Why do I need TurboTax Deluxe?

[CassandraLO]

If you started with the Federal Free Edition product and are being prompted to upgrade, you very likely need the Deluxe program or higher to properly file your return.

TurboTax Free Edition (and TurboTax Live Basic) are intended for taxpayers with very simple returns that can fit on the new 1040 form without any schedules.

If we detect that your tax situation requires expanded coverage, like deductions for owning a home or self-employment income, we'll prompt you to upgrade to a version that supports the forms you need so we can maximize your tax deductions and ensure you file an accurate return.

Depending on what your tax situation was last year, you might need to use new tax forms to claim the same deductions, credits, or forms of income. Some of the situations that are now in TurboTax Deluxe and TurboTax Live Deluxe, instead of in Free Edition, include:

• Student loan interest deduction
• Retirement savings contribution credit for 401(k) and IRA contributions
• Education credits
• Child & dependent care credit

Go here for more info on which forms are included in TurboTax Free Edition.

Related Information:

• Is TurboTax Free Edition right for me?
• Can I downgrade to a lower-priced version of TurboTax Online?
• What are the IRS tax form changes?
• What are the new schedules?

[jaytp11]

Real sneaky of Intuit to put those features into a deluxe version knowing that they are common items people use. 

[Cass0317]

The post above is from 2019. Please see the updated lists below to find the product that fits your tax needs:

• Is TurboTax Free Edition right for me?
• TurboTax 2020 Online product guide