I started a business 1/1/18 and need TurboTax/Quickbooks self-employed for use during 2018. Can I use this to file 2017 taxes even though not self-employed then?

[Critter · Accepted solution]

If you are allowed to get the free SE version to use for the 2017 return when you sign up with the QB SE program then go ahead & use it ... it is more program than you need but that won't hurt anything.  It's like renting a Chevy  but getting a Cadillac instead ... both vehicles will get you where you need to go. 

[pinky923]

I would need the deluxe version for 2017 filing, just trying to avoid purchasing both softwares if I can. Since I will have self employment income in 2018, I need this software version to submit quarterly taxes and need quickbooks to manage my business expenses. However it says quickbooks only comes free if you use the self-employed software to submit 2017 taxes by 4/17/18. Hence, this is why I want to purchase the self employed to use TurboTax/Quickbooks self-employed throughout 2018, and use it to submit my 2017 tax return. Just wondering if I can do this since I won’t have any self-employed income to report for 2017.

[Critter]

Then use the SE program  as suggested ... this way you get the free program for a year.  Don't let the name of the program throw you ... it has exactly the same things as the Deluxe plus some extra items you will not use.  Actually everyone from a school kid with his first W-2 to a retired person on a pension can use the SE program it doesn't matter to the IRS at all.

[pinky923]

Ok that is helpful thank you!