TurboTax Free Edition is designed for simple tax returns that only require Form 1040 and a few specific schedules (like Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Student Loan Interest).
Here’s why you might be seeing charges and how to downgrade:
Why You Might Be Charged
Complex Tax Situations:
- If your return includes forms or schedules not supported by the Free Edition (e.g., Schedule A for itemized deductions, Schedule B for interest/dividends over $1,500, or Schedule C for business income), TurboTax will prompt you to upgrade
- You can check which forms are included in the Free Edition here
How to Downgrade
Switch Products:
- Open your return, select Switch Products from the left menu, and choose Downgrade. Note that this option is only available if you haven't paid or registered
Or if you prefer, you can also downgrade by clearing and starting over:
Clear and Start Over:
- If you haven't paid or registered yet, you can clear your return and start over with the Free Edition. Go to Tax Tools on the left side of the screen, select Clear & Start Over, and choose the Free Edition.
For more detailed guidance, you can refer to TurboTax's help articles here and here
