Both the deluxe and premier products import my stock, ETF, and mutual fund transactions the same. Why does turbotax say I need premier? I have used deluxe and premier.

[TomYoung · Accepted solution]

As epo39b says, the online Deluxe version can't handle security sales, so I'm assuming you're referring to the desktop versions, both of which do support the reporting of security sales.

As I recall, the main benefit of Premier over Deluxe is that Premier has specific "guided" interview for the sale of stock acquired via the various employee stock incentive programs like RSUs, NQSOs, ISOs, ESPPs, etc.  Sales of these securities present some challenges since the broker most likely won't report the correct basis to use for the sale on the 1099-B itself, (although they are required to assist you to get to the correct basis and typically do so by sending some "Supplemental Information" along with the 1099-B, assuming the sale is "covered"), and the exercise or sale of the stock can create "compensation" income that needs to be reported, and added to the "out of pocket" cost basis.

So if you are selling any stock acquired via an employee stock incentive program it might be worth your while to upgrade to Premier.

Tom Young

[mesquitebean]

How are you preparing the return?    Are you using Online TurboTax (website version) or the desktop software (CD/download)? 

 In the desktop version (CD/download), Deluxe and Premier can both handle all the same forms, and thus both can handle all the things you mentioned above.   Premier may offer some additional help and guidance, but is not necessary, especially if you are an experienced user.

In the Online version (website), Deluxe cannot report sales transactions for stocks, mutual funds, etc..  It cannot handle a Schedule D, Form 8949, etc.   In the Online version, Premier or higher is required.

[mesquitebean]

@adalben
Please see the additional answer left by SuperUser TomYoung for some specific things that Premier can offer more guidance with than Deluxe, especially if you have special circumstances with an employee stock incentive program.

[adalben]

I am using the desktop (CD) version.  Thank you all for your answers.  It really helped clear this up!

[mesquitebean]

You're welcome.  Good luck.

[jpmerker]

I'm using the desktop version of Turbo Tax - Deluxe. As I'm sure you know, the Intuit features comparison between Deluxe and  Premier is somewhat misleading because it appears that one needs to use Premier for any stock transactions. I really appreciate your clearing this up since I didn't want to spend an extra $20 on Premier if I didn't need to. Thanks again.....