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Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

So I paid extra to get the "Deluxe" version of turbo tax, which the description of the product literally says "Federal E-File + State"  But when I got to actually file, it's saying I have to pay another $25 additionally, to file my state returns.  I paid extra for the version that included state returns, and now I'm being asked to pay even more to file my state return?  I don't understand.

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23 Replies

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

When using the TurboTax desktop editions there is a $25 e-file fee for each state tax return e-filed.  This charge can be avoided by printing and mailing the state tax return.

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

Then why an upcharge for the Deluxe version, which advertises that it include state.  So it doesn't really include state filing?  

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

It prepares the state income tax forms.  I always printed and mailed mine so I did not have to pay the $25 fee to email.

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).


@skeetyborphus wrote:

Then why an upcharge for the Deluxe version, which advertises that it include state.  So it doesn't really include state filing?  


When purchasing the Deluxe desktop edition, you receive one free state program download.  If you were using a desktop edition that did not include the free state download you would be charged $40 for the state program.

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

In the stores the Deluxe version comes 2 ways, Deluxe with a free state program download and Deluxe without state for states that don’t have an income tax.

 

Box should say Federal Returns & Federal E-File plus State Returns.  It does not say state efile is included.

 

There is a lot of confusion about this. For the Desktop version it's a free download of one state PROGRAM, not returns filed. You can prepare unlimited federal and unlimited state returns.and efile 5 federal for free.  Some people need to file in more than one state so they have to buy another state program. You can print and mail the state for free or each state (including the first one) is $20 (before March 1) or 25 to efile.

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

So when the box literally says (and I'm quoting verbatim) "Federal E-File + State"...the really means Federal E-file...(pause) and also State paperwork, but NOT e-file.

 

That sure seems very blatantly misleading...

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

Especially since 99.9% of my state returns are simply "fill this box in with the value in box X on your federal".  So not sure how much trouble that extra $10 I paid for the State included version really saved me...

pa1957
Returning Member

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

there is an error in the desktop program.  State filings filed before March 1st are supposed to $20 (that is what it shows when you go through the filing process), but Turbo tax then charges $25 per state filing.  I called and complained and was told there a promo code that is supposed to be used but the program isn't using it when the charge goes through.  I was refunded the $5 per state filing (as I did multiple state filings).

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

Im almost positive he knows what it wants he's pointing out that what Intuit is doing is purposely misleading. It is. Theres no arguing that. It would be made plain and simple if thats what was intended. OP your correct. They arent hiding it. Based on what i read the Government is already on their ass for purposeful misleading adds and promising free stuff to customers only to be met with suprise fees inly discoverable after having paid for software. There is 0 point in what they sold you. from the sounds of it everything u paid for in deluxe u can already do for free online. im just not filing state they can kiss mine

RachelW33
Expert Alumni

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

TurboTax is aware of this experience and is working to resolve the issue.  Please sign up here to be notified when the situation has been rectified.


@pa1957 

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Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

you need to read the complete box

Screenshot 2025-03-02 110603.png

Beth1w3
New Member

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

This is NOT a valid rationalization since ALL tax sites prepare taxes for free. I guarantee this is false advertising. Its bad enough turbo tax hides the fact that ANYONE making under 50k files Everything for free, NO charges. This is law. They are just being predatory & now charging a whopping $70 bucks for state aka a ripoff. NO online tax services charges to prepare taxes , so ur claim its for doing so is false & turbo tax being deceptive since it's ALWAYS free to prep taxes 

Beth1w3
New Member

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

  • You are absolutely right that if true it is false advertising and def potentially a lawsuit & definitely justification for a refund for the service if u prepaid. Im guessing the person above is a turbo tax worker who is making nonsense claims to justify such lies  FACT os that its FREE to prepare both federal and state on ALL online tax websites, so they are lying to you. If u make undr 50k maybe even 70k , taxes are all free to file by law, so those people shouldnt be paying to file at all. The audit protection is a scam & you dont even get your return faster, as mine took a year from this site. The deluxe comes with free state of multiple. Its extremely antiquated if turbo tax is still sellingg a separate version. There is a free tax filing website that these pay for companies try to hide, I think its free tax usa. com. It was made by these companies to stop the irs from doing so, so they can use pop ups to steer people away to their website instead of the free version. If you have zero deductions, you should try the free site. Even tax slayer is miles better than turbo tax

Why do I have to pay extra to file state, even though I bought the Deluxe version (that stated it includes state).

That is not the law.  TurboTax is the best program out there but there are other programs that will allow for free filing for those who cannot file for free with TurboTax.  People can chose to use TurboTax or a another program.  

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