How can I ensure I don't have to pay for Turbo Tax Free Edition?

[Anonymous]

It said I qualified based on all my information, but in the end it is charging me $120. What can I do to avoid charges? Are there better alternatives?

[DoninGA]

When you started the Free edition and started entering your tax data you had to come to a screen that told you that you needed to upgrade to continue the return.  You had to agree to the upgrade.

Your post indicates that you are using the Deluxe online edition - $40.  Adding a state tax return is an additional charge of $40.  If you chose the optional pay with refund, the service charge for that option is $39.99.

You can remove the pay with refund fees and pay the TurboTax account fees with a credit/debit card using the procedure in this TurobTax support FAQ - https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/downgrading/help/how-do-i-remove-pay-with-my-refund-fees-in-turbot...

[VolvoGirl]

In the regular Turbo Tax Free Edition, information that you can enter is limited. 

There is also The Turbo Tax Free File program which is free for federal and state.  And has more forms than the Federal Free Edition, like Schedules A, B, C , D, E, F, EIC, H, K-1, SE,  etc.

NOTE:  You will have to setup a new account with a new username and new password or it will take you back to regular Turbo Tax.

To qualify for the Free File website  you just need to meet one of these 3 things.

AGI $36,000 or less.

Active duty military with AGI of $69,000 or less

OR qualify for EIC (earned income credit.)

In order to use the Free File program, you have to start it at a special website.  Click on the Orange button I Qualify, Let's get Started and set up a NEW account

https://freefile.intuit.com/