I am helping my teenage daughter file taxes for the first time. she made just under 1000 in 2024. I feel like she should be able to do a simple 1040 return for free, but turbotax is pushing us into the deluxe version for way more money.
Everyone files on a 1040 now. No more 1040A or 1040EZ. Did she get a W2 or 1099NEC? If she got a W2 for it she should be able to use the Free Edition. Be sure on her return you check the box that says she can be claimed on someone else’s return.
To go back to a lower version or the Free Edition you can try to clear and start over https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/using-turbotax/help/how-do-i-clear-and-start-over-in-turbotax-online/00/26444
If you started your tax return in TurboTax Free Edition (Form 1040 with limited credits; roughly 37% of taxpayers qualify), you won't need to clear and start over. You can select Switch to Free Edition instead.
In the Turbo Tax Free Edition, information that you can enter is limited now. Why do I have to upgrade from the Free Edition?
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/upgrading/help/why-do-i-have-to-upgrade-from-free-edition/00/26379
Or try the IRS Free File program
https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free