This app is trying to force me to pay for deluxe when I want to file free, other than my 40$ state fee

[KatrinaLO]

If you are looking at TurboTax Free Edition, keep in mind that this version is intended for taxpayers with very simple returns (Form 1040 is for filer's with the standard deduction), or first-time filers and students. If it's not letting you complete the return until you upgrade, you can clear and start over. 

Please see the FAQ below for more information:

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/using-turbotax/help/how-do-i-clear-and-start-over-in-turbotax-onli...

[VolvoGirl]

The state is also free in the Free Edition.  State is currently $40 in Deluxe and above.  State is in addition to the regular fee for Deluxe or higher.  You can not just pay for state.

To go back to a lower version you can try to clear and start over  https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/using-turbotax/help/how-do-i-clear-and-start-over-in-turbotax-onli...

In the regular Turbo Tax Free Edition, information that you can enter is limited now.  Why do I have to upgrade from the Free Edition?

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/upgrading/help/why-do-i-have-to-upgrade-from-free-edition/00/26379

OR 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.

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

AGI $39,000 or less

Active duty military with AGI of $72,000 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 Sign in at the top right.  It may let you continue your return so you don't have to start over.

https://freefile.intuit.com/