My kids are filing returns for the first time (W-2 only). Can I can do their returns plus mine under my TurboTax login or do I need to set up separate IDs for them?

 

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

If they just have W-2 income, I can set up new accounts for each and file for free right?  Is there a reason to go to the desktop version?

Thanks.

they can file for free until TurboTax decides to upgrade them.

 visit IRS website to find truly free federal filing.