How do I switch from desktop to online?

[tommrp]

I've been using the desktop version for years. How do I convert it to online without purchasing it again?
Thanks.

[JeanneLO]

You won't be able to without paying again but you can request a refund for your CD/Download. Follow the instructions to finish transferring your file. Once you're done, follows these instructions to return your CD/Download copy of TurboTax for a refund. Please see this TurboTax FAQ for more information. https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/tax-topics/help/how-do-i-switch-from-turbotax-cd-download-to-turbo...

[VolvoGirl]

By the way, that article about transferring to online is for how to transfer a 2018 Desktop return into 2019 online.  All the places it says .tax2019 it should be .tax2018.   You can not move a current 2019 Desktop return into 2019 online.

If you used the Desktop program last year here’s How to transfer into the Online version, expand the link if you used the CD/download last year........

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/entering-importing/help/how-do-i-transfer-last-year-s-return-into-...

If you used the Desktop program before you may not like the online version.  It has less features and no Forms Mode.  You can only do 1 return.  Your return is only saved online so be sure to save both the .tax2019 data file and the pdf file to your computer when you are done.  In case you need to amend in the future or if you need a copy to get a loan or something.  You might not be able to access your online return when you need a copy.

[tommrp]

Thank you very much. I’ve started looking at the info in the link, but so far I’m not seeing what I need. I’ve been paying for the desktop version for years, including this year. I’m wondering how I can start using the online version without having to make a whole new purchase.

Thanks,

Tomm

[VolvoGirl]

You bought the 2019 Desktop program?  Then you should use that this year.  Next year when you do 2020 you can use the Online version and transfer the .tax2019 file from your computer to the online version.

If you want to use online for 2019 you need to get a refund for the Desktop program and pay for online separately.  Online and Desktop are completely separate and have different pricing and features.

If you used the Desktop program before you probably won't like the Online version.  The Online versions are only good for one return per account.  And you may need to upgrade to a higher version to enter certain things.  You can't see or enter into the actual forms.

You can access an online return from any computer and device.  Your return is stored at Turbo Tax.  So be sure to download the pdf and .tax files to your computer when you are done or you may not be able to access it when you need a copy.  Or if you ever need to amend.

[ThomasM125]

If you already paid for the desktop version for 2019, the only way to get the online version free would be to talk to customer service to see if they will allow that. If you purchased the desktop version from a retailer, you probably won't be able to do it, since there will be no way of verifying the purchase.

You can reach TurboTax as follows:

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/using-turbotax/help/what-is-the-turbotax-phone-number/00/25632

[floyjane]

How can I download TurboTax and use my license code from my CD

[VolvoGirl]

How to download Turbo Tax if you can't use the CD

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/installing/help/i-bought-the-cd-but-my-computer-doesn-t-have-a-cd-...

[MarilynG1]

@floyjane Click this link for more info on Using CD License Code for Download.