There are a number of differences between the online software and the CD/download. It is only with the online versions that you can choose the "Live" expert help from CPA's and Enrolled Agents. With desktop software you can call in to customer support or post here in the forum, but you cannot request help from a CPA. There are significant differences in the pricing too so if you prepare multiple returns for family members etc. the CD/download is more cost effective.
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.
Desktop --unless you specifically buy federal Deluxe only from a retailer-- will include the software for one specific state. You can prepare as many returns for that state as the number of federal returns you prepare. E-filing state returns is an extra fee which can be avoided by printing and mailing the states. Additional--other--state software is an additional fee for the software.
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/using-turbotax/help/how-do-i-start-another-return-in-turbotax-onli...
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1901306-how-many-times-can-i-e-file-using-the-turbotax-cd-or-downl...
https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2750704-what-are-the-advantages-of-the-turbotax-cd-download-softwa...
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