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New Member
posted Dec 31, 2020 8:20:35 AM

I need federal and state TurboTax for 3 people

Is it cheaper to buy a TurboTax disk or get it by downloading on this site

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2 Replies
Level 15
Dec 31, 2020 8:23:05 AM

 

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-online/00/25596

 

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

 

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

 

 

2020 TURBOTAX

 

CD/DOWNLOAD (This requires a full PC or Mac—-cannot be used on a mobile device)

 

https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/cd-download/

 

You can also purchase the CD/download from various retailers such as Costco, Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Staples, Sam’s Club, etc. etc. etc.

 

This link Where can I obtain authentic TurboTax software? has a list of authorized TurboTax resellers.

 

When you use desktop software, there is an additional fee to e-file a state return.  You can avoid that fee if you print, sign and mail the state return.  The state e-file fee is $19.99 and increases in March.

 

 

ONLINE 2020

 

https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/online/

And just so you know—online prices go up in March

 

 

 

Level 15
Dec 31, 2020 8:23:25 AM

It is the same price to buy the CD or buy the desktop download program.  Unless you really mean to use the Online version.  Online is only good for 1 return per account.  So you would have to pay 3 times.  Look in the stores to buy the Desktop CD/Download cheaper.  Costco has a coupon right now.