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New Member
posted Feb 28, 2025 3:31:49 PM

I have always used Turbo Tax Desktop but I want to switch to Turbo Tax Online. Can I import the file from last year so that I don't have to retype everything?

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2 Replies
Level 15
Feb 28, 2025 3:33:10 PM

Yes, you can.

See this TurboTax support FAQ for transfer prior year date to the TurboTax online return - https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/import-export-data-files/transfer-last-year-return-turbotax-online/L279eUvY2_US_en_US

Level 15
Feb 28, 2025 3:42:07 PM

You will need the data file ending in .tax2023 to transfer into 2024 either to the Online version or the Desktop program. Are you on Windows or Mac? Be sure to save your return (go up to File-Save or Save As) and know where it is and it's name. On Windows it should be in your Documents in a Turbo Tax folder. And you should copy it to a flash drive or backup incase your computer crashes.


If you already started an online return you will have to clear it and start over to transfer. How 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 used the Desktop program last year here’s How to transfer into the Online version. You need to have the prior year .tax2023 file on your computer. Expand the link if you used the Desktop software last year........
https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/import-export-data-files/transfer-last-year-return-turbotax-online/L279eUvY2_US_en_US?uid=l8w7nlbv


Or here’s How to switch and transfer from the Desktop program into the Online version........
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/tax-topics/help/how-do-i-switch-from-turbotax-cd-download-to-turbotax-online/00/859756

 

If you used the Desktop program before you may notice several differences and may not like the online version. It has less features and no Forms Mode. The Online versions don't have all the same forms so you might have to upgrade to a higher Online version. You can only do 1 return. Your return is only saved online so be sure to save both the .tax2024 data file and the pdf file to your computer when you are done. In case you need to amend in the future or if you need a copy to get a loan or something. You might not be able to access your online return when you need a copy.