1
posted Mar 10, 2024 9:44:20 AM

Can't E-File an extension from the Desktop Version of TurboTax 2023 Deluxe

I am only able to print and mail in an extension.  The only way I can efile an extension is to use the Free Online Version of Turbo Tax. HELP!

1 13 9507
13 Replies
Level 15
Mar 10, 2024 9:49:34 AM

You will be able to e-file a Form 4868 for an extension on this TurboTax website - https://turbotax.intuit.com/irs-tax-extensions/

Level 1
Mar 10, 2024 11:55:44 AM

So does that mean there is no way to e-file an extension from the PC based version of TurboTax? That kind of sucks!

Level 15
Mar 10, 2024 11:59:32 AM


@kcarolan wrote:

So does that mean there is no way to e-file an extension from the PC based version of TurboTax? That kind of sucks!


Correct.  The desktop editions do not support e-filing of the Form 4868.  But you do not need to use the TurboTax online editions to e-file the extension request as the website provided can be used by anyone.

New Member
Apr 7, 2024 11:55:29 AM

I agree this sucks.  I am now having to help my 93 year old father complete an extension because Intuit changed how the desktop version works.  He was able to complete an extension last year without any issues.  Why would Intuit make this change?  How is this better??? 

Level 3
Apr 12, 2024 10:17:36 AM

I appreciate your posting of the link to e-file an extension. I was able to e-file my extension with your helpful post.   I contacted the TurboTax support twice because I could only find the print and mail option to e-file an extension.  Both support representatives who were very cheerful and friendly asked me which version I was using, online or desktop; however, neither person was aware that the extension could not be e-filed within the desktop version.  I think this points to either a lack of training or perhaps an omission in their searchable resources.  The information with the link should have been made available to me within the desktop version.  It is reasonable to believe that people who are accustomed to e-filing with TurboTax would also expect to e-file an extension with TurboTax.  It was not obvious to me that e-filing an extension could only be done in a different version from the one I was using. 

Level 1
Apr 14, 2024 3:27:13 PM

So that's Really Pathetic. So, I've been using Turbotax Desktop for over 25 years, mostly the Premier version, paying good money for the software, and extra for some services, & now I can't file one lousy form 4868 for an extension electronically FROM my PURCHASED Desktop Software. I've done it in the past with no problems.
Why does Turbotax seem to make using their software, even for long term customers, more aggravating over the last few years? And then they don't educate their customer service people about the changes. Customers, willing to pay good money for good services, shouldn't have to go through these shortsighted changes each year!

Expert Alumni
Apr 15, 2024 7:26:58 AM

Here is an FAQ: How to File an Extension

Level 1
Apr 15, 2024 11:16:26 PM

I agree that this is some BS. Now I have to refill in all the data I already filled into my Premier version. It isn't so Premier if I have to do it twice. I think I am done with turbo tax. It also won't let me auto-download all my stock info - which is why I am having to file for the extension.

Expert Alumni
Apr 15, 2024 11:33:37 PM

You can file an Extension through TurboTax Desktop by going to Federal Taxes > Other Tax Situations > Other Tax Forms > File an Extension.

 

 

 

Level 1
Apr 16, 2024 6:11:43 AM

Not electronically. You must print out the forms and mail them. That is what the entire thread is about.

Expert Alumni
Apr 16, 2024 6:12:31 AM

Here is an FAQ: How to File an Extension

New Member
Apr 13, 2025 3:41:20 PM

Thanks for instruction to follow "Other Tax Situations" / "Other Tax Forms/File an Extension" super easy and same functionality as has always been there.  In past - the step-by-step asked if I wanted to file an extension - I didn't see that this year.  When I instead searched on the desktop version it didn't share this simple answer.  TurboTax, please add tostandard answers. Thanks

Level 3
Apr 15, 2025 10:45:43 PM

Problem withe the Turbotax online website to file extension is that you have to fillin your social security number

and date of birth.  That information can leak via the turbotax website.

If it leaks all they will say is sorry and give you some coupon to monitor your credit.

 

Now you might sday that turbo tax has a online tax preparation softwar e- ye but that one requires you to login and they might make that site safer but not this free online filing of extension.

 

Thanks but no thanks - i will mail mine. WIll miss the date by one day.

 

Intuit is getting cheap - software gets worse, prices go up and they reduce their services.