When you use online TurboTax you get one return per fee. Each person's return needs its own account and user ID.
If you use the same account and user ID for a second return, the second one overwrites the first return and it is lost forever.
So if you are using a paid version of the online software for five returns--- you pay five fees. And.....federal and state returns have separate fees, so if each one has a state return--that is ten fees.
Desktop software
Every version has all forms and schedules
Forms mode to see all forms as you work and “what if” feature
Can e-file up to five federal returns and their associated state returns
If you have more than five federal returns the additional ones can be mailed
Tax file is stored on your own hard drive
Always available even after tax season ends
State e-file fee is an extra fee. State can be mailed to avoid e-file fee
Desktop is more cost effective for multiple returns for family members, etc.
Desktop software is available from Intuit or from various retailers—prices vary
Only works on full PC or Mac—not on any mobile devices
Online TurboTax
Forms and schedules supported vary by which version you use
No Forms mode, but you can “preview” Form 1040 and Schedules 1, 2, or 3 before filing
One return per fee
Separate fees for federal and state returns
Each return needs its own account and user ID
Tax file is stored in online account for seven years
Can be used on any device with internet access
When you use Desktop TurboTax, which you 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.
**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.**
