Editing forms using the ONLINE version of Turbotax

[Middle Ground Gal]

Why does the ONLINE version of Turbotax not allow me to directly edit forms.  From the community forums, it appears that the DESKTOP version allows users to go into "form mode" and over ride entries.  I have a Form 8978 credit that needs to be placed on 1040 Schedule 3 Part I line 6l.  However, there is absolutely no method for me to do this.  Maybe I'm just a dumb***.  However, I've been doing my own taxes for 30 years and utilizing Turbotax for over half those years.  Each year brings another frustration, but I've patiently stuck with it.  At this point, I'm teetering on the cliff of switching to another provider.   I would download the desktop version, but I've already paid for the online version....I'm ok filling out the 8978 by hand, but I shouldn't have to print a blank 1040 and Schedule 3 and fill those out BY HAND with the correct numbers just to send in my taxes correctly.  Gee whiz.

[VolvoGirl]

If you paid for the online version you can as for the Desktop program download,  hopefully they will give it to you.

You can move your Online file to the Desktop program and continue without paying for Online or needing to reenter your info.  If you already paid for the Online version you can ask them for the Desktop program. And you can buy a lower version Desktop program.  All the Desktop programs have the same forms.  You just get more help and guidance in the higher versions.

To continue in the desktop version see this…….

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/choosing-a-product/help/how-do-i-switch-from-turbotax-online-to-th...

Download the .tax2022 file for free

How do I save my TurboTax Online return as a tax data file?

After you get the program installed the first thing to do before you open your tax return .tax file is to update the program and install any state programs you had. Then open your file. So you first might need to start a fake return to be able to download the state program (go to FILE - NEW).  Just enter some basic personal info like your name and address then click on the State tab at the top and it should ask if you want to download the state program.

[xmasbaby0]

When you purchase the CD/download you pay ahead of time for the software.  The CD/download includes direct access to forms in Forms mode.   

With online software, you start for free and continue to prepare the tax return...perhaps upgrading as you go until you pay at the end for the version you ended up using.  If online software gave you access to all of the forms and allowed you to see them......what would keep dishonest users from simply copying it all down on paper forms without ever paying TurboTax for the use of the software?

If you want direct access to the forms, then use the CD/download software.

With online you can preview your Form 1040, and then print before filing if you pay first.   

PREVIEW 1040

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1901539-how-do-i-preview-my-turbotax-online-return-before-filing

Click on Tax Tools on the left side of the screen. Click on Tools. Click on View Tax Summary. Click on Preview my 1040 on the left side of the screen.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/printing/help/can-i-print-a-copy-of-my-turbotax-online-return-befo...

[Middle Ground Gal]

Thank you for your response.  I will investigate this option.

[Middle Ground Gal]

That's actually what I did.  I entered my data for free, paid Turbotax and then looked at my return for errors.  I always do this so I can print the forms out and manually review each for accuracy.  If I find errors, I go back to edit and then reprint.   Late forms are sometimes received, with this year being the need to submit form 8978.

I agree that jerks would rip them off if given too much leeway.  But once I paid, I should be able to edit my forms the way I want to edit them!  Oh well.   🙂

Thanks for taking the time to comment.  Be well.