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Best answer by xmasbaby0


When you use Online TurboTax, you get one return per fee.  Each return needs its own account and user ID.   If you use the same account and user ID for a second return, you overwrite the first one and lose it forever.

 When you use Desktop TurboTax, which you install from a CD or download to your own hard drive, you can prepare and e-file multiple returns for the cost of the software.  You can e-file up to 5 Federal returns—more if you mail the additional ones.  If you have multiple returns to prepare for family members, Desktop is more cost effective.


https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1901306-how-many-times-can-i-e-file-using-the-turbotax-cd-or-download

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2942039-what-s-the-difference-between-turbotax-online-and-the-turbotax-cd-download

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2750704-what-are-the-advantages-of-the-turbotax-cd-download-software-over-the-online-version


2 replies

xmasbaby0Level 15Answer
Level 15
June 8, 2019


When you use Online TurboTax, you get one return per fee.  Each return needs its own account and user ID.   If you use the same account and user ID for a second return, you overwrite the first one and lose it forever.

 When you use Desktop TurboTax, which you install from a CD or download to your own hard drive, you can prepare and e-file multiple returns for the cost of the software.  You can e-file up to 5 Federal returns—more if you mail the additional ones.  If you have multiple returns to prepare for family members, Desktop is more cost effective.


https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1901306-how-many-times-can-i-e-file-using-the-turbotax-cd-or-download

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2942039-what-s-the-difference-between-turbotax-online-and-the-turbotax-cd-download

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2750704-what-are-the-advantages-of-the-turbotax-cd-download-software-over-the-online-version


**Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to offer the most correct information possible. The poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the information that is contained in this post.**
Level 2
June 19, 2019

I have purchased the CD and have installed it.  I should have information for my sister Nancy C. Ryan, whose taxes I did last year using Turbo Tax.

Level 2
January 16, 2021

I am trying to start a new return but it says another return has already been started. I don't know where to find it or erase it.

Level 14
January 17, 2021

As long as you haven't registered, submitted payment or deducted the TurboTax fee from your refund you can use our clear and start over feature.  Please see this TurboTax FAQ for information on how to clear and start over for your 2020 tax return. 

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