WHY DO I HAVE TO UPGRADE TO TURBOTAX DELUXE FOR MY SON'S RETURN? IT CONSISTS OF A W2 AND 1099 DIV. THIS IS A SIMPLE RETURN. IS THIS THE LAW?

[refund-18]

Is there a way to file for free, as the cost of the soft ware is almost as much as the refund.

[DoninGA]

IRS Free File Program - https://apps.irs.gov/app/freeFile/

If you are eligible you can use the TurboTax Free File Program which is free to file both a federal and state tax return.  The Free File Program edition is a full featured personal tax program and on a separate website from the TurboTax online editions.

To qualify for free 2018 federal and state tax returns with the Free File Program, you'll need to meet at least one of these requirements:

• A maximum 2018 adjusted gross income (AGI) of $34,000; or
• You qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC); or
• You served as active duty military (including Reservists and National Guard) with a maximum 2018 AGI of $66,000 (you'll also need a military-issued W-2).

See this TurboTax support FAQ on the Free File Program - https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1900583-what-is-turbotax-freedom-edition

See this TurboTax support FAQ for the difference between the Free File Progam and the Free edition - https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2572617-what-s-the-difference-between-freedom-edition-and-free-edi...

And see this TurboTax support FAQ on how to switch to the TurboTax Free File Program - https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/2026912-how-do-i-switch-to-turbotax-freedom-edition